For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe.
We live in a time of deep skepticism. A skepticism that has even invaded the church and our view of God’s Word. Interestingly, as many turn to this Word and the Lord Jesus throughout the world, it appears the church of our culture is turning away from this Word and toward our own judgment. We have become skeptics of the Word itself and the consequences of this skepticism weaken the body of Christ. There is a flimsiness and a watering down of God’s truth regardless of how we try to disguise it. If we do not stand firmly on the whole Word of God we will fall. ‘Every Word of God proves true.’ Proverbs 30:5.
Paul clearly emphasizes the power of God’s Word in this passage. Those who heard him teach in Thessalonica received his word as the Word of God – which it was. And, this Word is what performed the work in those who received it. It was not Paul’s work. It was God’s work by the power of His Word. This Word of God still performs its work in us as we continue to humble ourselves and receive it. Receiving naturally requires humility and submission. Skepticism inherently leans toward our pride and self determination. Although not always bad, it must be measured and managed with a humble heart. Opening our heart to the perfect Word of God changes us into His image. It works within us to daily transform us into what God has redeemed us to be. The Word has inherent power but it must be received.
Thus, we must keep a high view of this Word and always be open to receiving it fully. It will prove true. Always. It will perform the work of God for it is His will, His power and His way. We must soak on it and become deeply familiar with it. As we make it available to our minds, the Holy Spirit is able to use it in our lives. He brings it to the forefront and leads us by it.
There is mystery to this Word, the living Word, as it lives in Scripture. The Scripture is His Word but His Word is not caged within the paper pages. It is alive and never bound. Yet, His Word will never contradict and will always work in perfect harmony with the Written Word. This mystery is not a point of skepticism but rather a place of awe. We don’t doubt and denigrate simply because we do not understand. We trust and anticipate. We watch faithfully for the complete fulfillment of this Word.
Every word of God proves true. It is this Word that is working in us. Changing us. Molding us. Shaping us. May we never react to the pain of this process by denying the total truth of God’s Word. ‘In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God….’. John 1:1
Do your work, Lord, by the power of Your Word.
The Work of the Word of God – 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Ventanas 