What does a real gospel do? It gives us real purpose. Moses didn't have to wonder about his purpose or his "why." Yet many of us wake up questioning how we'll keep our ministries going or how God will provide. When God gives you something, He requires your faith to be in operation. As James reminds us, faith without works is dead.

What Does an Authentic Church Look Like?

In 1 Thessalonians, we see a vibrant picture of a healthy church—one that doesn't rely on advertising but goes forth in faith. This church moved mountains, helped people get saved, and shared the absolute truth.

The passage describes believers who "received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought." They imitated both their leaders and the Lord, becoming examples to believers everywhere. The word of the Lord rang out from them to people everywhere, so much so that others kept talking about their faith without needing to be told about it.

How Do We Live Beyond Our Comfort Zone?

We live in a country addicted to comfort. We get upset when our coffee isn't hot, the AC isn't working, or our vehicles break down. But real church, as seen in Thessalonians, has real purpose. They do a work of faith—and again, faith without works is dead.

This healthy, authentic church was full of people who had problems and weren't perfect. Yet they were willing to humble themselves and say, "Lord, I need you." They were willing to be stretched beyond their comfort zones to see what they were capable of when operating in faith rather than relying on their own efforts and abilities.

The Challenge of Surrendering Completely

So often we live a Christian life without allowing God to do what He can do. We want to be part of it, we want to be near Him, we may even want some "fire insurance," but we hesitate to step in fully and say, "I'm all in. I'm surrendered to you. Use me as you have created me to be used."

The Thessalonian church was known worldwide for their faith. We should never be content that we have faith—we should be driving and striving for the world to have faith in Jesus Christ.

What Happens When We Finish Strong?

Anyone can start a journey, but it takes someone special to finish it. God promises He'll never start something He doesn't finish. He started something in every one of us when He saved us. Will you let Him finish it? Will you be the authentic, real church? Will you serve people and use your time, talent, and treasure for the gospel?

When the gospel is preached, it changes people. It draws people and calls them out.

Supporting God's Workers

In 3 John 5-8, we're reminded: "Dear friend, you are being faithful to God when you care for the traveling teachers who pass through, even though they are strangers to you. They have told the church here of your loving friendship. Please continue providing for such teachers in a manner that pleases the Lord."

This passage challenges us to please the Lord by supporting those who travel for Him, becoming partners with them as they teach the truth.

What Does God Promise to a Faithful Church?

Revelation 3:7-9 offers this powerful promise: "Write this letter to the angel of the Church of Philadelphia. This is the message from the one who is holy and true, the one who has the key of David. What he opens, no one can close, and what he closes, no one can open. I know all the things you do, and I have opened a door for you that no one can close."

God has opened a door—not just a small entrance, but a big "barn door" to many countries that no one can close. Though we may have little strength, if we obey His word and do not deny Him, He will use us powerfully.

Who Is the Church?

Who is the church? I am. You are. We are. And will we do the things to obey the Lord? That's the question we must ask ourselves.

You're free in Christ—there is no condemnation. But the Lord wants to stretch you. When the church gathers as it should, the gospel is preached, churches start, and evangelism happens.

Life Application

The challenge before us is clear: Will we step out in faith and allow God to use us beyond our comfort zones? Will we be known for our faith like the Thessalonian church?

Consider these questions:

In what areas of my life am I holding back from fully surrendering to God?

How can I use my time, talent, and treasure to advance the gospel this week?

Am I content with my own faith, or am I actively working to help others find faith in Christ?

What would it look like for me to be "all in" with God?

This week, identify one area where you've been playing it safe, holding onto the edge of the pool. Take a step of faith into the deep end by serving others, giving generously, or sharing your faith with someone who needs to hear it. Remember, you may never physically go to certain places in the world, but through your faith and generosity, you can touch lives far beyond your reach.

As Jesus said, "I came to serve, not to be served." When we live by this principle, we become part of something much bigger than ourselves—we become the authentic church God designed us to be.