We can learn much from the way the Apostles shared the gospel. Their arduous missionary journeys, the tears and dangers to self, the false teachers and disobedient Christians they met did not stop them from turning the world upside down. It was a wonderful testimony of the power of the gospel. We too are entrusted with the same message by the same God. Our missions field is where God has placed us in. We must fulfil the great commission till we are called home?

1. With boldness (1 Thess 2:1-2) : Regardless of strong opposition and danger, the Apostles were determined to bring the gospel to the people. They spoke boldly, frankly, simply, not holding back anything. They shared all aspects of the gospel: sin, hell, and the need to commit to Christ after salvation. Boldness is not rude or insensitivity. In Acts 16:16-24, because of Paul’s deliverance of a woman from being possessed, he was slandered, beaten and chained in prison. After he was released, he continued to share. Jesus said in Matthew 28:18, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” And in Matthew 28:20b, “I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Thus, we can declare the gospel boldly.

2. With truthfulness (1 Thess 2:3-5) : Paul knew that it is the Lord who entrusted him with the sharing of the gospel and he was obedient to do so, desiring not to dishonour Christ. Hence, he would speak truthfully, without craftiness, or uncleanness. He would speak about the cross, which is in the eyes of man a symbol of shame. He would not entice people to hear the gospel through worldly activities or engineer the atmosphere to create an emotional impact. The “health-and-wealth” gospel is not a truthful presentation of the gospel. The Apostles would not enrich themselves from their preaching, unlike many preachers today who make merchandise of their members through the gospel.

3. With affection (1 Thess 2:6-9) : The Apostles preached, not for self-glory nor for favourable treatment. Apostle Paul cared for the people as a nursing mother cared for her children. During his two years in Ephesus, he taught them day and night, with tears. He was patient with them, desiring to give his life to nurture them in the faith. We too must share the gospel from our heart. Jonathan Edwards said, “True religion must always be accompanied with affection.”

We must be faithful to the responsibility God has entrusted to us to share the gospel with boldness, truthfulness and affection. As we have experienced the power of the gospel in our life, may we go forth and fulfil our responsibility.