We are starting a new sermon series titled "Faith Out Loud" on the New Testament book of 1 Thessalonians. In this short letter, Paul writes to a church that he had planted and then had to leave suddenly because of persecution. He knew they were in a difficult city with many people that wanted to stop the gospel from spreading. Paul prayed for them and waited to hear news about how this new church was doing in their difficult situation. Then he gets a report and finds out they are strong in their faith and showing a gospel centered love for each other. In fact, in verse eight of chapter one he says that "the Lord's message rang out from" them and that their "faith in God has become known everywhere." Paul writes the book of 1 Thessalonians to encourage them to stay strong in their faith and to hold on to the hope they have in Jesus Christ.
I love the idea of a church whose faith in Jesus, love for each other, and hope in difficult circumstances "rings out" in their world. My prayer is that as we look at this incredible book, we will be challenged to live our faith out loud so that our faith and our lives ring out and point others to Jesus Christ. This sermon is simply called "Faith Out Loud". We get to know what was going on in the city of Thessalonica during this time, Paul's ministry there, and look 1 Thess. 1:1-3 as an introduction to this book which will challenge us to live our "Faith Out Loud."
Orchard Community Church
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Listening to sermons online can be a great way to keep up with a sermon series if you are unable to attend church but should never be a substitute for regular attendance of a gospel-centered and bible teaching church.
