1 Thessalonians 2:13–And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.

I believe that people who take the time to teach others or give advice, generally are doing it with a heart to make a difference.  Yet their efforts are only “half of the equation” in order for results to happen.  So the “receiver” of any teaching or advice is just as important.  They have to measure whether or not they respect the authority, as well as what is being said as beneficial…

As it is with teaching a subject in academics, or giving advice to anyone, receiving the Word of God in principle is the same.  If there is no respect for the authority of what is being counseled, taught, or preached that is biblical, than profiting from God’s Word will never happen.  Even if the “vessel” God uses to convey truth to you is “sketchy”, the truth stands alone, and our responsibility to embrace it, is for the benefit of our soul. (Numbers 22:28,James 1:21, Hebrews 3:8-12)

The Apostle Paul in this passage, knew his responsibility to be a “credible witness” of the Lord, but he also placed responsibility on those who heard the Word preached to them.  His desire wasn’t for his ego to be bolstered, but for their own benefit to enjoy their relationship with the Lord, and give honor due His name, through their obedience to the truth…

Any parent, or person who makes a living to teach and assist others, for a more enriched life understands this.  The joy of the “teacher” is completely fulfilled when the “students” receive and profit from what is being taught.  Such reception gives honor to what is being taught as well as the authority who has taught it…(John 17:20-21, Philippians 2:1-2)

As Christians, we are to embrace, counsel, and teach truth as a lifestyle to strive for, because it glorifies God as our personal Lord or authority of our lives.  Others reception of God’s Word from us, is an opportunity to share in His glory together, bringing Christ even more glory!  Challenge yourself, and examine whether you find yourself dismissing truth, because you don’t like the vessel God is using to convey it?  Or have you allowed yourself to discern truth being from God, and the opportunity to receive it as your own benefit, to let truth work in you?

In His Love, Ld