1 Thessalonians 2:7
...We went gentle among you, even as a nurse cherishes her children.
Paul is continuing his encouragements of the believers at Thessalonica by
using the analogy of a nurse caring for her children. Paul exhibited his caring
love for all those he encountered on his missionary journeys and Thessalonica
was no exception.
Believers for all generations are encouraged to model their nurturing
after Paul's example, because in doing so we are emulating the love and care of
God. God is love and shows His love and compassionate care daily. He loved us
when we didn't love Him in return.
Another note on nurturing others in love, missionaries show genuine love
as they minister and proclaim the gospel message of Christ to many in
un-churched nations around the world. Many of the people in these areas respond
in kind with love and care for the missionaries.
Our nurture begins with our witnessing Christ to the unsaved and then
providing support aiding the new convert as he or she navigate this Christian
journey. Mature believers warn the new convert of the pitfalls he/she is sure
to encounter for being associated with Christ.
How do mature believers nurture new converts? This is accomplished
through Bible study; prayer and meditating with the new convert on regular
basics. Mature Christians' acts as a mentor to new converts and this continues
as the end goal is to make disciples of the new convert.
Nurturing in love has a pebble affect in the faith community that
promotes church growth.
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