1 Thessalonians 1: Loved and chosen even in persecution.

Rev. Jacob Heine, Pastor of Faith Lutheran Church in Topeka, Kansas, joins host Rev. Brady Finnern to study 1 Thessalonians 1.

Paul gives thanks to the LORD for the Thessalonians. He gives thanks for the gift of faith, hope, and love given to them by our LORD. Paul’s time in Thessalonica did not appear to be fruitful, but by the Holy Spirit people believed and the church grew throughout their region. Paul reminds all of us that it is by God’s love that we are chosen and made holy all on account of Christ. “Lord God, help us to be thankful. Thankful for Your work on the cross and thankful for the gift of faith given to others. This Holy Week, fix our eyes on Jesus once again as You show us the center of our faith---the cross and the empty tomb. In Christ, Amen”