I Thessalonians 2:13-16

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So far in this chapter we have found two of the three universal dynamics for effective persuasion. FIRST--ETHOS or ethical appeal which answers the question, "Can I trust you?" The trio of Paul, Silas and Timothy demonstrated a great ETHOS in front of the Thessalonians. They proved to many that they could be trusted and came without any hidden agenda.

SECOND--PATHOS or emotional appeal which answers the question, "Do you care for me?" The trio also demonstrated a powerful PATHOS as they came alongside the Thessalonians. They proved they cared for them as a nursing mother or an encouraging father would do. They demonstrated an unconditional love toward them.

Now, look what happens when they present the message. This is the LOGOS or logical appeal which answers the question, "Do you know what you're talking about?"

13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as a human word, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is indeed at work in you who believe.

NOTE they heard the word of God and because of the ETHOS and the PATHOS, they were persuaded that this is not just another man-made, religious twist. This actually is the supernatural word of God. This is the word that is not only heard, but is dynamically at work in those who are believers.

This is true persuasion at its best! When we approach people in this way, the message of Jesus is more readily received--more than that, it is embraced by those who believe as their own.

Then the trio goes on to encourage the Thessalonians to hang in there and keep it up: 14 For you, brothers and sisters, became imitators of God's churches in Judea, which are in Christ Jesus: You suffered from your fellow citizens the same things those churches suffered from the Jews, 15 who killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets and also drove us out. They displease God and are hostile to everyone 16 in their effort to keep us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved. In this way they always heap up their sins to the limit. The wrath of God has come upon them at last.

This is such a desperate need in our world today. Instead of pushing people or trying to convert people, it's vital that we simply share our experience, strength and hope that we have found in our walk with Jesus and with one another.

This walk we are walking requires that you be a planter of seed and not a peddler, a sharer and not a deal-closer. It requires that you see what Jesus did and said and do the same. It requires that you BE JESUS to all who come your way.