Introduction: "For you are our glory and joy." Paul is saying, "You are a reason for our boasting in Christ, and His work in you fills our hearts with joy." What kind of man says that — and means it? What kind of man's life is wrapped up in the wellbeing of the church? What kind of man has the church as a focal point for his sense of purpose — as a focal point for his reason to rejoice? It is the kind of man who has been called by God and produced by God — produced by salvation, and by gifting, and by growth — to shepherd the church on behalf of the Chief Shepherd. To shepherd the church in SUBMISSION to the Chief Shepherd. Paul is that kind of man. HE IS ENGAGED IN A DEFENSE. Paul felt the need to defend, and to explain, his love for this church. He had to leave them suddenly. He had not been able to return to them. Either he heard of some who questioned his motives and his love, or he simply anticipated how the devil works. Either way, he has given an extended defense of his ministry and his missionary team. He has defended the integrity of the ministry. He has defended the genuine affection of the ministry. And now, when we come to chapter 3, and he continues to give details about what transpired from the time he left Thessalonica, to the present. IN THIS 3RD CHAPTER he pours out what is in his heart for this church. And, as he does, we meet with the kind of man who writes what he wrote at the end of chapter 2 — we meet with the heart of a pastor. God provides shepherds for His people. He loves His church through His servants. When the Lord, through Jeremiah, gave the promise of a spiritually fruitful kingdom in Israel with Christ reigning in Jerusalem — He promis
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Richard Caldwell Jr. is the Pastor-Teacher at Founders Baptist Church. Richard and his wife Jacque have been married for 24 years and have four children, Richard III, Amber, Christopher and Reagan. Richard has served at Founders Baptist (previously named Spring Memorial) since...
