7 so that you became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia. 8 For not only has the word of the Lord sounded forth from you in Macedonia and Achaia, but your faith in God has gone forth everywhere, so that we need not say anything. 9 For they themselves report concerning us the kind of reception we had among you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.  1 Thessalonians 1:7-10

A. The Power of the Gospel to Change Lives: 1 Thess. 1:4-6

1. The Results of Gospel Power Changing Lives: 1 Thess. 1:5

B. The Evidences the Gospel Changes Lives

1. Imitators of Godly Examples and the Lord: 1 Thess. 1:6, 2;4

Today

2. Reverent Submission to the Word of God: 1 Thess. 2:13, John 16:7-15, 1 Peter 2:1-3, Isaiah 66:1-2

3. Joy of the Holy Spirit: 1 Thess. 1:6

a. Its definition: Richard Asty, “Joy is the sweet motion of the soul in full contentment of heart and complacency (calmness) of spirit.”

b. Its Author: Galatians 5:22, Acts 13:48

c. It goes beyond circumstantial happiness: Habakkuk 3:18, John 15:11, Phil. 4:4

d. It strengthens the Christian in life: Nehemiah 8:10

e. It enables us to endure and embrace suffering with gladness: Acts 5:41; 16:23-25, 2 Cor. 7:4, 2 Cor. 8:1-2

f. It fuels anticipation of future, uninterrupted joy of heaven with Jesus: Heb. 12:1-2, John 16:20-24, Psalm 16:11