“For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain“
was not in vain
The word “vain” means empty or without purpose. The ministry at Thessalonica was not empty or without fruit. The gospel team’s ministry came with power. The gospel did not move into Thessalonica through empty motives and methods. Ministry cannot be some empty, shallow, flesh generated thrust. The gospel team’s ministry was short, abrupt, forceful, but fruitful. It was fruitful because the Thessalonians embraced the gospel.
“But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain, but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me” (1 Corinthians 15:10).
The gospel’s team had success in Thessalonica. People came to Christ, and their lives changed dramatically. The gospel team did not come with speculations about philosophy. They came with the Word of God. Therefore, their ministry had lasting effects.
Principle:
Personal integrity will prevent vain ministry.
Application:
Our personal integrity speaks to the character of our ministry. Our character authenticates the genuineness of our ministry. True effectiveness in ministry has integrity at its root. Godly character and conduct is the ultimate valid evidence of God’s working and approval.
Christians minister for eternity. Therefore, their ministry is not in vain. The Devil will attempt to discourage them to the place where they will no longer be a force in ministry.
“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
