Politicians do not act: they pose. – G.K. Chesterson
As we enter the last few months before a presidential election, very few people would disagree with Chesterson’s statement, right? But why do the politicians pose in the first place? Maybe they want to win votes simple so they can gain or retain power and position.
Contrast that kind of motivation with the message Paul declares to the church in Thessalonica –
For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. – 1 Thessalonians 2:3-6
Paul message is clear. He appeals to people to respond to the Gospel simply because he wanted to please God. How? His message wasn’t filled with error and his motives were not impure. He wasn’t trying to deceive anyone or flatter them or put on a mask to hide his motivation to ultimately make his ministry a financial success. No, Paul and his team lived with one purpose – to please an audience of One.
We can easily contrast Paul’s life with the politicians in our, world today, but how do we compare? Can I say that my life’s purpose is not to please people, but God? It’s worth giving the idea some thought, don’t you think?
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