According to John Stott, this verse presents the fullest account of Christian conversion to be found anywhere in the New Testament. I think that that is true; it is a very valuable verse. You say,
What does it mean to be converted?This is the most full-orbed articulation of what it means to turn in faith through Christ. Now, the Thessalonians’ conversion began, Paul says, in the manner in which they received him and his associates. He brought the Word, and the way they received him began their reputation as a God-serving church. Now, how people receive the ministry of God’s Word will largely determine their spiritual state. Let me say that again: What is distinctive about a church that is making a real impact—it is not a worldly church—but a real spiritual church, with the life of the Word of God, people really growing, and Christ reigning in that church? It is going to begin with their desire to have the Word of God taught. They will be craving the Word of God.Many churches today are the exact opposite. They bear the name of Christian, but they resent and will oppose the straightforward teaching of the Bible—the clear articulation of its doctrines. And let me say, if the apostle’s viewpoint is of any merit, that while a church like that might grow rich, it might grow large, it might become prestigious, it is not likely to make much spiritual impact in a real way. No, it is humble Christians who rejoice to have God’s Word opened and who respect those who bring it—those are the ones who are most likely to make a lasting gospel impact.1
Richard D. Phillips
9 Car on raconte, à notre sujet, quel accès nous avons eu auprès de vous, et comment vous vous êtes convertis à Dieu, en abandonnant les idoles pour servir le Dieu vivant et vrai,