In this sermon from Acts 17:1–9 and 1 Thessalonians 2:1–20, Robin Kinstead continues the Effective Church series by exploring what it means to be a church that perseveres with jealousy for Jesus. Using Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica as an example, Robin highlights how the gospel both transforms lives and provokes opposition. He contrasts Paul’s pure motives—preaching not to please people but to honor God—with the persecution that arose from those jealous for their “little gods.” Robin challenges believers to guard against misplaced jealousies that distract from wholehearted devotion to Christ and to live with the same gospel-driven perseverance Paul modeled. He calls the church to bold faith, generous partnership, and spiritual resilience in an increasingly hostile culture, keeping Jesus at the centre as our true hope, joy, and crown.

5 Questions to Think About:

1. What does it mean to be “jealous for Jesus,” and how is that different from worldly jealousy?


2. How does Paul’s example in 1 Thessalonians 2 challenge your motives in serving or sharing the gospel?


3. What “little gods” or distractions compete for your devotion and need to be surrendered to Christ?


4. How can we support and pray for persecuted Christians who face opposition for following Jesus (Acts 17:5–9)?


5. In what ways can you become a partner, not just a passenger, in God’s mission through your church?

3 Takeaways from the Message:

1. Be jealous for Jesus — devote your whole heart and life to him, guarding against idols that seek to take his place (Exodus 34:14 ; 1 Thessalonians 2:4).


2. Persevere through opposition — the gospel will provoke resistance, but God’s Spirit empowers endurance and faithfulness (Acts 17:5–9; 1 Thessalonians 2:2).


3. Live and share the gospel with integrity — like Paul, let your motives be pure, your witness be generous, and your joy be found in others growing in Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:7–12, 19–20).