“For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord. For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith? Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you. And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.” 1 Thessalonians 3:8-13
Pastor Bruce Preaching God's Word in Russia
Because Paul was unable to go to visit the Thessalonians personally, Timothy had been sent for the purpose that he might “know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.” v5 Upon Timothy’s return, after hearing a good report of them, the Apostle Paul wrote the opening words to the Thessalonians, with great joy.
Paul’s introduction to the Thessalonians had been very brief. Immediately after preaching in the synagogue, where some believed, the Jews which did not believe stirred up controversy, accusing Paul and Silas of being “these that have turned the world upside down”. Paul and Silas fled to Berea and eventually to Athens.
And so it is. Wherever the glorious Light of the Gospel shines, it causes 2 reactions; in the elect, faith; in the ungodly, hatred and anger. The Apostle, having faced the wrath of opponents of the Gospel, not only in Thessalonica but in many other places, was concerned that the believers in Thessalonica not be “moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.” v3
This, too, is the experience of those who have had the blessed privilege of preaching Jesus Christ around the world. Normally, we have a very brief time with our audience. We preach and then earnestly pray to the Father, that He will keep those who have believed from all the attacks of the enemies of the Gospel. What a great joy it is then, to see God’s faithfulness when we return to those places where we have labored and find God’s redeemed still walking by faith, in the Lord Jesus!
We shouldn’t doubt, but we do worry, nonetheless. This is because we know that the devil “goes about as a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour”. But, when we see how God has cared for these new believers, we are reminded Whose children they really are, that our Father is more mighty than the enemies, and that He is jealous for His people.
“And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.” John 6:39
“My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” John 10
The Apostle also desires to see these new converts, that he “might perfect that which is lacking in your faith.” We might wonder what he means, when he uses the word “perfect”. Paul understood how difficult it is, not just for converts, but even for us, to remain in the simplicity of, and perfection that is by faith. Peter explains this as growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
This was our experience recently, as brother Misha Krupinov and I traveled in Russia. Because this was a more brief visit than normal, Misha and I decided to visit only 2 congregations, rather than our usual 4-6 areas.
First we visited the congregation in Schekino, located approximately 130 miles south of Moscow. The pastor, brother Vitali Prasolov, and his wife Galena, were our hosts for the week. How wonderful it was to have sufficient time to fellowship with these dear children of God! Pastor Vitali was called to serve this congregation after the departure of Misha and Natasha Krupinov, the servants God used to minister there during the early development of this congregation. We can truly see that God has now called Vitali to continue the work. Vitali is a diligent student of God’s Word and fulfills his responsibility faithfully and humbly. We discussed many matters and we rejoiced in the unity in Spirit. Galena cheerfully ministered to our human needs, but also gave a wonderful witness of her faith. Over the passing days we had opportunity for fellowship with all the members of the congregation, and though they each face their own difficulties, we could observe that our Lord continues to draw them closer to Himself. We also met with those who don’t know their Savior yet, or who have a incorrect understanding of the faith. It is always remarkable to see who God arranges these meetings with, but we are then reminded again that faith comes by hearing, hearing the Word of God. I expressed several times, to these struggling or lost souls, how much God loves them and has sent us so they might hear with their ears, and believe with their hearts, the message of Jesus Christ and the forgiveness we have received through Him.
Picture is after Bible Study. Vitali is standing.
Our second week was spent in Rzhev, a city located approximately 75 miles northwest of Moscow. In this city we have a congregation with their own church building, thanks to donations from the ALCA and the Master’s Mission. The young pastor, Valeri Antipov, and his wife Natasha, have officially ministered in Rzhev since 1996. Though the congregation has faced many obstacles, and endured many trials, we can rejoice in the wonderful testimony of faith and the certainty that God has protected and provided for the dear brothers and sisters.
Baptism in Rzhev
Life can be unbelievably difficult in Russia. We visited with one member of the congregation, in her home. As I listened to this woman, and looked at the poor condition of her home, I was amazed at the contrast. This precious sister, living in circumstances most Americans would find depressing, testified of her trust in God, of His constant provision and of His unfailing care for her and her family. She also poured out her heart, concerned for the soul of her young son. We had the privilege to pray with her, but I wondered who needed it more. This sister’s faith is surely founded upon the Rock, Jesus Christ.
Next, we visited with sister Ira, the mother-in-law of Pastor Valeri. What a joy it was to see the miraculous healing that God has given her. On two previous visits, I had observed a seemingly hopeless case of a woman suffering a mysterious, paralyzing disease. Even the doctors were baffled and unsure of how to treat Ira. Sister Ira testified that it was during this time of paralysis, and unremitting pain, that she experienced powerfully how the Lord became her constant companion and comforter. She praised God, with tears, as she spoke of the encouragment she received from the Psalms, how David’s cries became her own and how God answered and has also healed her. Oh how faithful our God is, and His ears are ever open to the cries of His children!
Sunday services were conducted in both cities, with Holy Communion. What a joy it was to be united with another part of Christ’s Body, to feed upon Him and receive strength and encouragement through His Holy Word. Although our languages differ, we enjoy One Word, Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today and forever.
As we left Russia, with the Advent season coming soon, I thought about both the first and the second, future advent of our Lord. Like the Apostle Paul, I was overjoyed to know that these dear Russian brothers and sisters are in God’s care, and not in mine. He will accomplish His work in them, as in us, “To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.”
BRUCE SELIN
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