The Law of the Inner Circle: Paul's Team Represented Him (1 Thessalonians 3:2-10)

Extracted from The Maxwell Leadership Bible

Paul found it diffidult to send Timothy to Thessalonica; he would rather have returned himself. If he had, however, he might have been killed. The religious leaders remianed on the lookout for him, ever since they ran him out of town. So Paul sent one of his key players, Timothy, a member of Paul's inner circle.

Paul's potential multiplied because of individuals like Timothy. Timothy did just what Paul would have done had he been present:

1. Provide - He gave them strength and encouragement (v. 2).
2. Protect - He worked to rescue those who might fall away (v. 3).
3. Preserve - He fought to ensure their work had not been in vain (vv. 4,5).
4. Promote - He motivated them and cheered them on to grow (vv. 6,7).
5. Present - He reported to Paul how their faith had flourished (vv. 6-8).
6. Pray - He led the way in praying for what they still lacked (vv. 9,10).