When Paul came to a new city or village, his intention was to share the message of Christ with the lost, and encourage believers. Of course, the Scriptures give tribute to Paul’s amazing successes. In towns throughout the Roman world, Paul won folks to Christ and started churches. The man who had initially tried to arrest Christians, and see them put to death, now put his own life on the line to spread the Good News.

In Paul’s day, and in every generation since, there have been evil men who got involved in ministry with carnal motives. For many, the following that Paul enjoyed became envied and sought after. It looked so alluring to have so many people seek Paul out for spiritual counsel and help. They longed to experience that kind of following for themselves, and were willing to do anything to get it.

There were men who would do practically anything to attract a crowd. The depths that were explored by some, simply to gather a following were appalling at best, and wickedly sinful at the worst. Some men pretended to exercise great power from God. There were those who faked miracles simply to create excitement.

Churches would be built by such tactics, and the deceptive leaders could continue their charade for some time; that is, until it became obvious that their motives were selfish, and the real needs of the people were not being met.

Over and over again, such ministries began to implode when it became obvious that the church was there for the leader, instead of the other way around. When the average church member felt like he could get no attention from its leaders, the church was in danger.

Paul knew well of churches like these; ones whose leadership were in it for what they could get out of it. Whether for fame or fortune, their intentions were not honorable, and eventually God could no longer bless the work. Whether a ministry was begun with improper motives, or eventually slid in that direction, the end result was always the same; God would remove His hand and the church would begin to falter.

Paul reminded the church at Thessalonica that he came to them with a pure heart, and with godly intentions. His goal was to share Christ with them, and see them grow in their walk with Him, and their witness to others. He did not come with any selfish overtones or desire for fame. He wrote in…

1 Thessalonians 2:5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

No flattering words, and no covetousness in his heart; that was the testimony Paul had left there, and at each of the churches he had a part in starting.

Such a testimony is good for each of us as we seek to minister to others for Christ.