Gentle affection

A recent study is showing a decline in those who are connected to a church and a rise in those who are atheists or have no faith. There is a majority now of the unconnected and they tend to vote as liberals. My concern is not politics but on reaching the unsaved for Christ and helping them to continue. The best way to do this is a one on one relationship or small groups that connect with them and disciple them. Paul as an apostle and evangelist cared for those who came to Christ as a father or nurse to newborns. 

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

Flattery appeals to the flesh. Satan uses flattery before taking something from you. Paul used no flattery, nor was he seeking gain in money or personal favor. Ministers who preach a gospel of financial wealth, would not fit in with the apostle Paul. He desired only to preach Jesus on the cross and his resurrection. The way of grace for those who believe.

1 Th 2:6 Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

They could have sought and received the best food and accommodations. They could have taken money for themselves in excess of their needs, but this is not the mind of Christ. Paul followed the Holy Spirit who speaks of Jesus and his way. He did not Lord it over the people, nor did he manipulate them for personal gain.

1 Cor 1:12 Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ.
1 Cor 1:13 Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?

1 Th 2:7 But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:

Gentle as a nurse to newborn babes. We must be gentle and patient with those newly born into God's family.

1 Th 2:8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

The apostle Paul's love and care went beyond duty, he became as a father to them. They were close family, cherished by Paul and loved by God. If you are the one who led another to Christ Jesus, you have a responsibility to feed the new one and to give them love and support. This is where the church comes in. The church has all the gifts. An evangelist may not be gifted in mercy and helps, let others share in the care of the newborn in Christ using their spiritual gifts.Teachers are needed, helpers, encouragers and those with mercy to love them when they fail. These are people as examples and above all we point them to Jesus for he is the one we are to follow. This is how we do it online and it is the best way in our church communities; we need to connect with them.