1Th 1:4 Chosen - How do you know?

[bcbsr]

Chosen - How do you know?

1Th 1:4 For we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you,

How do you know whether someone has actually come to know Christ? By their behavior!
"we know ('oida' gk.)" means "we perceive based on our external observations".
(This as opposed to based on internal feelings). What external observations?

Paul was not simply interested in them claiming to believe, but rather he was watching their lives to see if they demonstrated the quality of faith that saves. For the faith that saves is an application-oriented faith. And what kind of behavior and attitude should be characteristics of such believers?

• 
  With respect to LIFESTYLE, we should have works of faith.
  With respect to ATTITUDE, we should have endurance of faith.

For those who have been chosen "have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by his blood" 1Peter 1:2

The Berean Christian Bible Study Resources

 

[CMDRExorcist]

Paul was praising the Thessalonians for their labors in sharing the gospel in the midst of persecution. While your exhibition seems to lean heavy on works, the actual verse in 1 Th 1:4 in context is Paul reminding the Thessalonians that although he is pleased with their work through faith, it is God that chose and loved them first.