Paul, Silas and Timothy traveled to other cities in Macedonia.  They came to Thessalonica and found a synagogue of the Jews.  Paul’s custom was to always look for a synagogue before he preached to the Gentiles.
(Acts 17:1-2)

Paul reasoned with the Jewish congregation for three Sabbaths – a Sabbath is the seventh day of the week.
Paul explained and gave the congregation evidence to support this faith in Jesus Christ.  He explained the evidence of God’s prophecies from the Prophets in the Old Testament.
Paul gave evidence of Scriptural facts of Messiah.  The Messiah Who had to suffer and Who had to rise again from the dead.  (Acts 17:3)
Paul proclaimed that this Jesus is the Christ.  (Acts 17:30)

Reaction of the Jewish congregation
(NASB) Acts 17:4 “And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas…”

Reaction of the Gentiles
(NASB) Acts 17:4 “…along with a large number of the God-fearing Greeks and a number of the leading women.”

Paul was making the way for a church to be “planted” in Thessalonica.  A church made up of men and women whose faith was in Jesus Christ, according to God’s word.

Was everything smooth and quiet in establishing faith in Jesus Christ in this city?  No, it wasn’t, next week we will consider what happened.
Did the Thessalonian church “fold” or become non-existent?  No, for there are two important letters which Paul sent to the Thessalonians recorded in the New Testament.

The Thessalonian believers in Jesus were a light in a dark place.  You and your church are light in a dark place…Jesus said:
(NIV) Matthew 5:14-16 “You are the light of the world.  A city on a hill cannot be hidden.  15Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl.  Instead they put it on its  stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.  16In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.”

Paul reasoned, he explained giving evidence from the Scriptures, proclaiming the Lord Jesus is Messiah. And people responded.  You also are a witness as a follower of Christ.

(NASB) Isaiah 52:7 “How lovely on the mountains
Are the feet of him who brings good news,
Who announces peace
And brings good news of happiness,
Who announces salvation,
And says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns!”