1–Thessalonians
Introduction to the book of First Thessalonians
What chance did the Thessalonian church have? Recent converts to Christianity lacked a full understanding of the faith and suffered severe persecution. Could the fledgling believers withstand the antagonistic social climate? First Thessalonians tells of new believers who remained firm in their faith despite tremendous opposition and great disadvantages. The letter reminds us that faithful leaders, good teaching, and obedience are important, and it presents a clear vision of God as powerfully active in the lives of those he has called through the Good News of Jesus Christ."Perhaps the most important issue that makes this letter timely is its disarming awareness of God. First Thessalonians is about faith, love, and hope, not as human attributes but as gifts that spring from God alone. It is God who calls into faith, God who enables human love, and God toward whom hope is directed. Reading the letter, then, may serve to enable Christians today to use the word "God" without blushing, to think theologically about our lives and our endeavors."
(Beverly Roberts Gaventa, First and Second Thessalonians, Interpretation, a Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching (Louisville, KY: John Knox Press, 1998), 9.).
Theme & Overview
Paul praises the Thessalonian believers for their spiritual maturity and perseverance and encourages them to further “growth” in view of Christ's imminent return. Paul, Silas, and Timothy came to Thessalonica on Paul's second missionary journey. Paul's stay at Thessalonica was brief, at most only a few months. From there, he went to Berea, on to Athens, and then to Corinth. From Athens, Paul sent Timothy to encourage the Thessalonians. When Timothy returned to him at Corinth, the apostle was overjoyed at the news of the strong faith of the Thessalonians. He wrote the first Thessalonian letter from Corinth in late AD 50 or early 51. First Thessalonians is one of the earliest of Paul's letters and thus also one of the first books in the New Testament to be written. The "NKJV Chronological Study Bible says," Paul had not had time in Thessalonica to instruct his converts as thoroughly as he would have liked. Thus, in this letter, he wanted to express his joy at their steadfastness, encourage them in the midst of suffering, and correct misconceptions about the Lord's return.Author
First Thessalonians opens (1:1) with the names of Silas and Timothy, cofounders of the church in Thessalonica, alongside the name of Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles (Rom 11:13; Gal 1:16). The letter is mostly written in the first person plural ("we"), indicating that Silas and Timothy might have had a real part in the letter's composition. Paul only occasionally steps out individually to express his particular concerns (2:18; 3:5; 5:27). Joint composition of letters was known in the ancient world. For example, in his letter Ad Atticum, Cicero refers to "letters—both that which you wrote in conjunction with others and the one you wrote in your own name." However, the final command in 5:27 suggests that Paul had the major hand in writing, whatever the role of his companions may have been.Date & Place of Writing
The Setting of 1–2 Thessalonians, about AD 50. During his second missionary journey (shown), Paul established the church in Thessalonica as he made his way through Macedonia, but he was forced to leave the city very quickly (see Acts 17:1–9). He probably wrote 1 Thessalonians from Corinth after being encouraged by Timothy's report (3:1–8). Not long after, Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians to address further issues that had arisen.(The paragraph below is the same as the above paragraph but written in a different way or tone. I like them both.)
Paul wrote this epistle from Corinth during his second missionary journey (Acts 16–18) after Timothy returned from visiting the Thessalonian church (3:6; Acts 18:5). Gallio was named as proconsul of the Roman province of Achaia in AD 51, during Paul's stay in Corinth (Acts 18:11–12). Therefore, Paul probably wrote this letter during the latter part of AD 50. First Thessalonians is one of Paul's earliest epistles, second only to Galatians.Occasion and Date of First Thessalonians
Once Timothy arrived in Corinth to be with Paul, he began reporting on the progress of the young churches they had established in the region. When it came to Thessalonica, Timothy brought news that these young Christians were bearing well the persecution they were under because of their faith. He did mention, however, that several of their numbers had died, and they were confused about what would happen to those who died before the Lord returned. Paul had taught them that Jesus was to return, but they hadn't considered the idea that some of them might die before this event actually took place. And so Paul, not very long after he had established this church, writes to them in order to calm their fears and provide further instructions concerning the second coming of the Lord. This Thessalonian letter is the earliest full discussion related to the second coming of Christ and the resurrection of the saints (written before Revelation). Scholars have no doubts concerning the authorship of this letter since Paul named himself, and historians note that it was widely distributed and accepted by the early church – two key factors in determining the authenticity and inspiration of New Testament documents. It is a model epistle when examining the various growing pains experienced by a new church. The Thessalonian congregation had been established and taught in a few weeks, and they were now facing persecution and confusion about doctrine. And so Paul wrote to them to calm their fears and teach them what they wanted to understand, but they couldn't because of their lack of information and teaching.Recipients
Paul wrote to the church he founded in the city of Thessalonica during his second missionary journey (Acts 17:1–9). Though he lived among these people only a short time, he shows great love for these Gentile believers in this, his first of two letters to them. The Thessalonians likely faced severe persecution and had sent many questions to Paul, which he addresses throughout the letter.Background
Thessalonica, the major city of Macedonia, enjoyed the goodwill of Rome and the Roman citizens who settled there. The city was not subject to Roman taxation, could mint its own coins, and was not obliged to garrison Roman troops within the city walls. It prospered as a political and commercial center whose influence extended throughout the province of Macedonia and beyond. The mixed population of Thessalonica included Macedonians, Romans, Jews, and other peoples who traveled through the city. Many of the Romans who settled there became wealthy benefactors in the town. The Jewish population was large enough to have a synagogue (Acts 17:1). Luke reported the evangelization of Thessalonica in Acts 17:1–9. When Paul preached in the synagogue, some Jews converted to Christ. However, most of the converts in Thessalonica were Roman or Macedonian Gentiles who abandoned idolatry to follow Christ (1:9).The Setting of 1–2 Thessalonians, about AD 50. During his second missionary journey (shown), Paul established the church in THESSALONICA as he made his way through MACEDONIA, but he was forced to leave the city very quickly (see Acts 17:1–9). He probably wrote 1 Thessalonians from CORINTH after being encouraged by Timothy's report (3:1–8). Not long after, Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians to address further issues that had arisen.
The Jews who did not accept the Good News started a riot against the apostles and accused Paul and Silas of causing a civil disturbance (Acts 17:4–7). The accusation was calculated to generate maximum opposition by taking advantage of the Romans' intolerance of social unrest. As a consequence, Paul and his companions were forced to leave the city after a short time. Paul left a church that was at most a few months old in the faith, and the church was already experiencing persecution (1:6; 2:14; 3:3–4). The Christians in Thessalonica had not received all the teaching they needed, nor did they have mature leadership to oversee the church. As Paul traveled on to Berea, Athens, and finally Corinth (Acts 17:10–18:1), he was deeply concerned about the welfare of the Thessalonian church. His repeated attempts to return to the city were blocked by severe circumstances that he attributed to Satan (2:17–18). While in Athens, Paul could no longer bear his anxiety over the church. He sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to strengthen the believers and ensure they had not abandoned their faith (3:1–2, 5). While Paul was in Corinth, Timothy returned from Thessalonica with the good news that the Thessalonian believers continued in faith and love and stood firm despite the opposition they faced (3:6–8; Acts 18:5). First Thessalonians explodes with the joy Paul experienced upon hearing this report. It expresses his thankfulness to God for their faithfulness and his prayer that he might return to see them again and establish them more fully in the faith (3:9–11).The Purpose & Audience (Reasons for the letter)
First Thessalonians provides a look into the life and struggles of a new congregation of believers. These new converts were greatly disadvantaged because the founders of their church were absent. The new believers were experiencing great hostility from their own countrymen because of their faith (1:6; 2:14; 3:3–4). Paul believed they were under attack by Satan, the tempter (3:5), who had also hindered him from visiting them again (2:18). When Timothy returned from visiting them, Paul was overjoyed to discover that the Thessalonians were exhibiting the character of people truly converted to Christ. Their lives were marked by faith, love, and hope (1:3; 3:6; 5:8). They helped to spread the Good News throughout the surrounding regions (1:8) and became examples for other believers of true faith in the midst of suffering (1:6–7). What enabled the Thessalonians to stand firm in faith in the face of great adversity? Some might attribute such perseverance to simple resolve, good upbringing, or just "blind faith." Paul emphasizes that believers are chosen by God (1:4). The Good News is the divine message and witness of God's power (1:5). When people receive this message, it continues to work powerfully in them (2:13). Genuine conversion means turning to the true God in repentance and serving him while awaiting the return of his Son from heaven (1:9–10). Although the Christians in Thessalonica were young in the faith, separated from their church founders, and suffering for their conversion to Christ, God was at work in them. Such strength of faith is the work of Christ (3:8, 13). Still, these new Christians needed to grow in moral character and theological understanding. Paul had warned the Thessalonians about sexual immorality, but some dismissed his teaching (4:3–8). They did not understand that their belief in Christ's resurrection was their source of hope in the face of the bitter reality of death (4:13–18). They were confused about when Christ would return (5:1–11). Some in the church did not heed Paul's teaching about work (4:11; 5:14), and others were not properly respecting the emerging leaders in the church (5:12–13). Some Thessalonians were repressing prophecy in the church (5:19–22). Although correction may seem distasteful, we need it for proper moral and theological growth. As a wise pastor, Paul writes this letter to help the Thessalonian believers with these issues. He hopes that the letter will address these problems until he is able to return (3:10). In the end, every leader should entrust believers to God's work in their lives (5:23) since he is faithful (5:24).(General Purposes of the Letter)
As you read this letter, you will see some things that Paul is trying to accomplish with this epistle.To Express His Feelings
In the opening section, we see Paul expressing his joy and gratitude for their fidelity and loyalty to Paul and his helpers. They were a young church, and Paul hadn't been with them long. However, they were faithful in many ways despite the attacks against them and their faith. A great reward for ministers is seeing the faithfulness and growth of the members. Nothing kills the zeal of the preacher or missionary more than unfaithful Christians. This is why many leave to go to other places seeking new fields to harvest and more fruitful members.Paul Defends Himself
After his departure, there were some who accused Paul of being insincere, of being a fraud. He spends time in this letter defending his conduct. The best way to cause division is to attack the leaders and teachers in the church. Certain people in the Thessalonian church were using this tactic against the apostle.Paul Encourages Them
Their new faith was being tested, and many were being tempted to return to their pagan lifestyles with their sexual impurity. Not many begin the Christian life, and even fewer finish because they don't expect to be tested, and when they are – they quit. Paul encourages them to remain faithful to Christ despite the trials and temptations.Paul Gives Them Further Teaching
He provides teaching in two critical areas:The details concerning the second coming of Christ. This idea is mentioned 20 times in the two letters.Sanctified living. The second coming was the reason for the purified living of Christians. Paul explained this in more detail.
Fellowship
Paul encourages them and sends greetings to maintain love and fellowship between his group and these young Christians.A Summary of First Thessalonica
First Thessalonians is a letter of thanksgiving to God for the faith, love, and hope of the young Thessalonian church (1:2–3; 2:13; 3:9). Paul, however, also presents some of his concerns. Paul and his companions had preached the Good News in the city, then left abruptly and failed to return. In the ancient world, many traveling orators only sought money and fame. In 2:1–3:13, Paul defends his motives and ministry—he had not come looking for fame or fortune. He sincerely cared for the Thessalonian believers. He longed to see the church and had tried unsuccessfully to "come back" (2:17–20). Paul also affirms his care by reminding them that he had sent Timothy back to strengthen them and to find out about their welfare (3:1–5). Paul recounts how greatly comforted he was by the news Timothy brought (3:6–8), and he tells the church about his thanksgiving to God for them and his prayer that he might see them again (3:9–13). Timothy's report also informed Paul that some in the congregation had ignored Paul's teaching about sexual morality. In response, Paul emphasizes God's will for them to be holy (4:1–8). In addition, certain individuals within the church were refusing to work, ignoring the teaching and example of the apostles in this regard (4:11–12; 5:14; see 2 Thes 3:6–15). Timothy's report also included some questions from the Thessalonians. First, what would happen to believers who died before Christ's return? Paul answers that such people will be the first to be raised from the dead and be caught up with the living to meet the Lord at the time of his royal appearance (4:13–18). Second, the Thessalonians wanted to know when Christ would return and bring about the final consummation. Paul replies that the day will come at an unexpected moment, like a thief in the night (5:1–11). They should be prepared by living in faith, love, and hope. The letter closes with several exhortations on living a life that pleases God. Paul reminds the church to honor its emerging leaders (5:12–13). In addition, Paul instructs the Thessalonians that they should not reject prophecies but evaluate them (5:19–22). The letter concludes with a blessing that expresses Paul's absolute confidence in God's faithfulness and works in their lives (5:23–24).Key Verses (ESV)
1 Thessalonians 3:5: "For this reason, when I could bear it no longer, I sent to learn about your faith, for fear that somehow the tempter had tempted you and our labor would be in vain."1 Thessalonians 3:7: "For this reason, brothers, in all our distress and affliction we have been comforted about you through your faith."1 Thessalonians 4:14–17: "For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep. For this we declare to you by a word from the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.1 Thessalonians 5:16–18: "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."1 Thessalonians 5:8–9: "But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, having put on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet the hope of salvation. For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ."Key Passages (NLT)
Acts 18:5"And after Silas and Timothy came down from Macedonia, Paul spent all his time preaching the word. He testified to the Jews that Jesus was the Messiah."1 Thessalonians 1:1–2:9"This letter is from Paul, Silas, and Timothy. We are writing to the church in Thessalonica, to you who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May God give you grace and peace. We always thank God for all of you and pray…."1 Thessalonians 2:13–3:6"Therefore, we never stop thanking God that when you received his message from us, you didn't think of our words as mere human ideas. You accepted what we said as the very word of God—which, of course, it is. And this word continues to work in you who believe. And then, dear brothers and sisters,…."1 Thessalonians 3:13–5:12"May he, as a result, make your hearts strong, blameless, and holy as you stand before God our Father when our Lord Jesus comes again with all his holy people. Amen. Finally, dear brothers and sisters, we urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way…."1 Thessalonians 5:23–27"Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ comes again. God will make this happen, for he who calls you is faithful. Dear brothers and sisters, pray for us. Greet…"Outline #1
This letter deals with three main themes that make up the body of the letter, and these are book-ended by a salutation at the beginning and an exhortation and final greeting at the end. A basic outline would look like this:Paul's Prayer of Thanksgiving – 1:1-10Paul Defends His Conduct Among Them – 2:1-3:13Paul Exhorts the Thessalonians to Purer Conduct –4:1-12Paul Reveals Jesus' Teaching Concerning the End – 4:13-5:3Paul Instructs the Church in Preparing For the End – 5:4-28
Outline #2
First Thessalonians consists of five chapters that comprise two major sections. The first section address Paul's personal thoughts concerning the church. He expresses many thanks for how the Thessalonians live (1 Thessalonians 1:2–10), describing them as positive examples for the churches. Chapter 2 retells some of Paul's ministry to this young church (1 Thessalonians 2:1–16). He concludes the chapter with a longing to see them again to bring him glory and joy (1 Thessalonians 2:17–20). Though Paul is concerned regarding the status of the church (1 Thessalonians 3:1–5), Timothy had recently returned with the good news of their faith and love (1 Thessalonians 3:6). Paul thanks God (1 Thessalonians 3:9) and ends the section with a prayer for the believers receiving his letter (1 Thessalonians 3:11–13).
The second major section covers the remainder of the book and addresses various practical concerns (1 Thessalonians 4—5). First, Paul urges them to live a life that pleases the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:1). He addresses their concerns about the coming of the Lord, noting the dead in Christ will rise first at the rapture, followed by believers still living. All believers will then meet the Lord in the air and be with Him forever, which Paul calls a source of encouragement (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18).
Chapter 5 then addresses the "day of the Lord," a day that will come suddenly upon those unprepared (1 Thessalonians 5:1–11). Paul concludes with instructions to respect their leaders (1 Thessalonians 5:12–13), correct the idle (1 Thessalonians 5:14), and various other instructions for Christian living (1 Thessalonians 5:15–22), concluding with a final blessing and instructions regarding greeting one another and reading the letter to all (1 Thessalonians 5:23–28).