I Thessalonians

Author: the apostle Paul
Place of writing: the city of Corinth
Time of writing: 50 or 51 A. D.

When Paul arrived at the city of Thessalonica, on his second missionary journey, he was only able to stay there for three weeks, before fierce persecution caused him to flee (Acts 17:1-10). Because he had not had time to give this brand new church sufficient teaching, and because he knew that it was undergoing much persecution, Paul could not bear to be without news of the believers’ welfare, and so he sent Timothy from Athens, to see if their faith was steadfast in the midst of suffering (3:5). Timothy’s encouraging report brought great joy to Paul, and he wrote this letter in response, to encourage them to continue steadfast in the faith, and to comfort them with teachings that he had not yet been able to share.

Paul’s major theme in this letter seem to be the certainty of Jesus’ return, and the comfort and motivation that this reality should have for believers who are in the midst of suffering. The letter may be divided into two basic sections: the first contains personal reflections on Paul’s ministry in Thessalonica, and displays tender love and compassion for the believers there; and the second gives instructions on how to live in a way that is pleasing to God, and teaching about Jesus’ return.

Paul begins with a thankful remembrance of the Thessalonians’ faith and example, and reminds them of his own example when he was among them. He tells them about how deeply he yearned to see the believers again, and to know how they were doing; so much so, in fact, that he was willing to be left alone in Athens so that Timothy could bring him a report. He concludes this very personal section with a prayer that God would establish their hearts in purity until the return of Jesus. Then, he gives them instruction on how they ought to conduct their lives on earth, and encourages them with the assurance that those believers who have already died will be raised again when Jesus comes. He tells them about the sudden and unexpected arrival of this day of Jesus’ return, and exhorts them to be watchful and vigilant as they wait for him.

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