1 Thessalonians

The book of 1 Thessalonians, written by the Apostle Paul around 50 AD, was addressed to the church in Thessalonica, which he, Silas, and Timothy established during their mission. After facing opposition and fleeing the city (see Acts 17:1-9), Paul was concerned that the new believers faith may weaken under persecution. When Timothy brought back encouraging news of their steadfast faith, Paul wrote this letter to express his joy. Paul recalled his ministry among them, emphasizing their faithfulness despite trials. He urged them to continue living in a way that pleases God, specifically calling them to avoid sexual immorality, love one another sincerely, and work diligently. Paul addresses questions about those who had died and assured them that believers who die will be resurrected when Jesus returns. He reminded them to remain alert and live uprightly, as Christ’s return will come unexpectedly.

Chapter 1

Paul, Silas, and Timothy greeted the Thessalonian church, offering grace and peace in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Thanksgiving For The Thessalonians' Faith

Paul expressed gratitude to God for the Thessalonians. He affirmed God’s choice of them, evident in the gospel’s transformative power through the Holy Spirit. Despite persecution, they embraced the gospel with joy and became examples for believers in Macedonia and Achaia. They inspired others to turn away from idols to serve the true God and await Christ’s return. Paul highlighted their steadfastness and reliance on Jesus.

Paul's Ministry In Thessalonica - Chapter 2

Paul reminded them of how they preached the gospel during opposition, motivated by God’s approval rather than human praise. He rejected flattery and greed, instead demonstrating genuine love and care. Paul worked tirelessly to avoid burdening them and lived a holy life as a witness to God’s truth. He rejoiced that they accepted the gospel as God’s word and endured suffering for their faith. Paul condemned those who opposed the gospel, stating that they faced God’s wrath for hindering salvation.

Paul's Longing To See The Thessalonians

Paul expressed deep longing to reunite with the Thessalonians, despite Satan hindering his efforts. He viewed them as his hope, joy, and crown. He found pride in their faith as he anticipated Christ’s return.

Paul's Longing To See The Thessalonians (cont.) - Chapter 3

Due to Paul's for the Thessalonians' faith, he sent Timothy from Athens to encourage them during trials. He reminded them that persecution was inevitable. Paul feared that the tempter (Satan) might have led them astray.

Timothy's Encouraging Report

Timothy returned with good news of the Thessalonians’ faith, love, and longing for Paul. Their steadfastness in the Lord brought Paul immense joy and thanksgiving, even during his own trials. He prayed to see them again and help strengthen their faith. Paul also prayed for God to increase their love, strengthen their hearts, and prepare them to be blameless and holy when Christ returns with His holy ones.

Living To Please God - Chapter 4

Paul reminded the Thessalonians of his instructions on living to please God and urged them to continue growing in holiness. He emphasized avoiding sexual immorality by controlling one’s body honorably and treating others with integrity. Rejecting these teachings is to sin and equates to rejecting God. Paul acknowledged their love for others, urging them to continue excelling in love, pursue a peaceful and hardworking life, and maintain respect among outsiders while being self-reliant.

Believers Who Have Died

Paul assured the Thessalonians that believers who had died would not miss out on Christ’s return. He explained that the dead in Christ would rise first, followed by living believers, who would all meet the Lord in the air, to be with Him eternally.

The Day Of The Lord - Chapter 5

Paul reminded the Thessalonians that the day of the Lord would come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. However, as children of the light, believers were called to remain alert and sober, living in faith, love, and hope. He assured them that God destined them for salvation through Jesus, who died so they could live with Him. Paul encouraged mutual support and edification within the community.

Final Instructions

Paul urged the Thessalonians to honor their leaders, live in peace, admonish the idle, encourage the fainthearted, and help the weak with patience. He encouraged them to rejoice, pray continually, and give thanks in all situations. Paul taught them to not look at prophecies with contempt but to test them, cling to good, and reject evil. Paul prayed for their complete sanctification and blamelessness at Christ’s return, affirming God’s faithfulness to fulfill this. He requested their prayers, encouraged holy fellowship, and directed the public reading of his letter. "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you." - 1 Thessalonians 5:28.