1 THESSALONIANS
ABOUT THIS LETTER
Paul started the church in Thessalonica (2.13,14), while working hard to support himself
(2.9). In this important city of northern Greece, many of the followers had worshiped
idols before becoming Christians (1.9). But they were faithful to the Lord, and because of
them the Lord's message had spread everywhere in that region (1.8). This letter may have
been the first one that Paul wrote, and maybe even the first of all the New Testament
writings.
Some people in Thessalonica began to oppose Paul, and he had to escape to Athens. But he
sent his young friend Timothy to find out how the Christians were doing (3.1-5). When
Timothy returned, he gave Paul good reports of their faith and love (3.6-10).
The church itself had problems. Some of its members had quit working, since they thought
that the Lord would soon return (4.11,12). Others were worried because relatives and
friends had already died before Christ's return. So Paul tried to explain to them more
clearly what would happen when the Lord returns (4.13-15), and then told them how they
should live in the meanwhile (5.1-11).
Paul's final instructions are well worth remembering:
"Always be joyful and never stop praying. Whatever happens, keep thanking God because
of Jesus Christ. This is what God wants you to do." (5.16-18)
A QUICK LOOK AT THIS LETTER
Greetings (1.1-3)
The Thessalonians' Faith and Example (1.4—3.13)
A Life That Pleases God (4.1-12)
What to Expect When the Lord Returns (4.13—5.11)
Final Instructions and Greetings (5.12-28)
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