Page 94 - Advanced New Testament Survey Student Textbook

Paul’s message in 1 Thessalonians is that we can trust the character of God and the truth of the gospel
(1:10; 2:19–20; 5:1–11). Paul reassures believers who have died that they have not missed anything;
both the living and the dead will participate in Christ’s return (4:13–18). This would have encouraged the
Thessalonians to endure persecution, even to the point of death.

Since Christ will surely come again, we must live faithfully in light of this reality. Like the Thessalonians,
we still grieve for those who have died. But we do not grieve like those who have no hope. Because
Jesus has been raised, our resurrection is certain—and we can face any hardship with the confidence
that God is with us. 132

Purpose

In this letter, Paul encourages the Thessalonians to remain unwavering in faith, hope, and love despite
persecution and suffering. 133 Paul calls the Thessalonians to faithful commitment, and commends them
for having “suffered the same things” as the first Christians in Judaea (2:13–14). He also writes to
commend the Thessalonians for their love of one another and encourages them to continue this pattern
(4:9–10). Paul finally writes to encourage the Thessalonians to continue having confidence in the coming
“day of the Lord” (ἡμέρα κυρίου, hēmera kyriou; 5:1–11). However, this confidence might have been
missing among the Thessalonians, judging from Timothy’s report (3:6) and the absence of
commendation in this regard (as opposed to the letter’s praise for the believers’ faith and love; e.g.,
1:6–8; 4:9–10). The Thessalonians are encouraged to stand firm in contrast to those surrounding them
(5:6–7) and to keep great confidence for their salvation (5:9–10). 134

How does 1 Thessalonians impact our lives?

The words “We always thank God for all of you and continually mention you in our prayers” (I Thess.
1:2), sound simple. But taken as literally as they are, Paul and his team challenge us to grow in our
prayer lives, particularly for others. Do you take time to pray for others?

There is nothing more important for a preacher of the gospel than to preach with power, with the Holy
Spirit, and deep conviction. What’s more important is to be consistent in matching our actions with our
preaching (1:5). How do your actions match with your preaching, are you consistent?

The Thessalonian believers became an example for people in their region, just as Paul and his fellow
ministers were an example for them (1 Thess. 1:6–7). Who do you look to as an example of following
Christ? Is there anyone who sees you as an example?

1 Thess. 2:2-7 - As preachers and people who love to do good works, we are tempted to desire to hear
praise comments from people after serving. And often we judge the quality of our service based on the
number of people who gave praises. This text, particularly in verse 6, helps us to keep to mind that only
God is worthy of praise and glory in all we do. We are just servants who need to be sincere with
ourselves and our work in Him!

132 Ibid
133 Kuo, J. C. (2016). Thessalonians, First Letter to the. In J. D. Barry, D. Bomar, D. R. Brown, R. Klippenstein, D.
Mangum, C. Sinclair Wolcott, … W. Widder (Eds.), The Lexham Bible Dictionary. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press.
134 Kuo, J. C. et al.

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