1 Thessalonians

1 thessalonians


What are the strengths and weaknesses in this church? Paul commends these Gentile believers in their growth but finds fault with those in the church who were refusing to work thinking Jesus return was immediate. The error was patiently corrected by Paul as he explained what happens to those who have already died and what will happen when Jesus returns. He even goes into the signs of the times; "When people are saying everything is peaceful and secure, then disaster will fall on them . . . suddenly." I Thess 5:3. The church in Thessalonica is mentioned in Acts 17:1-8 when Paul and Silas stopped by two different times during Paul’s second journey.

What is the main idea of this epistle? Paul didn’t have much time with this church as with many others so the letter they wrote him was important for him to address since he had to leave them so suddenly. Paul offered consolation to them concerning their loved ones as well as comforting words in persecution and spiritual life. "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 comes again. God will make this happen, for He who calls you is faithful." I Thess. 5:23-24.

What does this epistle show about the character and nature of God? The gospel message has power and Paul and Silas were trusting God to keep these new believers in the faith. They responded to Paul’s loving concern for them and according to Timothy’s report, were doing well! "And you know that we treated each of you as a father treats his own children." Thess. 2:11.