Thessalonians

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Reading Guide

1 and 2 Thessalonians - November 3-9

1 Thessalonians

Date and Author: The apostle Paul; approximately 51 AD; from Corinth

Background: Acts 17:1-15; Paul in Thessalonica; Approximately 49 AD

Themes: Holiness, love, future hope

Chapters 1-3 A Celebration of Faithfulness

1 Thes. 1:1-5 Prayer of thanksgiving

1 Thes. 1:6-10  Conversion from idolatry to worship of the true God. 

1 Thes. 2:1-12  Paul’s mission to them and their personal connection

1 Thes. 2:13-16  Their common persecution and suffering

1 Thes. 2:17-3:10  Paul was forced to leave due to persecution; he sent Timothy to them to encourage them and bring him word about them.

1 Thes. 3:11-13 Prayer for endurance - May God increase your love, holiness, and hope

Chapters 4-5 A Challenge to Grow 

1 Thes. 4:1-8 Holiness and sexual purity

1 Thes. 4:9-12 Commitment to love and service - generosity to others

1 Thes. 4:13-18 Future hope of Jesus’ return - What about those who die before his return?

They will return with Jesus and will be united with those who remain. “And so we will be with the Lord for ever.”

1 Thes. 5:1-22 This love should motivate faithfulness. Live in the present as if the Day of the Lord is already here.

1 Thes. 5:23-18 Prayer of hope May God keep you holy as you await the arrival of Jesus.

2 Thessalonians

Date and Author: The apostle Paul; approximately 52 AD

Background: Paul got word that the problems he wrote about in the first letter had gotten worse. Persecutions had become worse. The believers were confused and scared about the return of Jesus. Three sections address the three problems in this church. 

Chapter 1 - Hope despite persecution

Vs. 1-3 - A prayer of thanks for their faith, love, and endurance

Vs. 4-10 - Jesus became king through his suffering on the cross, so his followers will show their victory over the world by demonstrating Jesus’ non-violence and endurance. This won’t last forever: Jesus will return with his final justice.

Vs. 11-12 - Prayer: May the Lord Jesus be honored through you

Chapter 2 - Clarity about the coming Day of the Lord

Some, claiming to be sent by Paul, were falsely saying that he said the Day of the Lord was already here. Paul’s purpose here is to comfort the people and calm their fears.

Vs. 16-17 - Prayer: May the Lord give you comfort and strength.

Chapter 3 - Challenge to the idle - Those leading a disordered life, not working, but meddling in the business of others.He reminds them how he worked at a trade while he was with them so he would not be a burden to them. Imitate Jesus’ self giving love by working hard so their lives can be a benefit to others.

Vs. 16-18 - Prayer: May the Lord of peace grant you peace.