1 Thessalonians Introduction

Author 

Paul clearly wrote Thessalonians (1:1; 2:18), as it was written in his typical formula: open with a salutation, give a blessing, offer thanksgiving, teach on doctrine and/or practice, and conclude with further greetings and a benediction. 


History

Historically, Paul came to Thessalonica from Philippi (Acts 17:1) with Silas and Timothy. He preached three Sabbaths in the synagogue and converted some Jews, devout Greeks, and a large group of women, along with a number of pagan worshipers (Acts 17:2-4; 1 Thessalonians 1:9). As usual, Paul’s message stirred up a mob, and Paul was eventually escorted out of town by night (Acts 17:5-10).

Paul went to Berea and preached, but the Thessalonian mob chased him there, so Paul left Silas and Timothy at Berea and went to Athens (Acts 17:10-15), where he preached his famous message at Mars Hill (Acts 17:16-34).

When Silas and Timothy rejoined Paul in Athens, Paul became concerned for the church at Thessalonica and sent Timothy back to strengthen and establish their faith in the face of persecution. 

Paul journeyed on to Corinth (Acts 18:1) and was preaching there when Timothy and Silas rejoined him. Timothy reported to Paul that the church at Thessalonica was doing well, with a few exceptions.

Most prominent was the concern of some members regarding those who had died, fearing they had missed the return of Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:13). The return of Christ is the most prominent theme of the book, so Paul placed a strong emphasis on reassuring the living that those who died before Christ’s return would be included in the resurrection. This theme is mentioned in every chapter of the book (1:10; 2:19-20; 3:13; 4:13-18; 5:1-11, 23-24).

There were also secondary issues of concern in the light of the coming of Christ (3:15), the wrath to come (1:10; 5:9), and both the dead and the living meeting Christ in the clouds (4:17), which served as Paul’s primary purpose for writing. 

These secondary issues included:

  • Paul wished to encourage those who never expected their affliction and persecution to last so long to endure with faith (3:1-5).

  • Paul dealt with those taking advantage of the rich by not earning their own living but depending on the wealthy for provision (4:10-12; 5:14).

  • Paul gave some clear instructions about sexual purity as some were not taking holiness seriously enough (5:1-11).

  • Paul was concerned the church was becoming too familiar with the new style of servant leadership and warned them to honor their leaders (5:12-13).

  • Paul warned against taking vengeance into their own hands and instructed them on how to follow the Holy Spirit instead (5:15-24).  


Outline

  • Paul’s Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians’ Faith (1)

  • Paul’s Defense of His Ministry (2)  

  • Paul’s Personal Concern for the Thessalonians (3)

  • Paul’s Teaching on How to Live Expecting Jesus’ Immediate Return (4-5)

    • Paul’s Concern for the Thessalonians’ Holiness (4:1-12)

    • Paul’s Addresses the Questions Concerning the Lord’s Coming (4:13-5:3)

    • Paul’s Instructions on How to Live Waiting (5:4-28)