1 Thessalonians Introduction

Introduction

Paul, Silas and Timothy went to the city of Thessalonica. There they preached the good news about Jesus the Messiah. Many people became believers. But that caused disorder in the city. Paul and Silas were accused of disobeying the Roman emperor’s laws. That’s because they preached that there was another king. And that king was Jesus. Paul and Silas narrowly escaped and had to run away from the city.

Later Paul became concerned about the believers in Thessalonica. These believers were suffering because of their faith. Because of this, Paul was afraid they would lose their faith. So Paul sent Timothy to encourage them. It was safe for Timothy to go there because he was Greek. When Timothy returned to Achaia where Paul was staying, he had good news. The believers in Thessalonica had remained faithful. So Paul wrote this letter to tell them how happy he was.

In this short letter, Paul begins by remembering his time in Thessalonica. He gives thanks for the believers’ faith even though they have struggles and challenges. Paul then teaches them how to live lives that are pleasing to God. They are to avoid sexual immorality. They are to love one another. And they are to work hard to earn their own living.

Paul then writes about a very important question. The believers in Thessalonica were asking what happens to believers who die before Jesus returns. Paul explains that believers who die are not lost. They will be raised from the dead when Jesus returns as the world’s king. Paul reminds the Thessalonians that Jesus will appear suddenly when no one expects it. So they must live lives that are pleasing to God. Then they will not be ashamed when he comes again. Throughout the letter Paul tells them to keep up their good work.

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1 Thessalonians Introduction: NIrV

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