The Letters Continued - 1& 2 Thessalonians | Philippians | James | JudeSample

Today's scriptures will provide context to the study of 1 + 2 Thessalonians. Through Acts 16 and 17 we see how Paul travelled through Thessalonica on his missionary journey. Paul faithfully preached to anyone that would listen, while non-believers tried to run him out of nearly every town he visited. Despite this, the Holy Spirit was working and groups of faith formed along his route, including in Thessalonica.

The two letters to the Thessalonians are filled with instructions on living a Christian life, and encourage the Thessalonian church in the midst of suffering. Paul also teaches them to correct their misunderstandings of the second coming of Christ, showing them that the eventual return gives us hope in all circumstances. But these letters are also filled with encouragement and affection for those who encouraged Paul in his faith journey as he taught them. These letters are rooted in the one truth - “This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah” (Acts 17:3).

1 Thessalonians is written shortly after Paul left Thessalonica in around AD 50-51. Paul had heard reports of the newborn Thessalonian church's faith in the midst of trials and wrote this letter of encouragement with the goal that they would continue to grow in faith and godliness. Paul taught that spiritual growth is motivated by their hope in the return of Christ. Paul then offers hope of Christ’s return, providing comfort in the midst of questions and hurt and motivating them to godly living. In this letter, Paul gives us wise and practical advice on how to live our lives filled with gratitude, grace, and glory.

To further understand the context of 1 Thessalonians watch this short video by the Bible Project below. It will help to give you a deeper understanding of what is happening in this book of the Bible.