Thessalonians 1-2: Verse by Verse With Bible Study FellowshipНамуна

A Firm Foundation

Does it seem like the world could collapse at any moment? News and social media constantly churn out stress, threats and disasters. National tensions, economic woes and personal tragedies fuel hopelessness, stress, fear and worries. Do waves of facts and images shake your perspectives on suffering, justice or life’s meaning? 

We need not fear. God secures believers in His unshakable fellowship. He provides peace, grace and love. As Jesus reminds us, “Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6:34). He also promised that our choice to worry cannot add a single hour to our lives.1 So, how do believers live in this daily tension of troubles and peace? 

Paul gives God’s answer in his second letter to the Thessalonians. He reminded these believers to stand firm in faith, especially in unstable circumstances. He repeated truths about final judgment and preparing for Christ’s return. As you study this letter on your own or with others, how might God’s Word clarify your views and expectations as well?

1 and 2 Thessalonians

Paul, with Silas and Timothy, wrote this letter and 1 Thessalonians. Both letters were to the church they founded in Thessalonica. Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians with great joy. He reinforced truths he personally taught them. He focused on the Spirit’s work among them. But, he wrote 2 Thessalonians with grave concern. Some false teachers were reportedly claiming the day of the Lord had begun.

“The day of the Lord” is a prophetic phrase that refers to God’s future intervention in final judgement upon the whole world. Paul mentioned this topic in 1 Thessalonians 5. This letter and these notes more fully discuss its meaning and why Paul called out and corrected this error.

The church in Thessalonica began with God. He worked among a diverse group of people who heard and believed Paul’s gospel message. They united in the Spirit as children of God and members of the body of Christ. Yet religious persecution quickly impacted their relationships. The Thessalonians needed increasing faith to stay alert and stand guard against Satan’s work in the world around them. Despite troubles, their love could not be destroyed. 

Do you feel abandoned by God? The gospel does not promise freedom from suffering in this world. The gospel promises salvation from sin and deliverance into new life. Believers are called to renew their minds for sacrificial living.2  God gives His children this new perspective and power for holy living. For example, persecuted believers can love their enemies and wait patiently on God to relieve their suffering.

Are you wondering when rescue will come? Do not be confused; God is always at work for your good.3 God’s highest purpose for us is not to escape from persecution and trials. Whether or not relief comes, the goal is Christ-like joy as we do our Father’s will.4 This new life in Christ provides power to choose and to enjoy what is good. How can you shine with the glory of God’s Word in your struggles today?5

Questions

Q1. Scan through 2 Thessalonians. What words describing God capture your attention?

Q2. What examples of faith in action do Paul and the Thessalonians show?

Related Verses 

1 Do not worry: Matthew 6:25-34

2 Renew minds: Romans 12:1-2

3 Transform all for good: Romans 8:28

4 Joy set before Jesus: Philippians 2:8-9; Hebrews 12:2

5 Jars of clay: 2 Corinthians 4:6-7