For example, with issues like sexual immorality, Paul calls each to a higher level of holiness, reminding them this was what God has called them to (Longenecker, p. 69). It allows for them to feel more confident knowing someone is in their corner and wants to see them win in life. [12] After reading 1 Thessalonians 1:7–8, how would you describe the Thessalonian church? Paul acts much like a Parent to the Thessalonians, he remains loving and authoritative. Instead, let us live lives that reflect our faith, glorify God, and bring hope to others by sharing the gospel. Purpose and Themes present in 1 Thessalonians: The content of things covered in 1 & 2 Thessalonians is really quite remarkable. It is interesting to see the balance of encouragement and challenge in these passages, knowing that it all comes from a place of love and a desire for the believers to see the truth they may not see right in front of them. It is very important to understand that Paul’s missionary work in these cities, such as Thessalonica, was not free and easy. The Apostle Paul, or Saint Paul, wrote many epistles (letters) to churches in various locations. Author: 1 Thessalonians 1:1 indicates that the Book of 1 Thessalonians was written by the apostle Paul, probably along with Silas and Timothy. An overarching theme that I gathered from reading 1 Thessalonians was Paul’s love for the people of Thessalonica. Date of Writing: The Book of 1 Thessalonians was written in approximately A.D. 50. Paul claims their reason for working was to “offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate” (2 Th 3:9). I really liked your post Adam. 69). They seem to think because they are believers in the church, they do not need to partake in work like everyone else because God will provide for them. The members were loving one another. The most prominent theme in 1 Thessalonians is the parousia; i.e., the second coming of Jesus 9. It is true Paul was forced to leave Thessalonica under the cover of darkness (Acts 17:10), leaving Jason with some legal and financial burdens (Acts 17:9, Jason posted bail for Paul). What I got out of this passage for as little as they had no matter what the situation they were in they were still there to be able to encourage others through the tough times they had. 1 Thessalonians Maps and Resources. That element of helping each other want to do better is what Paul was trying to accomplish (Proverbs 27:17). You made a great point in connecting this theme even with the section of the return of the Lord because I had never heard any teachings making this connection before. [⇑ See verse text ⇑] Church members should not leave the work of ministering entirely to their spiritual leaders. It took a lot of courage to do it the way he did with all the oppression he faced. 1 Thessalonians touches on other instructions, reiterating the disciplines that the Thessalonians should continue to practice more and more. It served two purposes, one being that his needs were met, and two being that no one could slander him, or insinuate that he was accepting “hand-outs” instead of working. I find it very interesting that back then someone could be forced out of a city because of an opinion without any factual proof. Phillip J. Paul then goes on to speak words of encouragement from the report of Timothy and how they are praying earnestly for the Thessalonians to grow and abound further in love (1 Thess 3:10-12). The most prominent theme in 1 Thessalonians is the parousia; i.e., the second coming of Jesus 9. In today’s society, it seems as if people prefer to bring opponents or accusers to the public so that they can be recognized and named. There is always something about leading by example and being a person someone can look to and see their doing well and living a holy life. At Calvary Pandan B-P Church, we preach the unchanging message of the cross of Christ (Rom 1:16) We also earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the … It may be the case some members of the congregation were abusing the generosity of others, no longer working while they waiting for the soon arrival of the Lord Jesus. Because of this, Paul’s defense of his ministry while in Thessalonica (2:1-8) could be seen not only for his own benefit, but also as an affirmation for the Thessalonian believers that their mentor and teacher indeed had pure motives with his teaching. ALL. As I mentioned in the introduction, 1 & 2 Thessalonians are Ecological epistles. Paul knows that the walk of faith may become hard as we are trying to please God and live as He wants us to live. It is important that someone like Paul is able to step in and see what can be shifted or changed by having an outside perspective. Those instructions gave those new believers the great insight on how to live right as they continue to build on their faith (1 Thessalonians 2:12). Timothy saw the new Christians having good faith and showing love, but they knew that they could grow more in this area. Paul writes to remind, encourage, and instruct them concerning a few areas of interest: Encouragement for the Thessalonians. He is obviously concerned with them living a way that would please God, and he seems to know that encouraging them and challenging them will push them to do even better. Paul truly cares for the people of Thessalonica and wants to help them through their new found faith by encouraging them and reinforcing the lifestyle they need to be following. His time was opposed by certain people in multiple areas during his missionary journeys, and Thessalonica is one of those places. It seems most people in these times were sort of scared of the unknown and when something came about they didn’t know about, they automatically figured it is negative. Paul did not want them to stay focused on what people were doing or thinking of them, but instead focus on what is important, and what will make them the strongest spiritually. Greetings to the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 1:1-2; Philemon 1:1-3)1 Paul, Silvanus, a and Timothy, . 4 giving it major consideration (1:9-10; 2:19-20; 3:13; 4:13-18; 5:23-24). Who did Paul send to the Thessalonians? 1:2-10; 2:13-16) while the second is persecution (cf. Paul again refers to the example set by him while they were in Thessalonica. 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