The First Epistle To The Thessalonians
Author	Paul the Apostle
Date Written	Between A.D. 50 and 51
Title	From Paul's first recorded letter to the church at Thessalonica
Background	Thessalonica is the capital city of Macedonia, a Roman province. When Paul arrives there on his second missionary journey, it is a thriving trade center and seaport of some 200,000 people. Paul's preaching brings many to faith in Jesus Christ, but intense persecution forces him to flee the city. Paul goes to Berea where he leaves his companions, Timothy and Silas, to carry on the ministry. But the dissenting Jews from Thessalonica follow him there to incite a riot. Paul goes to Athens and then to Corinth where he receives an updated report that he has requested from Timothy on the Thessalonian Christians. This letter is Paul's response.
Where Written	Corinth
To Whom	To the church at Thessalonica
Content	Among the first of Paul's letters, Thessalonians is written to encourage the young church at Thessalonica and to commend them for their diligent faith. Paul instructs the believers to live lives of holiness and orderliness and includes a plea against sexual immorality. This dynamic congregation is a constant source of joy for Paul. But some in the church misunderstand the Second Coming of Christ, thinking the believers who die before Christ's return will miss out on the resurrection. Paul assures them that the dead in Christ will indeed be the first to rise, and they then will be caught up together with those alive to meet the Lord in the air. This letter from Paul closes with various exhortations and blessings.
Themes	God expects believers to be examples for unbelievers. Living a sanctified life is God's will for every believer. The return of Jesus Christ is certain. Persecution is never a reason to leave God. Our ultimate victory is in Christ. Christians should pray for their church and their leaders.
Key Words	“Steadfastness”; “Second Coming.” Paul commends the Thessalonian believers for their “steadfastness” in faith despite their background of Greek paganism. At a time when the “Second Coming” of Christ is expected soon, Paul writes on the comfort, necessity, and certainty of Christ's return.
Outline	1:1  Greeting. 1:2-1:10  Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians' faith. 2:1-3:13  Paul's work in Thessalonica. 4:1-5:22  Preparations for the coming of the Lord. 5:23-5:28  Conclusion.
More	A more extensive Outline of 1 Thessalonians Audio of the Book of 1 Thessalonians

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