The Book of 1 Thessalonians calls believers to live in the Gospel and fulfill their calling in the joy of the Holy Spirit. Paul reminds the Thessalonians of Christ’s return—a tricky passage to interpret—but also reminds them to simply follow Christ’s example while they await His coming.
Many of the verses in this book focus on prayer and sanctification, especially from Paul’s pastoral and fatherly perspective. From greeting to conclusion, Paul encourages the Thessalonians to love, pray for, and encourage one another.
The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the people of Thessalonica, where he founded a church during his second missionary journey. This letter is his first epistle to the Thessalonians.
Paul wrote the Book of 1 Thessalonians to restore relations with the Thessalonian Christians after persecution drove Paul out of the congregation. This letter reminds the church of the deep love Paul has for them, even though he is separated from them by unfortunate and dangerous circumstances.
The focal point of the book is Christ’s presence in the midst of persecution and His never-ending nourishment, protection, and forgiveness. Paul praises the Thessalonian church’s courage, persistence, and faith in Christ.
As you read through 1 Thessalonians, pray about how you can endure suffering and trials. Christ is present in whatever you’re going through, whether that is persecution for your faith or even something less serious.
Paul focuses on prayer and sanctification quite a bit in this letter. Reevaluate your own prayer life, and consider how God is working in your life to make you more like Him.
We give thanks to God always for all of you, constantly mentioning you in our prayers, remembering before our God and Father your work of faith and labor of love and steadfastness of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Now may the God of peace himself sanctify you completely, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful; he will surely do it.
This month, study the Book of 1 Thessalonians with these free downloadable study questions.