Study From the Book of First Thessalonians,1

          Study From the Book of the First Thessalonians,1

Today is the first part of the study of this important epistle.  It is also the early letters of the Apostle Paul (the scholars say it was only preceded by the Epistle of to Galatians).And as usual we begin with introduction.

Paul founded the Thessalonians church during his second missionary journey according to Acts 17:1-9. The early church faced an intense opposition from the Jews. He did not stay long there, most likely from few weeks to few months, before he was forced to leave making his way to Berea then Athens. As a young church, in this important strategic city in the ancient Europe, he kept following it up. And as it faced fierce opposition, Paul then sent Timothy to encourage Thessalonians brothers and sisters in Christ. When Timothy returned with positive report also with a few lingering concerns, the apostle Paul wrote this letter.

Paul ,in this letter, emphasizes the Lord’s return, perhaps suggesting to us the importance of teaching the doctrine in a practical way so as to lay foundation for a mature Christian faith.

Themes: the certain return of Christ should fill believers with unquenchable hope and help them to find strength when they come under attack for their faith.

Author; the apostle Paul

Date: written around A.D 51-52. This is among Paul’s earliest letters

Structure:

1:1-10: Paul begins by giving thanks for the Thessalonians and their testimony.

2:1-3:13: Paul defends his conduct and absence

4:1-5:22: Paul exhorts them to godly conduct, reminds them of the Lord’s coming, and gives direction for church life.

5:23-28: He ends with a prayer, greetings and conclusions.1/9/2019