The Writings of 1 Thessalonians

What will happen at the end of the world? Will Christ come back again? What will happen when Christ comes back again? What happens when we die? Have you ever asked these questions? Many have, including the members of the church in Thessalonica. Paul had stayed in Thessalonica for only a few weeks before he was forced to flee because of persecution. But in those short weeks he managed to lead many to Christ. These new believers were from many different backgrounds so learning about Jesus and life with Him was completely new for them. They were excited to learn from all of Paul’s teaching while he was with them. Paul taught them much about the return of Jesus. He described Jesus’ return like the arrival of a King in a city. This idea made people in the city upset and angry. Paul was threatened and had to escape out of the city. 

With Paul’s teachings, the new church was excited and eagerly waiting for the return of their King, Jesus! But as time passed, and they saw friends die and hardship come, they wondered why Jesus had not returned. They had questions. Some wondered, “When Jesus does come back what will happen to the Christians who have already died?” Others wondered, “What will happen to us who area live when Jesus comes back?” Questions began consume this new church. They were so excited and filled with passion, but Paul’s early departure left them with unanswered questions. When Paul left, he asked Timothy to stay behind with the church. Timothy reported to Paul these questions. So Paul wrote them a letter to help them have more understanding. 

Paul addressed the issues about end times. Paul made sure to answer their questions about those who believed in Jesus, but had now already died before His return. He also wanted to put the Thessalonians’ minds at ease concerning what will take place when the Lord returns. Paul didn’t just write a theology of end times. He was also very practical and wanted to make sure that they understood how to live holy each day. He wanted their actions to be a good representation of Jesus. The culture the Thessalonians lived in was full of evil, so Paul made a distinction between the way they should be living compared to how the world lives. 

This letter was written to encourage and guide this group of new believers. Paul wanted to see these people continue to walk in the good teaching they were given, becoming more and more like Christ as they all waited with hope for His return.