1 Thessalonians is probably the earliest letter written by Paul. It gives us a glimpse into what it was like to be a Christian in the earliest days of the church.
Paul had visited the city for a short time before being run out, yet many lives were changed. The church in Thessalonica began to flourish despite persecution, but they were still new Christians. Paul writes to this new church to strengthen the faith of these new converts, writing this letter within a year of the church's founding.
It's a very personal letter. Paul reflects on his ministry to them, and helps these newborn Christians who are under persecution through some misunderstandings. Paul encourages them in their new faith as they live in a significant city full of pressures and persecution.
This book, along with 2 Thessalonians, which was written shortly after, contains all the essentials of the Christian faith. It discusses countercultural sexual morality, Christ's second coming, spiritual gifts, the implications of the gospel, and more. It shows Paul's love for a new church and how the gospel influences new Christians in a diverse society.
The Big Idea of 1 Thessalonians
S: How do new believers in a difficult environment grow?
C: Through encouragement, instruction, and obedience.
BI: New Christians grow through encouragement, instruction, and obedience.
Thanksgiving (1)
1
S: What makes Christian leaders thankful?
C: Seeing the gospel's effect on the people they serve.
BI: Christian leaders give thanks for the gospel's effect on the people they serve.
Ministry (2-3)
2:1-16
S: What are the marks of a faithful ministry?
C: A pure message, motives, and methods.
BI: Faithful ministry is characterized by a pure message, motives, and methods.
2:17-3:13
S: Why can we hope in affliction?
C: Because God is still accomplishing his purposes.
BI: Hope in affliction because God is still accomplishing his purposes.
Exhortations (4-5)
4:1-12
S: How can we please God in how we live?
C: By pleasing God in our sex lives, relationships, and daily work.
BI: Please God in your sex lives, relationships, and daily work.
4:13-5:11
S: How does the second coming affect us?
C: It gives us hope in the face of death and self-control in how we live.
BI: The second coming gives us hope in the face of death and self-control in how we live.
5:12-28
S: How should we live as a church?
C: By esteeming leaders, and loving and serving others within the church.
BI: Live as a church that honors leaders and loves and serves believers.
