Book introduction
The book of 1 Thessalonians
1 Thessalonians is one of Paul’s earliest letters, written to a young church facing pressure. He encourages them, answers their worry about believers who have died, and tells them how to live while they wait for Christ’s return.
Read 1 Thessalonians 4Start at chapter 1
Who wrote 1 Thessalonians?
Paul, with Silvanus and Timothy. Scholars agree it is Paul’s.
When was it written?
About AD 50–51, from Corinth. Perhaps the oldest book of the New Testament.
Main themes
- Faith, love, and hope
- Paul thanks God for all three.
- Hope for the dead
- Believers do not grieve as those without hope.
- Ready living
- Rejoice, pray without ceasing, give thanks.
Outline of 1 Thessalonians
Key verses
But, brothers and sisters, we want you to know about those who have fallen asleep, so that you will not be sorrowful like the rest, who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, then in the same way God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep through Jesus.
Rejoice always. Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything, for in Christ Jesus this is God’s will for you.
Quoted from the Lumin Translation.
Where to start
Read 4:13–5:11, then the whole letter.
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