2nd post Study of First Thessalonians

Let's look at the format of Paul's First Letter to the Thessalonians.  The senders of the Letter are Paul, Silvanus (also known as Silas) and Timothy.  If we look back at the book of Acts beginning with chapter 13, we see that Paul and Barnabas have been sent out in mission from the church at Antioch.  During worship and while fasting, the Holy Spirit directed that Paul and Barnabas be set apart for a particular work.  They fasted and prayed about this and then laid hands on them, commissioning them for the work to which they were called.  In chapter 15:36 we see that Paul and Barnabas split up over a disagreement over the recruiting of John Mark. Paul chose Silas (Silvanus) to accompany him on the mission.  At the beginning of chapter 16 Timothy is introduced. Now go to chapter 17 to read about their experience at Thessalonica. 

What does Paul's thankgiving in chapter 1 say about his feelings for the Thessalonians?  What words or phrases stand out for you?

Intro to New Testment Letters

Did you know that the First Letter to the Thessalonians is believed to be the oldest preserved Christian writing, written before the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John?

Mark is the oldest gospel, believed to be written in late 60's to early 70's AD. Matthew and Luke between 80 and 90 AD. John's gospel is believed to be written for the same community addressed in the Letters of John that existed in the early part of the second century, 100-110 AD.

First Thessalonians is believed to be written in 50-51AD by Paul while he was in Corinth, having to flee from Thessalonica. Read Acts 17:1-15.

This week read through the Letter. Note the format which Paul's Letters follow: Greeting: Who is Paul greeting? Thanksgiving: Who and/or what is Paul giving thanks for? Body: What issues is Paul addressing? Farewell: Blessings and/or warnings?

Please email or post on this blog your responses. Grace and peace to you!