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!