The Founding of the Church at Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-10).—Paul was on his second missionary journey and this church was the second which he organized in Europe. He entered into the synagogue at Thessalonica and three Sabbath days reasoned with the Jews out of the scriptures, "opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach to you, is Christ" (Acts 17:3). Through this preaching a few of the Jews believed "and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few." It appears from this account that the church was mostly made up of Gentiles. But through the opposition of the Jews all the city was set in an uproar and Paul was sent away by night to Berea.
Occasion, Time, and Place of Writing.—Paul left Thessalonica unwillingly for he had a great affection for his converts in this city. Twice he endeavored to return, but was prevented from doing so (2:17, 18). When he reached Athens (Acts 17:15) he grew so anxious about the church at Thessalonica that he sent Timothy back to see how it prospered (3:1, 2). While Timothy was gone on his mission Paul went on to Corinth (Acts 18:1). Here Timothy found him when he returned with his report of the church (Acts 18:5; 1 Thess. 3:6). Paul was greatly pleased with what Timothy had to say about the converts. While enduring persecution they were standing fast in the Lord and devoted to their faith in Christ (3:7-13). The report which Timothy brought was the occasion of the first letter to this church.
The time was, in all probability, in the winter of 52-53 A.D., and the place of writing was at Corinth, where Paul remained for over a year and a half (Acts 18:1, 11, 18).
Contents.—The first three chapters are of a personal character and show how dear to Paul's heart were these converts of Thessalonica. They also show the good record made for the short time since they had embraced Christianity. But nothing could be more revolutionary in those days than to become a Christian; therefore Paul takes occasion to correct social, moral, and doctrinal faults and to instruct them more fully in the faith, in Christ, which they professed. In the matter of doctrine Paul mentions Christ as "the Lord," "our Lord" about twenty-five times, showing his belief in and teaching of the Deity of Christ. In regard to Christ's speedy second coming, of which many seem to have had a lively expectation so that they were troubled when some died lest these had lost their opportunity to see this glorious event, Paul writes to reassure them that all believers, those who have died and those who are alive at that time, "will enter together and share equally in the blessings of Christ's heavenly kingdom" (4:13-18). The Epistle closes with exhortations to be joyful, thankful, and prayerful.
Principal Divisions and Chief Points.
1. Introduction (1:1-10). Personal address and salutation. Thanksgiving for their faith, love and hope in Jesus Christ and for their conversion.
2. Narrative (2:1-4:12). How the gospel was given and how it was received at Thessalonica. An account of Paul's care and anxiety for the church. Paul's prayer for their establishment in the faith of Jesus Christ. Exhortation to abstain as followers of Christ from impurity and fraud; to follow after holiness and brotherly love.
3. Doctrinal (4:13-5:11). The second advent of Christ. The parts which the dead and living will have when Christ shall come again. The uncertainty of the time. The need of constant watchfulness.
4. Practical (5:12-28). Rules for the conduct of the church, its overseers and members. Exhortation to be joyful, prayerful, and thankful. Closing prayer that they may be preserved blameless unto the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. Greeting and benediction.