The First Letter to the Thessalonians

Paul the Apostle Agape Bible Study
The First Letter to the Thessalonians

Saint Paul founded the Christian community at Thessalonica on his second missionary journey that began immediately after the Council of Jerusalem (c. 50 AD). He probably wrote his First Letter to the Thessalonians in c. 50/51 AD. Most of the Thessalonians were Gentile converts, but there were also Jewish converts. The leaders of the local synagogue became jealous of Paul's success among the Jews and organized a riot to drive Paul out of the city. After Paul's forced exodus from the city, he became concerned about the community and the persecution they were experiencing. He wrote his first letter to commend and encourage them. He offered consolation for their members who had died in Christ and urged them not to focus on their earthly sufferings but on Jesus' glorious Second Advent. The theme of Christ's Second Coming reoccurs throughout his two letters to the Christians of Thessalonica, providing some of the most in-depth New Testament passages on that glorious future event.
References for the course are found in the Course Bibliography.

Lesson Number	Chapters	Description	Handouts
Lesson 1	Introduction Chapter 1:1-2:12	Paul's Greeting and His History with the Community	Handouts
Lesson 2	Chapters 2:13-3:13	Continuing Thanksgiving for the Community and Paul's Travel Plans	Handout
Lesson 3	Chapters 4-5	Specific Exhortations for the Community Paul's Prayer and Final Greeting/Conclusion	Handout