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What does it mean to live with the end in mind, living in light of Christ's return? Those are the exact questions the Thessalonians had for Paul on his second missionary journey in Acts 17-18. As a loving shepherd, Paul responded to their questions in 1 and 2 Thessalonians by encouraging them not to grow weary, not to fall asleep and not to be misinformed about the return of Christ. These two epistles provide clarity concerning some of the details revolving around Jesus' second coming, as well as some strong exhortations for believers in how to live with that end in mind.
Acts
See Acts.
1 Thessalonians
Author
Paul, originally named Saul, a Pharisee until confronted by Jesus Christ.
Date
Likely A.D. 51, while Gallio, brother of the famous writer Seneca, was proconsul in Corinth.
Theme
The Church’s Future Part 1
The church will come to an end when believers are caught up to be with the Lord forever, and they should live now in light of that day.
Additional Info
After being sent away for his safety, Paul sent Silas and Timothy back up the Macedonian peninsula to check on the small house churches they had started in Thessalonica, a city with a great deal of idol worship. Paul remained in Corinth (Acts 18) and was pleased with the good report from Silas and Timothy. He wrote this letter to them in response to this recent visit and news.
© Dr. Rick Taylor
2 Thessalonians
Author
Paul, originally named Saul, a Pharisee until confronted by Jesus Christ.
Date
Likely A.D. 51-52, while Gallio, brother of the famous writer Seneca, was proconsul in Corinth.
Theme
The Church’s Future Part 2
The church will come to an end when believers are caught up to be with the Lord forever, and they should live now in light of that day.
Additional Info
When Silas and Timothy delivered 1 Thessalonians, some considerable confusion arose concerning “the day of the Lord.” It seems someone had written a letter in Paul’s name and misinformed them on this issue. Paul wrote this letter to them to clarify the issue and encourage them in their faith, love and hope.
© Dr. Rick Taylor
Resources for 1 and 2 Thessalonians