“1 Thessalonians 2”

Thursday, July 06, 2017

There are several recurring themes in these two letters.

The most obvious one is the second coming, which is mentioned in every chapter. He also frequently comments about persecution and afflictions, a common problem for first century disciples who lived in an ungodly world.

Another major theme deals with the relationship between a preacher and the congregation. The principles revealed here (verses 1-12) apply to elders, deacons, class teachers, small group teachers, or any Christian who is trying to help other disciples to mature in the faith.

He begins the chapter by speaking about some of the trials that “we” (Paul, Silvanus and Timothy, see 1:1) endured in bringing the gospel to Thessalonica. Remember the almost immediate persecution from jealous Jews when the gospel began taking root in the lives of the local citizens? He mentions being “spitefully treated at Philippi” and then, when they came to Thessalonica, they delivered the gospel “in much conflict.” We read about some of that in the Acts 17 account of the beginning of this church.

Then, in the next few verses, he makes comparisons between his work in their midst and the gentle, loving care of a mother (verses 7-9), along with the strong comfort and encouragement from a father (verses 10-12). His exhortation is for them to continue to walk worthy of their Lord’s example.

Verses 13-20 speak of the relationship between truth and error (and those who stand for each). They affirm the inspiration of Paul’s message and that its source is in God. Verse 13 is one of the most beautiful passages about the inspiration of Scripture and its value in our lives.

There is also a description of how God looks at false teachers (verses 14-16; see also Titus 1:15-16).

He concludes this chapter with a return to their close relationship to one another (verses 17-20). Paul’s hope for them was that they would be prepared when the Lord returns.

--Roger Hillis

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