This week we welcome aboard Silas. It is believed that Paul wrote this Book with the help of Timothy and they were joined by Silas. Silas was a leader in the early church, a fellow missionary with Paul, and a “faithful brother”. He was a Hellenistic Jew who, it seems, was also a Roman citizen . He is also referred to as “Silvanus” in Paul’s Epistles (e.g., 1 Thessalonians 1:1). (Wikipedia)

The book was written in approximately A.D. 50. Paul writes this letter to clear up some misconceptions about the return of Christ and to pass along some instructions about holy living. 

1 Thessalonians 4:14. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died. (NLT) We have to deviate from the summary mode here for just a moment. In those days an early Christian Churches continued to grow there were always moments of uncertainty that could cause misunderstanding and division. These verses point to the wisdom of Paul’s leadership and staying on the right path. Consider this: 

“First Thessalonians 4:13–18 represents an important shift in the subject matter of Paul’s letter. Realizing the Thessalonians believers needed further teaching about Jesus’ return (the rapture) and specifically about what happens to Christians who die before Jesus returns, Paul turns to address these vital matters.” (Got Questions) 

It is very clear in biblical writings that Jesus warned that true prophets of God would always be opposed by the unrighteous. Consider these points or key takeaways from this book First Thessalonians. We can have faith and blessed assurance that Christ will come back for us…both the quick and the dead. We also have the assurance that we those in Christ, will not suffer God’s wrath. Paul also instructs us how to walk the Christian life daily.

We continue now with the second book of Thessalonians which was written in A.D. 51-52. Timothy and Silas once again join with Paul to write this book. The Church still had misconceptions about the Day of the Lord. They had drifted from their task and in their moment of lessening faith they had weaken in their resolve to the point they were being persecuted badly. Paul again writes to try and clear up these misconceptions and comfort them in this time of uncertainty. Paul reminds them that they serve a God of justice…so remain strong in the faith, keep up the good work and that God will avenge those who have been giving them grief by giving the persecuted ones relief. 2 Thessalonians 1:6 In his justice he will pay back those who persecute you.(NLT)  Paul goes on to thank them for what they are doing, he prays and explains what will happen on that “Day of The Lord.” Paul then encourages them to stand firm and stay away from those who do not live by the gospel…those not of The Way. Paul refers to Old Testament passages, which confirm and recognize the OT prophets. You may research these yourself. In 2 Thessalonians 2:3-9 it is in reference to Daniel’s prophecy regarding the “man of sin” (Daniel 7–8).

Like many of these books of the Pauline Epistles 2Thessalonians offers some practical advice we can use in our day and time. There are some explanations of the end times and Paul encourages the people to work hard for what they have and have gained.  2 Thessalonians contains prayers we can pray and are an example for us on how to pray for other believers today. In layman language… “for a sequel it does as well as the 1st book..”

As always, thank you for coming by the “Pew” this week.

Life is Good

jk