INTRODUCTION

Paul wrote this letter to Christians in Thessalonica. He thanked God for their faith, love and hope. They had turned from idols (false gods) to serve God and waiting for the return of Jesus. They trusted God in spite of great difficulties. Paul told them to please God by the way that they lived - holiness, diligence in work and loving each other.

Then he answered their questions about the return of Jesus. He told them not to worry about those who had died. They would not miss Jesus' return. They would meet him before those who were still alive. The return of Jesus will be sudden. Therefore, the Christians in Thessalonica must be ready for this with instruction how they should be in spiritual life.

Chapter 1-3 Celebration of their faithfulness Thanksgiving for them 1:2 (1) on their faith- work by love :2 - inspired by hope :2-4. (2) Their imitation :5 and exemplariness :7 and (3) the influence to others

Paul wrote of his ministry among them in chapter 2 & 3 as effective (3:1) integrity (:3-6) as children (:7) nursing mother sacrificial and diligence, as father (:11-12) and his longing to see them (2:17-3:13). There were 9 things they accused of Paul- left confusion, coward, fanatic, tricker, flatterer, opportunist

Chapter 4 - 5 Challenge them to growth. Exhorting them to please God. In purity (:3) minding one's own business and work diligently (11-12) In remaining alive (:13-18) pursuit of the coming of the Lord (5:1-10) and spiritual attitudes (:14-21)

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