The Book of 1 Thessalonians
First Thessalonians is one of Paul's earliest and most affectionate letters, written to a young church born under fire. The gospel had come to them not in word only but in power and in the Holy Spirit, and their faith, love, and hope rang out across Macedonia and beyond. Driven from the city, Paul writes like a nursing mother and a faithful father—relieved by Timothy's report, grateful beyond measure, and eager to perfect what is lacking in their faith. He calls them to a life of holiness and brotherly love, and then lifts their eyes to the great hope that the Lord himself will descend from heaven, the dead in Christ will rise, and all who belong to him will be with him forever. It is a letter to steady the persecuted and to comfort the grieving with the sure return of Jesus.
Marking chapters complete and saving your progress across visits will arrive with member sign-in.
Whole-Book Overview
See the whole sweep of 1 Thessalonians, from a model church thriving under persecution to the bright hope of the Lord's return that comforts the grieving and steadies the faithful.
Open overview → Chapter 1A Gospel That Came in Power
Paul gives thanks for a young church whose faith, love, and hope, born under affliction, now ring out across the whole region.
Open study → Chapter 2Like a Mother and a Father
Paul recalls his sincere, self-giving ministry among them—gentle as a nursing mother, exhorting like a father—and their reception of the word of God.
Open study → Chapter 3Comforted by Your Faith
Unable to bear the separation, Paul sends Timothy to strengthen the church, and is revived by the glad news of their steadfast faith and love.
Open study → Chapter 4Holy Lives and a Sure Hope
Paul calls the church to abound in holiness and love, then comforts the grieving with the certain hope of the Lord's return.
Open study → Chapter 5Children of the Day
Since the day of the Lord comes like a thief, the believers are to stay awake and sober and live a watchful, loving, thankful life until Christ returns.
Open study →Study together
Gather a group, work through a chapter at a time, and journey through 1 Thessalonians together. Invite a friend to join you.