New Testament

1 Thessalonians

Author Paul the apostle

Date Written ~AD 51

Chapters 5

Theme Holy living and the return of Christ

Summary

1 Thessalonians is likely Paul's earliest letter, written to encourage a young church under persecution and to address questions about Christ's return. Paul commends their faith, urges them toward sanctification, and provides comfort regarding believers who have died before Christ's coming.

Outline

Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians' Faith (1)
Paul's Ministry Among Them (2–3)
Instructions on Holy Living (4:1–12)
The Coming of the Lord (4:13–5:11)
Final Exhortations (5:12–28)

Key Verses

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17

"For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first."

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians 5:23

"May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through."

Christ in 1 Thessalonians

The returning Lord who descends with a shout; the deliverer from coming wrath (1:10); the one who sanctifies believers completely

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