Introduction to the First Epistle of Paul the Apostle to the Thessalonians Composed
early in Paul's ministry, in about AD 51, 1 Thessalonians was the first of two
letters written to the church at Thessalonica, which was located in Greece.
Following his visit to Philippi, Thessalonica was the second city in Europe
where the Apostle Paul preached the Gospel.
Paul was forced to leave town because of opposition from some of the Jewish people
living there.
The recent converts were left with little support and growing persecution.
So Paul wrote to encourage the new converts in their trials.
They had come out of pagan religions, and so he gave them instructions in godly
living.
He also wanted to assure them about the future of believers who die before Jesus
returns, as he promised he would.
Notice how much of Paul's encouragement for them comes from the hope of Christ's
return.
It's mentioned in each chapter.
Knowing that Christ is coming helps all believers who are burdened by grief and
overwhelmed by sorrow.