1 Thessalonians
1 Thessalonians
10 studies, in the order they were taught. All series
How the Thessalonian Church Began
Acts 17:1–10
Introduces 1 Thessalonians. Paul and Silas preach three weekends in Thessalonica, a church starts, and a riot forces them out. Paul later writes to encourage the new believers.
Faith, Love and Hope at Work
1 Thessalonians 1:1–10
Paul thanks God for a young church whose faith, love and hope are plain to see. They turned from idols to serve God and became an example to others.
Leading with a Mother's and Father's Heart
1 Thessalonians 2:1–12
Paul reminds the church how he and his team lived among them. They were honest, gentle like a nursing mother, and firm like a father, so their message had credibility.
God's Word at Work in You
1 Thessalonians 2:13–16
Paul thanks God that the Thessalonians welcomed his message as God's word, and it is working in them. Believers will also face opposition, and we stay faithful through it.
Paul's Longing and Timothy's Mission
1 Thessalonians 2:17–3:5
Kept away from the new church, Paul longs to see them and sends Timothy to strengthen them. Standing with others in trials is part of loving them.
Good News of Standing Firm
1 Thessalonians 3:6–13
Timothy returns with news that the church is standing firm, and Paul is filled with joy. He prays that they would grow in love and be strong in holiness.
Living to Please God
1 Thessalonians 4:1–12
After three chapters of encouragement, Paul gives practical teaching. Please God by pursuing holiness, controlling our bodies, loving other believers and working quietly.
Hope for Those Who Have Died
1 Thessalonians 4:13–18
The church was grieving believers who had died. Paul assures them that Jesus will return, the dead in Christ will rise first, and we will be with him forever.
Living in the Light Until He Comes
1 Thessalonians 5:1–11
No one knows when Christ will return, so Paul says be alert and ready, not caught by surprise. We are children of the light and live now as people of the day.
Life Together Until Christ Returns
1 Thessalonians 5:12–28
Paul closes with how to live as a church: honor leaders, live in peace, help the weak, give thanks, and pray. Loving one another shows the world we are his disciples.