In 1Thessalonians 1:1-10, we begin our study of Paul's first letter to the Thessalonians. We have split this passage into two parts. Firstly the salutation or greeting, then secondly a section concerning Christ in us.

Salutation (words of greeting)

1Th 1:1-2.

• From Paul, Sylvanus (Silas), and Timothy
• Date Not given and uncertain. It may be the earliest of Paul's letters - around AD50.
• To the church of the Thessalonians
• Thessalonica - a major city of Macedonia above Athens (see map below).
   
  
   
• Origin of the church at Thessalonica recorded in Acts 16:9-10, 17:1-4.
• Denomination What denomination was this church? It was non-denominational. There were no denominations at that time. It was simply "the church of the Thessalonians..
• Paul's greeting "Grace to you and peace."

A Lovely Attitude

1Th 1:3-10.

How Paul Felt About the Thessalonian Church

• Gratitude He always gave thanks to God for them.
• Approval He recognised their great faith and love.
• Confidence He knew they were chosen by God.
• Mutual respect Paul speaks of their, their respect for, and imitation of, him and his companions. He has nothing to criticise.

Chart Outline

1Th 1:3-10 (again)

Now let us examine these verses in more detail with the following chart outline...

The Christian's MOTIVATION (v3)
Note the three elements, "Work of faith, labour of love, patience of hope". Later in the letter, Paul makes faith-love-hope part of the armour of God (1Th 5:8).

The Christian's ELECTION (v4)
"We know, brethren beloved of God, that he has chosen you" ). God's choice of any person is made according to the purpose which he laid down before the foundation of the world. This eternal purpose and counsel of God's will is not hidden, but revealed in the scriptures for all to know. Anyone who obeys that revealed will of God will be chosen by him.

The Christian's CONVICTION (v5)
How did the gospel come to the Thessalonians? It came "in power and in the Holy Spirit and in full conviction." Paul and Silas were on fire with their message, not half hearted .

The Christian's EXAMPLE (v6-7)
What two related things did the Thessalonians become? First they became "imitators" and then they themselves became "examples". As beginners Christians at first imitate the good example of others. In time, however, they in turn grow into a good example for other beginners to imitate.

The Christian's PROCLAMATION (v8)
Paul had taken the gospel to them. What did they do then? They took it to others, first south to Achaia, then much further afield. Each local church can be a global influence and even small churches should think globally.

The Christian's TRANFORMATION (v9-10)
Paul decscribe the new direction and purpose in the lives of the Thessalonians because of their conversion to Christ. They were living true instead of false, life was now eternal instead of a short span, and they were forgiven instead of facing the wrath of God. What a difference all that makes!

List those things which the first chapter of 1Thessalonians has made you appreciate more or understand better.

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