“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. Though one of his earliest writings, Paul’s First Letter to the Thessalonians is also one of his most forward-facing toward the Second Coming.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Paul wrote to encourage the believers who were now facing trials for their faith and that believers who had died will not miss out on the resurrection but had “fallen asleep” and will rise first.
- Category: Epistle
- Theme: Second Coming
- Timeline: Written around AD 51
Key Verse
“We who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air…” — 1 Thessalonians 4:17 (NIV)
God Is Faithful
Paul praises the Thessalonians for their perseverance, instructs them in godly living, and answers questions about the return of Christ.
The church must persevere, knowing that nothing they face in this world can take away the hope they have in Christ. The One who made these promises is faithful, as he has been throughout history, and he will accomplish all that he sets out to do.
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: 1 Thessalonians 1-2
- Day 2: 1 Thessalonians 3
- Day 3: 1 Thessalonians 4
- Day 4: 1 Thessalonians 5
- Day 5: 2 Thessalonians 1
- Day 6: 2 Thessalonians 2
- Day 7: 2 Thessalonians 3
Down by the Sea
Paul and Silas founded the church in Thessalonica, a bustling seaport city in Macedonia, during their second missionary journey.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.
