2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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WHAT IS FIRST THESSALONIANS ALL ABOUT?
WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 1
1 Thessalonians 3
1 Thessalonians 1
“…and might perfect that which is
lacking in your faith?”
WHAT IS FIRST THESSALONIANS ALL ABOUT?
The First Epistle to the Thessalonians is a warm and delightful epistle written by the Apostle Paul to a young church that he cared for dearly. Even though he could spend only three weeks at Thessalonica during his first visit, a vibrant and healthy church had sprung up and was then thriving. In writing to this fledging church, Paul demonstrated a deep concern for their spiritual well-being. Throughout the epistle, his spiritual yearning for them was evidenced by his heartfelt prayers, exhortations and encouragements.
The epistle can be very broadly divided into two parts. The first three chapters are historical, while the final two are instructional.
In the first part, Paul wrote to encourage them amid the persecution that they were facing. He shared his thanksgiving for their faith and assured them that he had not forgotten about them. He shared some updates about his personal circumstances, explaining why he had been unable to visit and had sent Timothy in his place.
In the final two chapters, Paul dealt with a few topics that he felt were needful to help “perfect that which is lacking in your faith” (1 Thess 3:10). It ranged from Christian living issues to clarification over some matters pertaining to the Lord’s return.
As we delve deeply into this precious epistle over these three months, may our hearts be encouraged and our faith strengthened by the wonderful words of truth. Like Paul, let us pray that “the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints” (1 Thess 3:12).
THOUGHT: All of us, without exception, have aspects of our faith that are lacking, and we need the Lord to help us to grow in Him.
PRAYER: Father, may Thy grace and wisdom be with me as I study this epistle over these three months.