Misquoting God: Verses Commonly Misunderstood, Mischaracterized, or Maligned, Part II
Article contributed by Stand To Reason
Visit Stand To Reason website
Click Here to read Misquoting God, Part I.
I would like to rescue you from a mistake virtually every Christian makes now and then when they go to the Bible that prevents you from knowing what God is saying to you personally in His Word. You may not thank me, though, because some of what I have to say will probably irritate you.
In the last issue of Solid Ground,1 [http://www.str.org/publications/misquoting-god-solid-ground-january-2015#.VMQudcbw-Q4] I explained why the question “How does this verse apply to my life?” is often the wrong one to ask when studying Scripture. The reason is that, in most cases, God did not give verses of the Bible as discrete, individual pieces of information which on their own—isolated from the larger narrative—are to meant be applied piecemeal to our lives.
Instead, there is a flow of thought tied to—and therefore critical to—the meaning of each part. “Going with the flow” of the broader passage is key to accurately determining how the text’s particulars apply to our individual lives. That “flow” includes not just the paragraph, the chapter, or even an entire book, but sometimes also involves (as we’ll see later) where the writing is positioned in the flow of history—the flow of the biblical storyline—as God’s promises and purposes are worked out through Israel, and later through the church.
If you miss this flow of thought, you’ll likely miss the meaning. If you miss the meaning, you’ll miss what God is actually saying in the text. If you miss that, well, you’ve missed everything. Worse, you might be doing yourself and others harm by passing on as God’s lesson something He had nothing to do with.
Sometimes this concept is better caught than taught, so let’s explore a few examples to make the point clearer.
A Thousand-Year Day
On occasion in the age of the Earth controversy, proponents of an ancient universe press into service a verse from 2 Peter to bolster their view that Genesis 1 allows for a long passage of time. Their reason: “…with the Lord one day is like a thousand years…” (2 Pet. 3:8). Days don’t always mean days, they conclude. They could mean millennia.
Regardless of the validity of that particular point regarding the use of the word “day,” this is not what Peter had in mind. He gives a simple simile: “a day is like a thousand years.” He then reverses himself (a point often missed in this discussion), “…and a thousand years like one day.” Why the turnaround?
A closer look at Peter’s flow of thought (v. 3-8) clears up the confusion. In the last days, he says, mockers will come challenging the promise of Christ’s return (v. 3-4). Nothing’s happened for so long, they maintain, nothing’s ever going to happen.
Peter reminds them that dramatic interventions by God have taken place, and there’s more to come. God’s plan is surely unfolding, but at His pace (v. 5-7). Peter’s apparently conflicting statements are meant to instruct us that God’s personal experience of time is nothing like ours. Ask a child to wait a week for something special and it seems like an eternity, but for adults “the years fly by.”
Peter is not giving any instruction on calculating time here. Rather, he’s reminding us that the psychological sense of time’s beat is subjective. He’s warning us not to be seduced by the feeling of tardiness. The passage of a day or even a thousand years is nothing to God (v. 8). To us He may seem slow—“as some [humans] count slowness.” For God, though, there is no sluggishness, only patience. He is slow to visit wrath, but He is quick to extend mercy (v. 9).
Making Metaphors
These next passages are pastors’ favorites since they make popular fodder for sermons. Jesus stills the storm. Peter walks (momentarily) on water. We find a record of the tempest in Matt. 8:23-27, Mk. 4:36-41, and Lk. 8:22-25, and of Peter’s attempt in Matt. 14:30-33. The sermon take-away: Jesus can “still the storms” in your life. “Keep your eyes on Jesus” and you won’t “sink.”
Notice the temptation when teaching from the Gospels (or any narrative, for that matter) to make metaphors of historical events in the text that, as it turns out, were included in the account to make entirely different points.
Certainly, if Jesus can command the forces of nature He is fully capable of quieting the tempests in our lives. That doesn’t mean He will, of course. He might, rather, walk us through them—which is more often the case in actual practice. (As one of my early mentors pointed out, Jesus is not the bridge over troubled waters, but He can pull you through the troubled waters if you can stand the tow.2)
Regardless, Jesus’ help in time of trial is not why this account is in the narrative. At best that’s a secondary—and therefore less important—application. The writers were making a different point. Why did the inspired authors include this event in the record? What conclusions did they want us to draw from it?
In this case, there’s no mystery since the account itself provides the answer—easy to see if you follow the flow. Note the authors’ virtually identical application at the end of each version: “They were fearful and amazed, saying to one another, ‘Who then is this, that He commands even the winds and the water, and they obey Him?’” (Lk. 8:25)3 and “Those who were in the boat worshiped Him, saying, ‘You are certainly God’s Son!’” (Matt. 14:32-33).
When Jesus works these wonders, the authors do not reduce the events to metaphors. They offer no counsel about keeping our eyes on Jesus who will quell the conflicts in our lives. They include these events not so much to comfort us with Jesus’ capabilities as to instruct us on Jesus’ identity. This is about Him, not us, about the person of Christ, not our personal woes.
Clearly, there is a lesson about trust in the midst of difficulties in these accounts (weak faith is upbraided in each of them), but that instruction is grounded in a more central point: We are in the care of the very Master of the universe. We are safe because Jesus is God.
Do not make metaphors out of historical events in the text. Do not make a secondary application into the primary one and miss the very point the original writers were making in the first place. Instead ask, “What does the writer mean to communicate by including this event in his account? What is his point?” Then look to the flow for the answer and draw your lessons from that.
Everything’s Good
One of the most magnificent promises in the Bible is one that’s almost universally misunderstood, at least in part. It’s Roman’s 8:28, loosely quoted, “All things work for good.”
The fact is, though, all things don’t work out “good.” Some things work out very bad, even for Christians. This can be incredibly disheartening when Romans 8:28 is your fallback verse in hard times, yet conditions don’t appear to improve.
The problem is not in the promise, but in people’s reading of the promise. First, the passage: “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Rom. 8:28).
Notice first there are confidence phrases in this promise and there’s a qualifier. “We know,” “God causes,” and “all things” are the confidence builders. Some readers miss the qualifier, though: “to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
Everything doesn’t work out well for everyone. For the individuals afflicted by it, most of the world’s misery is wasted. Only the one who loves God—the genuine Christian, in Paul’s meaning (“called according to His purpose”)—can rest on Paul’s assurance.
Even so, a gnawing doubt remains: “But don’t good, godly, faithful Christians often find themselves enduring intractable difficulties that some grapple with even to their graves? Where’s the ‘good’ in that? Whatever happened to ‘God doesn’t close a door, but He opens up a window’?”
Here’s the problem. We often take “work together for good” to mean that whatever loss we suffer in life will be repaid with interest later on in life. We suffer relational heartbreak, only to later marry a much more suitable person than the one we lost. Romans 8:28. We lose our job, only to secure a more lucrative position down the line. Romans 8:28.
And sometimes that happens. Testimonies abound. But that’s not what this verse promises. Paul has something entirely different in mind. You’ll find it when you follow the flow to the next verse: “For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son” (Rom. 8:29).
When hard times assault us, we claim Romans 8:28 with one “good” in mind, yet God has an different “good” in store: For the committed Christian, God pledges to use every hardship, disappointment, trouble, or affliction to make us more like Jesus—“conformed to the image of His Son.”
Maybe you lose the girl and then remain single—like Jesus—the rest of your life. Maybe your stock options fall through and you remain poor—like Jesus—the rest of your life. Maybe you’re convicted of a crime you did not commit and you suffer unjustly—like Jesus—the rest of your life.
God’s promise: None of it will be wasted. That is the assurance of Romans 8:28-29. And that is as “good” as it can get—becoming like Jesus. Nothing better.
Two or Three Gathering
This next passage is usually cited to build confidence for group prayer. “Jesus is right here with us,” we’re told, “since after all, ‘Where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst” (Matt. 18:20).
I have often wondered if anyone using the verse this way ever asked themselves where Jesus was when they were praying alone in private, or when the group consisted of four or more. 4 No, something else is going on here. Once again, the flow tells the story.
The preposition “for” at the beginning of our verse (often dropped when recited, as above) is our first clue this sentence does not stand alone, but is a concluding statement at the end of a line of reasoning. It alerts us to the verse before it that starts with the word “again,” alerting us to go back further still. When we do, we discover that the concept of “two or three” is repeated multiple times in the section, a notion Jesus lifts from Deut. 19:15.
The flow reveals that verses 15-20 form a unit instructing in church discipline that’s sandwiched between two other lessons on repentance, forgiveness, and restoration.5 Jesus’ lesson is governed by a common-sense notion from the Law, “By the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed” (v. 16), technical legal language requiring multiple attestation to affirm a charge of misconduct.
Here is Jesus’ point in verse 20: When the church follows the specific procedure He outlines to resolve the issue of sin in the Christian community, then the leadership can rest assured He is “with them” in their decision. Indeed, Jesus is “there in their midst” conferring His authority to the process. It’s a promise of divine sanction of a procedure, not divine presence in group prayer.
Ironically, plenty of groups cite this promise to assure themselves of Jesus’ presence in prayer, while precious few apply the lesson of church discipline that Jesus had in mind in the first place.
Prosperity, Welfare, and Hope
Our next passage is among the most cherished passages in Scripture of late, yet is also the most abused. Jeremiah 29:11 simply reads, “‘For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope.’”
This verse shows up everywhere—on bookmarks, bumper stickers, posters, graduation cards, signature lines in emails, even cross-stitched onto pillows—cited as God’s personal promise to every believer who finds himself in severe straits.
Here’s our question: Is this a proper Christian promise? We deal with that question like we’ve dealt with the rest—by going with the flow. In this case, though, the flow takes us beyond the verse, beyond the chapter, and even beyond the book of Jeremiah itself.
To get started, let’s look at the entire promise, not just that portion commonly quoted.
“When seventy years have been completed for Babylon, I will visit you and fulfill My good word to you, to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and I will restore your fortunes and will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you,” declares the Lord, “and I will bring you back to the place from where I sent you into exile.” (Jer. 29:10-14)
Notice that this promise is directed to a specific group of people (“I will visit you”) in a peculiar set of circumstances (Babylonian exile), details already provided in the opening verse of the chapter:
Now these are the words of the letter which Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem to the rest of the elders of the exile, the priests, the prophets and all the people whom Nebuchadnezzar had taken into exile from Jerusalem to Babylon. (29:1)
Follow the flow and you’ll discover more boundaries the author places on the promise. Verses 2-7 show God’s intention to limit the promise to a precise set of circumstances in Judah’s history. Verse 10 identifies the exact time of the promise’s fulfillment (“When seventy years have been completed”). And verse 14 gives the specific content of the “plans for welfare” and the “future…hope” (“I will restore your fortunes and will gather you from all the nations and from all the places where I have driven you”).
In Jeremiah 29, then, God does not confer a nebulous, generalized promise of prosperity for any believer in any age. Indeed, the New Testament theology of suffering guarantees just the opposite for us.6 Instead, God gives a specific assurance of particular benefit to a distinct group of people at a precise time. This is exactly how Daniel understood Jeremiah 70 years later when he read this passage, then humbled himself in confession and repentance on behalf of the nation to trigger the pledged restoration (Dan. 9:1ff).
More problematic for the one tempted to individualize Jeremiah’s promise for himself, not even the letter’s recipients could do that. Jeremiah’s word was not for those individual captives—the elders, the priests, the prophets, the people—since virtually none would be alive long enough to cash it in. It was a promise of future welfare for the nation, not of prosperity for any particular person.
There’s something else I want you to notice: two predictions in this chapter for God’s people, not just one. The first is the familiar one, the encouraging promise of restoration, welfare, a future, and a hope. The second also gives an assurance, but of an entirely different kind:
Behold, I am sending upon them the sword, famine and pestilence, and I will make them like split-open figs that cannot be eaten due to rottenness. I will pursue them with the sword, with famine and with pestilence, and I will make them a terror to all the kingdoms of the earth, to be a curse and a horror and a hissing, and a reproach among all the nations where I have driven them. (Jer. 29:17-18)7
Who wants to stitch that on a pillow? The “them” of this ominous word are also Jews—the ones who refused to obey Jeremiah and join those in exile, but instead followed the lead of the false prophets and stayed in Jerusalem.
Jeremiah 29, then, records two distinct and opposite plans for God’s people: one for welfare and not calamity, the other for calamity and not welfare. For those looking for personal promises in this passage, which of these two applies to them? Fortunately, this passage does not predict calamity for you or me. But neither does it predict welfare. Both predictions in this passage are for the tribe of Judah and for Judah alone.
There’s one final “flow” you must not miss governing the meaning of this chapter: the larger flow of God’s covenantal dealings with Israel. It’s right there at the beginning of the promise, but you might have missed it:
When seventy years have been completed for Babylon, I will visit you and fulfill My good word to you, to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans that I have for you…
Sounds a bit like these plans God has in mind are actually designs He’s mentioned before—not something new, but a reaffirmation of a prior promise. As it turns out, it is.
Keep in mind there are two covenants in play here at this point in history with the Jews. The first is the unconditional Abrahamic Covenant (Gen. 12:1-3) where God promises protection for Abraham’s seed who will ultimately bring blessing to all the nations of the earth.8 The second is the conditional Mosaic Covenant (Leviticus, Deuteronomy) promising prosperity for obedience and cursing for disobedience.9
Jeremiah is writing to warn a nation in disobedience that they are about to suffer the consequences previously promised (Mosaic Covenant), but also to remind God’s people of His pledge of ultimate restoration (Abrahamic covenant).10 Both blessing and cursing are in store for Jeremiah’s audience, then, precisely what God promised nearly a thousand years before:
So it shall be when all of these things have come upon you, the blessing and the curse which I have set before you, and you call them to mind in all nations where the Lord your God has banished you, and you return to the Lord your God and obey Him with all your heart and soul according to all that I command you today, you and your sons, then the Lord your God will restore you from captivity, and have compassion on you, and will gather you again from all the peoples where the Lord your God has scattered you. (Deut. 30:1-3)
Notice the highlighted phrases that almost word for word repeat what we find in the promise of Jer. 29:12-14.11 There’s really nothing new here. God simply reaffirms His covenant faithfulness to His chosen people during a time of extreme chastisement. There are short-term plans for discipline, but long-term plans for prosperity. Both are completely consistent with the covenants God had already pledged for Israel.
Neither plan has anything directly to do with New Testament Christians. The church must take its promises from other passages.12
WDJD—What Did Jesus Do?
When Jesus confronted the Sadducees on the question of resurrection, what did Jesus do? Jesus corrected them: “You are mistaken, not understanding the Scriptures.” (Matt. 22:29).
Two things are immediately obvious from this statement. First, in Jesus’ mind there were right and wrong answers to theological questions, and in this case the Sadducees got it wrong. Second, they faltered, in part, because they did not understand the text.
God promises His Word will not return void, that is, it will succeed in the matter for which He sent it (Is. 55:11). If you use God’s words in a way other than what God intended, though, it will do you no good. Your efforts will return void. Instead, follow the flow and you’ll be much less likely to miss the powerful things God is saying to you personally in His Word.
Click Here to read Misquoting God, Part I.
1 Find it at str.org under “Explore,” “Formats,” “Solid Ground.”
2 I owe this insight to Tom Brewer.
3 Cf. Mark 4:41, Matt. 8:27.
4 Of course, Jesus is with us whenever we pray, wherever we pray, but that’s not what this passage is about.
5 Cf. v. 12-14 and v. 21-35.
6 The NT is filled with references, but for starters read through 1 Peter, especially 1:6-7, 2:19-21, 4:1, 4:12-19, and 5:8-10.
7 Verses 15-32 give the entire prophecy.
8 A promise fulfilled in its ultimate sense through Jesus and the New Covenant.
9 Find those details in Deut. 28-30.
10 Find the covenantal promise of the land in Gen. 15:18-21.
11 See also Deut. 4:24-31.
12 E.g., “I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you” (Heb. 13:5), etc.
Related Topics: Apologetics, Bible Study Methods, Bibliology (The Written Word), Hermeneutics, Scripture Twisting
7. Winning Respect of Outsiders (1 Thessalonians 4:9-12)
1 Thessalonians 4:9-12
Day One Study
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12. What do you learn from verse 9 about love?
Focus on the Greek: “Brotherly love” translates philadelphia, a Greek word that outside the NT almost without exception denoted the mutual love of children of the same father. In the new Testament, it always means love of fellow believers in Christ, all of whom have the same heavenly Father.” (The NIV Study Bible, p. 1824)
2. What do the following verses reveal about being “taught by God?”
· Isaiah 54:13—
· John 6:45—
· 1 Corinthians 2:13—
3. Gaining Perspective: What is God teaching you about loving fellow believers?
Day Two Study
4. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12. Read 1 Thessalonians 1 again. What did Paul know about the reputation of this body of believers?
5. In vv. 11-12, what further instruction is Paul giving to the Thessalonian church?
6. Define the term “ambition” (NIV) or “to aspire” (NET).
7. From 1 Thessalonians 4:1-12, what is acceptable ambition for a believer? See also Ephesians 4:28
8. What do you think “to lead a quiet life” means? Describe it.
Focus on the Meaning: The word translated “quiet” means quiet in the sense of restfulness rather than quiet as opposed to talkativeness…Paul was telling the Thessalonians to be less frantic, not less exuberant. A person who is constantly on the move is frequently a bother to other people as well as somewhat distracted from his own walk with God…Such quietude constitutes a practical demonstration of love for others.” It is also used in 2 Thessalonians 3:12; 1 Timothy 2:2-3; and 1 Peter 3:4. (Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, p. 703)
9. What is the value of leading this kind of life?
10. How do we achieve a quiet life? Where does it start?
11. Gaining Perspective: If you are always tired and your life is hectic, what should you do to evaluate your personal “ambition” for your days? How do you influence your children or husband away from living a “quiet life?” Talk to God about this and ask Him to work in your heart first. Then, ask Him to direct you and your family.
Day Three Study
12. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12. Discuss what it means to mind or attend to your own business. What is your own business?
13. How would minding your own business demonstrate brotherly love for other believers?
14. What would be the opposite of minding your own business?
15. Gaining Perspective: Are you tempted to meddle in other people’s lives? If so, do you recognize this as a distraction from your own walk with God as well as theirs?
Day Four Study
16. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:9-12. In Paul’s culture, what do you think “work with your hands” means?
17. What would be the equivalent in today’s culture?
18. How would doing this demonstrate love for and benefit other believers? See verse 12, 1 Timothy 5:10 and Ephesians 4:28.
Historical Insight: The Greeks in general thought manual labor degrading and fit only for slaves. Christians took seriously the need for earning their own living, but some of the Thessalonians, perhaps as a result of their belief in the imminent return of Christ, were neglecting work and relying on others to support them. (NIV Study Bible, p. 1824)
The Greeks deplored manual labor and relegated it to slaves as much as possible. But the Jews held it in esteem; every Jewish boy was taught a trade regardless of his family’s wealth. Work itself is a blessing, and working with one’s hands should never be despised by Christians.” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, p. 703)
19. How had Paul modeled this “working” for them? See 1 Thessalonians 2:9.
20. Gaining Perspective: How do you work with your hands to demonstrate love for and benefit others? Feel free to use any creative means (poem, song, drawing, craft) to describe this.
21. Looking at verse 12, why is it important to win the respect of outsiders (non-believers)?
22. Gaining Perspective: In what ways do you feel that you are leading a life that wins the respect of non-believers? Have non-believers noticed your lifestyle and were attracted to it? Were you able to share the gospel with someone who noticed you lived to please God with your life?
Think About It: “…it was not Paul’s intent that the church disrupt society or overthrow governments. Rather, he encouraged Christians to be good citizens and exemplary members of their families and of their society but to do so in a manner consistent with the teachings of Christ. Only in this sense was the Pauline gospel intended to change society. It set out to change the individuals who made up society while awaiting that climactic event when the power of God would truly change the world forever.” (D. Michael Martin, 1, 2 Thessalonians. The New American Commentary series, p. 138)
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview
6. Pleasing God in Our Sexuality (1 Thessalonians 4:1-8)
1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
Day One Study
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8. Reread 1 Thessalonians 4:1.
· What was to be their goal?
· Is this to be our goal in life today?
· Do you truly believe this? If not, why not?
Think About It: The Christian life is not a set of rules to be obeyed or a list of prohibitions to avoid; it is the outworking of a loving desire to please God who chose us. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, p. 700)
2. From what we have learned so far in Thessalonians, describe a life that is lived in order to please God. Use specific verses to support your answer.
3. From 1 Thessalonians 1:9, we learned that repentance means “to change one’s mind.” The Thessalonians changed their minds about whom they worshipped—from idols to the living and true God. Paul said that their lives changed as well—from self-dependency and self-sufficiency to Christ-dependency and Christ-sufficiency. How is such change possible? Research the following verses plus any other verses you can find.
· John 15:5—
· 2 Corinthians 10:5—
· Romans 12:1-2—
· Galatians 2:20—
· Ephesians 2:1-5; 8-10—
· Other verses—
Summarize:
4. Gaining Perspective: Who are you living to please? If you have chosen to live in order to please God, what is the evidence in your life? If you have not previously chosen to live to please God but choose to do so now, apply the scriptures given above and trust God to make the necessary changes in your life through His Holy Spirit.
Day Two Study
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8. As believers, we sometimes fret because we can’t figure out God’s will on some matter in our lives. Yet, He has given us specific direction about a great many things. Discuss what is declared with certainty to be God’s will in verses 3-5. Does God say what He wants?
Focus on the Meaning: The term sanctification sounds important but unintelligible. It refers to being “set apart for the Lord.” It can also mean “made holy.” God Himself sanctifies us:
(1) through our position in Christ—being declared “holy” by the work of the Holy Spirit through our faith in Christ’s atoning death on the cross (1 Corinthians 6:11), and
(2) through our ongoing relationship with Christ—being made holy by the work of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians (1 Thessalonians 3:13). This influences conduct.
6. Looking at verses 4 and 5, contrast learning how to control your own body in a way that is holy and honorable with acting in passionate lust, a characteristic of those who do not display in their lives that they know God (the heathen).
From the Greek: The Greek word ktaomai, translated as “control” or “possess” in verse 4 means “to procure for oneself, acquire, obtain.” It carried the idea of gaining mastery over something. (Vines Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, p. 477)
7. It is often said that holiness and sexual immorality are mutually exclusive. Do you agree? Why or why not?
8. Paul is writing to believers who have already been declared holy by their position in Christ. His teaching is now referring to their future conduct. Discuss the significance of believers being “set apart for the Lord” regarding sex. See also 1 Corinthians 6:13-20 and Ephesians 5:8-10.
9. Concerning God’s design of sex, read Genesis 2:24-25; Proverbs 5:18-19; Hebrews 13:4; 1 Corinthians 7:1-7. Does God say what He wants?
Scriptural Insight: “Physical love in marriage, symbolically uniting two personalities by the outward act of sexual intercourse, is beautiful in the eyes of God. And it is holy. . . The Song of Solomon is a very romantic book in which God communicates to us His delight in the wonderful relationship between a man and woman in marriage. . . God made us sexual beings. Marriage has been provided to satisfy such needs, and every scriptural prohibition has to do with sexual activity outside marriage. Don’t let anyone tell you the Bible prohibits sex or represses your sexuality.” (Influential Woman by Vickie Kraft, page 64-70)
Day Three Study
10. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8. What do you think Paul means by saying not to wrong, violate, or take advantage of a brother/sister in this area?
Scriptural Insight: “Sexual immorality wrongs the partner in the forbidden act by involving him or her in behavior contrary to God’s will and therefore under His judgment…The initiation of the act takes advantage of his [her] partner in sin by fanning the fire of passion till self-control is lost.” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, pp. 701-702)
11. What does God promise to do about it?
Think About It: The better translation for the end of verse 6 is “the Lord is the avenger/will avenge.” What do you think this means? How would God avenge the wrong done by one believer to another? Have you seen this to be true with anyone who has been immoral? How?
13. As you have seen from today’s passage, God takes a position on sex. Why do you think God cares?
14. Gaining Perspective: In the first century, moral standards were generally very low, and chastity was regarded as an unreasonable restriction. Sound familiar? According to recent surveys, the morality of Christians is not much different from that of nonChristians in the area of sex. Apply God’s directive specifically to today’s American society. To your daily life. To your home. To your children. Be specific.
Day Four Study
15. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8. All sin (past, present, and future) is forgiven the moment anyone trusts in Christ. Yet, the sin nature remains in our bodies as long as we live on this earth. Because we are not perfected, we will continue to sin both unintentionally and intentionally. Our sins are forgiven, but our God knows that continuing sinful behavior is not good for us and does not please Him. How does God deal with deliberate sin in a Christian’s life? Read Hebrews 12:1-11.
Scriptural Insight: “The indwelling Holy Spirit has power enough to enable any Christian to learn how to control his own body, even in a pagan immoral climate. The exhortation is to avoid sexual immorality; the enablement comes from the Holy Spirit.” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, pp. 702)
16. Read 1 Thessalonians 4:8 again. Read the following verses to see the various functions of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer.
· John 14:16-17;26—
· Romans 5:5—
· 2 Corinthians 1:22—
· Galatians 4:5-6—
· Titus 3:5—
· 1 John 3:24—
17. Gaining Perspective: In light of what you studied so far in this chapter:
· Apply verse 8 to your life.
· What can you say to someone, especially a Christian, who says they don’t accept biblical standards because they don’t apply today?
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview
5. Perfecting Faith (1 Thessalonians 3:9-13)
1 Thessalonians 3:9-13
Day One Study
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13. Reviewing from the last lesson, what was Paul’s primary concern regarding the Thessalonians?
2. Why did Paul want to return to Thessalonica?
3. What is faith? First, define it in your own words. Then, compose a biblical definition. See Hebrews 11:1 plus other verses you find using cross-references or a concordance.
4. Read the entire chapter of Hebrews 11—a fabulous study of faith. How does God describe those who have lived by faith in Him?
From the Greek: The Greek word pistis translated “faith” means “a firm persuasion, a conviction based upon hearing.” It involves trust and trustworthiness, assurance. Biblical faith is a firm conviction, producing a full acknowledgement of God’s revelation or truth followed by a personal surrender to Him. (Vines Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, p. 222)
Day Two Study
5. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13. Why do you think the condition of the Thessalonians’ faith was so important to Paul? Read also Hebrews 11:6 and Ephesians 6:16.
6. How do you think Paul intends to supply what is lacking in their faith? See Romans 10:17.
7. From these verses, who is able to perfect the faith of anyone? Read also Philippians 1:6 and Hebrews 12:1-3.
8. Gaining Perspective: Have you ever felt, or perhaps you now feel, that your faith is lacking something? What practical steps can you take to change the situation? Remember, though, it is not the size of your faith that counts but the object of your faith.
Day Three Study
9. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-13. Paul’s work of evangelism had been effective. Paul could have been “puffed up” by success. Why do you think he was able to remain humble about his tremendously effective evangelistic work?
10. Gaining Perspective: God may be using you in ministry. How do you keep from getting “puffed up” about your work, particularly if it seems to be effective? What counsel would you give to someone who has an attitude of self-importance regarding her/his ministry?
11. In 2:17-18 and 3:10-11, Paul expresses his longing (literally “passionate, intense longing”) to be with the new church again. What is Paul asking God to do?
12. How do you know Paul was willing to wait for the Lord’s timing?
13. Gaining Perspective: When you desperately want something that seems out of your reach, what is your typical reaction? Do you ever allow God to “clear the way” for you in His own perfect timing? Explain your answer. See also 1 Peter 5:6 and Philippians 4:6.
Day Four Study
14. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:9-13. In 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13, Paul prays a beautiful, heartfelt prayer for the new church at Thessalonica. For what does he specifically pray?
Scriptural Insight: It is evident from Paul’s writings that a very large part of his private life was occupied in prayer and thanksgiving. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, p. 699)
15. Regarding love, what do you think he means by “increase and overflow/abound?” Read 1 Corinthians 13 and 1 John 4:7-12.
Think About It: This kind of love was described by the late author, Francis Schaeffer, as “the mark of the Christian.”
16. If God is strengthening our hearts in holiness, how should this look in our daily lives?
17. Gaining Perspective: Paul’s prayer is also a powerful example of how we ought to pray for one another. Pray as Paul did in these verses for your family, friends, and church today and as often as God brings it to your mind.
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview
4. Stand Firm (1 Thessalonians 3:1-9)
1 Thessalonians 3:1-9
Day One Study
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-9. For understanding these verses, refer back to Acts 17:13-16 and 18:5. Timothy and Silas brought back news about the church in Thessalonica. Paul was both excited and grateful for the good news which relieved his deep concern for them. Discuss his heartfelt concern.
2. How had Paul tried to prepare the Thessalonians while he was with them?
3. Why was Timothy sent back to them? Read also 2 Timothy 3:10-17.
Scriptural Insight: Often new believers, and even older believers, interpret difficulty as a sign that they need to change something. Timothy reminded them that persecution is a normal experience for the Christian (Matt. 5:11-12; 10:16-28; 20:22-23; 24:9-10), just as Paul had previously instructed them. (Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessalonians, p. 19)
4. What good news did Timothy bring to Paul?
5. How did this news encourage Paul’s minister’s heart?
6. Gaining Perspective: This letter reveals the heart of a minister. Paul lays bare his concern for the young Thessalonian believers even when he was away from them, actively planting new churches. Is there anyone to whom you are ministering long distance? How are you maintaining your heart’s concern for that person? In what ways are you able to continue ministering to her/him?
Day Two Study
7. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-9. Read the following verses to explain what Paul means when he refers in verse 3 to believers being destined for trials/afflictions.
· John 15:18-25—
· Acts 9:15-16—
· Philippians 1:29-30—
· 2 Timothy 3:12—
Summary:
8. What is to be a believer’s response to harsh treatment? Read Romans 12:14; 17-21. Also read Psalm 143.
9. Describe how one believer ministers to another who is undergoing trials or persecution. Think through Paul’s words in verses 6-7. See also 2 Corinthians 1:3-5; 7:5-7.
10. Gaining Perspective: You may not be undergoing persecution or harsh treatment at the moment. Yet, as a member of the Body of Christ, you should hurt when another part of the Body is hurting. Read 1 Corinthians 12:25-27. Are you aware of other members of the Body who are being persecuted? How can you minister to someone else who is experiencing such treatment now? Review Paul’s purpose for sending Timothy back to Thessalonica. Does this give you any ideas?
Day Three Study
11. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-9. Who is the tempter? Read Matthew 4:1-3.
12. In what ways might the tempter have tempted the Thessalonian believers so that Paul’s ministry to them would have been in vain? See also 1 Thessalonians 2:13; 17-18. If applicable, bring in your answer to last lesson’s Deeper Discoveries question.
13. Deeper Discoveries (optional): How does a believer overcome temptation from the tempter? Use your Bible’s cross-references and study notes. Write a short summary.
14. Why is it not necessary to face temptation alone? Read Hebrews 4:14-16.
Day Four Study
15. Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-9. Paul describes a feeling of really living (NIV) or being alive again (NET) in verse 8. What do you think he means? See also 1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 and Philippians 2:1-2.
16. Gaining Perspective: Ministers are to share the gospel and make disciples of the new believers. Then, disciples are to grow in their faith and then make more disciples who can then make disciples. Where are you in the “growth” process? In what ways have you been challenged to become more than a disciple? More than a servant to even ministering to others? If you are involved in ministry already, how can you identify with Paul’s attitude?
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview
3. Stress of Persecution (1 Thessalonians 2:13-20)
1 Thessalonians 2:13-20
Day One Study
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20. Looking at verses 14-15, what were the Thessalonians experiencing?
2. Power in leadership is the ability to define a situation, attitude, or goal. Followers ask their leader, “How do I think about this situation?” How does Paul answer this question for them?
3. Reviewing 1 Thessalonians 2:1, Paul says that His coming to Thessalonica was not in vain. List the evidence of this in verses 13-20. (Also read 1 Thessalonians 1:6-8 and 3:6-8.)
Day Two Study
4. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20. In verses 14-16, Paul tells the Thessalonians that they have become imitators of other churches of God in Judea, even with Jesus Christ, by their suffering. What emotions and reactions often occur when a person is under persecution?
5. Read 2 Corinthians 1:6-10; 1 Peter 4:12-19 and James 1:2-4. List specific “benefits” of persecution or suffering:
Think About It: Christian author John C. Maxwell said, “A faith that has not been tested cannot be trusted.” Do you agree or disagree?
6. Summarize how Paul’s writing of “fellow-suffering” would be of encouragement to the Thessalonians?
7. Gaining Perspective: As believers living in the United States:
· In what ways do we experience “persecutions?”
· As Paul encouraged the Thessalonians, what is his encouragement to us?
Day Three Study
8. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:13-20. List the specific accusations Paul makes against the Jews in vv. 15-16.
Think About It: “An unbeliever who is willing to live and let live with respect to personal convictions regarding God is less dangerous than one who not only disbelieves himself but also tries to keep others from hearing the gospel. The unbelieving Jews in Thessalonica were of the latter variety.” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, p. 696)
9. Paul can speak of this first-hand, not just as a recipient of their persecution, but also as a once active participant. Read about Paul in Acts 7:58-8:3, 26:10-11; Philippians 3:4-6 and write down his credentials and past activity.
10. Summarize what happened to change Paul as you read of his account before King Agrippa in Acts 26:12-23. (Also read Philippians 3:7-11.)
11. Read Romans 9:1-5 and 10:1. Did Paul’s condemnation for the activity of these Jews come from personal hatred towards them? Explain your answer. What was his desire for all men?
Scriptural Insight: The Thessalonians’ opponents seem to have been mainly Jews. Paul desperately wanted unbelieving Jews to come to faith in Christ (Rom. 9:1-3; 10:1). Yet they were some of his most antagonistic persecutors (2 Cor. 11:24, 26). Their actions were not pleasing to God and were not in the best interests of all men who need to hear the gospel. By their opposition the enemies of the gospel added more transgressions on their own heads with the result that they hastened God’s judgment of them. God had already focused His wrath on them for their serious sin. They not only rejected the gospel themselves, but they also discouraged others from accepting it. It was only a matter of time before God would pour out His wrath in judgment. In view of the eschatological emphasis of the letter, Paul seems to be alluding primarily to the judgment coming on unbelievers during the Tribulation. This is the only place in his inspired writings where Paul charged “the Jews” with the death of Jesus. Elsewhere in the New Testament it is the sins of all people that were responsible. Therefore, Paul was just identifying a segment of humanity that was responsible. He was not blaming the Jews in some special sense for Jesus’ death. (Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessalonians, p. 15)
12. Gaining Perspective: Lest we become prideful, who else was responsible for the persecution and death of Jesus Christ? Read Isaiah 53:4-6 and Hebrews 2:9 slowly and carefully. Meditate on these passages and write down what they mean to you personally.
Day Four Study
13. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20. Paul refers to being “torn away” or “separated” from them. The meaning of the original Greek word used here is “to be orphaned.” In what other terms you have already studied has Paul expressed a “family” relationship to these believers?
14. What is the “bottom line” for Paul? Why does he keep doing what he is doing? Be specific.
15. Deeper Discoveries (optional): In v. 18, Paul blames Satan for stopping him more than once from revisiting the Thessalonians. Research Acts 17:6-9 to find one possible way Satan hindered Paul from returning. (Think legal!) Jesus knew the reality of Satan at work in the world to hinder people from believing in God. Discuss Jesus’ comments in John 8:37-44 in light of what Paul experienced in Thessalonica.
Related Topics: Curriculum
2. Heart Attitude of a Servant (1 Thessalonians 2:1-12)
1 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Day One Study
1. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. Write down the various references to the “source” of Paul’s message (“gospel of God”, verse 2).
2. From whom did Paul get his authority and message?
Historical Insight: There was apparently a large conspiracy to attack the character of Paul, Silas (Sylvanus), and Timothy regarding their visit to Thessalonica. (Reminder: Acts 17:1-11 records this visit.) Paul’s defense is his conduct!
3. List the various “accusations” Paul is defending in this passage. In a sentence, what “rumors” do you think were being spread about them?
4. Now, explain in practical terms how Paul, Silas and Timothy’s conduct defended each of these accusations:
5. Read Acts 16:16-40. In 1 Thessalonians 2:2, Paul refers to this event. Why would his having been persecuted in Philippi be a factor in his defense of the accusations in Thessalonica?
6. Read 2 Corinthians 6:4-6. Summarize the persecutions Paul endured.
7. Gaining Perspective: The common reaction, then and now: “If you can’t refute the message, attack the messenger” and his/her motivations.
· Have you ever been “attacked” in such a way?
· Contrary to our normal reaction, how should we respond, and why?
Day Two Study
8. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12. In v. 4, Paul refers to Timothy, Silas, and himself as being “approved by God to be entrusted with the Gospel.” (Vines Expository Commentary on 1 & 2 Thessalonians says the phrase means “found to have stood the test”). Use the following verses to discover how each was “approved by God to be entrusted with the Gospel.”
· Timothy (Acts 16:1-2; Philippians 2:19-22) —
· Silas (Acts 15:22,40; 1 Peter 5:12) —
· Paul (Acts 9:1-16; 13:1-3; Gal 1:15) —
9. Clearly state the “gospel”—pure and simple—with which they were entrusted? Read Acts 17:1-4 and 1 Corinthians 15:1-5 plus any other verses to support your answer.
10. Deeper Discoveries (optional): Verse 4 says that it is God “who examines our hearts.” In effect, Paul is saying God examines every part of our being. From the following references, discover that the heart is the seat of many things. What are they?
· Matthew 9:4—
· Mark 2:6—
· Mark 11:23—
· John 12:40—
· John 16:22—
· Acts 2:37—
· Romans 6:17—
· Romans 9:2—
· Romans 10:10—
· 2 Corinthians 9:7—
· Colossians 3:15—
· Hebrews 4:12—
Summary:
Day Three Study
11. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:6-12. Paul, Timothy and Silas take on the roles of both mother and father in v. 7-12. Explain how they exemplify a “mother.”
12. How do they exemplify a “father”? See also 1 Corinthians 4:14-21.
13. How is their conduct different from the commonly displayed actions/attitudes of one who could have imposed a burden on them as stated in v. 7? See Philippians 2:6-7 as well.
Historical Insight: Paul denied any desire to get rich from his preaching. Itinerant philosophers and orators were common in the Roman Empire. Paul had little in common with their motivation. He had come to Thessalonica to give, not to get. Furthermore he did not demand that the Thessalonians acquiesce to his message because of his apostolic authority. However, Paul gave himself, not just his message, to the Thessalonians out of love for them, not for personal gain. In this Paul followed the tradition of Jewish rabbis for whom receiving money for teaching the Law was considered shameful. The measure of his love was the toil and trouble he expended as he worked constantly, probably making tents and other leather articles, so he would not be a burden to them. Paul was by trade a leather-worker. This is how he and his companions had heralded the gospel among them. See Philippians 4:16 and 2 Corinthians 11:7-11. (Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessalonians, p. 12-13)
14. From vv. 1-12, we have a beautiful, clear presentation of the “heart attitude of a minister/servant.” Describe this heart attitude in your own words. (Note: the opposite of this is found in Titus 1:10-16!)
15. Deeper Discoveries (optional): Read Ezekiel 34:1-16. Discuss God’s distinction between false shepherds and true shepherds.
16. Gaining Perspective: What is your heart attitude towards those you serve? Where do you need to improve?
Day Four Study
17. Read 1 Thessalonians 2:7-12. What ultimately is Paul’s goal?
18. What do you think this means? Examine the following verses for help:
· Colossians 1:10—
· 1 Peter 1:15—
· 1 Peter 4:11—
Summary:
Think About It: “Few temptations assail the preacher more strongly than this one to please men, even if God is not pleased, though with the dim hope that God will after all condone or overlook. Nothing but experience will convince some preachers how fickle is popular favour and how often it is at the cost of failure to please God.” (Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessalonians, p. 12)
19. Gaining Perspective: Just as Paul, we are called to be faithful to God and to please Him and not men. What gets in your way of doing this? How can we help one another to be faithful? Read Hebrews 10:23-25.
20. With God as “the examiner of their hearts” (v. 4), what kind of behavior did Paul and his companions display toward the Thessalonians?
21. Gaining Perspective: God, as the giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17), can produce such a heart in you if you seek it. Read your summary of the heart attitude of a servant again and remember who is Paul’s source ... and yours ... for courage, character and proper conduct. Keeping this in mind, think of one person you can nurture this week a Paul nurtured his disciples.
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview
1. The Living and True God (1 Thessalonians 1:1-10)
1 Thessalonians 1:1-10
Day One Study
1. Let’s first get to know the Thessalonians. Read Acts 17:1-10. What information is given about the city and its people?
2. Deeper Discoveries (optional): Look in the study notes of your Bible, a Bible handbook, or online website such as www.bible.org to find out about this area and its history, the people, government, commerce, religion, prevailing philosophies, etc.
3. Paul wrote this epistle only months after leaving Thessalonica and giving a sermon in Athens. Read Acts 17:22-31. What main thoughts were fresh on his mind when he wrote his first letter to the Thessalonians? You will notice similar thoughts expressed as we study this letter.
4. Read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. Paul often greets with the words “grace and peace.” What is the connection between these two words? See Ephesians 2:8 and Romans 5:1-2.
Focus on the Meaning: “Grace” was a common Greek salutation that meant “greeting” or “rejoice.” “Peace” is the Greek equivalent of the Hebrew “shalom” meaning “favor,” “well-being,” and “prosperity in the widest sense,” especially prosperity in spiritual matters. Paul used both words when he greeted the recipients of his epistles. God’s grace is the basis for and leads to our peace. (Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessalonians, p. 5)
5. From these first 10 verses, what would you say is the tone/mood of Paul’s letter?
Day Two Study
6. Read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. Although no church is perfect, there are definite marks of maturity Paul emphasizes when commending a church. What characteristics of this church does Paul commend in v. 3?
Scriptural Insight: “These three Christian virtues—faith, love, and hope—occupied a large place in early analyses of Christian responsibility. The expectation was that in every life faith would work (Gal 5:6; James 2:18), love would labor (Rev 2:2, 4), and hope would endure (Rom 5:2-4; 8:24, 25). This threefold balance probably arose even before Paul’s doctrinal stance had matured and perhaps came from the teachings of Christ himself.” (Robert L. Thomas, “1 Thessalonians.” In Ephesians-Philemon. Vol. 11 of The Expositor’s Bible Commentary.)
7. Search the passage for specific results of each characteristic and record them!
· Faith—
· Love—
· Hope—
8. Reread verses 4 and 5. Discuss the assurances Paul gives to the Thessalonians. See also Acts 17:2-4.
9. So, how did this guide Paul in ministering to these young believers? After all, who is really in charge?
10. In v. 5 the Thessalonians are reminded about the character and reputation of Paul and his companions. Reread Acts 17:1-10. Describe Paul and his companions in the context of their stay in Thessalonica.
11. According to 1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, how had the Thessalonians imitated Paul and his companions?
12. Gaining Perspective: Like the Thessalonian believers:
· Of whom are we to be imitators?
· What principles should be guiding us in imitating others? See Ephesians 5:1-2 and 1 Timothy 4:12.
· What kind of example are you providing for those around you to imitate?
From the Greek: The word exechetai, translated “rang out” or “echoed” could be rendered “reverberated.” Paul saw the Thessalonians as amplifiers or relay stations that not only received the gospel message but sent it farther on its way with increased power and scope…The Thessalonians had acted as relay runners by passing the gospel they had heard on to farther places. They were a missionary church. (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, p. 692; Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessalonians, p. 8)
13. Gaining Perspective: Paul writes that the gospel had echoed forth from Thessalonica to surrounding regions. What part are you playing in the echoing forth of the gospel from your home church?
Day Three Study
14. Read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. Verse 9 gives us the perfect definition of repentance—to change one’s mind. About what did the Thessalonians change their mind?
15. They turned to and encountered the living and true God. Describe how it impacted their daily lives.
Historical Insight: “The fact that God is a living Person was precious to the Jews and to Paul; this is the characteristic by which God is most often distinguished from so-called gods in the Old Testament. He is the only loving God; all other gods are not alive and therefore not worthy objects of worship.” (The Bible Knowledge Commentary New Testament, p. 692)
16. Gaining Perspective: When you first believed, about what did you change your mind?
· How has your life altered since encountering the living and true God?
· Has your life impacted others in your sphere of influence?
· Consider using a creative means (poem, song, drawing, craft) to illustrate what has happened to your life since encountering the living and true God.
Day Four Study
17. Read 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. Verse 10 says that another aspect of our faith is waiting for Jesus’ return. What evidence do we have that Jesus is indeed returning? See Acts 1:11 and 1 Corinthians 15:12-20.
Think About It: “Believers live anticipating a coronation (2 Timothy 4:8) rather than a condemnation.” (Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessalonians, p. 9)
18. Contrast the hope of the believers with the fate of the unbelievers when He returns. See Colossians 3:3-4; 6; John 3:18; John 3:36; and Romans 8:1.
· Hope of the believers—
· Fate of the unbelievers—
19. Gaining Perspective: How is this first chapter of 1 Thessalonians an encouragement to you?
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview
Overview of 1 and 2 Thessalonians
Historical Background
Thessalonica was originally an ancient town named Thermai, meaning “Hot Springs.” In time it became an important city because of its strategic location near the Aegean Sea. In the Roman Empire, it became the capital of the province of Macedonia and its largest city with 200,000 people. Thessalonica stood on the Via Egnatia, the Roman highway to the East, making it an important city of commerce. In Paul’s day it was a self-governing community with enough Jews in residence to warrant a synagogue (Acts 17:1).
On his second missionary journey while Paul was in Troas, God showed him a vision of a man from Macedonia saying, “Come over and help us.” Paul and Silas went, stopping first at Philippi, where they preached, and a church was formed. After spending a night in prison for driving an evil spirit from a girl, Paul and Silas were forced to leave Philippi. They went down the road to Thessalonica. For at least three Sabbath days Paul reasoned in the synagogue with those present, and many believed the gospel. However, he probably ministered in Thessalonica for a longer time than just three weeks in view of what he wrote that he had done there. Those who responded to the message of Christ’s sufferings and resurrection were Jews and God-fearing Greeks. There were also some leading women of the city and many idol-worshipping pagans.
This angered a group of unbelieving Jews who then stirred up a gang of roughnecks to attack the house of Jason where Paul and his friends had been staying. Unable to find the missionaries, the mob dragged Jason before the magistrates who simply commanded him to keep the peace. Convinced of the danger for Paul and Jason, the Christians sent Paul and Silas away from the city by night to nearby Berea.
Paul and his party began their evangelistic work in Berea in the synagogue, as was their custom. However when many Jews there believed, the Thessalonian Jews came down to Berea and stirred up more trouble. The Berean Christians sent Paul away to Athens, but Silas and Timothy remained in Berea. Having been sent for by Paul, Silas and Timothy joined Paul in Athens, but he soon sent Silas back to Philippi and or Berea, and Timothy back to Thessalonica. Later both men returned to Paul while he was in Corinth with a financial gift from the Christians in those Macedonian towns.
Purpose for the Letters
Timothy’s report of conditions in the Thessalonian church led Paul to write the first letter shortly after he arrived in Corinth about A.D. 51. Some of the Thessalonians apparently believed that Jesus Christ was about to return momentarily and had consequently given up their jobs and had become disorderly. Some worried about what had happened to their loved ones who had died before the Lord had returned. Persecution from the Gentiles as well as the Jews still oppressed the believers who were nevertheless holding fast to the truth and eager to see Paul again. Some outside the church, however, remained hostile to Paul. There also appears that some within the church had returned to their former habits involving sexual impurity.
It seems that Paul had at least three purposes in mind when he wrote 1 Thessalonians. First, he wanted to encourage the Christians in Thessalonica who were making good progress in their new faith. Second, he desired to correct misinformation about himself and his fellow missionaries that some of his critics in Thessalonica were circulating. Third, he wrote to give additional instruction that would contribute to the Thessalonians’ spiritual growth.
Upon receiving back news about the Thessalonian church, Paul wrote the second letter perhaps within a few months of the first one. Some of the news was good. The majority of the Thessalonians were continuing to grow and to remain faithful to Christ in spite of persecution. Unfortunately some of the news was bad. False teaching concerning the day of the Lord had entered the church and was causing confusion and leading some of the Christians to quit their jobs in expectation of the Lord’s imminent return. Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians to commend his children in the faith for their growth and faithfulness, to correct the doctrinal error about the day of the Lord, and to warn the idle to get back to work.
Far and away the largest theological contribution of both 1 and 2 Thessalonians lies in what they say about eschatology. Over a quarter of 1 Thessalonians and nearly half of 2 Thessalonians deal with problems and issues regarding the parousia or coming of Christ from heaven.
“The Thessalonian letters present the first literary evidence for the use of parousia . . . in the sense of the future Advent of Christ: it occurs in this sense six times in the two letters. The event is depicted repeatedly in language borrowed from portrayals of OT theophanies. But it is the ethical implications that are chiefly stressed: the writers look forward to the Parousia especially as the time when their service will be reviewed and rewarded by the Lord who commissioned them, and they will be content, they say, to have it assessed by the quality of their converts.” (F. F. Bruce, 1 and 2 Thessalonians, p. 38)
—The above information was adapted from Dr. Tom Constable’s Notes on 1 Thessaonians, pp. 1-3 and 2 Dr. Tom Constable’s Notes on 2 Thessalonians, pp. 1-2
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview
Using This Study Guide
The Basic Study
This study guide consists of 12 lessons covering two of Paul’s letters—First and Second Thessalonians. If you cannot do the entire lesson one week, please read the Bible passage covered by the lesson.
Process of Bible Study: Each lesson includes core questions covering the passage narrative. These core questions will take you through the process of inductive Bible study—observation, interpretation, and application. The process is more easily understood in the context of answering these questions:
· What does the passage say? (Observation: what’s actually there)
· What does it mean? (Interpretation: the author’s intended meaning)
· How does this apply to me today? (Application: making it personal) Questions identified as Gaining Perspective” lead you to introspection and application of a specific truth to your life. You will be given opportunity to use creative means to express God’s faithfulness to you in your life’s journey.
Study Enhancements
To aid in proper interpretation and application of the study, five additional study aids are located where appropriate in the lesson:
· Historical Insights
· Scriptural Insights
· From the Greek (definitions of Greek words)
· Focus on the Meaning
· Think About It (thoughtful reflection)
Gaining Perspective
“Perspective” — a measured or objective assessment of a situation, giving all aspects their comparative importance
Through your study of 1 and 2 Thessalonians, you will gain a proper perspective of God, yourself, and the world in which you live. Proper perspective gives you stability, certainty, and confidence in your God who is faithful to you. You will grow in confidence because you will learn that your self-worth is not derived from any human being but from God. You will be able to stand firm and press onward regardless of obstacles in your life.
Each woman is unique. There is no one exactly like you or me in all the world. Each of us is influential in the sphere God has given to us in which to make an impact—our family, workplace, school, church, and neighborhood. For that reason each of us is responsible to God for how we use the gifts and opportunities He has given us. Each of us will stand before Him individually as a woman. When we gain a proper perspective of God, ourselves, and the world in which we live, we being to serve our God with greater enthusiasm and growing freedom. There is then no limit to what can happen as God works in us and through us to impact our world. How is your perspective?
Related Topics: Curriculum, Worldview