Paul directs the persecuted Thessalonian Christians to hope in the future of king Jesus’ return who will make all things right.
Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians celebrates a flourishing Church. Despite persecution and suffering, believers stand strong in their commitment to Jesus.
Love is stronger than persecution
From the very beginning, following Jesus as King has produced a truly counter-cultural holy way of life that will sometimes generate suspicion and conflict among our neighbors.
The way Jesus’ followers respond to such hostility should always be with love, and they should meet opposition with grace and generosity. This way of life is motivated by hope in the coming kingdom of Jesus that has already begun in His resurrection from the dead. Throughout 1 Thessalonians, we see how the Thessalonian Church embodies holiness, love, and future hope as they remain firm in their faith and commitment to Jesus their King.