1 Thessalonians

Paul's fond memories of the Thessalonian believers are visibly expressed in the writing of this letter to the church which he founded during his second missionary trip (Acts 17:10), right after his unjust beatings, imprisonment and release at Philippi (Acts 16:19-40). 

Paul's ministry at Thessalonica was met with great opposition from the Jews there who incited a mob and created a great tumult in the city, forcing Paul to cut short his work. Despite this, a church was planted and in the face of fierce persecution and death, the new believers remained steadfast and became examples to other churches in the region.

When Paul heard of the Thessalonians' faith and testimony, he wrote this letter in part to commend and encourage them, as well as to correct some misconceptions they had on the second coming of Christ. Paul had endeared himself to these young believers, much like a mother to her children, as can be seen in his writing:

2:8 So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not only the gospel of God, but our own souls as well, because you were dear to us.

Such should be the heart of a pastor who shepherds the flock of God, just as Christ laid down His life for the sheep, and the likes of Stephen, Peter and Paul who came after, and all who would heed Christ's call to take up the cross to follow Him. 

This is agape love in action.

OUTLINE OF 1 THESSALONIANS

1. Greetings (1:1)
2. The Believer's Life Testimony (1:2-3:13)
a. Sincerity in Thanksgiving (1:2-10)
Faith | Love | Hope
b. Sincerity in Confession (2:1-20)
Pure Motive | Selfless Labour
Unforgettable Experience
c. Sincerity in Expectation (3:1-13)
Change in Plan | Joy in Persevering
Earnestness in Prayer
3. The Believer's Life Motivation (4:1-5:24)
a. Christian Living (1:1-5)
b. The Coming of the Lord 
c. The Day of the Lord 
d. Christian Conduct (1:6-18)
4. Final Words (5:25-28)
a. Prayer Request (5:25)
b. Instructions (5:26-27)
c. Benediction (5:28)