2. Thessalonians

What was the church in Thessalonica like when Paul wrote this second letter?

Paul wrote it in the early 50 Ad shortly after he wrote the 1^st letter to Thessalonians.

Because they needed a stronger dose of advice he’d given in his first letter (SVB1541) Paul applauded them for their progress, growing faith, increasing love, perservance in the face of persecution. (1.3-4) And encouraging them to keep on. 3.3.

In 2.20 he says they are his pride and joy. Some false prophets said that the last days have already come and gone. He advises the, 2.3-4

What is the main idea in is this letter?

Ch1. Encouragement to Christians undergoing persecution: “But the Lord is faithful, he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one! “3.3, 2.12-13, 13-17

Ch2-3 Confront false reports .The church is encouraged to be patient and steady, certain things has to happen before, and only God know the time. 2.3-4,5.1-2.

What does this letters show about the Character and Nature of God?

God gives grace 1.2, 1.12

God will use persecution to show His justice and to make you worthy of his Kingdom, for which you are suffering. 15.

God will provide rest for you who are being persecuted. 1.7

God will bring judgment on those who don’t know God and on those who refuse to obey the Good News of our Lord Jesus. 1.7

God enables you to live a life worthy of his call. 1.11

God gives power1.11

Lord is faithfull; he will strengthen you and guard you from evil one. 3.3

He can lead our heart to full understanding and expression of the love of God and the patient endurance that comes from Christ. 3.5

God as the Lord of peace will give His peace at all times and in every situations. 3.

Sources: Source View Bible (SVB), Nelson Maps and Charts (NB), Faith in Action Study Bible (FSB), notes form Scott Contivals teaching