Paul's Second letter to the Thessalonians
Like 1 Thessalonians, this letter deals extensively with eschatology (18 of the 47 verses). Some people had misunderstood Paul and were sure Jesus was coming very soon. In fact, they had stopped working and were just waiting for Jesus to return. Paul writes to correct this misunderstanding.
I. Greetings, Thanksgiving and Prayer (1:1-12)
II. Instruction on Jesus' Coming and Christian Conduct (2:1-17)
III. Request for Prayer and Warning Against Idleness
(3:1-15)
IV. Final Greetings and Benediction (3:16-18)
In chapter 1, Paul highlights the great hope of Jesus’ future return although the exact time is unable to be known by anyone. He commends the church in Thessalonica for their perseverance in the midst of persecution, “we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure” (1:4). Paul teaches that God will punish those who are persecuting on the last day. “Dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power” (1:8-9).
II. Instruction on Jesus' Coming and Christian Conduct (2:1-17)
III. Request for Prayer and Warning Against Idleness
(3:1-15)
IV. Final Greetings and Benediction (3:16-18)
In chapter 1, Paul highlights the great hope of Jesus’ future return although the exact time is unable to be known by anyone. He commends the church in Thessalonica for their perseverance in the midst of persecution, “we ourselves speak proudly of you among the churches of God for your perseverance and faith in the midst of all your persecutions and afflictions which you endure” (1:4). Paul teaches that God will punish those who are persecuting on the last day. “Dealing out retribution to those who do not know God and to those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. These will pay the penalty of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power” (1:8-9).
In chapters 2-3, speaking of the return of Jesus Christ, Paul was sure to
include the signs and setting that “the man of lawlessness” (the antichrist) had to arrive first, for that to occur, the “restrainer”
(Holy Spirit) must be removed from restraining him. The Holy Spirit indwells all believers and when He is removed, all believers will be “caught up” in the clouds with the Lord Jesus (1 Thessalonians 4:17). Paul pushes them to pray and serve until this all transpires. “May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness of Christ” (3:5).
continue to 1 Timothy...