1 Thessalonians 01
Paul wrote this, one of his earliest letters, from Corinth, The church in Thessalonica was founded A, D. 51-51 AD, on Paul's second missionary trips (Act 17:1-9) shortly after escaping from Thessalonica (& Berea) Berea was about 50 miles to the west, for his personal safety. (Jewish leaders were probably jealous of Paul’s great results, see Acts 17:4. He had preached in the synagogue there three successive Sabbaths and later in some other places, on his second missionary journey. Paul wasn't there long enough to fully instruct the church (Philippian 4:16 I Thessalonier 2:9 II Thesslonian 3:8 inplies that Paul was in this area longer than Acts 17:2 does. (Acts 17:1-10; 18:1) When Paul was driven out of this area he left Silas and Timothy there and upon Paul arriving in Athens 200 miles to the south he sent word back to Silas and Timothy to come as fast as possibe ( Act 17:14, 15 It was the chief sea port of Macedonia as well as being on the Egnation Way, the main Roman road to the Orient via modern Istanbul. The population was from 70,000 to 200,000. Maps are deceiving, but is actually about 100 miles from Philippi.
Some purposes of the letter: a. To express joy over their progression in the Lord. b. Exhort believers who had erroneously quit working to wait for the lord’s return. b. Comfort believers that those who had fallen asleep in Jesus would not suffer loss.
v 1,2. Paul’s usual salutation of divine favor and heart peace, which might be considered prayer for a peace that passes understanding, coupled with regular prayer in their behalf. They were all on his prayer list. He mentions Silas and Timothy because they had been with him on the missionary journey when he established the church at Thessalonica.
v 3. He reflects that their work is energized by faith, their service is motivated by love, and they have an steadfast hope in the return of Christ.
v 4. He has the assurance that they are chosen of God.
v 5. Paul didn’t just preach words, but with the assurance he had the power of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. He had already proven himself before them.
v 6. They imitated Paul as he imitated Christ, and though he was persecuted there, the Holy Spirit imparted joy.
v 7. Thus they too became a pattern for all in the area who were aware of them.
CHRIST <<<<< Paul (v.5) <<<<< Thessalonians (v.6) <<<<< Others (v.7)
v 8. “Sounded out” a statement of fact, not that of a trumpet as in Revelation. They were such faithful witnesses that knowledge of their faith spread to wherever people might hear about them, so Paul need not add anything to it.
v 9. Others who knew of them told Paul they had turned to God from their idols and were serving the one true God. Paul’s manner or attitude was of compassion.
v 10. He had also been told how they were waiting for the return of Christ, with assurance they had escaped eternal damnation. The ideal Christian walk is:
a. The work of faith is to turn to God from idols, believing Christ for salvation.
b. The labor of love is to serve the living and true God. Even as Christ laid down His life for us, we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren, Jn. 15:13, and keep His commandments, 2 Jn. 6.
c. The patience of hope is to wait for His Son from heaven, Titus 2:13; Jam. 5:7,8. Every chapter in 1 Thess. mentions the Lord’s return, 1:10; 2:19; 3:13’ 4:16; 5:23.
The strength of the Thessalonian church as a local church:
v 1 Established in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus.
v 7 Examples to all that believed.
v 8 They were a witnessing church.
v 9-10 Speaks of unity among themselves, all waiting for Christ’s return, not fighting and quarreling.
Thessalonians 02
v 1. From what had been said in chapter 1, Paul’s efforts had been worthwhile.
v 2. In spite of being beaten and imprisoned at Philippi, Paul had preached boldly here, again with much contention from the unbelieving Jews.
v 3. Deceit - error. Paul’s message had come from the Lord. Uncleanness -The cults taught immorality and some thought Paul taught salvation by grace so believers could do as they please. (Unfortunately some Baptists seem to teach that, defending their position by citing someone serving God out of love and dedication as being the “weaker brother” and being a legalist and offended by their actions.) They make the righteous living one seem less spiritual. Paul did not use guile or deceit in any form.
v 4,5. As an apostle and missionary Paul had been put in trust with the gospel. His motive was continually to please God, not to sweet talk to get the praise of men. As he will point out in v 9, he worked for support rather than coveting finance from others.
v 6-8. In his position he could have asserted his authority and claimed praise and honor, but like a true shepherd of the flock, he used gentle loving care, giving them not only the gospel but himself. 2 Cor. 12:15 ... be spent for you.
v 9. All Jewish boys were taught a trade, Paul, tent making. He preached when he could and probably worked into the night making tents out of necessity, and so no one could accuse him of being in the ministry for profit.
v 10. They knew Paul’s conduct among them had been beyond reproach.
v 11,12. In verse 7 Paul had referred to the gentleness of a mother. Now he uses the similarity of a father using loving firmness as he counsels his children to Paul’s encouragement and advice to the new believers.
v 13. He gives special thanks to God that these people had accepted Paul’s teaching as the true Word of God with the supernatural power to change lives, and not mere words of another passing philosopher.
v 14. The fact that these people suffered persecution from their own countrymen as they imitated the beliefs and actions of the Judean Christians was ample proof that the gospel had been made real in their lives.
v 15,16. This is one of Paul’s strongest accusations against the Jews, probably due to the way they had followed him from town to town to stir up opposition against his preaching the gospel, specifically to the Gentiles. This reminds of Jonah fleeing so he would not have to preach to Ninevah, and his anger when God had compassion on them. Paul spelled out killing Jesus the Lord, their own prophets, and persecuting Paul along with their other rebellions against God. Now God’s wrath will come upon them.
v 17,18. Because of the spiritual bond between them and his concern for their welfare, Paul had an earnest desire to see the believers there. Problems encountered at Corinth, Paul attributed rightly to Satan, but they were such that he was unable to make a return trip to Thessalonica. Perhaps lingering dangers to him there were also a factor.
v 19,20. The laurel wreath crowns of the Greek games would soon wither, but the crown of rejoicing, the soul winner’s crown, is eternal. At the Rapture, the believers themselves are the symbol of God’s blessing and the reward.
1 Thessalonians 03
TIMOTHY'S REPORT
Act 17:15 18:1, 5 I Thessalonicns 3:1, 2, 6
Timothy had been sent back to encourage the new-born thessaloniar church. Upon Timothy return the news he brought filled Palu with unbounded filled Paul with unbopunded joy becasue of the church's steadfastness and devotion. v 1,2. Much as Paul needed Timothy, he chose to let him go check on the Thessalonian believers while he remained to face the philosophers and idolaters of Athens. Timothy was not a mere bearer of good tidings, but would encourage them and strengthen their faith.
v 3-5. Paul knew they would have adversity and had told them so, but he was there so briefly he feared they were not well enough grounded in the faith. If they so soon succumbed to Satan, he would feel he had practically wasted his time.
v 6-8. Timothy had returned and brought a good report to Paul. Now he is rejoicing that they too are concerned for him, and instead of being drawn down by the adversities, they had grown in faith. Word of their steadfastness makes Paul feel like he is really living, and no doubt did invigorate him
v 9,10. Paul is overwhelmed with joy that they are growing in the Lord. This prompts him on each remembrance of them, whether in the day or night, to pray that he might have a face to face contact with them and supply any lack in spiritual training.
v 11. Having committed this to the Lord, it was about five years later toward the end of his third missionary journey that Paul was able to make good his wish.
v 12. Paul is not suggesting mere cooperation and pretense of love, but a spontaneous over flowing love such as he had for them. Love toward all men includes those who, because of their ways, are really unloving.
v 13. Love produces holiness, because as hate separates from some one, love separates us unto someone. As we become more separated unto God, we become more and more perfected for that meeting in the air with Christ I have been taught that Christ comes for his saints at the Rapture and with his saints at the end of Tribulation, Rev. 18:14. Morris and others share that view, and Zech. 14 seems to support it. Oliver Green and many other godly men believe in this chapter that the Rapture is in view, and coming with His saints would be with the souls of believers. to be reunited with their resurrected bodies.
1 Thessalonians 04
v 1,2. This begins the practical aspects of this letter. In his brief time with the Thessalonian believers, Paul had instructed them in Christian living. They had done remarkably well, but as new believers, they needed to be encouraged to press on to more abundant Christian living.
v 3. Having come out from a worship that included involvement with temple prostitutes and not considered a sin otherwise, they needed a reminder to abstain from fornication. Our sanctification should not only be avoiding overt acts of sexual irregularities, but also the impure thoughts and the things we read, watch or listen to.
v 4,5. Greek speech considered one’s body a vessel. Thus the thought would be to manage our bodies in a way that is pure and honorable, and not with the degraded sensuality common to the heathen. Many others feel that vessel here refers to the man’s wife, and that his relationship with her should be with proper respect, not the low, degrading manner which was prevalent at that time.
v 6. Either way, defrauding a brother does not refer to business dealings, but with not violating the sanctity of another man’s marriage. This is repulsive to God and one way or another will bring His judgment.
v 7. God calls us to a life of purity, it is not an optional matter for us.
v 8. To disregard this truth is not disregarding man, but blatantly disregarding God. The Holy Spirit God has given is pure and holy, and He will lead us to purity as we are yielded to His control of our lives.
v 9,10. “But as” brings up a new topic, brotherly love. These believers were aware of and practicing the obligation of love. Perhaps some were so wrapped up in their own anticipation of the return of the Lord that they were neglecting the interpersonal relationships. At any rate, they are encouraged to increase in this virtue. (After Gen. Mac Arthur honored our Company, the captain praised us briefly, then ranted about how we could do better.)
v 11,12. While they were to have a concern for others, they were not to try to draw attention to themselves but to mind their own business. They were not to reject menial labor, but work to provide their needs. With 2 Thess. 3:10-12 we see the problem continues as some are not working and are busybodies. Apparently some had quit working to wait for the Lord’s return. (A friend let loans on his mortgage pile up, thinking the Rapture was coming soon, and he didn’t want to leave a lot of money for the unsaved “suckers”.) They are given the added emphasis that if they did not work they should not eat.
v 13. Topic in 13-18 is resurrection. In his short time with them, Paul had not given sufficient teaching concerning the return of the Lord. Some believers were concerned that loved ones who had died would not be able to share in Christ’s appearing. He tells them not to have continuing sorrow as those who die without the Lord. and no hope to be with Christ.
v 14. If - Since. As Jesus arose, the bodies of the dead in Christ will rise to meet their souls which are already with the Lord, 2 Cor. 5:8.
v 15-17. The order is given, so follow it detail by detail from these verses. At the sounds listed as coming from heaven, there will be the literal, personal appearing of the Lord Jesus Christ in the air. The dead believers will rise first, then living believers will be caught up with them, all of us having new bodies. There will be no separation from the Lord after that. For more information on resurrected bodies see 1 Cor. 15. Caught up is similar to Latin word “rapere”, or rapture, to seize, and Hebrew, raise up.
v 18. All suffer loss at the death of a loved one, but these words bring real comfort to the family and friends of a departed believer. Here, Blessed Hope details include Reassurance, v13,14; Revelation (the order of the events, v15-17; Comfort, v 18.
1 Thessalonians 05
v 1-2. Times is quantity and refers to chronological. Seasons, or epochs, are parts of time regarding the quality and nature of the day. They were uninformed concerning their departed dead, but there was no need for Paul to write to the believers concerning precise seasons and dates, because they already knew that the coming of the Christ, which would usher in the Day of the Lord, would be unexpected and sudden as a night thief. The Day of the Lord includes both judgment and blessing, and as used by Paul, in contrast to meanings in Joel, is future, from the Rapture until the new heaven and earth.
v 3. At a time when unbelievers think everything is under control and there will be peace and safety in the world, the Spirit’s hindering power will be taken away and catastrophe will strike as suddenly as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will be doomed to destruction and separation from God. (I believe those who have rejected the gospel will not have another chance to repent. The fact that many are saved in the Tribulation would seem to indicate that those who have not heard, or not to the point of understanding and rejecting, will have a chance to be saved.)
v 4. Christ’s return to believers should not be a shock, but a part of their plans.
v 5. Believers not only walk in light, but are children of light. Their lives partake of the very nature of God, who is light.
v 6,7. Sleep here is different than in 4:13-16 and is a figure of speech for unbelief. In contrast, believers need to be alert and circumspect in behavior, not indulging in earthly, carnal sins.
v 8. As sons of light, believers belong to the day. In Isa. 59:17 and Eph. 6:14 the believer is to put on righteousness as a breastplate, but here it is faith and love, as in 1:3. These are a sound protection in meeting the onslaughts of the world. The helmet, again taken from Isa. 59:17, is salvation, a present protection and hope for the future.
v 9,10. The Day of the Lord is a day of wrath with no escape for the sinner, but believers are caught up live or from the grave, to safety in the presence of our Savior.
v 11. So they were to continue to admonish and encourage one another.
v 12,13. Possibly church leaders had rebuked some who were obsessed about the Rapture and had quit working. These were to recognize the leaders for who they were and accept kindly reproof from them. They were to really appreciate what the leaders were doing and not be complainers or trouble makers.
v 14. We need to warn fellow believers who are getting out of line and hindering the work, likewise encourage and show patient understanding to the timid, Isa. 35:3,4.
v 15. Instead of revenge, it is better to do nothing in response to wrong, but it is best to reward evil with good to those in or out of the church, Rom 12:20. (Coals of fire)
v 16-18. The Greek word for ceasing is the same for a hacking cough. If we pray perseveringly and consciously aware of God’s presence, it will help us to rejoice and give thanks even if things are not going as we would prefer, even when suffering for ourselves or Christ. This may seem difficult, but since it is the will of God, we know it is possible.
v 19-21. Don’t rebel against the leading of the Holy Spirit or hinder what He is teaching through the Word. However we need to be discerning against false teaching.
v 22. Don’t just avoid wrong, but those things which might be mistaken for wrong.
v 23,24. God wants to set us apart for Himself in our awareness of Him, our inner feelings and our physical bodies. Difficult, but we have the promise, He will if we yield.
v 25-28. Paul concludes with a request for prayer, and that men kiss men and women kiss women at communion according to their custom, instructed that his letter be read to all, and his usual blessing upon them.
In the early 90's I started studing the bible by taking college courses, because I believe the Lord wanted me to become a pastor in a Nazarne Church. My goal has changed with all my studies. My wife and I have both joined the Catholic Church. I have read and compared numerous translations and commentaries in my many years of studying the bible. Some of these authorities disagree with each other. I come across information on studies and classes that I have taken 15 to 20 years before and I have no documentation of where it came from. Plus I have given away or returned many books for college classes that I have taken. So if I have failed to give someone the credit that is due them I ask for their forgiveness. The following is a list of translations and commentaries that I still have and use.
ANSWERS to 200 of Life's Most Probing Questions by Pat RobertsonOUR ETERNAL HOME by Richard W. Dehaan,
PROPHECY STUDY BIBLE by Tim Lahaye
READER'S DIGEST JESUS AND HIS TIMES by the Readers Digest Association Inc,
REFLECTING GOD STUDY BIBLE By Zondervan Corporation;
SAINT JOSEPH EDITION OF THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE by Catholic Book Publishing Co.
SEVEN KEYS TO FAMILY POWER by Billy Joe Daugherty,
SIX HOURS ONE FRIDAY by Max Lacado,
THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE by the Zondervan Corporation;
THE BATTLE BELONGS TO THE LORD by Jocyce Meyer,
THE BIBLE PROMISE BOOK by Babbour Publishing Inc,
THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER by Charles Mortimer Guilbert
THE BOOK OF HOPE by Tyndale House Publishiers, Inc,
THE BORN AGAIN CATHOLIC by Albert H. Boudreau,
THE CASE FOR CHRIST by Lee Strobel,
THE CATHOLIC ANSWER BOOK by Peter MJ Stravinsiasi
THE COMPLETE BOOK OF BIBLE KNOWLEDGE by Mark D. Taylor;
THE DAY CHRIST DIED by Jim Bishop,
THE GREAT BIBLE QUESTION AND ANWERS BOOK by Playmore Inc
THE HOME BIBLE STUDY COURSE by Dr. Harold L. Wilmington;
THE KING JAMES BIBLE ARCHAIE WORDS DEFIND by David W. Daniel
THE KING JAMES BIBLE COMPANION by David W. Daniels;
THE KING JAMES STUDY BIBLE by Thomas Nelson Publishers,
THE LAYMAN’S BIBLE DICTIONARY by George W. Knight and Rayburn W. Ray;
THE LAYMAN’S PARALLEL NEW TESTAMENT by Zondervan Bible Publisher
THE LAYMAN'S LIST by Calance Stucup
THE MESSAGE BIBLE by Eugone H. Peterson,
THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE by World Catholic Press;
THE NEW AMERICAN BIBLE Saint Joseph Edition;
THE NEW STRONG’S EXHAUSTIVE CONCORDANCE OF THE BIBLE by James Strong LL. D S.T.D.;
THE RISKS AND REWARDS OF INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE by Cardinal Francis Arinze
THE TRINITY by Rose Publish
THE VERY FIRST ESTER by Paul L. Maier,
THE WAY CATHOLIC LIVING BIBLE by Tyndale House Publishers;
UNCHRISTIAN by David Kennan and Gabe Lyon
UNDERSTANDING GOD’S LOVE by Ronald Greib
VINE’S EXPOSITORY DICTIONARY OF OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT WORDS By W. E. Vine;
WHAT’S SO SECRET ABOUT THE RAPTURRE? By Christian Record Services, INC
WHEN GOD WINKS AT YOU by Tomas Nelson
WILLMINGTON’S GUIDE TO THE BIBLE by Dr. H.L. Willmington,
WOMAN OF FAITH STUDY BIBLE by Zschech/Heillsong
YESTERDAY TODAY AND FOREVER by New Leaf Press
YOU WERE BORN FOR THIS by Anthony Wilhen
08/19/2011