Answer
The authorship of 1 Thessalonians is mostly undisputed, with the epistle considered one of the earliest letters of Paul. The salutation provides internal evidence that Paul wrote the letter (1 Thessalonians 1:1). According to Luke’s report, Paul and his companions visited Thessalonica during their second missionary trip, facing both successes and challenges (Acts 17:1–9). Paul composed the letter to the Thessalonian church a few months after departing from the city, while he was staying at Corinth. Like a concerned parent checking on his child’s well-being, Paul sent Timothy to inquire of the church’s welfare (1 Thessalonians 3:1–2). His initial fear that his efforts had been in vain proved unfounded, as the church thrived in faith and love (3:6–7). Therefore, Paul’s first letter to them primarily served as encouragement, highlighting their endurance in the face of persecution.
The uniqueness of 1 Thessalonians lies in its eschatological value. Paul elaborates on the rapture of believers, an event preceding the seven-year tribulation (1 Thessalonians 4:13–18). Facing persecution and life’s challenges, the Thessalonian believers had lost some loved ones. Paul acknowledges their grief but emphasizes the Christian hope, urging them not to “grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope” (verse 13). Similar to the book of Revelation, Paul’s eschatological teachings aim to instill hope in believers who are still alive.
In addition to eschatology, Paul addresses topics such as sexual purity, endurance in persecution, sanctification, living peacefully, hard work, and the day of the Lord. The overarching goal of 1 Thessalonians is that the recipients grow in godliness, an ideal that remains important for us.
Although scholars widely accept Paul as the author of 1 Thessalonians, certain passages, such as 1 Thessalonians 2:13–16, have been subject to dispute. However, lacking explicit indication of a later insertion, the unity of 1 Thessalonians should be maintained.
In a world filled with unanswered questions, uncertainty, and suffering, believers may easily become discouraged. The postmodern, post-Christian world increasingly opposes the Christian faith, affecting followers of Jesus. However, the hope of resurrection remains available to believers today, even as we navigate the period between Christ’s ascension and the consummation of His kingdom. Clinging to our hope in Christ will transform our perspective on life, motivating us toward right living.
