# Introduction to 1 Thessalonians

### Outline of the Book of 1 Thessalonians

1. Greeting (1:1)
1. Prayer of thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Christians (1:2-10)
1. Paul's ministry in Thessalonica (2:1-16)
1. Paul's concerns for their spiritual growth 
    - Like a mother (2:7)
    - Like a father (2:11)
1. Paul sends Timothy to the Thessalonians and Timothy reports back to Paul (3:1-13)
1. Practical instructions
    - Live to please God (4:1-12)
    - Comfort regarding those who have died (4:12-18)
    - Christ's return is a motive for godly living (5:1-11)
1. Closing blessings, thanks, and prayers (5:12-28)

### Who wrote 1 Thessalonians?

Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life and before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee who persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth. Of all Paul's letters that are in the Bible, many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter Paul wrote.

### What is the Book of 1 Thessalonians about?

Paul wrote this letter to the believers in the city of Thessalonica. He wrote it after the Jews in the city forced him to leave. In this letter he said he considered his visit to them a success, even though he was forced to leave.

Paul responded to the news from Timothy about the Thessalonian believers. The believers there were being persecuted. He encouraged them to continue living in a way that pleased God. He also comforted them by explaining what happens to those who die before Christ returns.