1 Thessalonians
Chapter 1
Overview
Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy write to a new community of Jesus’ followers in Thessalonica, a major city in Macedonia. These believers have faced severe trouble, yet their faith has taken root and spread far beyond their city. The writers begin with warm gratitude, recalling how faith shaped the community’s work, love fueled its effort, and hope gave it endurance. The chapter then traces a remarkable change: the Thessalonians abandoned lifeless idols to serve the living God and now wait for Jesus, whom God raised from the dead.
1Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, to the community of Thessalonians who belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus the Messiah: May God show you kindness and give you peace.
2We always thank God for all of you and mention you in our prayers.
3Before our God and Father, we continually remember the work your faith produces, the hard effort your love inspires, and the endurance your hope in our Lord Jesus the Messiah gives you.
4Brothers and sisters loved by God, we know that God has chosen you.
5We know this because our good news did not reach you as words alone. It came with power, with the Holy Spirit, and with deep conviction. You also know how we lived among you for your benefit.
6You followed our example and the Lord’s. Although you were suffering greatly, you welcomed the message with joy given by the Holy Spirit.
7As a result, you became an example for all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia.
8The Lord’s message rang out from you, not only through Macedonia and Achaia. News of your faith in God has spread everywhere, so we do not need to say anything about it.
9The people themselves tell what kind of welcome you gave us. They report how you turned away from idols and turned to God, so that you could serve the living and true God.
10They also tell how you now wait for God’s Son to come from heaven. God raised him from the dead—Jesus, who rescues us from the coming judgment of God’s anger.