Bible Commentaries

This book was written about 20 years after the resurrection of Jesus and 15 years previous to the death of Paul. Many writers note that there have always been various styles of letter writing. Morris notes, “In the first century there was some latitude, but a letter always began with the name of the writer, followed by that of the addressee, and a greeting. It is important to notice that the first words of 1 Thessalonians are in the form usual at the beginning of a letter of this period” (p. 45). As we read this letter, keep in mind that the church here is composed of completely new Christians, yet God knows that even new converts can demonstrate a very high level of faithfulness, morality, and zeal, even in difficult circumstances.