Overview
First Thessalonians encourages the ekklesia at Thessalonica, which had remained faithful under persecution. Paul recalls his relationship with them, exhorts them to holy living, and teaches concerning believers who have died and the return of the Lord.
Theme Living in holiness while awaiting the return of the Lord
Historical background
Thessalonica was the capital of Macedonia and a port city on the Via Egnatia. Paul founded the community there on his second missionary journey but was forced to leave abruptly because of opposition (Acts 17). This letter is regarded as one of the earliest extant letters of Paul.