Bible Study: 1 Thessalonians Ep.1

Rapture or no Rapture?

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. And then he offers hope for the future by prophetically declaring what will happen during the end times.