1 Thessalonians 3: Home group study notes

Home group study notes for 1 Thessalonians, Chapter 3

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Background: No doubt some of Paul's opponents are claiming that Paul had little concern for the Thessalonian believers since Paul was only with them for three weeks (). But Paul now giving a defense of himself explains that he did not go away willingly but was 'torn away', but that only for a short time and only in body not in heart for he states how he has desperately tried to get back and see them face to face but Satan has hindered him. Paul understood that all of the persecution was not really the religious Jews but that it was a spiritual issue and ultimately it was Satan that was doing the hindering (). In this chapter we read how Paul sent Timothy to go and see how they were getting on since Paul was himself unable to go to them without drawing the attention of persecutors. Subsequently Paul is delighted to hear that they are maturing in the faith tremendously.

Question 1:

What were some of the emotions that Paul felt towards the Thessalonians? What actions did he take to care for them and how did that make him more effective in ministering the gospel to them?

Answer:

Paul felt a deep grieving and sense of personal loss because he was ‘torn away’ from their fellowship, he was feeling much like a parent would if they were forcibly separated from their child. This shows us the depth of love that Paul felt towards them. Paul felt great relief when he heard from Timothy’s report that the Church at Thessalonica was doing well. Paul’s feelings of love towards the church prompted him to send Timothy to their aid even though it meant leaving himself at a loss in Athens (see ). It was through this great care towards them that he desired them to be maturing in the Lord and so was prompted to write this letter that we now know as 1 Thessalonians. Pauls great love and also grief for not being with them in person persuaded him to pray fervently for the church ().

It was through Paul’s genuine love towards the Thessalonian believers that he was driven to such lengths of care for them, Paul was able to make such sacrifices and give of himself so freely because he felt a kind of ‘parental’ responsibility and affection for them.

Question 2:

In verses 19-20 Paul says that they are their hope, joy, crown when Jesus comes, what do you think he meant by that? (hint: think about the Great Commission in )

Answer:

Paul had no affection for earthly gain but in love for others and God he just wanted to see as many saved as possible. This was where his real delight was and where he found joy. Paul was also mindful that at Christ’s return he wanted to be found faithful to God having brought a great harvest for the kingdom. says “Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” Jesus tells us in to “go make disciples of all nations” and knowing that we are to store up treasure in heaven and not on earth () Paul is noting that his reward is their salvation and spiritual well being.

Question 3:

Why does Timothy’s report encourage Paul? See

Answer:

Because the Thessalonian church is not merely surviving but it is thriving as Timothy brings back the report that they are standing fast in the Lord, firm in their faith and abounding in love. In chapter 1 verse 8 we are told that they were even actively preaching the gospel throughout the whole region, despite being such a young church.

Question 4:

Far from the good report giving Paul cause to relax his efforts towards the Thessalonians, the great news serves to encourage him in praying all the more. How and what did Paul pray for, for the Thessalonian church? What can we learn from this in how we pray for others?

Answer:

Paul prayed night and day that he might be able to see them face to face and in thus doing he would then have the opportunity to teach them all the more regarding issues that they still needed sort among them (verse 10). He prayed that God would direct his way back to the Thessalonians, showing us that Paul wanted to be going back to them in the strength of the Lord and not by his own understanding (verse 11). He also prayed that their love would abound all the more (verse 12) and that they would live in holiness (verse 13).

From this we can see how Paul was committed in prayer for the Thessalonians, even praying night and day for them. His big concern for them was their spiritual well-being and that they should be mature in their faith. Paul knew that their relationship with Christ and the unity among themselves were the most important issues among the believers that he could be praying for.