Cassander (a general of Alexander the Great) founded the city in 351 BC. He named the city after his wife, and Alexander’s half sister, Thessalonice.
City grew rapidly through connection to major trade routes by land and sea (Via Egnatia and Aegean Sea). It became the capital city of Macedonia.
During the civil war that erupted after the assassination of Julius Ceasar, the city sided with Octavian (Augustus) and was rewarded with “free state” status (42 BC). This meant the city enjoyed privileges like minting her own money and having her own civil government led by “politarchs” or “city authorities.” (Acts 17:6, 8)
Like most large cities in the ancient world (200,000 people), religious pluralism was prevalent. You could see the top of Mt. Olympus from the city. Many artifacts have been found proving temples to various gods were throughout the city. We know there was a Jewish synagogue as well. (Acts 17:1)
This explains the persecution that erupted at the preaching of the Gospel. (Acts 17:5)
Living in light of the return of Christ is the clear theme of the Thessalonian letters. In fact, the return of Christ is mentioned in every chapter of I Thessalonians (1:10; 2:19-20; 3:13; 4:13-18; 5:1-11, 23-24) and also the first 2 chapters of II Thessalonians (1:7; 2:1).
In I Thessalonians Paul seeks to answer 2 questions that have troubled the Thessalonian church…
- Will the dead in Christ be raised? — I Thessalonians 4:13-18
- When will Christ return? — I Thessalonians 5:1-11
Paul, Silvanus (Silas), and Timothy (1:1)
Father God (1:3), Lord Jesus (1:3), Holy Spirit (1:5)
They began to imitate Paul and Jesus (1:6)
They were persecuted for their new faith yet displayed great joy (1:6)
Their transformation became an example to other believers living around them (1:7-8)
They turned from their idols to serve God (1:9)
They placed their hope in Jesus and His return (1:10)
Since you believed in Christ, is there a clear trajectory of Gospel transformation that has occurred in your life?
