The most important models Paul urges his readers to imitate are those of himself, Christ, and God. He also directs his readers to the behavior of other individuals and occasionally reminds them of the example of other churches. There are also exhortations that his readers become "models" for others to imitate. Questions have been asked regarding the motivation behind Paul’s instruction.
Chapter 1 is a commentary on 1 Thessalonians 1:1. Themes touched upon are Christian encouragement, the significance of the church as being in God and in Christ, and the peace that the gospel brings.
The author discusses the main themes of 1 Thessalonians as well as Paul's relationship with the Thessalonians, and then provides an exegesis of 1 Thessalonians 1:1-4.
This is the first chapter of a commentary on 1 Thessalonians and 2 Thessalonians. These books were written to encourage the church in her growth and to offer guidance around doctrinal issues facing the church, especially regarding the second coming of Christ. This section focuses on the authorship, the purpose and occasion for the letters, and an exposition of 1 Thessalonians 1.
