Thankful Address.1 Thessalonians 1:1-2.
Dear Saints,
Today we begin a new series of devotionals in 1 Thessalonians. With the possible exception of Galatians, this is Paul’s earliest letter, written to the church in the Macedonian city of Thessalonica. He wrote the letter in AD 51 from Corinth. This was during his Second Missionary Journey.
Greetings (v. 1). Typical of the apostle Paul, he begins a mention of himself, the author. However, Paul includes his companions and fellow evangelists, Silvanus (Silas) and Timothy. Except for the odd lapse (5:27), the whole letter is in the first person plural, yet it is clear that Paul is the author, Silvanus is most likely the secretary who took down the dictation and Timothy is alongside. We lose nothing with inclusivity and generosity. We do not have to take center stage. The church is addressed as being “in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” This is the purpose of the gospel. Christ died “to bring us to God” (1 Peter 3:18). The word church means the community of those who are called out. The church has been called out from the world, to belong to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Grace and peace were typical greetings of the day. Grace was the Greek way of greeting, peace (shalom) the Hebrew. Both assume a richer meaning in Christ because in him the grace of God that brings salvation is revealed, reconciling us to God so that we have peace with Him and with others.
Gratitude (v. 2).In almost all his letters, Paul gives thanks to God for his recipients. He also mentions what it is that he is thankful to God for, concerning his readers. That we will look at in the next passage. But an attitude of gratitude is healthy for relationships. We can look for faults – and we will always find them because no one is perfect, or we can purpose to see the good in others and thank God for it and for them. Do not kill your joy with resentment. Look for something good in everyone and you will find it.
Your Loving Pastor Chris.