The Book of 1 Thessalonians
Paul's earliest letter, written to strengthen a persecuted church with hope.
First Thessalonians is likely the apostle Paul's earliest surviving letter, written to a young church in Macedonia that was already facing intense persecution only months after he had to leave them. Across its five chapters, Paul commends their faith, hope, and love while laying out his foundational teaching on the resurrection and Christ's return. Start with 1 Thessalonians chapter 1.
About 1 Thessalonians
First Thessalonians is the fifty-second book of the Bible, written by the apostle Paul around AD 50-51 from Corinth -- likely one of the earliest letters in the entire New Testament -- and spanning 5 chapters. Written to the young church Paul had planted in Thessalonica during his second missionary journey, it expresses Paul's deep affection for believers he had to leave abruptly due to persecution, and addresses their questions and concerns, particularly regarding the fate of believers who had died before Christ's return. Major themes include the nature of genuine Christian ministry, the joy of spiritual parenting, the call to sexual purity in a pagan culture, brotherly love, the resurrection of believers at Christ's return, and living in readiness for the Day of the Lord. Key chapters include 1 Thessalonians 4 (the rapture -- the Lord himself will come down from heaven) and 1 Thessalonians 5 (the Day of the Lord and practical instructions for holy living). Famous verses include 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 -- For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God -- and 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 -- Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances. First Thessalonians KJV Bible reading provides comfort and hope regarding the resurrection and Christ's return. Read the Book of 1 Thessalonians online here in full.