1Thessalonians

THESSALONIANS

The first epistle to the Thessalonians was written from Athens.

Written ​​ from Corinth in 51 AD

Called Salonica by the Turks today.

The City Of Thessalonica

Thessalonica exists today as the city of Saloniki. Originally the name of the city was Therma, or Therme. This Greek name meant “Hot Bath” or “Hot Springs”. The city was so named because of the hot salt-springs located about four miles from the site of the present Saloniki. The city's name was changed by Cassander. He was the king of Macedonia and one of the successors of Alexander the Great. He rebuilt and repeopled the city in 315 B.C. and renamed it Thessalonica after his wife Thessalonike, a sister of Alexander the Great.

The city became the great naval station of the Macedonians. It was surrendered to the Romans after the battle of Pydna in 168 B.C. The Romans made it the capital of the second of the four districts of Macedonia. When the four districts were made into one province under the jurisdiction of a proconsul, it became the residence of the proconsul. In the first Roman civil war in 49 B.C. the city became the headquarters of Pompey and the Roman senate. The city aligned itself with Octavius, who became Caesar Augustus, against Sextus Pompeius from 42 to 39 B.C. The city was rewarded by being declared a free city.

At the time of Paul in the first century Thessalonica was the capital of the whole region between the Adriatic Sea and the Black Sea. The magistrates, or city rulers, were called by Luke in Acts 17:8 politrarchs, a title that is not mentioned in ancient literature. Luke's use of the title politrarchs is evidence of his minute accuracy, for on the arch of the Vardar Gate is found this very designation for the seven city magistrates.

Thessalonica was on the main Roman highway known as the Egnatian Way, or Via Egnatia. It connected Rome in the west to its imperial territories to the east and north of the Aegean Sea. The Romans constructed the Egnatian Way for the military purpose of moving their legions quickly from one part of their empire to another. The highway passed through Thessalonica. Huge arched gates towered over the road on the west and east ends of the city. The city's location in the heart of the empire made Thessalonica the chief Roman military station that commanded this strategic point of the highway.

The military value of Thessalonica to the Romans was further enhanced by the city's location at the northeast corner of the Thermaic Gulf. Possessing a fine harbor, the city became a strategic Roman naval station. From this naval station, as well as from those in Corinth in southern Greece and Ephesus on the eastern shore of the Aegean Sea, the Roman navy was able to control the Aegean Sea, which was an all important travel and trade route between east and west.

The word 'church' in scripture should always be read by the Greek word 'ecclesia' which means 'a called out body, meeting or assembly, a congregation of saints'. An individual is an 'ecclesia'. A group of individuals is an 'ecclesia'. The word 'ecclesia' never means a building.

A saint. Most “churches” teach that a 'saint' is anyone who “believes”. The scriptures teach that a 'saint' is a 'called out', set apart, holy, sacred, consecrated race of people. The seed of Abraham. He dedicated Isaac to Yahweh, and to his seed (posterity) were the promises given. It has nothing to do with the other races. Only this seed was 'called', chosen by Yahweh.

Believed to be the earliest of Paul's letters.

They were written from Athens on the second missionary journey, shortly after Paul left Thessalonica.

He and Silas had visited there when they were forced to leave Philippi.

Paul was in Thessalonica about a month and met with much success. However there was the usual resistance from orthodox Jewry, and Paul and Silas were forced to leave by night.

Mainly the young assembly at Thessalonica was made up from those who had lately been heathen.

Today's “churches” apply their “rapture theory” as the central theme of this book. It was formulated (or accredited to) a Jesuit Priest named 'Ribera' – who lived in the 16th century. The teaching is that the 'church' will be raptured (taken away) from Earth for 3 ½ ​​ or 7 years while the 'Anti-Christ' rules and wrecks havoc (the 'Tribulation') on the whole world. This 'tradition' is a fallacious teaching and cannot be backed up with scripture.

The original Greek will be referred to often to clarify the innocent mistakes and deliberate “leavens”.

These letters are meant to be read continuously without a break.

Salutation

1Thessalonians 1:1 ​​ Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church (assembly) of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Prince Yahshua Christ: Grace (favor, Divine influence) be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Prince Jesus Christ.  ​​​​ (Act 17:1)

The Thessalonian's Belief and Example

​​ 1:2 ​​ We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;

​​ 1:3 ​​ Remembering without ceasing your work (act) of faith (The Belief), and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Prince Jesus (Yahshua) Christ, in the sight of Yahweh God and our Father;  ​​​​ (4Mac 17:4)

​​ 1:4 ​​ Knowing, brethren beloved, your election (that you were chosen) of (by) God.

The bible is about a family, a race, the generations of Adam (Gen 5:1).

Abraham had allegiance (faith, belief) in Yahweh's word. His seed was 'elected' by God.

​​ 1:5 ​​ For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. ​​ (Mark 16:20)

How they conducted themselves in Thessalonica when they were there.

​​ 1:6 ​​ And ye became followers (imitators) of us, and of the Prince, having received (accepted) the word in much affliction (tribulation), with joy of the Holy Spirit:  ​​​​ (Act 17:5-9)

Our test here as mortals is to imitate our Prince.

1Corinthians 4:16 ​​ Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers (imitators) of me.

Philippians 3:17 ​​ Brethren, be followers (imitators) together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an example.

We will go through tribulation for it, and attain honor.

Acts 5:41 ​​ And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.

​​ 1:7 ​​ So that ye were examples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

​​ 1:8 ​​ For from you sounded out the word of the Master not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith (The Belief of you) to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.

Thessalonica became a base for the gospel to spread throughout Adamic society.

Romans 10:18 ​​ But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world (society).

Romans 1:8 ​​ First, I thank my God through Yahshua Christ for you all, that The Belief of you is spoken of throughout the whole world (society).

​​ 1:9 ​​ For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;

​​ 1:10 ​​ And to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

The Greek: 10 ​​ And to await His Son from the heavens, whom He has raised from the dead: Yahshua, who is protecting us from the coming wrath.

Wait means to stay, the sense is to stop.

This would support, “just believe” and wait for the “rapture”.

Await means to stay, to remain or hold. To be ready for.

This would support, remain in allegiance (faith) by imitating Christ's example, so being preserved (saved) we may come through the fire of His return to reign here on earth with Him.

Romans 2:7 ​​ To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:

2Peter 3:12 ​​ Looking for and expecting the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat.

The “churches” teach that “once saved, always saved”.

The word 'saved' means 'to preserve'. When you walk in allegiance (faith, The Belief) with Christ, you are being preserved.

There is no guarantee of salvation by your own declaration.

We don't have salvation because we “believe”. We believe because we have salvation. The free gift because of the promises to our father Abraham.

Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica

1Thessalonians 2:1 ​​ For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you (reception by you), that it was not in vain (empty):

​​ 2:2 ​​ But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold ​​ in (in respect of) our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention. ​​ (Act 16:19-24, 17:1-9)

Beaten and thrown in prison. ​​ 

Acts 16:22 ​​ And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and commanded to beat them.

16:23 ​​ And when they had laid many stripes upon them, they cast them into prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely:

​​ 2:3 ​​ For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: ​​ (2 Cor 7:2)

​​ 2:4 ​​ But as we were allowed (approved) of God to be put in trust (entrusted) with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.

​​ 2:5 ​​ For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

​​ 2:6 ​​ Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

They had the ability to use a spiritual authority over these people, but they refrain from that. Unlike the Edomite scribes and Pharisees that reign over the people with their 'doctrines of men'.

1Timothy 5:17 ​​ Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

​​ 2:7 ​​ But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:

The Greek: 7 ​​ Ourselves having ability to be domineering, as ambassadors of Christ, rather we were infants in your midst, as a nurse would cherish her own children.

​​ 2:8 ​​ So being affectionately desirous (yearning) of you, we were willing (pleased) to have imparted (shared) unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

​​ 2:9 ​​ For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable (burdensome) unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

They did not demand tithes. They tried to support themselves.

2Thessalonians 3:8 ​​ Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: (Acts 20:34)

​​ 2:10 ​​ Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:

​​ 2:11 ​​ As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children,

​​ 2:12 ​​ That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto His kingdom and glory (honor).

Colossians 1:10 ​​ That ye might walk worthy of the Prince unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; ​​ (1 Cor 1:9)

2Thessalonians 2:14 ​​ Whereunto He called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the honor of our Master Yahshua Christ.

​​ 2:13 ​​ For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. (Gal 4:14; Heb 13:21)

The Greek Septuagint was the written word of God at that time. The OT.

​​ 2:14 ​​ For ye, brethren, became followers (imitators) of the churches (assemblies) of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus (Yahshua): for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they have of the Judaeans:  ​​​​ (Act 17:5)

The 'Judaeans' spoken of here are referring to the Edomite scribes and Pharisees. The children of the Devil (John 8:44). The infiltrators of the priesthood. Corrupting the law of Moses into the 'traditions of men'. This also included those Israelites that were deceived and followed Edom.

​​ 2:15 ​​ Who both killed (murdered) the Master Yahshua, and their own (the) prophets, and have persecuted us; and they please not God, and are contrary to all men:  ​​​​ (Act 9:23,29, 13:45,50, 14:2-5,19, 17:5,13, 18:12)

The KJV has “their own prophets”. This was added by the translators to support the lie that the Jews are Israel. It is not in the older texts. The first appearance of 'their own' is in the 6th or 7th century revision of the 5th century codex Bezae.

Here are some examples of Edomites killing Israelite prophets and priests. Remember Doeg the Edomite? (1 Sam 21:7, 22:9,18,22, Psa 52:1) Or Jezebel? (1 Ki 18:4, 21:15,23, 2 Ki 9:7, Rev 2:20)

Acts 2:23 ​​ Him (Christ), being delivered by the determinate counsel (Edomites) and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:

​​ 2:16 ​​ (The Pharisees) Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel) that they might be saved (preserved), to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.

John 7:35 ​​ Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will He go, that we shall not find Him? will He go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles (Greeks), and teach the Gentiles (Greeks)?

'Gentile' does not mean non-Jew. It simply means nation, kinsmen of the same race. In this case some of the dispersed of Israel from the Babylonian captivity settled in Greece. Paul was the apostle to the 'Nations', or the dispersed (uncircumcised) of Israel.

Paul's Desire to Visit the Thessalonians Again

​​ 2:17 ​​ But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.

​​ 2:18 ​​ Wherefore we would have come unto you, even I Paul, once and again; but Satan (the Adversary) hindered us.

Satan is the father of evil. His children are the adversaries. (Gen 3:15) Satan's children, the Edomite scribes and Pharisees, and Sadducees were always following the apostles and agitating the people against them. Hence, Satan hindered us. Satan is the contractor, his children are the workers.

​​ 2:19 ​​ For what is our hope (expectation), or joy, or crown of rejoicing (boasting)? Are not even ye in the presence of our Master Yahshua Christ at His coming?

​​ 2:20 ​​ For ye are our glory (honor) and joy.

The letter to the Thessalonians was of encouragement of their walking in Christ's example. The apostles boasted of the works of the saints in Thessalonica, and they should rejoice in their fruits.

1Thessalonians 3:1 ​​ Wherefore when we could no longer forbear (be contained), we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;  ​​​​ (Act 17:15)

​​ 3:2 ​​ And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ (the Anointed, the group), to establish you, and to comfort (encourage) you concerning your faith (The Belief of you):

'Christ' is not always referring to the Prince, it often speaks of the Anointed seed, through Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. The group. The Anointed, 'called out' children of Israel. The Anglo-Saxon peoples of Europe, New Zealand, Australia, Canada and USA.

​​ 3:3 ​​ That no man should be moved (shaken) by these afflictions (tribulations): for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto ('for you yourselves know that for this we are set').

​​ 3:4 ​​ For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

The Greek: 4 ​​ Even when we were with you, we forewarned you that we are about to be oppressed, just as it also has happened and you have seen.

Ephesians 3:13 ​​ Wherefore I desire that ye faint (falter) not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory (honor).

Acts 20:24 ​​ But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Prince Jesus, to testify the gospel of the favor of God.

​​ 3:5 ​​ For this cause, when I could no longer forbear (be contained), I sent to know your faith (The Belief of you), lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain (come to no purpose). ​​ 

1Corinthians 7:5 ​​ Do not withdraw from one another, unless in agreement for a time, in order that you devote time to prayer, and come together into one place again, that the Adversary would not tempt you due to your incontinence (lack of restraint).

Timothy's Encouraging Report

​​ 3:6 ​​ But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith (The Belief of you) and charity (love), and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:  ​​​​ (Act 18:5)

​​ 3:7 ​​ Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith (The Belief of you): ​​ (2Cor 1:4)

The apostles were not going through all the afflictions and tribulations to get people to “believe” in Christ and they'll be “saved”. They were spreading the good message that Christ died for the seed of Abraham, and that because of the promises made to him, we have salvation, grace (favor), the free gift because Yahweh does not break His promises. We must act our part by imitating the example our Prince demonstrated.

​​ 3:8 ​​ For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Prince.

​​ 3:9 ​​ For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy (rejoice) for your sakes before our God; ​​ (?)

The KJV does not have verse 9 as a question. Verse 9 is a question in the manuscripts.

Verse 10 is a reply, an answer to the question in verse 9.

​​ 3:10 ​​ Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect (furnish) that which is lacking in your faith (The Belief of you) ?

Verse 10 is not a ? in the older manuscripts. It is a reply to the question in verse 9.

​​ 3:11 ​​ Now God Himself and our Father, and our Master Yahshua Christ, direct (guide) our way unto you.  ​​​​ (Mark 1:3)

​​ 3:12 ​​ And the Master make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:

'men' and 'do' is in italics, it was added by the scribes. Let's read this from the Greek.

12 ​​ Now may the Prince make you have an excess and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we also for you,

Speaking to all of the children of Israel.

​​ 3:13 ​​ To the end He may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Prince Yahshua Christ with all His saints.

Paul is saying that Christ and His Holy ones are coming here. (1 Cor 1:8, Phil 1:10) The “rapture” is a lie.

A Life Pleasing to Elohiym

1Thessalonians 4:1 ​​ Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Prince Yahshua, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.

Walking is different then “just believing”.

Colossians 1:10 ​​ That ye might walk worthy of the Prince unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

​​ 4:2 ​​ For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Prince Yahshua.

​​ 4:3 ​​ For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

Fornication is not just unlawful sex, it includes harlotry, incest, idolatry and race mixing.

Romans 12:2 ​​ And be not conformed to this age: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Ephesians 5:27 ​​ That He may present it to Himself in honor, the assembly not having a blemish or a wrinkle or any of such things, but that it would be holy and blameless. ​​ Unmixed.

Colossians 3:5 ​​ Therefore make as dead these members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

​​ 4:4 ​​ That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel (body) in sanctification and honour;

Romans 6:19 ​​ I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have surrendered your members servants to uncleanness and to lawlessness for lawlessness; now in that manner present your members servants to righteousness for sanctification.

​​ 4:5 ​​ Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles (dispersed Nations of Israel) which know not God:

The northern House of Israel did not return to Judaea after the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities, they forgot the law and who they were. Also those that left before the Exodus missed out on the giving of the law and the works of Yahweh. That is why the “Gentiles” (dispersed Israel, the uncircumcised) forgot their heritage and that they were of the same seed as their brethren of Judaea.

​​ 4:6 ​​ That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Master is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.

2Thessalonians 1:8 ​​ In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Prince Yahshua Christ:

​​ 4:7 ​​ For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness (sanctification). ​​ (Lev 11:44+)

​​ 4:8 ​​ He therefore that despiseth (rejects), despiseth (rejects) not man, but God, who hath also given unto us His Holy Spirit (DNA).

Genesis 2:7 ​​ And Yahweh God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.

​​ 4:9 ​​ But as touching (concerning) brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. ​​ (Jer 31:34)

Matthew 22:39 ​​ ... Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

​​ 4:10 ​​ And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

​​ 4:11 ​​ And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; ​​ (2Thes 3:11)

​​ 4:12 ​​ That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without (outside), and that ye may have lack of nothing.

Paul is telling them don't act like those that are outside the family, meaning the other races.

We Israelites are the light of the world. We are to set an example.

Romans 13:13 ​​ Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.

The other races are a stumbling block for us in this mortal test of life. How we honor His example shows our works.

The Coming of Yahweh

​​ 4:13 ​​ But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. ​​ (Eph 2:12)

​​ 4:14 ​​ For if we believe that Yahshua died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Yahshua will God bring with Him. ​​ (1Cor 15:23)

The Greek translates as: The ones being put to repose through Yahshua shall be leading forth together with Him.

Sleep is a euphemism for death.

​​ 4:15 ​​ For this we say unto you by the word of the Master, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Master shall not prevent (come before) them which are asleep.  ​​​​ (Sir 48:11)

1Corinthians 15:51 ​​ Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,

Translated into our incorruptible bodies, like Christ when He ascended. Children of Light. Here on earth in the Kingdom, as it is in Heaven.

​​ 4:16 ​​ For the Master Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  ​​​​ (2Esd 6:23)

'rise' from the Greek word 'anistemi' means to stand up and be counted.

​​ 4:17 ​​ Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Master in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Master. ​​ (Act 1:9; 1Cor 15:51-52)

'Clouds' in scripture refer to groups, the heavenly hosts. This is not saying we are being taken anywhere. When we are translated, we are no more earthly (fleshly).

Verse 17 states that we 'remain'. When we are translated into our incorruptible bodies at His arrival, we, as well as those that have died, will stand up and be counted. This is the 'placement into position of sons' (“adoption”) here on earth in the Kingdom.

​​ 4:18 ​​ Wherefore comfort (encourage) one another with these words.

The key to understanding this question is found in the verb, "to meet." The Greek word used by Paul here is apantesis, and this particular word is loaded with meaning, which does not come forth in our English translation of the word. It is a word which was used in ancient times to describe the actions of an official welcoming delegation that had been sent "to meet" a visiting dignitary. Thus, it literally means, "meeting and returning with."

It was customary back then (as it is today) that when a V.I.P. visits a city, the leader of that city send out a delegation to welcome him and escort him to the mayor. Thus, when the Queen of England visited President Ford during the American Bicentennial, she was not expected to get off the plane and call a cab to take her to the White House. No, she was met by a special committee that escorted her to the White House. Therefore, when Paul uses the term apantesis to describe our action in meeting Christ, he uses this particular term to show us that we are going to be sent TO ESCORT CHRIST BACK TO EARTH WHEN HE SETS UP HIS KINGDOM. ​​ 

Those who find this information to be unbelievable may do further study on this Greek word by noting how it is used in other Bible passages. The word is used in three other New Testament passages: · Matthew 25:1 and 6 speaks of the ten virgins who "went forth TO MEET the bridegroom." It was common practice in ancient times for the wedding party to escort the bridegroom to the bride after the marriage supper.

John 12:13 speaks of Christ's triumphal entry into Jerusalem (a prophetic type of Christ's second coming, at which time He will truly have a triumphal entry). It says that the people "took branches of palm trees and went forth TO MEET Him”. Jesus certainly did not turn around and escort the people back to Bethany with Him! No, the people escorted Jesus into Jerusalem.

Acts 28:15 speaks of Paul's journey to Rome as a prisoner. When the Christians in Rome heard that Paul was outside the city, "they came TO MEET us as far as Appii forum," which was about 43 miles from the city. They treated Paul like a Christian V.I.P., and Paul's heart was encouraged at their boldness to be identified as Christian friends of his. Thus, we conclude that Paul was not teaching that Christians would return to heaven with Christ, but rather that Christians would form Christ's escort back to earth.

1Thessalonians 5:1 ​​ But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.

True Christian Israelites knew when the appointed times, shabbaths, and feast days were, and to keep them.

​​ 5:2 ​​ For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Master so cometh as a thief in the night.

 ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​ ​​​​ (Matt 24:3; 2Pet 3:10)

​​ 5:3 ​​ For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. ​​ (Isa 13:6-9; Hos 13:13)

​​ 5:4 ​​ But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

​​ 5:5 ​​ Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

​​ 5:6 ​​ Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

Matthew 25:5 ​​ While the bridegroom (Christ) tarried (delayed), they (we) all slumbered and slept.

1Peter 5:8 ​​ Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil (and his children), as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

We sheep don't know when we are in danger, especially if we trust in unlearned shepherds.

​​ 5:7 ​​ For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

Luke 21:34 ​​ And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.

​​ 5:8 ​​ But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith (belief) and love; and for an helmet, the hope (expectation) of salvation (deliverance). ​​ (Eph 6:14; Isa 59:17)

​​ 5:9 ​​ For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

'but for the acquisition of preservation through our Prince Yahshua Christ.'

​​ 5:10 ​​ Who died for us, that, whether we wake (be alert) or sleep, we should live together with Him.

The Greek translates as: 'that whether we may be watching or may be down-lounging simultaneously together to Him we should be living.

​​ 5:11 ​​ Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify (build) one another, even as also ye do.

Final Exhortations, Greetings, and Benediction

​​ 5:12 ​​ And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Master, and admonish you;

1Corinthians 16:18 ​​ For they have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them that are such.

​​ 5:13 ​​ And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

Mark 9:50 ​​ Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.

​​ 5:14 ​​ Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

​​ 5:15 ​​ See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. (Lev 19:18; Gal 6:10)

​​ 5:16 ​​ Rejoice evermore.

​​ 5:17 ​​ Pray without ceasing.

​​ 5:18 ​​ In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Yahshua concerning you.

​​ 5:19 ​​ Quench not the Spirit.

​​ 5:20 ​​ Despise not prophesyings.

The Greek: 20 ​​ Do not despise expounding of scripture,

​​ 5:21 ​​ Prove (scrutinize) all things; hold fast that which is good (right).

1John 4:1 ​​ Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

We must also understand that most of the preachers in the “churches” today, though well meaning, are deceived by the education in the seminary schools which are controlled by the enemy. Remember Saul before he was Paul? He was an Israelite who was brought up as a Pharisee, they were teaching the 'doctrines of men'.

​​ 5:22 ​​ Abstain from all appearance of evil.

22 ​​ Abstain from every sort of wickedness.

​​ 5:23 ​​ And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Master Yahshua Christ.

Why didn't the KJV translate 'preserved' to the “church” word “saved” here? Because “saved” is not a guaranteed thing. Walking in His example will 'preserve' you unto His coming. Don't be arrogant and proclaim that you are “saved” because you “believe”. Instead, believe, and imitate His example and you will be preserved.

Philippians 4:9 ​​ Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

1Corinthians 1:8 ​​ Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Prince Yahshua Christ.

​​ 5:24 ​​ Faithful (Trustworthy) is He that calleth you, who also will do it.

​​ 5:25 ​​ Brethren, pray for us.

​​ 5:26 ​​ Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.

​​ 5:27 ​​ I charge you by the Prince that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren. (called out, set apart)

​​ 5:28 ​​ The grace (favor, Divine influence) of our Prince Yahshua Christ be with you. Amen.

THESSALONIANS – CHURCH DOCTRINE VS. SCRIPTURE

Below are 3 sources of what the modern churches preach today about the book of Thessalonians.

The purpose is to expose the apostasy and perversion of the scriptures, and to educate our people about the truth of our heritage. That we, the anglo-saxon race who are the descendants of ancient Israel, are the people of Abraham's seed and therefore the heirs of the promises of Yahweh. Not the Jews who distort and pervert the scriptures and teach the 'traditions of men'.

Biblehub.com

The book of 1st Thessalonians is a Pauline Epistle (letter from Paul). The Apostle Paul wrote it about 52-54 A.D. (50-51 AD) and it was one of his earliest written letters. The key personalities in this book are the Apostle Paul, Timothy, and Silas. Paul wrote this letter to strengthen and encourage the church (assembly) in Thessalonica. To encourage and hearten the believers (saints), Paul chose to emphasize the second coming of Jesus Christ. Throughout this letter, Paul focused on the principles of Faith, Hope, and Love.

•    In chapters 1-3, the first principle is seen as Paul accentuates and commends them for their faithfulness to the Lord (Prince). He wrote, “thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs it work in you who believe” (2:13).

•    In chapters 4-6, Paul highlights Love and Hope. He encourages the church (assembly) to walk in love; to (excel still more). He then expounds on the return of Jesus and “the day of the Lord (Prince)”. Paul teaches the church (assembly) about the resurrection on the last day and that Christ will return in the clouds (in groups of heavenly hosts), this was exactly the encouragement that the church (assembly) in Thessalonica needed. Lastly, before Paul finishes his letter he does not forget to add that they must pray constantly and “examine everything carefully’. In today’s world of lies, deception and carnival mirrors, everyone must apply these truths daily. Even to examination of their own “church”. Ever have a professional mechanic, dentist, or contractor do a poor job, and sometimes make things worse? The same goes for preachers.

Biblestudytools.com

Summary of the Book of 1 Thessalonians

Background of the Thessalonian Letters

It is helpful to trace the locations of Paul and his companions that relate to the Thessalonian correspondence. The travels were as follows:

• • Paul and Silas fled from Thessalonica to Berea. Since Timothy is not mentioned ( Acts 17:10 and note), it is possible that he stayed in Thessalonica or went back to Philippi and then rejoined Paul and Silas in Berea (Acts 17:14).

  • Paul fled to Athens from Berean persecution, leaving Silas and Timothy in Berea ( Acts 17:14).

  • Paul sent word back, instructing Silas and Timothy to come to him in Athens ( Acts 17:15).

  • Timothy rejoined Paul at Athens and was sent back to Thessalonica ( 3:1-5). Since Silas is not mentioned, it has been conjectured that he went back to Philippi when Timothy went to Thessalonica.

  • Paul moved on to Corinth ( Acts 18:1).

  • Silas and Timothy came to Paul in Corinth ( 3:6; Acts 18:5).

  • Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians and sent it to the church.

  • About six months later (a.d. 51/52) he sent 2 Thessalonians in response to further information about the church (assembly) there.

It is generally dated c. a.d. 51. Weighty support for this date was found in an inscription discovered at Delphi, Greece, that dates Gallio's proconsulship to c. 51-52 and thus places Paul at Corinth at the same time (see Acts 18:12-17. Except for the possibility of an early date for Galatians (48-49?), 1 Thessalonians is Paul's earliest canonical letter.

Thessalonica: The City and the Church (assembly)

Thessalonica was a bustling seaport city at the head of the Thermaic Gulf . It was an important communication and trade center, located at the junction of the great Egnatian Way and the road leading north to the Danube. It was the largest city in Macedonia and was also the capital of its province.

The background of the Thessalonian church (assembly) is found in Acts 17:1-9. Since Paul began his ministry there in the Jewish (Judaean) synagogue, it is reasonable to assume that the new church (assembly) included some Jews (Judaeans). However, 1:9-10; Acts 17:4 seem to indicate that the church (assembly) was largely Gentile in membership.

The congregants of the assemblies were Israelites from Judaea. The Edomite Jews were the persecutors and agitators. Jews can't become Christians. They are the children of Darkness, vessels of destruction, broken cisterns.

The “Gentile” members were not non-Jews as the “churches” teach. Gentile is a Latin word that means people of the same race, kin or Nation. The large membership was of the dispersed Nations of Israel.

Purpose

Paul had left Thessalonica abruptly (see Acts 17:5-10) after a rather brief stay. Recent converts from paganism (1:9) were thus left with little external support in the midst of persecution. Paul's purpose in writing this letter was to encourage the new converts in their trials (3:3-5), to give instruction concerning godly living (4:1-12) and to give assurance concerning the future of believers (saints) who die before Christ returns.

Theme

Although the thrust of the letter is varied, the subject of eschatology (doctrine of last things) (end times) seems to be predominant in both Thessalonian letters. Every chapter of 1 Thessalonians ends with a reference to the second coming of Christ, with ch. 4 giving it major consideration (1:9-10; 2:19-20; 3:13; 4:13-18; 5:23-24). Thus, the second coming seems to permeate the letter and may be viewed in some sense as its theme. The two letters are often designated as the eschatological letters of Paul.

Insight.org

First Thessalonians