Chapter Summary

The model church. Three tenses of the Christian life.

Discussion Questions for 1 Thessalonians, Chapter 1

1. In 1 Thessalonians 1:3, Paul remembers the Thessalonian believers' work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope. How do you see these qualities manifested in the life of a thriving Christian community, and how can we cultivate them in our own lives?
2. Paul commends the Thessalonians for becoming imitators of the Lord and for their reception of the gospel (1 Thessalonians 1:6-7). How does genuine faith lead to transformation and emulation of Christ's character, and what obstacles might hinder this process?
3. 1 Thessalonians 1:9-10 highlights the Thessalonians' conversion from idols to serve the living and true God and to wait for His Son from heaven. How does this conversion experience inform our understanding of repentance and the Christian life?
4. Reflecting on 1 Thessalonians 1:5, which speaks of the power of the Holy Spirit in the midst of persecution, how have you experienced the Spirit's presence and empowerment during times of trial or opposition?
5. Paul emphasizes the Thessalonians' example to believers in Macedonia and Achaia (1 Thessalonians 1:7-8). How does the testimony of one community of believers impact the broader Church, and what lessons can we draw from their witness today?
6. In 1 Thessalonians 1:10, Paul mentions Jesus, whom God raised from the dead, delivering us from the wrath to come. How does the hope of Christ's return shape our perspective on suffering, redemption, and the ultimate fulfillment of God's purposes?
7. The Thessalonian believers became models to all the believers in the region (1 Thessalonians 1:7). How do you think their example influenced the spread of the gospel and the growth of the early Christian movement?
8. Paul highlights the Thessalonians' joy in the Holy Spirit despite their afflictions (1 Thessalonians 1:6). How does joy serve as a marker of authentic faith, and how can we cultivate a spirit of joy amidst life's challenges?
9. Reflecting on the Thessalonians' reception of the gospel with joy and the Holy Spirit (1 Thessalonians 1:6), how does our attitude toward the gospel impact our experience of God's presence and power in our lives?
10. Paul expresses his gratitude for the Thessalonian believers' faithfulness and partnership in the gospel (1 Thessalonians 1:2-3). How can we support and encourage one another in our shared mission to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ?

Key Words/Phrase

Our Gospel, v. 5.

Characters

God, Christ, Holy Spirit, Paul, Silvanus, Timothy.

Strong Verse(s)

9, 10.