For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. I Thessalonians 5:9
The church of Thessalonica suffered persecution from its very inception. Within a month of arriving, Paul, Timothy and Silas had to leave under cover of darkness. However, the infant church was not forgotten and news of its health was reason to celebrate. Although thriving under persecution, the church struggled with an identity crisis. Many cultural barriers had to be breached and traditions let go. Pure and true theology was difficult to maintain.
Man’s perception of God’s character is incredibly important to our comprehension and response to trials and blessings. The citizens of Thessalonica were no exception. They had many questions and were subjected to the opinions of 1,000 tongues. Paul’s words corrected, clarified, encouraged and lead. The people followed, as evidenced in the fact that we have his letters preserved today.
When all is said and done, the most basic Biblical knowledge that everyone must know is, “God appointed us to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Nothing else will do.
Love,
Me and Paul