Listen to the full First Epistle to the Thessalonians in the King James Version (KJV) with text.
Audio Bible https://tienda.josepenacoto.com/products/the-bible-audiobook
đź“– Chapters
0:00 1 Thessalonians 1. Thanksgiving for the Thessalonians’ Faith
1:48 1 Thessalonians 2. Paul’s Ministry and Affection for the Church
5:13 1 Thessalonians 3. Encouragement in Persecution
7:18 1 Thessalonians 4. Living to Please God and the Coming of the Lord
10:00 1 Thessalonians 5. The Day of the Lord and Final Instructions
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL9nL9AX7_1DODTGB18Hh_JCJr2s-l2KnL
The First Epistle to the Thessalonians, commonly known as 1 Thessalonians, is the thirteenth book of the New Testament and one of Paul’s earliest letters, written around AD 50–51. It was addressed to the church in Thessalonica, a city in Macedonia (modern-day Greece), which Paul had founded during his second missionary journey. The letter was written in response to reports about the young church’s faith, persecution, and questions about the return of Christ. It is a letter of encouragement, instruction, and hope, reminding the Thessalonians to stand firm in their faith and live in holiness while awaiting Jesus’ return.
Paul begins by expressing gratitude for the Thessalonians’ faith, love, and endurance, praising them for being an example to believers everywhere. He recalls how they turned from idols to serve the living God and how their reputation as faithful followers of Christ had spread throughout the region. He reminds them of his ministry among them, emphasizing that he did not come with impure motives or personal gain, but rather as a loving spiritual father and mother, nurturing them in the faith.
One of the major themes of 1 Thessalonians is perseverance in suffering. Paul acknowledges that the believers were facing severe persecution, just as he had when he was forced to leave the city. He encourages them by saying that suffering for Christ is not in vain, but a sign of their genuine faith. He expresses his deep longing to see them again and sends Timothy to check on their faith, rejoicing when he hears that they are standing firm despite opposition.
Paul then exhorts them to live in holiness and purity, particularly in matters of sexual morality, reminding them that God calls His people to sanctification and to live in a way that pleases Him. He also urges them to love one another deeply, work diligently, and live quietly, setting a good example for outsiders.
A key section of the letter addresses questions about the return of Christ (the Second Coming). Some believers were concerned about what would happen to those who had died before Christ’s return. Paul reassures them that when Jesus returns, the dead in Christ will rise first, and then those who are still alive will be caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air.
