1 Thessalonians

First Thessalonians is likely the earliest letter written by the Apostle Paul, sent to the church in Thessalonica. Paul first praises the believers for their remarkable faith, love, and perseverance despite persecution. The main focus of the letter is to encourage and instruct them regarding the second coming of Jesus Christ. The believers were concerned about fellow Christians who had died before Christ’s return, so Paul clearly explains that the deceased believers will be resurrected first, followed by those still alive, all meeting the Lord together. He urges them to live holy and morally pure lives while they wait, to work diligently, and to encourage one another with the certainty of Christ's return.