It’s been a while since we’ve been in the book of 1 Thessalonians (if you remember, we did a study of the book back in 2023 with a promise to return to 2 Thessalonians later). Now that the time has come to continue to 2 Thessalonians, it is prudent to look back on 1 Thessalonians in an overview. The overall theme of the book is showcased through Paul and Silas’ journey and the teachings to the Thessalonians. Most specifically that by God’s grace, we must stand firm in the truth and walk worthy of the gospel. How do we as modern Christians, stand firm and walk worthy? As the Thessalonians responded to this letter based on a desire to love God, Paul had some expectations for them, from which we can learn and apply even today.

1. Strong Relationships with Other Believers 

1 Thess. 5:25 Brethren, pray for us. 

Paul and the Thessalonians had a close relationship. Paul spends the majority of chapter two reminding the Thessalonians that their relationship began in the gospel. Paul, Silas, and Timothy spent an abundance of time teaching and speaking in the streets and synagogues of the city (Acts 17:1-3). The focus of their preaching was the gospel and the missionary team was willing to give anything and everything they could if it meant the people would receive Christ or know God better. Given that Paul was known to be a great speaker, both men could have used these opportunities for their advantage. Yet they did not preach the gospel so they would receive recognition or fame. They could have sought praise of men, but we know for a fact that they simply sought to convince the people that the gospel was true (1 Thess. 2:6). Together, they had a mutual understanding and mission founded in Christ. 

Their relationship was also based on mutual suffering. Their work for Christ was not always easy and many times they were persecuted for their faith. Yet, as they suffered together, so then did their individual circumstances affect each other (1 Thess. 3:1-5). By this encouragement, they were given strength to continue to stand firm amid persecution and walk worthy regardless of what others thought or did to them. Mutual suffering leads to mutual strengthening. We also see it was based upon their hope in Jesus Christ. They could be reminded that their suffering would not be forever; one day Christ will return for His children, as described in 1 Thess. 4, and will end our suffering on this earth. And in this mutual hope, Paul and the Thessalonians could have a rich, deep, spiritually profitable relationship. Like Paul, Silas, and the Thessalonians, we need strong, healthy relationships with other believers, so that we might have the strength to stand firm in the trials God allows to come our way. 

2. Loving Fellowship

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

Loving fellowship between believers comes in lots of different ways. Paul states this not with the intention of actually kissing your friend, but with the idea of greeting all the brethren with all the love and care of a brother or sister. This is not a simple greeting, but rather a representation of the love and care the Thessalonian believers were supposed to have for one another – and which we are supposed to have as well. Loving fellowship also comes by means of not taking advantage of fellow believers (1 Thess. 4:9-12). Loving others was something the Thessalonians were apparently good at. If there was someone in need, they most likely provided for them. This can become unloving when the one receiving the aid begins to rely on the support being provided. There is a legitimate balance believers must try to find – offering and giving help when as needed; but providing for yourself if you are able. This loving fellowship also means we are constantly willing to support one another (1 Thess. 5:14-15). This starts with our attitude towards each other in the church. They are our brothers/sisters in Christ and as such, despite whatever they say, do, or don’t do, we are to encourage and help strengthen them no matter what. This can involve anything from comfort or confrontation to kindness or patience. We are to be here for one another spiritually, doing whatever it takes to lovingly help one another grow in Christ. 

Conclusion

The book of 1 Thessalonians is an admonishment for us as believers to stand firm in the truth and walk worthy of the gospel. We can do that through the strong relationships we hold with other believers – where we have relationships centered on the gospel and founded in shared strife – and loving fellowship – where we care for one another in a brotherly/sisterly way without taking advantage of one another. So, let’s strive for these relationships, through which, God might be ultimately glorified.  

Questions for Discussion: 

1. List a few believers with whom you have strong relationships. What makes them strong? Considering Paul’s relationship with the Thessalonians, how can you make them stronger? 
2. What kind of fellowship do you enjoy in the church? How can you be better at fellowshipping with other believers? 
3. How do godly relationships help you stand firm in the truth and walk worthy of the gospel?