“Perfect That Which Is Lacking in Your Faith”

All Posts Archived Lessons New Testament Old Testament Book of Mormon Doctrine & Covenants Search “Perfect That Which Is Lacking in Your Faith” CFMCorner Oct 14, 2023 17 min read CFM: October 16–22 1 and 2 Thessalonians Videos and Podcasts Video/ Podcast ​Lesson Extension ​Additional Materials Scripture Central 1 & 2 Thessalonians Study Guide Follow Him 1 & 2 Thessalonians Part 1 , Part 2 Transcripts Line Upon Line 1 & 2 Thessalonians ​FHE Lesson Teaching with Power 1 & 2 Thessalonians ​ Don't Miss This 1 & 2 Thessalonians ​ ​CFM New Testament 1 & 2 Thessalonians ​Unshaken 1 & 2 Thessalonians Part 1 , Part 2 ​ ​The Interpreter Foundation 1 & 2 Thessalonians ​Study helps by Jonn Claybaugh ​Teaching Helps with John Hilton 1 & 2 Thessalonians ​ ​Add On Education ​1 & 2 Thessalonians ( not yet posted ) https://www.addoneducation.com/podcasts/ ​Ponderfun 1 & 2 Thessalonians ( not yet posted ) ​Talking Scripture 1 & 2 Thessalonians ( Part 1 , Part 2 ) Show Notes ​Hurricane Utah Adult Religion Class , New Testament 1 & 2 Thessalonians : Notes , Slides , Handout arnt20_presentation .ppsx Download PPSX • 3.17MB Resources and Insights about this Week's Lesson The document below contains a compilation of several resources that outline the life and ministry of Paul. This is very useful information for trying to figure out the Chronology of the Pauline Epistles and how the various letters and histories fit together. Timeline & Resource for the Apostle Paul .pdf Download PDF • 1.63MB Historical Background Thessalonica Where is Ancient Thessalonica? Thessalonica overview by Drive By History Paul & Silas: The Work in Thessaloniki & Berea Overall Summary of 1 & 2 Thessalonians: 1 & 2 Thessalonians are two of the earliest letters written by the apostle Paul that are included in the New Testament canon (following Galatians). They are addressed to the Christian community in Thessalonica, an ancient city in Macedonia. These letters were likely composed in the early to mid-50s AD. Thessalonians holds a special place in the New Testament because these letters provide valuable insights into the earliest Christian communities, Paul's ministry, and the eschatological expectations of the early Christian saints. Eschatology ( ἔσχατος + λόγος ) literally means “last word,” and it pertains to the theological studies that deal with the ultimate destiny of humanity and the Last Days. It focuses on topics such as the Second Coming, the final judgment, the culmination of human history in anticipation of the Millennium, the fate of the soul after death, the existence of heaven / hell , Spirit Prison/Paradise, the Degrees of Glory, and other types of related themes. Eschatology explores the beliefs and teachings about the end times from multiple perspectives, religious traditions, and interpretations. Paul's letters include many foundational principles that multiple religious communities frequently refer to, including ours. As members of the Church, we also have additional information from modern Prophets and additional scripture. Several scholars have compiled information from various sources and written extensively on this topic. Here are a few resources that might be beneficial for those who would like to dive deeper. ( Second Coming of Jesus Christ , Signs , Millenium , Kingdoms of Glory , The Second Coming of the Lord by Gerald Lund, 100 Signs of the Times by David Ridges ) When the letters to the Thessalonians were written, Thessalonica was a vibrant, multicultural city with a diverse population. The cultural and religious diversity in the city created both opportunities and challenges for the Christian community. Thessalonica was part of the Roman Empire, and as the imperial cult was prominent, the Christians' refusal to worship the Roman emperor contributed to several social and political challenges, that included significant persecutions. During this time, Thessalonian Christians were dealing with heavy questions and uncertainties about the deaths of their fellow brethren, and the return of Jesus Christ. Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians to encourage and instruct the Thessalonian believers in their newfound faith. He wanted to strengthen them, address their concerns, especially regarding the fate of their deceased loved ones. He wanted to provide practical guidance about living as a Christian disciple, and what that meant for personal and community relationships. Paul took time to commend the early saints for their faithfulness amidst extreme persecution and urged them to live their lives in a manner that would please God. In 2 Thessalonians, Paul dealt with the Thessalonians' continued questions and concerns regarding Christ's return. He clarified some of the misunderstandings that had arisen and encouraged them to persevere in their faith and not to be misled by false teachings about the end times. Paul also addressed the need for discipline in the church and emphasized the importance of self reliance and continuously working for one's own living. Primary Themes: Faith and Perseverance : Both letters emphasize the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of challenges and uncertainties. Prophecies of a future Apostasy. Eschatology: Paul addresses questions and concerns related to the return of Christ, providing comfort and guidance. Living as a Follower of Jesus Christ: Paul provides practical instructions for Christ like living, including principles of sanctification, such as living consecrated and holy lives, fostering genuine love for ourselves and others, and building enduring family and community relationships. Encouragement: Paul commends the Thessalonians for their faithfulness, offering encouragement and support. Discipline and Self Reliance : 2 Thessalonians discusses the importance of discipline in the church and self reliance, highlighting one's responsibility to work and contributing to their own well-being in addition to others. Overall, 1 & 2 Thessalonians offer a window into the early Christian community's life, challenges, and expectations. They reflect Paul's genuine care and concern for the Thessalonians as he provided valuable teachings on faith, hope, and charity. These letters offer timeless lessons for those who face multiple types of challenges and uncertainties. Overview: 1 Thessalonians 1 is the opening chapter of Paul's letter to the Thessalonians, a Christian community in the bustling city of Thessalonica. In this chapter, Paul introduces several key themes that set the tone for the entire letter. He commends the Thessalonian believers for their exemplary faith, hope, and love in Christ Jesus. He also praises their role as models and witnesses to other believers, highlighting their conversion from idolatry to the worship of the living God and their eager anticipation of Christ's return. Amidst the challenges and cultural diversity of Thessalonica, this chapter serves as a foundation for the letter's encouragement, guidance, and pastoral care that Paul provides to the early Christian community in this vibrant city. Scripture Major Topics/ Themes ​Summary ​Cross-References, Videos & Resources 1 Thessalonians 1 ( INT ) Salutations and Introduction: ​ ​Verse 1: Paul greets The Thessalonians, accompanied by Timothy and Silas ​Acts 15, we are introduced to Silas Acts 16:1 introduced to Timothy , a Jewish convert from Derby ​ Verses 2-3 ​ Faith, Hope, and Love ​ Verses 2-3: Paul commends the Thessalonians for their work of faith , labor of love (charity), and patience ( steadfastness ) of hope in Jesus Christ. These virtues are central to the Christian life. Cultivating Divine Attributes The Infinite Power of Hope Charity ​ Verses 4-10 ​ Imitating Christ and Witnessing Verses 4-5: Paul instructs the Thessalonians to know their election . In receiving the gospel, they received the word and power of Jesus Christ. They received great assurance from the Holy Ghost and became witnesses and followers ( imitators ) of both Paul and the Lord, serving as models (examples) for other believers in the region. Verses 6-8: The Thessalonians became followers , and in spite of much affliction , they received the word with joy and became examples to believers in Macedonia and Achaia . Their faith and witness had a ripple effect. Verses 9-10: The Thessalonians faith and witness had a ripple effect. They turned from idols to serve the living and true God, eagerly awaiting the return of Jesus from heaven. Acts 17:1-10, Paul first visits Thessalonica and begins his ministry. Witness A Witness Never Give Up an Opportunity to Testify of Christ Bearing Witness of Jesus Christ in Word and Actions In 1 Thessalonians 2 , Paul continues to address the Thessalonian believers, recounting his ministry among them and the affection he holds for them. He emphasizes his motives, conduct, and the challenges he faced while sharing the Gospel. This chapter provides insight into the nature of Paul's apostolic ministry and his deep care for the Thessalonian Christian community . Scripture Major Topics/ Themes ​Summary ​Cross-References, Videos & Resources 1 Thessalonians 2 ​ ​ ​ ​ Verses 1-12 Integrity in Ministry Verses 1-2: Paul and his companions emphasize that their ministry in Thessalonica was not in vain and even though they suffered and were shamefully treated they were bold in sharing the Gospel despite the contention . Verses 3-6: Paul stresses the purity, sincerity, and lack of deceit in the Gospel message and states that he and his companions have striven to conduct themselves in a manner pleasing to God, who put his trust in them, and continues to test their hearts . He states that they never used flattering words or attempted to bribe or hide things from them. They never sought for glory , nor did they impose or become burdensome upon the people. Verses 7-9: Paul compares his ministry to that of a nursing mother and a gentle father, emphasizing the love and affectio