1st Thessalonians 1:1

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Scripture: 1st Thessalonians 1:1

1 Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy,

To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ:

Grace to you and peace. (NRSV)



Devotion:

            The introduction to Paul’s letters is very often skipped or skimmed over when reading devotionally. They all are short and seem to say the same things. However, much can be learned through a close reading of the opening words.

            The first thing we learn is that there are really three persons the letter is co-authored by. Paul of course, then Silvanus, and finally Timothy. The latter two occur frequently in Paul’s letters. Timothy, of course, has two letters addressed to him personally by Paul. Scholars believe this letter was written from Corinth in or about 50 AD. Timothy was taught the Christian faith by Paul and was a frequent companion. Silvanus (or Silas in some translations) accompanied Paul on all his missionary journeys.

            Paul had started the church at Thessalonica so he would have been familiar with the church. (See Acts 17:1-9) It is not clear how long Paul spent there. Acts says Paul taught in the Synagogue for three sabbaths, but he may have been there longer to get the Jews in Synagogue mad enough to kick him and Silvanus (Silas) out of town.

            The salutation then marks out the church. “To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ:”. These words do more than simply identify the recipients of the letter. It serves as a reminder of who they belong to. Marking out their place in a world of Pagan religions as believers in the one true God through the Son Jesus Christ. We all need to be reminded that the church isn’t ours it belongs to Jesus Christ who paid the ultimate sacrifice to claim her as his very own bride.

            We come to the last phrase in the salutation: “Grace to you and peace.” A reminder to the church that they are dependent on God’s unmerited favor for their salvation. Peace is the Greek word Eirene which means more than the absence of conflict. It means wellness and wholeness like the Hebrew concept of Shalom. Although these words were written to 1st century church at Thessalonica we can claim them as our own.

            Thus, Paul begins his letter of encouragement to the Thessalonians, and his words can encourage us some 2000 years later.



Prayer:

            Lord of heaven and earth hear our cries for help and send your Holy Spirit to help us understand the Word you have provided for us. Give us understanding and wisdom. We seek to know you more deeply. Slow us down so that we can get the full meaning of your scriptures. May we be blessed grace and peace this day and always. Amen.

           

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