Introduction to 2nd Thessalonians

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INTRODUCTION TO 2nd Thessalonians

            Second Thessalonians is a relatively short letter, but it is theologically rich. It covers much of the same ground as 1 Thessalonians. The authorship of 2 Thessalonians has been the subject of much scholarly debate. However, the case for Pauline authorship still stands of firmer ground than any of the competing theories. The date of the letter appears to be soon after 1 Thessalonians maybe just a matter of weeks. That places the letter around 50-52 AD. Making it among the earliest New Testament documents.

            Paul’s reason for writing to the Thessalonians again is mainly that some unidentified person or persons claiming to be from Paul, has been teaching that the 2nd coming of Jesus has already occurred, and that the people missed it. Others were sad because some relatives or friends have died and supposedly missed out on the resurrection. Paul had to be firm in his instructions as to what must happen before the 2nd coming will occur. This accounts for the more serious tone of this letter in comparison to 1 Thessalonians.

            This letter speaks to today’s audience because it deals with the end times. There is much consternation among people today over whether or not Christ will return, and if so when. What will be the signs of his coming? Paul’s letter here gets to the heart of the matter. Giving us possibly the clearest end times guide. Certainly, clearer than John’s Revelation, and more accurate than the popular fiction “Left Behind” series. Without setting dates it shows what must occur before Jesus returns for his church both the living and the dead.

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