Welcome to week one of Grace in the Word. Our church is coming together this week and beginning a seven-week journey through the book of 1 Thessalonians. This week will focus on the background and theme of the book of 1 Thessalonians. Consider this week the introduction or forward of our study through this book. This is an important week to give a glimpse and greater understanding of what Paul, Timothy, and Silas went through in Thessalonica, what the Thessalonians were going through before and after Paul’s departure, and why Paul wrote this letter to the Thessalonians at all. Spend some time this week studying this book’s history and literary context and the scriptural impact of what Paul and the Thessalonians were going through. Reflect this week on Paul’s heart for this area and church and what it means for us to carry a heart like Paul’s to those around us.
As you begin this 7 week study make sure to do a few things to get the most out of this study:
- Set aside a specific time each day to do this study. You can do each days reading in about 5-10 minutes, but make sure to give yourself time to reflect on the passage, study its meaning, and even seek other translations and commentaries to get the full magnitude of it each day.
- Make sure this doesn’t become a chore. Remember this is meant to be an opportunity to not only learn in greater understanding a book of the Bible, but to rest in its meaning for your spiritual walk with Jesus today. The most important thing you can do with this study each day is to delight in it, rest in it, and grow closer to Jesus through it.
- Finally, discuss it with others. Take time out of your week to do this study with a friend, family member, or small group. We have several ways to join a community online or in person in order to take part in this study.
Enjoy week 1 of Grace in the Word: 1 Thessalonians!