Study on 1 Thessalonians 1 (NKJV): Faith, Love, and Hope in Christ
Title: Living in Faith, Love, and Hope – A Study of 1 Thessalonians 1
Purpose
This study aims to provide an Orthodox Christian understanding of 1 Thessalonians 1, highlighting each verse's theological and spiritual significance. We will examine Paul's gratitude for the Thessalonians, their faith-driven actions, and the hope they embody in Christ. By studying the Greek text and connecting it to the Old and New Testaments, we will better appreciate the Gospel's transformative power in believers' lives.
Verse-by-Verse Study of 1 Thessalonians 1 (NKJV)
1 Thessalonians 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 from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
Paul, joined by Silvanus (Silas) and Timothy, addresses the Thessalonian Church, emphasizing their unity "in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
The greetings "Grace" (χάρις) and "Peace" (εἰρήνη) reflect both Jewish (Shalom) and Greek (Charis) blessings, highlighting the harmony of the Gospel for all believers.
The phrase "in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ" underscores the divine foundation of the Church, affirming Christ's divine nature (John 10:30).
1 Thessalonians 1:2
"We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers,"
Greek Study: The phrase "give thanks" comes from the Greek word εὐχαριστοῦμεν (eucharistoumen), meaning "to express gratitude." This word is related to Eucharistia (Thanksgiving), connecting it to the Orthodox understanding of the Eucharist, the ultimate act of Thanksgiving.
Paul models intercessory prayer, reminding us of Christ's high priestly prayer (John 17:9) and the call to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
Connection to the Old Testament: Psalm 95 "says, Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving,"showing that Thanksgiving has always been an integral part of worship.
1 Thessalonians 1:3
"Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father,"
Paul commends three virtues, Faith, Love, and Hope (1 Corinthians 13:13), foundational to Christian life.
"Work of faith" – True faith produces righteous deeds (James 2:26).
"Labor of love" – Love must be active and sacrificial (John 15:13).
"Patience of hope" – Hope in Christ sustains believers through trials (Romans 5:3-5).
This verse presents a Trinitarian framework:
Faith connects to the Father's calling.
Love reflects the Son's sacrificial work.
The Holy Spirit's assurance strengthens hope.
1 Thessalonians 1:4
"Knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God."
Orthodox theology affirms that "election" (ἐκλογή) does not negate free will but refers to God's sovereign calling (Ephesians 1:4-5).
Israel's election in the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 7:6) foreshadows the Church as the New Israel, chosen in Christ (Galatians 6:16).
This verse echoes Christ's words in John 15:16: "You did not choose Me, but I chose you."
1 Thessalonians 1:5
"For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake."
The Gospel is not mere words but is accompanied by power (δύναμις, dunamis), referring to the Holy Spirit's transformative work (Acts 1:8).
The presence of the Holy Spirit in evangelism is essential (John 16:13).
The phrase "much assurance" (πληροφορία) indicates deep conviction, reminding us of Hebrews 11:1: "Faith is the substance of things hoped for."
1 Thessalonians 1:6
"And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit,"
The Thessalonians imitated Paul as he imitated Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).
"Much affliction" – The early Christians faced persecution (Acts 17:5-9).
"Joy of the Holy Spirit" – True joy transcends suffering (Romans 14:17).
1 Thessalonians 1:7-8
"So you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. For from you, the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in Macedonia and Achaia but also in every place. Your faith toward God has gone out so that we do not need to say anything."
The Thessalonians became a model for others, fulfilling Christ's command in Matthew 5:16: "Let your light so shine before men."
Their witness extended beyond their city, showing the Church's missionary nature (Acts 1:8).
1 Thessalonians 1:9-10
"For they declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come."
"Turned to God from idols" reflects true repentance (Acts 26:18).
"Living and true God" – A contrast to dead idols (Psalm 115:4-8).
"Wait for His Son from heaven" – The Second Coming is a central Christian hope (Philippians 3:20-21).
"Who delivers us from the wrath to come" – God's wrath is not arbitrary but a response to sin (Romans 5:9).
Closing Thoughts
1 Thessalonians 1 reveals a Church transformed by faith, love, and hope, standing firm despite persecution. Paul's gratitude, the Thessalonians' exemplary faith, and the anticipation of Christ's return all point to the Orthodox Christian life—a life of prayer, endurance, and witness.
As Orthodox Christians, we are all called to:
Give thanks in all circumstances (Eucharistic life).
Live faithfully, working for Christ.
Endure trials with the joy of the Holy Spirit.
Await Christ's return with hope and vigilance.
This passage reminds us that our Christian witness is not limited to words but is empowered by the Holy Spirit and seen through our lives.
In Christ, love ❤️ Jared W Campbell
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