Oct 14, 20236 min read

“Perfect That Which Is Lacking in Your Faith”

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

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.

Historical Background

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 affection for the children they cherish. Verses 10-12: Paul exhorts the Thessalonians to walk in a manner worthy of God and reminds them that they are witnesses of God and how they behave reflects other people's impression of the Gospel. He exhorts them to follow the just and unblamable examples that Paul and his companions strived to demonstrate and to treat people with the kind of comfort, desire, and experienced witness that a loving father would offer his children.
Verses 13-20	Affection for the Thessalonians	Verses 13-16: Paul expresses thanksgiving that the Thessalonians received the Word of God as the Word of God, not merely human words, and they were actively and effectively working to live it. He mentions the suffering and persecution they experienced for living true to their faith. He compared the persecution they endured as similar to the persecution Jesus, his prophets, and his disciples endured in Jerusalem. He describes examples of hypocrisy and people's efforts to cover up their sins by silencing those who lacked the power and authority to stand against them. He explains that, eventually, these crimes will be known and they will incur the uttermost wrath of God. Verses 17-20: Paul conveys his longing to see the Thessalonians again, highlighting their importance to him.

Paul expresses his deep concern for the Thessalonian believers and the desire to know about their faith and endurance amidst trials. Timothy's visit to Thessalonica and his report about the faith of the Thessalonians bring relief and joy to Paul. This chapter underscores the importance of strong faith and the role of fellow believers in encouraging one another in the midst of challenges.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	Summary	Cross-References, Videos & Resources
1 Thessalonians 3			INT
Verses 1-5	Concern for the Thessalonians	Verses 1-2: While in Athens, Paul explains that he sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonian believers in their faith. Verses 3-5: Paul expresses his concern about the Thessalonians, recognizing the potential impact of the afflictions and tribulations they were dealing with.
Verses 6-10	Timothy's Report and Paul's Joy	Verses 6-7: Timothy's return and his positive report about the faith and charity the Thessalonians demonstrate, which bring great comfort and joy to Paul. Verses 8-10: Paul expresses his gratitude to God for the good news of the Thessalonians' faith, and he longs to see them again to strengthen their faith further, to perfect (restore/ mend, complete, establish) that which is lacking in their faith.
Verses 11-13	Prayer for Reunion	Verses 11-13: Paul prays for an opportunity to visit the Thessalonians and prays that their love may continue to increase and abound. He prays that their hearts be established in holiness as they await the coming of Jesus.

In Thessalonians 4, Paul addresses various aspects of Christian living and conduct, emphasizing the importance of holiness, brotherly love, and a life that pleases God. He also provides insights into the Christian hope of the resurrection and the return of Jesus Christ. This chapter offers practical guidance for believers in living out their faith and anticipating the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	Summary	Cross-References, Videos & Resources
1 Thessalonians 4			INT
Verses 1-12	Pursuit of Holiness and Love	Verses 1-8: Paul exhorts the Thessalonians to live in a way that pleases God. He explains it is God's will for sanctified individuals to avoid sexual immorality. They should demonstrate honor, and abstain from lust and forbidden desires. They should be honest and not defraud one another. Paul describes God as an avenger who has forewarned us regarding such behaviors. God despises these types of unclean practices and has called us to holiness. Verses 9-12: Paul encourages them to continue in brotherly love. He encourages them to find honor in and be ambitious in their studies, to lead a peaceful and quiet life, and to work hard in their businesses, as they labor with their own hands, setting an example for others.
Verses 13-18	The Hope of the Resurrection	Verses 13-14: Paul addresses the Thessalonians' concerns about those who have died as believers. He comforts them in their sorrow by explaining that those who have died in Christ will be raised when Jesus returns. Verses 15-17: Paul describes the events surrounding Christ's second coming, including the shout of the Lord, the voice of the archangel, the trump of God, Jesus descending from the heavens, the resurrection of the firstfruits of the dead, and the transformation of the remaining, living believers as they are caught up into the clouds to meet the Lord. Verse 18: Paul encourages the Thessalonians with the hope of being reunited with their loved ones in the presence of the Lord.

1 Thessalonians 5 serves as the conclusion to Paul's letter to the Thessalonians. In this chapter, Paul addresses various aspects of Christian living, including the anticipation of Christ's return, the importance of watchfulness and sobriety, and practical instructions for life within the Christian community. He emphasizes the need for vigilance, prayer, and thanksgiving, as well as the importance of living in harmony with one another.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	Summary	Cross-References, Videos & Resources
1 Thessalonians 5			INT
Verses 1-11	Anticipation of Christ's Return	Verses 1-3: Paul describes the unexpected nature of Christ's coming, referring to it as a thief in the night. He discusses the times and seasons to look for, as he prepares the faithful to be spiritually awake and alert. He prepares them for peace, safety, and escape for when the time of sudden destruction comes and travails upon the world. Verses 4-8: Paul contrasts the children of light with the sons of darkness, exhorting believers not to be slothful, to live as people of the day who are sober and alert, who put on the armor of God, the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of hope and salvation. Verses 9-11: Paul highlights the importance of obtaining the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ and encourages believers to encourage and build one another up.
Verses 12-28	Practical Instructions for Christian Living	Verses 12-15: Paul offers practical guidance for living within the Christian community, including respecting and honoring leaders, living in peace with one another, warning the unruly, encouraging the fainthearted, supporting the weak, and showing patience and kindness towards everyone. He advises us against showing evil for evil and expects us to render goodness. Verses 16-18: Paul emphasizes the importance of praying unceasingly, always rejoicing, and having thanksgiving in everything. This is the will of God - for us to all have joy in Christ. Verses 19-22: Paul encourages believers not to quench (extinguish, suppress, get in the way of) the Spirit, and to not despise (ignore) the prophecies, but to test and prove everything. We should hold fast to what is good, and abstain from all manners of evil. Verses 23-24: Paul offers a prayer for sanctification for the spirit, mind, and bodies of the saints in preparation for the coming of the Lord, and provides assurance of God's faithfulness. Verses 25-28: Paul concludes with closing salutations and blessings, urging the Thessalonians to read the letter to the entire church.

2 Thessalonians 1 is the opening chapter of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians. In this chapter, Paul begins by offering thanksgiving for the faith and perseverance of the Thessalonian believers in the face of persecution and affliction. He also discusses God's righteous judgment, the future punishment of the wicked, and the glorification of believers at the return of Christ. The chapter serves as an encouragement to the Thessalonians, emphasizing the justice and reward that God will bring at the end of times.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	Summary	Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Thessalonians 1			INT
Verses 1-4	Greetings & Thanksgiving for Perseverance	Verses 1-2: Salutations & Greetings from Paul, Silas, and Timothy. Verses 3-4: Paul expresses thanksgiving to God for the Thessalonians' growing faith, demonstrations of charity, and their enduring patience amidst persecution and affliction.
Verses 5-10	God's Righteous Judgment	Verses 5-7: Paul declares that the righteous behavior of the saints in their suffering stands as a token of their worthiness before God. Paul expresses that just recompense will await those who trouble the Thessalonians when Jesus and his angels are revealed. Verses 8-10: Paul emphasizes the future vengeance, punishment (justice, judgment), and everlasting destruction that awaits the wicked, those who refuse to know God and do not hearken and obey the good news of His Gospel because they separate themselves from his glory (intelligence, judgment, honor) and power (protection, strength, abity). Paul contrasts this with the glorification of believers when Christ returns.
Verses 11-12	Prayer for the Thessalonians	Verses 11-12: Paul prays that God will count the Thessalonians worthy of their calling and fulfill their desire for goodness, all to the glory of Christ.

In this chapter, Paul addresses the Thessalonian believers' concerns about the coming of the day of the Lord. He explains that certain events must occur before Christ's return, including the revelation of the "man of lawlessness." This is a reference to the Great Apostasy. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to stand firm in their faith, reminding them of the truth and the grace of the Gospel.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	Summary	Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Thessalonians 2			INT
Verses 1-12	The Restraining Force and the Man of Lawlessness	Verses 1-4: Paul addresses the Thessalonians' concerns about the day of the Lord. He explains that certain events must happen first, prior to Christ's return. This includes a gathering of believers, believers who are not shaken in mind or troubled in spirit, a sin-resistant generation, like unto the apostles, who are not deceived by any means, by word or letter. This is a generation who intimately knows and understands the doctrine of Jesus Christ. But before that can happen, Paul describes revelation regarding a falling away, a great "apostasy." He describes a "man of sin (error, mistake, lawlessness, one or who misses the mark, wanders from the path)," a "son of perdition" who opposes God in his efforts to exalt himself. Many scholars believe Paul referred to Nero, but many Anti-Christs throughout history easily fit this description. They follow the example of Lucifer himself. Sadly, some have exhibited these qualities in modern times, and more will inevitably follow until the day Christ returns. Verses 5-7: Paul discusses the restraining force that holds back the revelation of the lawless one, emphasizing that the mystery of iniquity will be removed at the appointed time. Verses 8-12: Paul provides insight into the actions and deception of the lawless one(s) who align themselves with Satan and the forces of darkness, those that manifest false and counterfeit displays of power, signs, and wonders. He warns those who fall prey to this deception, those who choose the path of wickedness (animosity, violent agitation, without law) and unrighteousness, they will ultimately face defeat and perish when the Lord returns and the epiphany (brightness) of the genuine truth of the Gospel is unveiled and embraced at his coming. Paul underscores the tragic consequence of the wicked's refusal to receive the truth in love, emphasizing that, had they been willing to do so, they could have found salvation. However, God, in His respect for human agency, permits the existence of strong delusions and falsehoods to exist and serve as a testing ground. He has also granted and sent the gift of the Holy Spirit, empowering individuals to discern between truth and error, and in this choice, their eternal destiny lies. Those who continue to deny truth, and find pleasure in unrighteousness will be judged and damned, stopped in their progression, and restrained from being able to continue to cause continual strife, hurt, and deceptions to others.	A Plea to My Sisters A Sin-Resistant Generation Was Nero the AntiChrist? with Morgan Freeman and National Geographics episode "Apocalypse"
Verses 13-17	Stand Firm in the Faith	Verses 13-17: Paul commends the Thessalonians for being bound to and honoring their covenants in gratitude. These are they who choose God, these are they who were called and chosen from the beginning for salvation and sanctification because they stand firm in their faith, holding to the traditions they were taught through the word of the Gospel as it was given through the writings of the prophets and apostles. Paul prays for their saint's everlasting consolation, comfort, and strength of heart to continue in their faith, good works, and hope of God's grace.

2 Thessalonians 3 is the final chapter of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians. In this chapter, Paul addresses practical matters within the Thessalonian church, including the need for prayer and support, exhortations regarding idleness and disorderly conduct, and the importance of working for a living. Paul also conveys his closing blessings and encourages the Thessalonians to remain faithful to the Lord.

Scripture	Major Topics/ Themes	Summary	Cross-References, Videos & Resources
2 Thessalonians 3			INT
Verses 1-5	Prayer for Deliverance and Propagation of the Gospel	Verses 1-2: Paul asks the people to pray that they will be able to maintain their religious liberties, continuing his analogy of one running a race, so that the gospel might be propagated effectively. He asks them to request deliverance from wicked and unreasonable people Verses 3-5: Paul expresses confidence in the Lord's faithfulness and protection. He reminds the saints to follow the Lord's way, to follow the directions he gives their hearts, as they patiently remain steadfast while awaiting the coming of the Savior.
Verses 6-15	Exhortation Regarding Idleness	Verses 6-9: Paul addresses the importance of self-reliance and issues with idleness and disorderly conduct, particularly regarding those who were not working for a living and were taking advantage of others. Paul explains that he and his companions intentionally set an example by working for their own bread and support, and he emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility and avoidance of debt. Verses 10-12: Paul reiterates the principle that those who don't want to work shouldn't eat, encouraging the idle to work and lead a quiet life, refraining from both disorderly conduct (laziness) and being busybodies. Verses 13-15: Paul exhorts the Thessalonians to do good and to not grow weary in well-doing, especially towards one another. He councils them to encourage one another and not allow these types of social disputes to lead to division and discord.
Verses 16-18	Closing Blessings and Exhortation	Verses 16-18: Paul offers closing blessings, encouragement to greet one another with a holy kiss, and his reminder that his own signature authenticates the letter.

Church Videos & Resources

Scripture Central

Study Guide

Reading Guide

1 and 2 Thessalonians

Lynne Hilton Wilson, "1 and 2 Thessalonians," Come Follow Me: The New Testament, 2019.

Background to the Pauline Epistles:

Frank F. Judd Jr., “The Epistles of the Apostle Paul: An Overview,” in New Testament History, Culture, and Society: A Background to the Texts of the New Testament, ed. Lincoln H. Blumell (Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2019), 419-445.
Eric D. Huntsman, “The Occasional Nature, Composition, and Structure of Paul’s Letters,” in How the New Testament Came to Be: The Thirty-fifth Annual Sidney B. Sperry Symposium, ed. Kent P. Jackson and Frank F. Judd Jr. (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006), 190–207.
Lincoln H. Blumell, “Scribes and Ancient Letters: Implications for the Pauline Epistles,” in How the New Testament Came to Be: The Thirty-fifth Annual Sidney B. Sperry Symposium, ed. Kent P. Jackson and Frank F. Judd Jr. (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006), 208–226.

Ministers of the Gospel

Eric B. Murdock, “Ministering as the Savior Did,” Ensign, December 2018.
F. Enzio Busche, “Christianity and the Hope of the Future,” BYU Speeches May 1983.
David L. Beck, “Your Sacred Duty to Minister,” General Conference April 2014.

Becoming Holy

Kerry M. Muhlestein, “Why We Must Be Wholeheartedly Holy,” BYU Devotional May 2015.

Preparing for the Second Coming

Richard Neitzel Holzapfel, “The Glass Is Half Full: The Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ,” BYU Devotional July 2001.
Robert L. Millet, “The Second Coming of Christ: Questions and Answers,” in Sperry Symposium Classics: The Doctrine and Covenants, ed. Craig K. Manscill (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2004), 202–220.
Dallin H. Oaks, “Preparation for the Second Coming,” General Conference April 2004.

The Great Apostasy

Kent P. Jackson, “New Testament Prophecies of Apostasy,” in Sperry Symposium Classics: The New Testament, ed. Frank F. Judd Jr. and Gaye Strathearn (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University; Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006), 394–406.
Daniel Belnap, “The Process of Apostasy in the New Testament and the Book of Mormon,” Shedding Light on the New Testament: Acts–Revelation, ed. Ray L. Huntington, Frank F. Judd Jr., and David M. Whitchurch (Provo, UT: Religious Studies Center, Brigham Young University, 2009), 247–70.
Kent P. Jackson, “Early Signs of the Apostasy,” Ensign, December 1984.

The Bible Project & Bible Effect

BYU’s RSC

Additional Videos & Insights

Where is Ancient Thessalonica?
Thessalonica overview by Drive By History
Acts Episode 14 Timothy - Eyewitness Bible Series
Paul's Letters 04 First Thessalonians: Silas
Paul's Letters 05 Second Thessalonians: Jason
Paul, Apostle of Christ (full movie available for purchase or rental on YouTube)
New Testament History, Culture, and Society
Early Church History Timeline 0 to 500 AD (PDF version, download)

“Perfect That Which Is Lacking in Your Faith”

1 and 2 Thessalonians

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