The date of the Thessalonian epistles, the circumstances which occasioned them and their subjects
We find in the epistles to the Thessalonians, and especially the first (for in the second it was already needful to guard that freshness from the perfidious attacks of the enemy), the condition and the hope of the Christian as such in this world in all its freshness. These two epistles are the first that Paul wrote, unless we except that to the Galatians, the date of which is uncertain. Already long occupied with the work, it is only when this work was considerably advanced that in watching over it he guards it by means of his writings-writings as we have seen, various in character, according to the state of the churches, and according to the divine wisdom which, by this means, deposited in the Scriptures that which would be necessary for all ages.
Newly converted, the Christians at Thessalonica suffered much from the persecution of the world-a persecution which the Jews of that place had already previously stirred up against Paul himself. Happy at the gracious work there and rejoicing in the state of his dear children in the faith (a testimony to which was borne everywhere, even by the world), the Apostle opens his heart; and the Holy Spirit sets forth by his mouth what that Christian condition was upon the earth which was the source of his joy in the case of the Thessalonians; and what the hope which threw its light upon the believer’s existence, shining around him through his whole life, and illuminating his path in the wilderness. In a word, the Christian character is unfolded to our eyes with all its motives and its joys, and that in connection with the testimony of God and the hope which is our strength in bearing it.
The doctrine of Christ’s coming specially presented as linked with every spiritual relationship
We all know that the doctrine of the coming of Christ, which universally accompanies the work of the Spirit that attaches our hearts to Him in the first spring of a new life, is specially presented to us in these two epistles. And it is not merely formally taught as a doctrine; it is linked with every spiritual relationship of our souls, it is displayed in all the circumstances of the Christian’s life. We are converted in order to wait for Him. The joy of the saints in the fruits of their labors is realized in His presence. It is at the coming of Christ that holiness has all its value, its measure being seen in that which is then manifested. It is the consolation when Christians die. It is the unexpected judgment of the world. It is unto the coming of Christ that God preserves His own in holiness and blameless. We shall see these points set forth in detail in the different chapters of the first epistle. We only point them out here. In general, we shall find that personal relationships and the expectation of His appearing have a remarkable and enlivening freshness in this epistle in every respect. The Lord is present to the heart-is its object; and Christian affections spring up in the soul, causing the fruits of the Spirit to abound.