This is one of Paul's first letters. Paul, Silas, and Timothy visited Thessalonica during their second missionary journey around A.D. 50-51. This is recorded in Acts 17. Paul was there for "three Sabbaths," and some Jews and Gentiles believed. Other Jews became jealous and started a mob. Paul and Silas were sent away at night to Berea. From Berea, Paul went to Athens, and then on to Corinth where he stayed for a year and a half. It was here that Timothy came and sent word about the church at Thessalonica, and this brought about 1 Thessalonians. Paul reminded them of his time with them. He was thankful for the believer's faithfulness, but he encouraged them to walk in a way that is worthy of the Lord. Paul talked of Timothy's faithfulness and ministry to them. The majority of the letter deals with the issue of Christ's second coming, especially referencing what happens to believers that have already died. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18, "The Lord will descend from heaven with a shout, with the archangel's voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are still alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds to be with the Lord. Therefore, encourage one another with these words!"
