The Book of 1 Thessalonians is a letter from the Apostle Paul, along with Silas and Timothy, to the young church in Thessalonica—a major city in Macedonia (northern Greece). It is widely considered Paul’s earliest surviving letter, written around AD 50–51 during his second missionary journey.

Paul and his companions had only a short time to establish the church before being forced to leave due to opposition. Hearing of the Thessalonians’ continued faith, Paul writes to encourage them, clarify misunderstandings, and strengthen their hope in Christ.

Key themes in 1 Thessalonians include encouragement in the face of persecution, the importance of living a holy life, and assurance about the future return of Jesus. Paul reminds believers to remain steadfast, support one another, and live in a way that honors God.