Tom Bentley
Suggested sources of help:
Bruce F. F. 1981; Denney James, 1910; Eadie John, 1877
Ellicott C. J. 1858; Garrod G.W., 1899; Hiebert D.E., 1971
Milligan G. 1908; Hogg & Vine, 1914
Introduction
Let us apply our A, B, C and Ds:
Author: Paul the apostle, offers little difficulty. Every evidence attests his authorship. The Epistle was written during his labors in Corinth.
Background: As a result of the preaching of the gospel an assembly was formed which was comprised of Jews, Gentiles and evidently a number of chief women (Acts 17:4). Paul was in the process of establishing them in the Faith when he was rudely and quickly forced to take immediate leave and since had been hindered in returning to perfect that which was lacking in their faith (I Thess. 3:10).
Content: Thessalonians is noted for its strong eschatological content. Each chapter of the epistle contains vital references to the Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. The Epistles sustains many approaches in terms of analysis.
Using the Coming as a motif:
Another important Motif is God Himself.
(Trace the occasions He is mentioned in the Epistle)