For March 13 Bible Study: 1 Thess 2:17-4:12

For the March 13 session, come with your questions and observations about 1 Thess 2:17-4:12. Here are some questions we might discuss:

• What do you think of the argument that 2:13-4:2 represents a short, earlier letter than got pasted into a later letter?
• Why do you think Paul calls the Thessalonian church his “hope,” “joy,” and “crown” in 2:19?
• What in Timothy’s report particularly encourages Paul? What does this suggest about Paul’s desires and concerns for the Thessalonians?
• How might you imagine Paul responding to someone saying that God promises a trouble-free life to those who are truly Christian?
• What does “sanctification” (4:3) suggest to you?  Does it make a difference to you that the same word is translated “holiness” in 4:4 and 4:7?
• How do you think Paul might respond to someone who believes that you can do anything you want so long as you mind your own business (4:11) and no one gets hurt (4:6)?