The entirety of 1 Thessalonians is littered with phrases referring to “brothers and sisters”, “children”, and “Love.” This use of language is no coincidence; Paul is using these words and themes to create a sense of community and loyalty among the Thessalonian Cult of Christ. The Thessalonian community is worried about their members that have died before the kingdom of god came to earth, thus Paul’s letter is a response to their concerns intended to reassure them.
At the very beginning of the letter, Paul writes, “For we know, brothers and sisters beloved by god, that he has chosen you” (1 Thessalonians 1:4). This statement is very near the beginning of the letter, emphasizing the importance of this idea, which will be continuously hammered into the reader throughout its entirety. When Paul says “brothers and sisters” he is referring to the Thessalonians as a part of his family, all under the father, god. This emphasis on family not only makes the Thessalonian community feel like they belong to something bigger than themselves, but it is also used as an endearing term.
Furthermore, Paul writes later on, “Timothy has just now come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love” (3:6). Notice here how Paul talks about the news of the Thessalonians still being steadfast in their love and faith; just further positive reinforcement for the actions he wants to see. Paul now not only says that the Thessalonians are like his own family, but he loves them. The use of these words and phrases referring to family and love reassures the skeptical Thessalonians in their commitment to Jesus, the cult of Christ, and the gospels.
The political climate under which this letter is written is a period of time called the Pax Romana. Roughly translated to Roman Peace, the term refers to the Roman Empire in it’s heyday, when the government brought peace to everyone under its dominion, who paid taxes of course. Paul writes saying, “For this reason, brothers and sisters, during all our distress and persecution we have been encouraged about you through your faith” (3:7). Here Paul is trying to reassure his followers that their tolerance of persecution is worth it. He claims that he gains strength from hearing reports of the strength of faith of the Thessalonians.
While Paul does sympathize with them for being persecuted he only offers this advice, “Concerning the times and the seasons, brothers and sisters, you do not need to have anything written to you. For you yourselves know very well that the day of the lord will come like a thief in the night” (5:1-2). This quote is basically Paul’s version of Keep Calm and Carry On; except don’t just carry on, they should try to be even more pure and free of sin. Paul tells the Thessalonians basically just to wait until the kingdom of god comes and then they will no longer be persecuted.
As aforementioned, the Pax Romana is in full swing at this time, and the Emperor is seen as akin to god. However, Paul doesn’t pass up an opportunity to take a jab at the empire, “When they say ‘There is peace and security’ then sudden destruction will come upon them” (5:3). There is peace and security, is kind of the unofficial slogan of the Roman empire: in a sense that as long as their acquired territories pay their taxes and are loyal to the emperor, then the empire will provide its subjects peace and security. However Paul is telling the Thessalonians that the empire is lying, and god is going to bring his kingdom on earth and all those that walk in the light will be saved. Thus, Paul is endorsing disregarding the doctrine of the Roman Empire.
– Jackson OConnell