In fact, much of this letter features Paul offering words of appreciation from afar. This is the result of two things: first, Paul's deep affection for the Thessalonians -- he truly misses being with them; and second, Paul's worries about the persecution that these new Christians may face due to their faith. Paul wants his words to encourage them to keep their faith, despite outside pressures. This is a simple reminder -- sometimes we don't need deep theology to be faithful; we simply need love and encouragement.
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Reading the Bible in Its Entirety
If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read 1 Thessalonians 1 today.
