A Biblical Vision, Part II: Mastering the New Testament Witness to Christ

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A B i b l i ca l Vi s i on, Par t I I : Mas ter i ng the New Tes tament Wi tnes s to Chr i s t

c. At least four audiences in the Thessalonican community are given Christological answers to pressing concerns within it.

4. Audience one: those grieving in bereavement for the death of loved ones

a. Problem: lingering questions about what would happen to those who died before Jesus returned

b. Solution: those who have died in the Lord will be manifested with the living at the Second Coming of Jesus, 1 Thess. 4.13-18.

5. Audience two: those confused about the timetable of the end times

a. Problem: some were being led astray by false teachings about the timing of the Lord’s coming.

b. Solution: that day will not overcome the believing like a thief, for we are preparing ourselves, as children of light walking in the day and preparing for the coming of Jesus, 1 Thess. 5.1-11.

6. Audience three: those experiencing opposition and persecution from those who do not believe

a. Problem: many of the Thessalonians were struggling to persevere in the face of horrible trial and persecution.

b. Solution: those who share in Christ’s sufferings will share in his glory, and God himself in Christ