A. Andrew Das’s 1–2 Thessalonians, informed by the best recent scholarship, offers a fresh translation and concise historical, literary, and theological commentary. The historical commentary traces the appropriation of these letters from ante-Nicene Christian authors through the early twentieth century, offering guidance for contemporary readers and faith communities.

 

First Thessalonians, among Paul’s earliest letters, targets a tight-knit community suffering persecution from “others.” Former friends oppose their adoption of a foreign superstitio instead of time-tested religious devotion in a city enjoying close relations with the (divine) imperium. Thessalonian Christ-believers worship a “Savior” who apparently suffered defeat on a Roman cross. Some have died since Paul’s departure, and yet, through apparent defeat, Christ won a decisive victory inaugurating the changing of ages. The Thessalonians eagerly anticipate Christ’s return to judge the world. Those who have died will be among the first to celebrate his coming. So Paul expects the Thessalonians to busy themselves living accordingly.

 

Second Thessalonians, a genuine letter by Paul, addresses a developing situation not long after the first letter: Some Thessalonian Christ-believers refuse to work because of the apparent “day of the Lord” and Christ’s imminent return. Since the signs of the end are not fully evident, Paul calls them back to work and to endure persecution.