Paul’s Previous Trip to Thessalonica, vv. 1-16
A. How the Gospel was revealed to the believers, vv. 1-12
1. Paul the Persecuted, vv. 1-2–>at Philippi
2. Paul the Pattern, vv. 3-6, 9-10
a. His words: straightforward, true, and sincere
b. His works: he was bi-vocational so that we would not be a burden to the young church
3. Paul the Parent, vv. 7-8, 11-12
a. He fed and nurtured them as a loving mother, vv. 7-8
b. He encouraged and comforted them as a loving father, vv. 11-12
B. How the Gospel was received by the believers, vv. 13-16
1. The Enthusiasm, v. 13: they accepted the message from God
2. The Enemies, vv. 14-16: they persevered through persecution
Paul’s Planned Trip to Thessalonica, vv. 17-20
A. Why Paul wants to visit them
1. They are his reward and crown, vv. 17, 19
2. They are his pride and joy, v. 20
B. Why Paul was hindered from visiting them, v. 18: “Satan hindered us.”
Conclusion
Chapter 1 describes the ideal church. Chapter 2 describes the ideal Christian minister:
A. A Faithful Stewart of the Lord’s Church.
B. A Gentle Mother/Nurturer of the Lord’s Church.
C. A Concerned Father of the Lord’s Church:
1. Labor
2. Preach
3. Behave himself
4. Exhort
5. Suffer/make sacrifices for the Church’s welfare.
D. A Loving Brother of the Lord’s Church.