THE HEART OF PAUL'S THEOLOGY
STUDY GUIDE 3.1
Lesson 3: Paul and the Thessalonians
Section 1: Background
(Video parts 1-4)

OUTLINE FOR NOTES

I. Background

A. Second Missionary Journey

B. Problems in Thessalonica

  1. Persecution

  2. False Prophets

  3. Christian Living


REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Give the details of Paul's second missionary journey. What cities did he visit? Who was with him? Give special attention to Thessalonica. How long did he stay there? Where did he preach? Why did he leave? How was Paul financed while he was in Thessalonica?

2. Where was Paul when he wrote each of the letters to the Thessalonians? What year did he probably write each of them?

3. Explain the three main problems that plagued the Thessalonians. Explain Paul's answers and his exhortations.

4. Write key verses from the Thessalonian letters as quoted in the video that show Paul's main teachings in these letters.


APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. Explain how Paul’s initial plans and desires were unmet in light of God’s call to go to Macedonia. How did Paul respond? How should we respond when God calls us to things we haven’t planned?

2. What can we learn about the way incorrect teaching affected the Thessalonians? Why is sound teaching important?

3. In what ways do you see distorted teaching about the second coming today? How does it affect people? What can we do to avoid this?

4. How does Paul's teaching about the second coming in his letters to the Thessalonians encourage you?