THE HEART OF PAUL'S THEOLOGY
STUDY GUIDE 3.2
Lesson 3: Paul and the Thessalonians
Section 2: Structure and Content
(Video parts 5-7)

OUTLINE FOR NOTES


II. Structure and Content

A. 1 Thessalonians

  1. Salutation / Closing Remarks

  2. Thanksgiving

  3. Paul's Absence

  4. Instructions

B. 2 Thessalonians

  1. Salutation / Closing

  2. Thanksgiving and Encouragement

  3. Instructions


REVIEW QUESTIONS

1. Note the outlines of both 1 and 2 Thessalonians.

2. Compare the backgrounds and purposes behind 1 & 2 Thessalonians. How are they similar and how are they different? Who helped Paul write each of the letters?

3. How did Paul's doctrine of salvation address the Thessalonians' overheated eschatology?

4. What ethical exhortations did Paul write in each of the two letters to the Thessalonians?

5. Write out key Bible passages quoted by Dr. Kidd in his teaching on the two letters.


APPLICATION QUESTIONS

1. What ethical exhortations of Paul in 1 and 2 Thessalonians especially speak to your heart and life?

2. What can you learn especially from Paul's command to work?

3. What can you learn from Paul's example of the way he encouraged the Thessalonians?

4. Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. How does this passage give us guidelines about living in the age of the "already and not yet"? How can you put this into practice during the coming months?