October 27, 2025 • 41 mins
Step into a Mediterranean courtyard in ancient Corinth, where by flickering lamplight, the Apostle Paul crafts one of history's most influential letters. This immersive journey through 1 Thessalonians Chapter 1 reveals the birth of Scripture not as distant theology, but as a father's heart poured out for spiritual children facing persecution.
The bustling port city of Thessalonica forms our backdrop—a cosmopolitan crossroads where East meets West along the great Via Ignatia. Here, Paul's simple message of a crucified and risen Savior sparked extraordinary transformation. God-fearers found belonging, women discovered their voices, and slaves experienced dignity as children of God. But this radical social leveling that formed an authentic community across ethnic and class divisions threatened the very foundations of Roman society.
When accusers charged these believers with "turning the world upside down" and declaring "another king named Jesus," persecution forced Paul to flee under cover of darkness. Yet rather than extinguishing this flame of faith, opposition only proved its authenticity. The Thessalonians' testimony—their "work of faith, labor of love, and steadfastness of hope"—spread throughout Macedonia, Achaia, and beyond, demonstrating that the gospel's power transcends human weakness.
What makes this episode particularly moving is witnessing how divine revelation emerges through ordinary means—reed pen, ink made from soot, papyrus sheets written upon in a humble workshop. These words, sealed with prayer and carried along dangerous Roman roads, would outlive empires and continue speaking life to believers across centuries. The revolutionary community born in Thessalonica offers us a compelling vision of what authentic faith looks like when lived out amid opposition.
Whether you're seeking spiritual encouragement, historical context for biblical study, or simply a moment of peaceful reflection, join us as we experience Scripture not as ancient artifact but living reality.
Music Credit: "Amazing" by AFTR
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
In the Field Audio Bible (07:33):
The Mediterranean sun beats down
mercilessly on the bustlingAgora of Corinth.
As you find yourself walkingbeside the Apostle Paul through
the maze of merchant stalls andcraftsmen's shops, the air is
thick with the scent of oliveoil, fresh fish and the acrid
(07:54):
smell of metal working fires.
Your sandals scrape againstworn marble stones polished
smooth by countless feet.
Paul's weathered hands stainedwith purple dye from his
tent-making trade gesture towarda quieter corner where the
(08:15):
noise fades to a distant hum, toa distant home.
His eyes carry a weight todaythat you have come to recognize,
the look he gets when his heartis heavy with concern for the
churches he has planted.
Come, he says, his voicecarrying that familiar accent.
(08:37):
We have much to discuss and aletter to write.
You follow him to a smallcourtyard behind Aquila and
Priscilla's workshop, where thefamiliar sounds of leather being
stretched provide a rhythmicbackdrop.
Paul settles onto a low woodenstool, his knees creaking, a
(08:59):
reminder of countless mileswalked, beatings, endured,
sleepless nights spent in prayerfor his beloved converts.
As he reaches for preciouspapyrus made from Nile reeds,
you can see his hands tremblingslightly, not from weakness but
from the intensity of emotionthat grips him when he thinks of
(09:22):
Thessalonica.
Do you remember Paul begins hisvoice soft but urgent how we
had to flee Thessalonica in thedarkness?
How Jason and the otherbrothers risked everything to
help us escape?
You do remember the angry mobin the marketplace, accusations
(09:46):
flying like stones, these menwho have turned the world upside
down have come here also.
The fear in new believers' eyesas they realize their beloved
teacher might be torn from them.
Paul dips his reed pen into theclay pot of ink, that precious
(10:07):
black liquid made from soot, gumand water.
The scratching sound againstpapyrus fills the courtyard as
he forms elegant Greek lettersPaul, Silas and Timothy.
He dictates slowly, pausingafter each name.
(10:27):
You hear the deliberate care ashe includes Silas and Timothy
not as mere scribes but asco-laborers in the gospel To the
Church of the Thessalonians.
In God the Father and the LordJesus Christ, Paul sits down his
pen and looks at you with thoseeyes that have seen the risen
(10:50):
Christ.
You must understand what itmeans to plant a church in
Thessalonica.
This isn't just any city.
This is the capital ofMacedonia, the crossroads where
East meets West, where the greatVia Ignatia carries merchants,
soldiers, and ideas from Rome tothe Empire's furthest reaches.
(11:12):
You can almost see the cityrising before you massive walls,
gleaming marble of the RomanForum, the busy harbor where
ships from Alexandria, Ephesusand Rome discharged their cargo.
This isn't some backwatervillage.
This is a cosmopolitan centerwhere Roman officials, Greek
(11:36):
philosophers, Jewish merchants,and slaves from a dozen nations
rubbed shoulders.
When we arrived there, Paulcontinues, we came not with the
eloquent words, but with thesimple message of the cross.
And yet the power of God movedamong them like fire spreading
(11:57):
through dry grass.
You remember the synagogue wherePaul first proclaimed Jesus as
Messiah?
The smell of old scrolls andburning oil, the shocked silence
when Paul declared thecrucified carpenter from
Nazareth was the long-awaitedChrist.
Some believed immediately,others hardened their hearts.
(12:20):
But it wasn't just Jews whoresponded.
Some believed immediately,others hardened their hearts,
but it wasn't just Jews whoresponded.
The God-fearers, those Gentilesweary of empty Greek and Roman
gods, had been drawn to thesynagogue's pure monotheism but
remained on the periphery.
When Paul proclaimed that inChrist there was neither Jew nor
(12:41):
Greek, their hearts leaped withjoy.
The women, Paul says with atransforming smile.
In a culture where women areconsidered property, the gospel
set them free to worship, toserve, to lead.
(13:02):
When prominent Greek womenjoined us, their conversion sent
shockwaves through theThessalonian society.
The afternoon, sun slants lower, casting long shadows.
Paul picks up his pen again,using it to emphasize his words.
This is exactly why theopposition became so fierce when
(13:26):
slaves saw themselves aschildren of God when women found
their voices, when Jews andGentiles sat together at the
Lord's table, this threatenedthe very foundations of Roman
society.
The gospel turns the worldupside down.
You remember the growing tensionas more people responded to
Paul's teaching.
Jewish leaders grew hostile astheir influence waned.
(13:50):
Roman authorities grew nervouswhen prominent citizens
abandoned traditional gods.
And then came that night.
Paul whispers the mob in themarketplace.
These men who have causedtrouble all over the world have
come here.
Now.
(14:11):
They are defying Caesar'sdecrees, saying there is another
king, one called Jesus.
The memory sends a chill downyour spine.
You can still hear the angryvoices, smell the torch smoke,
feel the fear that grippedbelievers as they realized their
(14:31):
teacher was in mortal danger.
Jason, Paul says softly, dearJason, who opened his home to us
, who risked everything when themob couldn't find us, they
dragged him before the cityofficials.
We had to leave.
Paul continues his voice,breaking slightly Under the
(14:55):
cover of darkness, like thieves.
But we weren't running fromjustice, we were running from
injustice, from hatred of thosewho couldn't bear Christ's light
.
And you remember that night,hurried, packing, whispered
farewells, tears of new convertsfearing they would never see
their spiritual father againPaul's own tears as he embraced
(15:22):
each believer.
But that's not the end.
Paul says his voice,strengthening the gospel,
doesn't depend on any one man.
The seed had been planted,watered with tears and
persecution, and was alreadygrowing.
He dips his pen and beginswriting with renewed energy.
(15:43):
Grace to you and peace from God, our Father and the Lord Jesus
Christ.
Grace Paul explains, not favorearned through works, but
unmerited favor poured outfreely.
And peace, not just absence ofconflict, but the deep Shalom
(16:09):
that comes when sinful humanityis reconciled to holy God
through Christ's blood.
The shadows grow longer asmerchants close their stalls,
but Paul shows no signs ofstopping.
His heart is too full, his lovetoo strong.
We give thanks to God always,for all of you.
(16:32):
He continues writing, thenlooks up with eyes bright with
tears.
In a world where gratitude isreserved for those who can do us
favors, we give thanks forpeople, for their faith, love
and hope.
You see the faces ofThessalonian believers rising
(16:55):
like evening stars Aristarchuswith his enthusiasm.
Secundus, the former slavewhose freedom transformed his
household.
The women whose voices joinedin psalms echoing through house
churches, making mention of youin our prayers.
(17:16):
Paul continues when you lovesomeone, you can't help but
speak to God about them.
Their joys become your joys.
Their struggles become yourstruggles.
Aquila appears with a small oldlamp, its flame casting dancing
shadows.
The smell of burning olive oilcreates an atmosphere of sacred
(17:39):
intimacy.
Olive oil creates an atmosphereof sacred intimacy, constantly
remembering before our God andFather your work of faith and
labor of love and steadfastnessof hope in our Lord Jesus Christ
.
Paul sets down his pen and looksat you intently.
These aren't just pretty words.
This is evidence of genuineconversion faith that works,
(18:05):
love that labors, hope thatendures.
This is what we saw inThessalonica.
For we know, brothers loved byGod, that he has chosen you.
The words hang like incense Ina world governed by fate and
chance.
(18:25):
Paul proclaims divine election,not based on merit but purely on
God's sovereign love, becauseour gospel came to you not only
in word, but also in power andin the Holy Spirit.
And with full conviction.
Paul looks directly at you.
(18:47):
Remember what it was like whenwe first preached?
There was power that convictedhearts, opened blind eyes,
transformed lives.
The Holy Spirit bore witness toour message's truth.
You remember the Romancenturion breaking down in tears
.
The Jewish merchantunderstanding righteousness
(19:10):
comes as a gift.
The Greek philosopher, findingtruth in the simple story of a
crucified and risen Savior.
And you know what kind of manwe proved to be among you.
For your sake, this isn'tboasting, but appeal to evidence
.
In a world full of religiouscharlatans, Paul's life has been
(19:35):
an open book pure motives,honest methods, consistent
message.
The lamp flame dances higherand in its light you see deep
lines of care in Paul's face,lines carved by years of
hardship and sleepless nights inprayer.
This isn't a man seeking glory,but a father's heart poured out
(19:57):
for his spiritual children.
As Paul prepares to continue,you sense this letter will be
more than personal communication.
It will be a masterpiece ofpastoral care, theological
instruction, and apostolicauthority, all wrapped in
genuine love.
Through these words, Paul willbridge hundreds of miles and
(20:18):
speak directly to Thessalonianhearts.
The night is upon you, but thework continues.
There is much more to say, manytruths to unfold, much love to
express.
As Paul dips his pen once more,you settle beside him, ready to
journey deeper Into thisremarkable letter that will
(20:42):
encourage believers Not just inThessalonica but throughout the
centuries to come.
Now let's take a moment to quietour hearts and listen to the
word itself.
Let these words sink deep intoyour spirit, bringing comfort,
conviction and encouragement.
(21:02):
Whether you're sitting in aquiet place or out in the world,
allow scripture to meet youright where you are.
I hope you have your favoritecup of tea or coffee.
Sit back, relax and let's stepinto the sacred text of the
(21:27):
First Epistle of Paul to theThessalonians 1.
The First Epistle of Paul to theThessalonians 1.
Paul, Silas, and Timothy to theChurch of the Thessalonians and
(21:53):
God, the Father and the LordJesus Christ, grace to you and
peace.
We always give thanks to Godfor all of you and mention you
in our prayers, constantlyremembering before our God and
Father your work of faith andlabor of love and steadfastness
(22:15):
of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
For we know, brothers andsisters beloved by God, that he
has chosen you Because ourmessage of the gospel came to
you not in word only, but alsoin power and in the Holy Spirit
(22:36):
and with full conviction.
Just as you know what kind ofpersons we proved to be among
you for your sake, and youbecame imitators of us and of
the Lord, for, in spite ofpersecution, you received the
word with joy inspired by theHoly Spirit, so that you became
(22:58):
an example to all the believersin Macedonia and in Achaia, to
all the believers in Macedoniaand in Achaia, for the word of
the Lord has sounded forth fromyou not only in Macedonia and
Achaia, but in every place.
Your faith in God has becomeknown, so that we have no need
to speak about it, for thepeople of those regions report
(23:21):
about us what kind of welcome wehad among you and how you
turned to God from idols toserve a living and true God and
to wait for his Son from heaven,whom he raised from the dead.
Jesus, who rescues us from thewrath that is coming.
(23:53):
The oil lamp has burned low inthe courtyard, its flame, now a
mere whisper of light, dancingagainst the clay walls of Aquila
and Priscilla's workshop.
The night air carries thedistant sounds of Corinth
(24:14):
settling into sleep, the finalcalls of merchants securing
their wares, the soft laughterof families gathering around
their evening meals, the gentlelapping of waves against the
harbor stones where ships fromacross the Mediterranean rock
gently at anchor.
Paul sets down his reed penwith the reverence of a priest,
(24:34):
placing a sacred offering uponan altar.
The papyrus before him, nowcovered with his careful Greek
script seems to glow in thelamplight, as if the very words
themselves carry divine fire.
You watch as he gently blows onthe ink, ensuring each letter
(24:57):
is properly set, before thisprecious message begins its long
journey northward to Macedonia.
It is finished, Paul whispers,but his voice carries the weight
of completion that goes farbeyond the mere writing of a
letter.
You have been with him throughevery word, every pause, every
(25:20):
moment when his eyes grewdistant with memory or bright
with hope.
This isn't just correspondence.
It's a father's heart pouredout in permanent form.
Love made tangible through inkand papyrus.
The apostles' weathered hands,those same hands that have been
(25:42):
beaten with rods, that havecrafted countless tents, that
have been laid upon the sick inhealing prayer, now carefully
roll the papyrus, with thetenderness of a mother swaddling
her newborn child.
The scroll makes a softrustling sound, like autumn
leaves stirring in a gentlebreeze as he secures it with a
(26:04):
thin leather cord.
Do you understand what we havejust witnessed?
Paul asked, turning to you withthose penetrating eyes that
seem to see not just your facebut into the depths of your soul
.
This letter will travel theRoman roads, carried by faithful
(26:24):
messengers who risk their livesto deliver encouragement To our
beloved brothers and sisters.
But more than that, these wordswill echo through time itself,
speaking to generations yetunborn, to believers who will
face their own trials and needto hear that faith, hope and
love endure.
(26:45):
The night breeze stirs thejasmine vines, climbing the
courtyard walls, releasing theirsweet fragrance into the air.
It mingles with the lingeringscent of olive oil from the lamp
and the earthy smell of theleather goods that surround you.
From the lamp and the earthysmell of the leather goods that
surround you.
Paul rises from his stool, hisjoints protesting slightly after
(27:09):
the long hours of writing, andwalks to the small window that
overlooks the city.
From here you can see thelights of Corinth spread out
below like earthbound stars oillamps flickering in windows,
torches marking the mainthoroughfares, night watchmen
(27:29):
warmed themselves against theMediterranean chill.
Each light represents a life, astory, a soul that the gospel
has the power to transform.
Look there, Paul says, pointingtoward the distant glow of the
temple of Aphrodite on theAcrocorinth, that massive rock
(27:50):
formation that towers over thecity.
For centuries, that temple hasdrawn people seeking love, but
offering only emptiness andshame.
Yet in this very city the truelove of God has taken root.
Former temple prostitutes nowserve as deaconesses in our
assemblies.
Wealthy merchants who onceexploited the poor now share
(28:15):
their goods freely.
Roman soldiers who only knewthe language of violence now
speak words of peace andreconciliation.
His voice grows stronger as hespeaks and you could hear the
wonder that still fills him,even after years of witnessing
God's transforming power.
This is what we saw beginningin Thessalonica Not just
(28:40):
individual conversions, but thebirth of a new kind of community
, a foretaste of the kingdom ofheaven Breaking into this
present darkness.
Paul turns from the window andpicks up the sealed letter,
holding it as if it were made ofthe most precious gold.
When the Thessalonians receivethis, they will gather in
(29:03):
someone's home, perhaps inJason's house, if he has
recovered from his ordeal withthe city officials.
They will light their old lamps, just as we have done tonight,
and someone will break the sealand unroll the papyrus.
You can almost see it happeningthe eager faces gathered in the
(29:26):
flickering lamplight, the hushthat falls as the familiar words
of Paul's greeting are readaloud Paul, Silas and Timothy To
the Church of the Thessaloniansand God, the Father and the
Lord Jesus Christ, grace to youand peace.
Imagine their joy.
(29:48):
Paul continues his voice softwith emotion.
When they hear that we givethanks for them always, that we
remember their work of faith andlabor of love and steadfastness
of hope, these believers whohave faced mockery from their
neighbors, rejection from theirfamilies, economic hardship for
their faith, they will discoverthat their struggles have not
(30:11):
gone unnoticed, that theirfaithfulness has become a
testimony known throughout theRoman world.
The lamp flame flickers as agentle breeze moves through the
courtyard, casting dancingshadows on the walls.
In those shifting patterns oflight and darkness you seem to
(30:31):
see the faces of theThessalonian believers
Aristarchus with his youthfulenthusiasm.
Secundus, whose freedom inChrist Transformed not just his
own life but his entirehousehold.
The unnamed women whose voicesnow ring out in worship where
(30:52):
once they were silenced bycultural custom.
But this letter carries morethan just our personal affection
.
Paul says, beginning to paceslowly around the small
courtyard, his sandals make asoft shuffling sound against the
stone pavement worn smooth bycountless feet over the years.
(31:14):
It carries the very power ofthe gospel itself.
When they hear these words readaloud, the Holy Spirit will use
them to strengthen faith, toencourage hope, to kindle love.
He stops and looks directly atyou, his eyes, intense in the
(31:35):
lamplight.
You see, the gospel is not justa message to be believed, it is
a power to be experienced.
When we proclaim Christ andThessalonica, it came not only
in word but in power and in theHoly Spirit and with full
conviction.
And now, through this letter,that same power continues to
(32:01):
work, bridging the distancebetween us and them between then
and now.
The night air carries the soundof footsteps on the stone
streets below, perhaps a latetraveler seeking lodging or a
city watchman making his rounds.
The rhythmic sound reminds youof the countless journeys Paul
(32:25):
has made, the thousands of mileshe has walked to carry the
gospel to the ends of the earth.
His feet, scarred from beatingsand rough roads, have become
beautiful feet that bring goodnews of peace.
When I think of theThessalonians Paul says settling
back on his stool and gazinginto the lamp flame I see the
(32:47):
future of the Thessalonians,paul says settling back on his
stool and gazing into the lampflame.
I see the future of the churchNot a building made of stone and
marble, like the pagan temples,but a living temple made of
transformed hearts.
Not a priesthood limited to aselect few, but a royal
priesthood where every believerhas direct access to the throne
(33:08):
of grace, not a religion boundby geography or ethnicity, but a
faith that transcends all humanboundaries.
The scroll lies on the smallwooden table between you,
seeming to pulse with life inthe flickering light.
You realize that you have beenwitness to something
(33:31):
extraordinary not just thecomposition of a letter, but the
birth of scripture itself.
The words written in love andsealed with prayer will outlive
empires, survive persecutionsand continue to speak hope to
believers facing their darkesthours.
(33:52):
The Thessalonians chose us astheir example.
Paul reflects his voice growingthoughtful, but in truth they
have become an example to allwho believe.
Their faith has gone out notonly in Macedonia and Achaia,
but everywhere.
Their testimony speaks louderthan any sermon we could preach.
(34:15):
When people see how they haveturned from idols to serve the
living and true God, when theywitness their patience and
suffering and their hope inChrist's return, they will see
the gospel in action.
A dog barks somewhere in thedistance and the sound echoes
(34:35):
off the stone buildings beforefading into the night.
It reminds you of the hostilitythat believers often face the
opposition that drove Paul andhis companions from Thessalonica
, the persecution that continuesto test the faith of new
converts.
Yet here, in this quietcourtyard, surrounded by the
(34:57):
tools of honest labor and theevidence of faithful service,
there is peace.
This is what the world cannotunderstand.
Paul says, as if reading yourthoughts, they see our
sufferings and think we aredefeated.
They see us driven from city tocity and assume our message is
(35:18):
powerless.
But they do not see what we seeLives transformed, hearts
renewed, hope restored.
They do not hear what we hearthe songs of praise rising from
house churches across the empire, the prayers of thanksgiving
offered by those who have foundforgiveness, the testimonies of
(35:43):
former enemies who now call eachother brother and sister.
The Thessalonians wait for God'sSon from heaven.
Paul reflects, and so do we all.
But while we wait, we work,while we hope, we love, while we
anticipate His return, wecontinue the mission he has
(36:05):
given us, his return.
We continue the mission he hasgiven us to make disciples of
all nations, to be his witnessesto the ends of the earth.
Paul carefully places the sealedletter in a leather pouch,
protecting it from moisture anddamage.
The simple scroll, written in ahumble courtyard by the light
(36:25):
of a single oil lamp, carrieswithin it the power to transform
lives, to build churches, toencourage saints and to confound
the wisdom of this world.
Come, Paul says, rising andextending his hand to you.
Let us pray for those who willreceive this letter, for the
(36:47):
messenger who will carry it andfor all those who will hear its
words in the generations to come.
As you kneel together in theflickering lamplight, surrounded
by the tools of tent making andthe sense of the Mediterranean
night, you realize that you havebeen privileged to witness
history in the making.
(37:08):
The words that Paul has writtenwill outlive the Roman Empire,
will survive the fall ofkingdoms, will speak hope to
believers facing trials thathave not yet been imagined.
And in this moment, as Paul'svoice rises in prayer for the
Thessalonians and for all whowill follow in their footsteps,
(37:32):
you understand that the gospelis not just ancient history but
living reality, as fresh andpowerful today as it was on that
night when it was firstcommitted to papyrus in a quiet
courtyard in Corinth.
The echo of faith that began inThessalonica continues to
(37:55):
reverberate across time and youhave been witness to its eternal
song.
Thank you for joining me todayas we journeyed through the
First Epistle of Paul to theThessalonians 1.
I pray that you carry thesereflections with you into your
(38:17):
day, into your week and that youfind strength in knowing God is
with you in every trial, everytemptation and every step of
obedience.
If this time in God's word hasencouraged you, take a moment to
share it with someone who mightneed it, and be sure to join me
next time as we continuewalking through the scriptures,
(38:39):
learning, growing and stayingfaithful in the field of life.
Until next time, may you findpeace in the quiet, trust in
God's call, and rest in Hisunchanging love.
This is In the Field AudioBible, where we Listen to the
Bible One Chapter at a Time.
The Mediterranean sun beats down
mercilessly on the bustlingAgora of Corinth.
As you find yourself walkingbeside the Apostle Paul through
the maze of merchant stalls andcraftsmen's shops, the air is
thick with the scent of oliveoil, fresh fish and the acrid
(07:54):
smell of metal working fires.
Your sandals scrape againstworn marble stones polished
smooth by countless feet.
Paul's weathered hands stainedwith purple dye from his
tent-making trade gesture towarda quieter corner where the
(08:15):
noise fades to a distant hum, toa distant home.
His eyes carry a weight todaythat you have come to recognize,
the look he gets when his heartis heavy with concern for the
churches he has planted.
Come, he says, his voicecarrying that familiar accent.
(08:37):
We have much to discuss and aletter to write.
You follow him to a smallcourtyard behind Aquila and
Priscilla's workshop, where thefamiliar sounds of leather being
stretched provide a rhythmicbackdrop.
Paul settles onto a low woodenstool, his knees creaking, a
(08:59):
reminder of countless mileswalked, beatings, endured,
sleepless nights spent in prayerfor his beloved converts.
As he reaches for preciouspapyrus made from Nile reeds,
you can see his hands tremblingslightly, not from weakness but
from the intensity of emotionthat grips him when he thinks of
(09:22):
Thessalonica.
Do you remember Paul begins hisvoice soft but urgent how we
had to flee Thessalonica in thedarkness?
How Jason and the otherbrothers risked everything to
help us escape?
You do remember the angry mobin the marketplace, accusations
(09:46):
flying like stones, these menwho have turned the world upside
down have come here also.
The fear in new believers' eyesas they realize their beloved
teacher might be torn from them.
Paul dips his reed pen into theclay pot of ink, that precious
(10:07):
black liquid made from soot, gumand water.
The scratching sound againstpapyrus fills the courtyard as
he forms elegant Greek lettersPaul, Silas and Timothy.
He dictates slowly, pausingafter each name.
(10:27):
You hear the deliberate care ashe includes Silas and Timothy
not as mere scribes but asco-laborers in the gospel To the
Church of the Thessalonians.
In God the Father and the LordJesus Christ, Paul sits down his
pen and looks at you with thoseeyes that have seen the risen
(10:50):
Christ.
You must understand what itmeans to plant a church in
Thessalonica.
This isn't just any city.
This is the capital ofMacedonia, the crossroads where
East meets West, where the greatVia Ignatia carries merchants,
soldiers, and ideas from Rome tothe Empire's furthest reaches.
(11:12):
You can almost see the cityrising before you massive walls,
gleaming marble of the RomanForum, the busy harbor where
ships from Alexandria, Ephesusand Rome discharged their cargo.
This isn't some backwatervillage.
This is a cosmopolitan centerwhere Roman officials, Greek
(11:36):
philosophers, Jewish merchants,and slaves from a dozen nations
rubbed shoulders.
When we arrived there, Paulcontinues, we came not with the
eloquent words, but with thesimple message of the cross.
And yet the power of God movedamong them like fire spreading
(11:57):
through dry grass.
You remember the synagogue wherePaul first proclaimed Jesus as
Messiah?
The smell of old scrolls andburning oil, the shocked silence
when Paul declared thecrucified carpenter from
Nazareth was the long-awaitedChrist.
Some believed immediately,others hardened their hearts.
(12:20):
But it wasn't just Jews whoresponded.
Some believed immediately,others hardened their hearts,
but it wasn't just Jews whoresponded.
The God-fearers, those Gentilesweary of empty Greek and Roman
gods, had been drawn to thesynagogue's pure monotheism but
remained on the periphery.
When Paul proclaimed that inChrist there was neither Jew nor
(12:41):
Greek, their hearts leaped withjoy.
The women, Paul says with atransforming smile.
In a culture where women areconsidered property, the gospel
set them free to worship, toserve, to lead.
(13:02):
When prominent Greek womenjoined us, their conversion sent
shockwaves through theThessalonian society.
The afternoon, sun slants lower, casting long shadows.
Paul picks up his pen again,using it to emphasize his words.
This is exactly why theopposition became so fierce when
(13:26):
slaves saw themselves aschildren of God when women found
their voices, when Jews andGentiles sat together at the
Lord's table, this threatenedthe very foundations of Roman
society.
The gospel turns the worldupside down.
You remember the growing tensionas more people responded to
Paul's teaching.
Jewish leaders grew hostile astheir influence waned.
(13:50):
Roman authorities grew nervouswhen prominent citizens
abandoned traditional gods.
And then came that night.
Paul whispers the mob in themarketplace.
These men who have causedtrouble all over the world have
come here.
Now.
(14:11):
They are defying Caesar'sdecrees, saying there is another
king, one called Jesus.
The memory sends a chill downyour spine.
You can still hear the angryvoices, smell the torch smoke,
feel the fear that grippedbelievers as they realized their
(14:31):
teacher was in mortal danger.
Jason, Paul says softly, dearJason, who opened his home to us
, who risked everything when themob couldn't find us, they
dragged him before the cityofficials.
We had to leave.
Paul continues his voice,breaking slightly Under the
(14:55):
cover of darkness, like thieves.
But we weren't running fromjustice, we were running from
injustice, from hatred of thosewho couldn't bear Christ's light
.
And you remember that night,hurried, packing, whispered
farewells, tears of new convertsfearing they would never see
their spiritual father againPaul's own tears as he embraced
(15:22):
each believer.
But that's not the end.
Paul says his voice,strengthening the gospel,
doesn't depend on any one man.
The seed had been planted,watered with tears and
persecution, and was alreadygrowing.
He dips his pen and beginswriting with renewed energy.
(15:43):
Grace to you and peace from God, our Father and the Lord Jesus
Christ.
Grace Paul explains, not favorearned through works, but
unmerited favor poured outfreely.
And peace, not just absence ofconflict, but the deep Shalom
(16:09):
that comes when sinful humanityis reconciled to holy God
through Christ's blood.
The shadows grow longer asmerchants close their stalls,
but Paul shows no signs ofstopping.
His heart is too full, his lovetoo strong.
We give thanks to God always,for all of you.
(16:32):
He continues writing, thenlooks up with eyes bright with
tears.
In a world where gratitude isreserved for those who can do us
favors, we give thanks forpeople, for their faith, love
and hope.
You see the faces ofThessalonian believers rising
(16:55):
like evening stars Aristarchuswith his enthusiasm.
Secundus, the former slavewhose freedom transformed his
household.
The women whose voices joinedin psalms echoing through house
churches, making mention of youin our prayers.
(17:16):
Paul continues when you lovesomeone, you can't help but
speak to God about them.
Their joys become your joys.
Their struggles become yourstruggles.
Aquila appears with a small oldlamp, its flame casting dancing
shadows.
The smell of burning olive oilcreates an atmosphere of sacred
(17:39):
intimacy.
Olive oil creates an atmosphereof sacred intimacy, constantly
remembering before our God andFather your work of faith and
labor of love and steadfastnessof hope in our Lord Jesus Christ
.
Paul sets down his pen and looksat you intently.
These aren't just pretty words.
This is evidence of genuineconversion faith that works,
(18:05):
love that labors, hope thatendures.
This is what we saw inThessalonica.
For we know, brothers loved byGod, that he has chosen you.
The words hang like incense Ina world governed by fate and
chance.
(18:25):
Paul proclaims divine election,not based on merit but purely on
God's sovereign love, becauseour gospel came to you not only
in word, but also in power andin the Holy Spirit.
And with full conviction.
Paul looks directly at you.
(18:47):
Remember what it was like whenwe first preached?
There was power that convictedhearts, opened blind eyes,
transformed lives.
The Holy Spirit bore witness toour message's truth.
You remember the Romancenturion breaking down in tears
.
The Jewish merchantunderstanding righteousness
(19:10):
comes as a gift.
The Greek philosopher, findingtruth in the simple story of a
crucified and risen Savior.
And you know what kind of manwe proved to be among you.
For your sake, this isn'tboasting, but appeal to evidence
.
In a world full of religiouscharlatans, Paul's life has been
(19:35):
an open book pure motives,honest methods, consistent
message.
The lamp flame dances higherand in its light you see deep
lines of care in Paul's face,lines carved by years of
hardship and sleepless nights inprayer.
This isn't a man seeking glory,but a father's heart poured out
(19:57):
for his spiritual children.
As Paul prepares to continue,you sense this letter will be
more than personal communication.
It will be a masterpiece ofpastoral care, theological
instruction, and apostolicauthority, all wrapped in
genuine love.
Through these words, Paul willbridge hundreds of miles and
(20:18):
speak directly to Thessalonianhearts.
The night is upon you, but thework continues.
There is much more to say, manytruths to unfold, much love to
express.
As Paul dips his pen once more,you settle beside him, ready to
journey deeper Into thisremarkable letter that will
(20:42):
encourage believers Not just inThessalonica but throughout the
centuries to come.
Now let's take a moment to quietour hearts and listen to the
word itself.
Let these words sink deep intoyour spirit, bringing comfort,
conviction and encouragement.
(21:02):
Whether you're sitting in aquiet place or out in the world,
allow scripture to meet youright where you are.
I hope you have your favoritecup of tea or coffee.
Sit back, relax and let's stepinto the sacred text of the
(21:27):
First Epistle of Paul to theThessalonians 1.
The First Epistle of Paul to theThessalonians 1.
Paul, Silas, and Timothy to theChurch of the Thessalonians and
(21:53):
God, the Father and the LordJesus Christ, grace to you and
peace.
We always give thanks to Godfor all of you and mention you
in our prayers, constantlyremembering before our God and
Father your work of faith andlabor of love and steadfastness
(22:15):
of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
For we know, brothers andsisters beloved by God, that he
has chosen you Because ourmessage of the gospel came to
you not in word only, but alsoin power and in the Holy Spirit
(22:36):
and with full conviction.
Just as you know what kind ofpersons we proved to be among
you for your sake, and youbecame imitators of us and of
the Lord, for, in spite ofpersecution, you received the
word with joy inspired by theHoly Spirit, so that you became
(22:58):
an example to all the believersin Macedonia and in Achaia, to
all the believers in Macedoniaand in Achaia, for the word of
the Lord has sounded forth fromyou not only in Macedonia and
Achaia, but in every place.
Your faith in God has becomeknown, so that we have no need
to speak about it, for thepeople of those regions report
(23:21):
about us what kind of welcome wehad among you and how you
turned to God from idols toserve a living and true God and
to wait for his Son from heaven,whom he raised from the dead.
Jesus, who rescues us from thewrath that is coming.
(23:53):
The oil lamp has burned low inthe courtyard, its flame, now a
mere whisper of light, dancingagainst the clay walls of Aquila
and Priscilla's workshop.
The night air carries thedistant sounds of Corinth
(24:14):
settling into sleep, the finalcalls of merchants securing
their wares, the soft laughterof families gathering around
their evening meals, the gentlelapping of waves against the
harbor stones where ships fromacross the Mediterranean rock
gently at anchor.
Paul sets down his reed penwith the reverence of a priest,
(24:34):
placing a sacred offering uponan altar.
The papyrus before him, nowcovered with his careful Greek
script seems to glow in thelamplight, as if the very words
themselves carry divine fire.
You watch as he gently blows onthe ink, ensuring each letter
(24:57):
is properly set, before thisprecious message begins its long
journey northward to Macedonia.
It is finished, Paul whispers,but his voice carries the weight
of completion that goes farbeyond the mere writing of a
letter.
You have been with him throughevery word, every pause, every
(25:20):
moment when his eyes grewdistant with memory or bright
with hope.
This isn't just correspondence.
It's a father's heart pouredout in permanent form.
Love made tangible through inkand papyrus.
The apostles' weathered hands,those same hands that have been
(25:42):
beaten with rods, that havecrafted countless tents, that
have been laid upon the sick inhealing prayer, now carefully
roll the papyrus, with thetenderness of a mother swaddling
her newborn child.
The scroll makes a softrustling sound, like autumn
leaves stirring in a gentlebreeze as he secures it with a
(26:04):
thin leather cord.
Do you understand what we havejust witnessed?
Paul asked, turning to you withthose penetrating eyes that
seem to see not just your facebut into the depths of your soul
.
This letter will travel theRoman roads, carried by faithful
(26:24):
messengers who risk their livesto deliver encouragement To our
beloved brothers and sisters.
But more than that, these wordswill echo through time itself,
speaking to generations yetunborn, to believers who will
face their own trials and needto hear that faith, hope and
love endure.
(26:45):
The night breeze stirs thejasmine vines, climbing the
courtyard walls, releasing theirsweet fragrance into the air.
It mingles with the lingeringscent of olive oil from the lamp
and the earthy smell of theleather goods that surround you.
From the lamp and the earthysmell of the leather goods that
surround you.
Paul rises from his stool, hisjoints protesting slightly after
(27:09):
the long hours of writing, andwalks to the small window that
overlooks the city.
From here you can see thelights of Corinth spread out
below like earthbound stars oillamps flickering in windows,
torches marking the mainthoroughfares, night watchmen
(27:29):
warmed themselves against theMediterranean chill.
Each light represents a life, astory, a soul that the gospel
has the power to transform.
Look there, Paul says, pointingtoward the distant glow of the
temple of Aphrodite on theAcrocorinth, that massive rock
(27:50):
formation that towers over thecity.
For centuries, that temple hasdrawn people seeking love, but
offering only emptiness andshame.
Yet in this very city the truelove of God has taken root.
Former temple prostitutes nowserve as deaconesses in our
assemblies.
Wealthy merchants who onceexploited the poor now share
(28:15):
their goods freely.
Roman soldiers who only knewthe language of violence now
speak words of peace andreconciliation.
His voice grows stronger as hespeaks and you could hear the
wonder that still fills him,even after years of witnessing
God's transforming power.
This is what we saw beginningin Thessalonica Not just
(28:40):
individual conversions, but thebirth of a new kind of community
, a foretaste of the kingdom ofheaven Breaking into this
present darkness.
Paul turns from the window andpicks up the sealed letter,
holding it as if it were made ofthe most precious gold.
When the Thessalonians receivethis, they will gather in
(29:03):
someone's home, perhaps inJason's house, if he has
recovered from his ordeal withthe city officials.
They will light their old lamps, just as we have done tonight,
and someone will break the sealand unroll the papyrus.
You can almost see it happeningthe eager faces gathered in the
(29:26):
flickering lamplight, the hushthat falls as the familiar words
of Paul's greeting are readaloud Paul, Silas and Timothy To
the Church of the Thessaloniansand God, the Father and the
Lord Jesus Christ, grace to youand peace.
Imagine their joy.
(29:48):
Paul continues his voice softwith emotion.
When they hear that we givethanks for them always, that we
remember their work of faith andlabor of love and steadfastness
of hope, these believers whohave faced mockery from their
neighbors, rejection from theirfamilies, economic hardship for
their faith, they will discoverthat their struggles have not
(30:11):
gone unnoticed, that theirfaithfulness has become a
testimony known throughout theRoman world.
The lamp flame flickers as agentle breeze moves through the
courtyard, casting dancingshadows on the walls.
In those shifting patterns oflight and darkness you seem to
(30:31):
see the faces of theThessalonian believers
Aristarchus with his youthfulenthusiasm.
Secundus, whose freedom inChrist Transformed not just his
own life but his entirehousehold.
The unnamed women whose voicesnow ring out in worship where
(30:52):
once they were silenced bycultural custom.
But this letter carries morethan just our personal affection
.
Paul says, beginning to paceslowly around the small
courtyard, his sandals make asoft shuffling sound against the
stone pavement worn smooth bycountless feet over the years.
(31:14):
It carries the very power ofthe gospel itself.
When they hear these words readaloud, the Holy Spirit will use
them to strengthen faith, toencourage hope, to kindle love.
He stops and looks directly atyou, his eyes, intense in the
(31:35):
lamplight.
You see, the gospel is not justa message to be believed, it is
a power to be experienced.
When we proclaim Christ andThessalonica, it came not only
in word but in power and in theHoly Spirit and with full
conviction.
And now, through this letter,that same power continues to
(32:01):
work, bridging the distancebetween us and them between then
and now.
The night air carries the soundof footsteps on the stone
streets below, perhaps a latetraveler seeking lodging or a
city watchman making his rounds.
The rhythmic sound reminds youof the countless journeys Paul
(32:25):
has made, the thousands of mileshe has walked to carry the
gospel to the ends of the earth.
His feet, scarred from beatingsand rough roads, have become
beautiful feet that bring goodnews of peace.
When I think of theThessalonians Paul says settling
back on his stool and gazinginto the lamp flame I see the
(32:47):
future of the Thessalonians,paul says settling back on his
stool and gazing into the lampflame.
I see the future of the churchNot a building made of stone and
marble, like the pagan temples,but a living temple made of
transformed hearts.
Not a priesthood limited to aselect few, but a royal
priesthood where every believerhas direct access to the throne
(33:08):
of grace, not a religion boundby geography or ethnicity, but a
faith that transcends all humanboundaries.
The scroll lies on the smallwooden table between you,
seeming to pulse with life inthe flickering light.
You realize that you have beenwitness to something
(33:31):
extraordinary not just thecomposition of a letter, but the
birth of scripture itself.
The words written in love andsealed with prayer will outlive
empires, survive persecutionsand continue to speak hope to
believers facing their darkesthours.
(33:52):
The Thessalonians chose us astheir example.
Paul reflects his voice growingthoughtful, but in truth they
have become an example to allwho believe.
Their faith has gone out notonly in Macedonia and Achaia,
but everywhere.
Their testimony speaks louderthan any sermon we could preach.
(34:15):
When people see how they haveturned from idols to serve the
living and true God, when theywitness their patience and
suffering and their hope inChrist's return, they will see
the gospel in action.
A dog barks somewhere in thedistance and the sound echoes
(34:35):
off the stone buildings beforefading into the night.
It reminds you of the hostilitythat believers often face the
opposition that drove Paul andhis companions from Thessalonica
, the persecution that continuesto test the faith of new
converts.
Yet here, in this quietcourtyard, surrounded by the
(34:57):
tools of honest labor and theevidence of faithful service,
there is peace.
This is what the world cannotunderstand.
Paul says, as if reading yourthoughts, they see our
sufferings and think we aredefeated.
They see us driven from city tocity and assume our message is
(35:18):
powerless.
But they do not see what we seeLives transformed, hearts
renewed, hope restored.
They do not hear what we hearthe songs of praise rising from
house churches across the empire, the prayers of thanksgiving
offered by those who have foundforgiveness, the testimonies of
(35:43):
former enemies who now call eachother brother and sister.
The Thessalonians wait for God'sSon from heaven.
Paul reflects, and so do we all.
But while we wait, we work,while we hope, we love, while we
anticipate His return, wecontinue the mission he has
(36:05):
given us, his return.
We continue the mission he hasgiven us to make disciples of
all nations, to be his witnessesto the ends of the earth.
Paul carefully places the sealedletter in a leather pouch,
protecting it from moisture anddamage.
The simple scroll, written in ahumble courtyard by the light
(36:25):
of a single oil lamp, carrieswithin it the power to transform
lives, to build churches, toencourage saints and to confound
the wisdom of this world.
Come, Paul says, rising andextending his hand to you.
Let us pray for those who willreceive this letter, for the
(36:47):
messenger who will carry it andfor all those who will hear its
words in the generations to come.
As you kneel together in theflickering lamplight, surrounded
by the tools of tent making andthe sense of the Mediterranean
night, you realize that you havebeen privileged to witness
history in the making.
(37:08):
The words that Paul has writtenwill outlive the Roman Empire,
will survive the fall ofkingdoms, will speak hope to
believers facing trials thathave not yet been imagined.
And in this moment, as Paul'svoice rises in prayer for the
Thessalonians and for all whowill follow in their footsteps,
(37:32):
you understand that the gospelis not just ancient history but
living reality, as fresh andpowerful today as it was on that
night when it was firstcommitted to papyrus in a quiet
courtyard in Corinth.
The echo of faith that began inThessalonica continues to
(37:55):
reverberate across time and youhave been witness to its eternal
song.
Thank you for joining me todayas we journeyed through the
First Epistle of Paul to theThessalonians 1.
I pray that you carry thesereflections with you into your
(38:17):
day, into your week and that youfind strength in knowing God is
with you in every trial, everytemptation and every step of
obedience.
If this time in God's word hasencouraged you, take a moment to
share it with someone who mightneed it, and be sure to join me
next time as we continuewalking through the scriptures,
(38:39):
learning, growing and stayingfaithful in the field of life.
Until next time, may you findpeace in the quiet, trust in
God's call, and rest in Hisunchanging love.
This is In the Field AudioBible, where we Listen to the
Bible One Chapter at a Time.
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