Hi friends and welcome to our next book in Paul's writings - 1 Thessalonians. 1 Thessalonians is one of the letters that is undisputed as authentic to Paul and is possibly the first letter ever written by Paul (around 50 CE, though some consider Galatians as first.) In any case, it will be helpful to place yourself in the year 50 CE and in the mindset of a passionate and still Zealous Paul when reading this. Paul's writing can be al little aggressive towards the Jews, but keep in mind this is still early in the days of Paul's conversion and acceptance of gentiles to the faith. So, Paul is merely pushing back against his contemporaries to become more inclusive rather than being hateful or shameful. What about this letter will stick out to you? Always love to read your thoughts.
Scripture to Read
Audio Bible
Questions to Consider
How has witnessing someone else's faith encouraged your own?
Paul reveals that a sign of a apostle of Christ does not just thank God but their peers as well. How do you express gratitude and how often?
No commentary today because we've got an overview video from Bible Project. Woo! Let's check it out and see what it has to offer.
Praying the Hymns
Our prayer for today is from hymn 325 - Hail, Thou Once Despised Jesus. The words to this seem fitting for the end of our reading today when Paul is talking about Jesus relationship with his peers who had him killed. Have you ever 'crucified' Christ by your actions or words? Could this song be a type of penance?
1. Hail, thou once despised Jesus!
Hail, thou Galilean King!
Thou didst suffer to release us;
thou didst free salvation bring.
Hail, thou universal Savior,
who hast borne our sin and shame!
By thy merits we find favor;
life is given through thy name.
2. Paschal Lamb, by God appointed,
all our sins on thee were laid;
by almighty love anointed,
thou hast full atonement made.
Every sin may be forgiven
through the virtue of thy blood;
opened is the gate of heaven,
reconciled are we with God.
3. Jesus, hail! enthroned in glory,
there forever to abide;
all the heavenly hosts adore thee,
seated at thy Father's side.
There for sinners thou art pleading;
there thou dost our place prepare;
thou for saints art interceding
till in glory they appear.
4. Worship, honor, power, and blessing Christ is worthy to receive; loudest praises, without ceasing, right it is for us to give. Help, ye bright angelic spirits, bring your sweetest, noblest lays; help to sing of Jesus' merits, help to chant Emmanuel's praise!