1 Thessalonians 1:3–5: A Few Observations

Yesterday, I noted briefly the nature of Paul’s thanksgiving in 1 Thessalonians 1:2. Today, I want to offer a few observations about the rest of the thanksgiving, namely vv. 3–5. We begin by noting that a key component of Paul’s thanksgiving is his continual remembrance of the manifestation of Christian virtue (faith, love, hope) in the lives of the Thessalonians (v. 3; cf. 5:8). Another observation is the Trinitarian character of the thanksgiving with the Father and Son mentioned in v. 3 and the Holy Spirit noted in v. 5. A third observation is the soteriological character of the thanksgiving. We see election in v. 4, proclamation in v. 5a, and calling in v. 5b. Finally, one observes a foreshadowing element in the closing statement: “You know how we lived among you for your sake.” This previews the discussion of Paul’s ministry and character that will dominate chapter 2.

The Heart of the Old Testament

I have recently begun reading Ronald Youngblood's The Heart of the Old Testament: A Survey of Key Theological Themes, 2nd ed. (Grand Rapids: Baker, 1998). Youngblood identifies and discusses the following nine themes that he believes is the heart of the Old Testament.

1. Monotheism
2. Sovereignty
3. Election
4. Covenant
5. Theocracy
6, Law
7. Sacrifice
8. Faith
9. Redemption