Paul writes this letter “to the [entire] church of the Thessalonians” - not just to a small subset within the church (the pastor, the leaders, etc.).  (1:1)  Why is that important?  What does that detail tell us about the office of church member, and why it is so significant?

Paul begins his letter with the words “grace” and “peace”.  (1:2)  What do these words mean, respectively?  Why do you think that Paul mentions them together in this way?  How do they relate to (and depend upon) one another?

What is Paul thankful for?  (1:3-4)  Why?

What does it meant to have a faith that is growing?  (1:3)  Why is this important for us, as Christians?  How can we be intentional to cultivate this in our lives?

What does it mean for us, as Christians, to love one another?  (1:3)  Why is this such an important responsibility?  How can we be intentional to cultivate this in our lives?

Elsewhere in Scripture, Paul refers to “boasting” in a negative context.  (Romans 3:27, Ephesians 2:8-9, James 4:16)  But he seems to be doing it here.  (1:4)  Why is that?  What is the difference between this kind of boasting, and the boasting that is condemned elsewhere in the Bible?  (See also 1 Corinthians 1:26-31, Galatians 6:14)  Are there ever situations where boasting is acceptable, or even good?  Or is boasting something that we should avoid entirely?

What kinds of afflictions and persecutions were the Thessalonians experiencing?  (1:4)  (See also Acts 17:1-9.)

What are some ways that God has given us to persevere through suffering in our lives?  If you are not currently experiencing (acute) suffering, what are some ways that you can be preparing yourself, and your soul, so that you will be ready, and able to persevere, when you experience suffering in the future?

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