The Thessalonian epistles give us relevant glimpses of the churches earliest times. When looking at the early church many contemporary questions arise such as 'What is true Gospel?' 'How do you plant a church?' These are questions that exercise our modern church just as much as the historic Thessalonian one.
Paul's first letter was written to encourage and reassure the Christians in Thessolonica. He gives thanks for their faith and love; reminds them of his example on godly living and answers questions about the return of Christ. In his second letter we find Paul still dealing with confusion over the return of Christ, especially with those that believed that the Lord's coming had already arrived. He also shows that evil and wickedness will reach a crescendo under the leadership of a mysterious figure called 'the wicked one'. He tells them to remain steady in all that they have learnt.
These timeless letters provide up-to-date answers from a consecrated church, shepherded by godly men devoted to God and to his word.
Mayhue's skill in interpreting the text accurately but with humour and modern parallels comes through in this fascinating commentary.
Focus on the Bible commentaries are popular level commentaries especially useful for pastors and small group leaders. They are also useful for personal devotions and spiritual growth. The series holds to the inerrancy of scripture and the uniqueness of Christ in salvation.
Endorsements
"Verse by verse he expounds the epistles with impeccable precision. Having been thus immersed in these epistles, the reader will be challenged to live out their teachings. That is the ultimate compliment that can be paid to any commentary." - William D. Barrick, Professor of Old Testament; The Master's Seminary, Sun Valley, California
"It is loaded with Scripture cross-references. The addition of 33 'overviews' represents a wonderful listing of pertinent key Biblical subjects and their references, along with succint comments." - Joan Osborne
"... lucid exposition of the Thessalonian epistles is merely the tip of a very deep iceberg of information. The author transports us into the past, propels us into the future, and challenges us for the present. In addition Mayhue's 33 overviews should place this work on the desk of any student of scripture." - W. Gary Phillips, Senior Pastor, Signal Mountain Bible Church, Signal Mountain, Tennessee
Dr. Richard Mayhue is Dean of the The Master’s Seminary in Sun Valley, California, Senior Vice-President and Provost of The Master’s College, writer, and international speaker.