In | Workbook: Diversity and Layers in Paul’s Letters, Part 2

As we know, at least some of the Thessalonians’ problems with work stemmed from their conviction that the second coming of Jesus was imminent. Many Christians at that time believed the end of the world was near, and Paul’s message in 1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 appears to confirm that expectation. In Philippians 3:10, on the other hand, Paul looks forward to death and resurrection. What do we do with this diversity in Paul’s teaching?

The simplest explanation for this difference is that Paul did not know when Jesus was coming back. He was not attempting to project the future. His concern was simply that believers would be ready when Jesus did come back, whenever that was. And while we probably read the “we” in Paul’s statement as referring to exact persons in his Thessalonian audience, we might better read this pronoun as referring to Christians as a community that stretches through the ages. In Paul’s mind, all believers, from the first century to today, to the centuries to come, are all a part of one body and communion waiting for Christ’s return.