The letters to the Thessalonians are a hidden gem of the New Testament. Paul’s letters to the church in Thessalonica are often considered two of the less important of his letters, but they were written to an important city and a church facing important issues. In addition to addressing the issue of Christ’s return and the problem of people who refused to work, these letters model a truly loving relationship between a pastor and a congregation. In 1 & 2 Thessalonians Verse by Verse, respected New Testament scholar Grant R. Osborne shows readers that in a culture demanding that everyone participate in the worship of the Roman Empire’s gods, the Thessalonians desperately needed resources that would help them withstand the pressure to conform. These letters provide us with a thrilling example of affection among believers in extremely hard times and help us see how that affection can make severe trials bearable. The Osborne New Testament Commentaries, by respected professor and author Grant R. Osborne, are for people seeking a straightforward explanation of the text in its context, avoiding either oversimplification or technical complexity. Osborne brings out the riches of the New Testament, making each book accessible for pastors and all who consider themselves students of Scripture.
