Cover version or sequel?

2 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians

1 THESSALONIANS SAME CONTENT

AND FORMAT

2 THESSALONIANSTONE CHANGES

Paul, Silas, and Timothy

Judgment and destruction coming

Idlers to be admonished

All should hear the letter

Paul, Silas and Timothy

Letter gleefully announces destruction

Idlers to be denied food

All should obey the letter

IS PAUL RESTATING HIS OWN MATERIAL, ORDOES SOMEONE ELSE RESHAPE 1 THESSALONIANS?

Community founded by Paul, 48–51 CE Paul left community, sent 1

Thessalonians with Timothy A new crisis arises:

The day of the Lord has arrived!• Paul responds with a second letter from

Corinth• 2 Thess. 2:2• Between 50 and 53 CE

If Paul Wrote 2 Thessalonians . . .If Paul Wrote 2 Thessalonians . . .

Community founded by Paul, 48–51 CE Paul left community, sent 1

Thessalonians with Timothy in 49-52 CE

After Paul’s death in 64 (ca. 80s CE)• Unknown Christian writes letter from Paul• Summarizes later Christian views on second

coming of Christ• Sends 2 Thessalonians empire-wide

Alternative Scenario . . .Alternative Scenario . . .

Judgment is certain• Jesus, angels, flames• Judgment of others soothes community suffering

Coming of the “Lawless One” (2:3)• Someone restrains lawless one• This restraint is unique to 2 Thessalonians

Problem of idleness• Some believers take advantage of free meal• Or rich believers don’t need to work, busybodies

Christians are living at start of end times

Theological ThemesTheological Themes

Salutation and thanksgiving (1:1–4) God’s vengeance on oppressors (1:5–12) Teaching (2:1–3:5)

• Day of the Lord: correction of expectation• Hold fast to Paul’s teaching• Blessings and prayers for Thessalonians

Problem of idleness (3:6–15)• Follow Paul’s example of working• Do not eat with idle believers

Benedictions (3:16–18)

OutlineOutline