To Walk and to Please God: A Theology of 1 and 2 Thessalonians

By Andrew Malone, Series edited by Thomas R. Schreiner, Brian S. Rosner

... Show All

An Introduction to the Theology and Themes of 1 and 2 Thessalonians 

Like Paul’s other early churches, Thessalonica experienced great societal pressure to conform to the surrounding culture. But amid persecution, the Thessalonians remained faithful to their call to holiness as they patiently awaited Jesus’s return. These epistles provide a positive and practical example of what Christians should believe and how they should behave today. 

In this volume of the New Testament Theology series, author Andrew Malone explores 1 and 2 Thessalonians to highlight the life cycle of Christian discipleship—turning away from idols, trusting in the gospel message, having hope that the Lord will return, and continually pleasing the one true God until that return. Through clear and engaging theological examinations, Malone expounds on predominant themes—enhancing gospel reputation, persistence in the face of opposition, Christian life within an unbelieving society, and more—explaining how they are relevant for the church today.

  • Part of the New Testament Theology Series: Other volumes include Ministry in the New RealmUnited to Christ, Walking in the Spirit; and more 
  • Ideal for Church Leaders: A great discipleship resource and tool for modeling after a healthy church 
  • Written by Andrew Malone: Author and lecturer in biblical studies at Ridley College

Read Chapter 1


Author:

Andrew Malone

Andrew S. Malone (ThD, Ridley College) is lecturer in biblical studies at Ridley College in Australia. He is the author of God’s Mediators: A Biblical Theology of Priesthood and Knowing Jesus in the Old Testament? A Fresh Look at Christophanies.

Product Details

Category: Biblical Studies
Theology
Format: Paperback
Page Count: 168
Size: 5.5 in x 8.5 in
Weight: 7.07 ounces
ISBN-10: 1-4335-7831-X
ISBN-13: 978-1-4335-7831-1
ISBN-UPC: 9781433578311
Case Quantity: 72
Published: June 25, 2024

Table of Contents

List of Illustrations
Series Preface
Acknowledgments
Abbreviations
Introduction: A Church in Good Standing
 
Chapter 1: You Turned to God: Salvation and the Start of the Christian Journey
Chapter 2: To Walk and to Please God: Christian Living between Jesus's First and Second Comings
Chapter 3: Until the Coming of the Lord: The End of (Current) Earthly Life 
Chapter 4: Delighted to Share Our Lives as Well: The Ministries of Leaders and Church Members
Chapter 5: The Living and True God: The Triune God Who Commences, Continues, and Completes the Journey
 
Epilogue: Excel Still More
Recommended Resources
General Index
Scripture Index 

Endorsements

“Andrew Malone has synthesized the contents of the apostle Paul’s Thessalonian letters, offering a coherent narrative of salvation that traces the life of the believer from one’s turn to God to the return of Christ. With an eye to application both in pastoral ministry and in everyday life, this is a useful resource for all who wish to appropriate the letters of Paul as a word for today.”
Timothy Brookins, Professor of Early Christianity, Houston Christian University

“If Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians are often on the back burner of our reading lists, Andrew Malone clearly demonstrates why they should move up the pecking order. In a pastorally sensitive way, Malone unpacks Paul’s gospel language, his images of salvation, and his call to walk in holiness as we seek to please God between the ‘now’ and the ‘not yet’ of Christ’s sure and certain return. I warmly commend this little book to the church.”
Trevor J. Burke, Former Professor of Bible, Moody Bible Institute; visiting lecturer; author, Adopted into God’s Family: Exploring a Pauline Metaphor