1 Thessalonians 2:15

who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and drove us out as well. They are displeasing to God and hostile to all men,

Study Bible

who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets
This phrase highlights the continuity of opposition faced by God's messengers throughout history. The reference to the killing of Jesus points to the crucifixion, a central event in Christian theology, where Jesus, the Messiah, was rejected and executed by the religious leaders and Roman authorities. This act is seen as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant. The mention of "their own prophets" connects to the historical pattern of Israel rejecting and persecuting prophets sent by God, as seen in the cases of Elijah (1 Kings 19:10) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 26:20-23). This pattern underscores the persistent resistance to divine messages and messengers.

and drove us out as well
This phrase refers to the persecution faced by Paul and his companions, who were often expelled from cities due to their preaching of the Gospel. In Acts 17:5-10, we see an example of this in Thessalonica, where Paul and Silas were forced to leave due to opposition from the Jewish leaders. This expulsion is part of the broader theme of apostolic suffering and perseverance in the face of hostility, as seen throughout the Acts of the Apostles. It also reflects the early Christian experience of being marginalized and rejected by both Jewish and Gentile communities.

They are displeasing to God
This statement indicates a divine judgment on those who oppose God's work and His messengers. The displeasure of God is a serious matter, as it implies a rejection of His will and purposes. Throughout the Bible, God's displeasure is often linked to disobedience and rebellion, as seen in the stories of Israel's wilderness wanderings (Numbers 14:11) and the rejection of God's commandments (Deuteronomy 9:7). This phrase serves as a warning against resisting God's plans and highlights the importance of aligning with His purposes.

and hostile to all men
This phrase suggests that the opposition faced by Paul and other early Christians was not only against them but was also detrimental to humanity as a whole. By rejecting the Gospel, which is the message of salvation and reconciliation, these opponents were acting against the best interests of all people. The hostility towards the Gospel is seen as a barrier to the spread of God's love and truth, which is intended for all nations (Matthew 28:19). This phrase underscores the universal scope of the Gospel and the tragic consequences of opposing it.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Lord Jesus
Central figure of Christianity, whose crucifixion is referenced here as a pivotal event in salvation history.

2. The Prophets
Refers to the Old Testament prophets who were often persecuted and killed for delivering God's messages.

3. Paul and His Companions
The apostles, including Paul, who faced persecution and were driven out by those opposed to their message.

4. The Jewish Leaders
Those who opposed Jesus and the early Christian message, often seen as responsible for the persecution of prophets and apostles.

5. Thessalonica
The city where the Thessalonian church was located, and where Paul faced opposition during his missionary journey.

Teaching Points

Persecution of God's Messengers
Throughout history, God's messengers have faced persecution. This should not surprise us, as it is a pattern seen in both the Old and New Testaments.

Faithfulness in the Face of Opposition
Like Paul and the prophets, believers are called to remain faithful even when facing hostility. Our commitment to the truth should not waver due to external pressures.

Understanding Hostility
Recognize that hostility towards the Gospel is often rooted in spiritual opposition. This understanding can help us respond with grace and perseverance.

God's Displeasure with Hostility
The passage reminds us that those who oppose God's work are displeasing to Him. This should encourage us to align ourselves with God's purposes and not be swayed by societal pressures.

The Role of Suffering in the Christian Life
Suffering for the sake of the Gospel is part of the Christian experience. It can serve to strengthen our faith and witness to others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical persecution of prophets and apostles inform our understanding of current opposition to the Gospel?

2. In what ways can we remain faithful to our calling in the face of hostility, as Paul and his companions did?

3. How can understanding the spiritual roots of hostility help us respond to opposition with grace?

4. What are some practical ways we can align ourselves with God's purposes, especially when facing societal pressures?

5. How can the experiences of suffering for the Gospel strengthen our faith and witness to others, according to other scriptures like Romans 5:3-5?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 7:52
Stephen's speech before his martyrdom, where he accuses the Jewish leaders of betraying and murdering the prophets, similar to Paul's accusation in 1 Thessalonians 2:15.

Matthew 23:37
Jesus laments over Jerusalem, highlighting the city's history of killing prophets, which aligns with Paul's statement.

John 15:18-21
Jesus warns His disciples about the world's hatred, which connects to the hostility Paul and his companions faced.

Hebrews 11:36-38
Describes the persecution of prophets and faithful believers, echoing the suffering mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 2:15.

Romans 11:3
Paul references Elijah's complaint about Israel killing the prophets, showing a historical pattern of opposition to God's messengers.