To Walk and to Please God: A Theology 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.

Publisher: Crossway
Type: Paperback
ISBN: 9781433578311

______________

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.

______________

“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 Metapho