Our Resurrection Hope is Not Rapture

by Michael · Published January 4, 2019 · Updated February 18, 2020

Our Resurrection Hope is Not Rapture by David O. Ogaga of Nigeria – ISBN: 978-1-792951688 :First of all, the subject of the book of Thessalonians is an address to a congregation experiencing intense persecution (1 Thessalonians 2:14). Upon Paul’s preaching in this city, many believed, which caused the fanatical Jews to stir up mob violence against him and Jason who housed him. Through a tight security Jason was saved while the brethren sent Paul away secretly in the night to Berea (Acts 17:1-10). Aside of the great persecution that the church went through (1Theslonians.2:14), they also experienced great sorrow over the loss of a number of their brethren through death (1Thesalonians 4:13).

In order for Paul to strengthen them, he sent Timothy there after his failure to go there twice (1Thesalonians 2:17,-3:3). Upon receiving the encouraging report of Timothy about the brethren, Paul rejoiced (1 Thes.3:6-10). But on a more serious note, they needed further encouragement and strengthening, therefore he had to commend them (1 Thessalonians 1:2-10, 2:14; 3:6-10), that they may follow the course approved by God (1 Thessalonians 4:1,2), abstain from fornication (1 Thessalonians.4:3-8), etc; But above all, that they be comforted with THE RESURRECTION HOPE “But I would not, have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning THEM WHICH ARE ASLEEP, THAT YE SORROW NOT, even as others which have no HOPE—“ 1 Thessalonians.4:13-18.