Footsteps #91

Acts.18:1-18 contains two major intersections with secular history. The first is the expulsion of the Jews from Rome during the reign of Claudius (Acts.18:2). Information from extra-biblical sources locates this event in AD 49. The other major intersection is the mention of the proconsul Gallio (Acts.18:12). Because proconsuls in Corinth were appointed for one-year terms, information from inscriptions and other data accurately dates Gallio’s term of office to AD 50-51. Critical scholars often doubt the historicity of the book of Acts, but there are many casual references such as these that confirm its picture of history. 

In Thessalonians, Paul was responding to information brought to him by Timothy when he arrived in Corinth from Thessalonica(1Thess.3:5-6). 1Thess.2:17-3:10 shows his emotional attachment to the believers he had to leave behind. This delightful interlude shows he was an intensely relational evangelist along the lines of the Great Commission, which places primary emphasis on making disciples (Matt.28:19-20). 

Paul had been afraid that somehow satan might lure them away from their original convictions. But he was comforted tremendously when Timothy reported that they were standing firm in the faith. 

Timothy’s report brings Paul an intense experience of joy in his prayers to God. But his present joy does not crush his intense longing to see them face to face and to complete their education in the Christian walk. He had sent Timothy and then engages the Thessalonians by letter. Meaningful evangelism must not settle for mere acceptance of Christian beliefs. The whole life; physical, mental, and emotional, is involved in the Christian faith.  

It would also be beneficial for us to note what history, literature, and archaeology tell us about Thessalonica. This will give us an historical context. 

In 168BC the Thessalonians had invited Rome to protect them from their enemies in a civil war. For joining with Rome, they were rewarded by being allowed to govern themselves. It became a free city within the empire, which meant that it could largely control its own internal issues and destiny.  This benefited the wealthy and powerful, who became pro-Rome but did not benefit the working classes.