Footsteps #92

While Thessalonica was quite a bit better off than Jerusalem, Roman rule and occupation inevitably created significant stresses in local communities. Foreign occupation always brings taxes being siphoned of local produce to support the larger needs of the empire. These stresses were particularly hard on the poor and the working classes. As decades passed, these Thessalonians became increasingly frustrated and longed for a change in the situation. 

It is not difficult, therefore, to see why, when the gospel came to Thessalonica, many non-Jews of the city responded positively. The Romans had also introduced a spectrum of cultic worship to the already pagan environment. Paul’s Messianic approach in the synagogue and beyond resonated with their spiritual longings. 

When the gospel came to Thessalonica, the working classes of the city were ready for it, and they responded in large numbers. They were also ready for extreme interpretations of the gospel. Cult worship had enshrined in the people a spirit of rebellion against authority that may have been the source of the disorderly conduct that Paul addresses in his two letters to them (see 1 Thess. 4:11, 12; 5:14; 2 Thess. 3:6, 7, 11). 

The gospel has the greatest impact when it impacts the needs, hopes, and dreams of the audience. But while the Holy Spirit can provide bridges for the gospel, this normally happens as a result of much listening and prayerful experimentation on the part of those witnessing. Experience also teaches us that people are most open to the gospel in times of change. Among the changes that open people to new ideas are economic turmoil, political strife, war, weddings, divorce, dislocation (moving from one place to another), health challenges, and the death of loved ones. The Thessalonians had experienced their fair share of change and dislocation, and this helped the gospel to take root. People become weary of pageants and fables and long for something that satisfies the heart. Paul’s words of prophetic fulfilment in Jesus kindled hope in the hearts of thousands in the Gentile world. For the Thessalonians, there was also hope in the grand consummation. The word “Thessalonian” means,  “those who win the victory.