Author’s preface to the first edition
Author’s preface to the first edition
The epistles to the Thessalonians are all too little studied today. It may be true that they lack the theological profundity of Romans and the exciting controversy of Galatians; but nevertheless their place in Scripture is an important one. No other writing of the great apostle provides a greater insight into his missionary methods and message. Here we see Paul the missionary and Paul the pastor, faithfully proclaiming the gospel of God, concerned for the welfare of his converts, scolding them, praising them, guiding them, exhorting them, teaching them; thrilled with their progress, disappointed with their slowness. Though the continuous exposition of great doctrines is not a characteristic of the Thessalonian writings, yet it is fascinating to see how most, if not all, of the great Pauline doctrines are present, either by implication or direct mention. When we consider the undoubtedly early date of these letters this is a fact of importance in the history of Christian thought.
Especially important is the teaching of these epistles on eschatology; and in view of the revival of interest in this doctrine in recent times it is imperative that we understand and appreciate the contribution of Thessalonians to this difficult subject. It is my earnest hope that this short commentary may help to direct the attention of Christian people to the importance of these epistles and the relevance of their message for the men of today.
Every commentator, I suppose, bases his work on that of his predecessors, and in this I am certainly no exception. I have learned much from those who have written on these epistles before me, and cannot hope to have acknowledged all my indebtednesses. I have found particularly helpful the commentaries by Milligan, Frame (I.C.C.), Denney (Expositor’s Bible), Findlay (who wrote two commentaries, one in the Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges, and the other in the Cambridge Greek Testament series), and Neil (Moffatt New Testament Commentary), while Lightfoot’s Notes on Epistles of St Paul is a veritable treasure house.
Finally may I express my indebtedness to a number of my friends who have interested themselves in this project and made helpful suggestions. Especially am I indebted to the Very Rev. Dr S. Barton Babbage, the Rev. David Livingstone, and Mr I. Siggins, who read the typescript, and suggested many improvements.
Leon Morris