Paul’s 1st Epistle to the Thessalonians was the earliest compositions of the New Testament, written around 51 A.D., nearly 20 years before Mark’s gospel was composed. The letter was written at the beginning of what is known as Paul’s second missionary journey, in which he conveys his understanding of his mission.

• What does it mean to be a slave to Christ?
• When the Risen Christ has become the center of your life, how is that displayed in your ordinary experience?