The Thessalonian believers were young in the faith, confused about death and Christ’s return, and grieving without the full understanding of resurrection hope. Paul writes to reassure them that those who have died in Christ will rise first when Jesus returns, and together with the living, all believers will be united with the Lord forever. This promise of resurrection and eternal life in Christ brings comfort, calls us to live holy lives now, and anchors us in the blessed hope of His glorious return.