1 Thessalonians 1:10

and to await His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead--Jesus our deliverer from the coming wrath.

Study Bible

and to await
The Greek word used here is "anamenein," which conveys a sense of eager anticipation and active waiting. This is not a passive waiting but a hopeful expectation of Christ's return. In the early church, believers lived with the constant expectation that Jesus could return at any moment, which influenced their daily lives and decisions. This anticipation is a call for Christians today to live with a sense of urgency and readiness, reflecting a life that is aligned with the teachings of Christ.

His Son
This phrase emphasizes the divine relationship between God the Father and Jesus Christ. The term "Son" signifies not only a familial relationship but also the unique and eternal nature of Jesus as the second person of the Trinity. In the historical context, this was a profound declaration of Jesus' divinity, countering any claims that reduced Him to merely a prophet or teacher. For believers, acknowledging Jesus as God's Son is central to the Christian faith, affirming His authority and role in salvation.

from heaven
The phrase "from heaven" indicates the divine origin and authority of Jesus. Heaven is depicted as the dwelling place of God, and Jesus' return from heaven signifies His divine mission and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan. This also serves as a reminder of the transcendence and sovereignty of God, who operates beyond the earthly realm. For Christians, this reinforces the hope and assurance that Jesus will return to establish His kingdom fully.

whom He raised from the dead
The resurrection is a cornerstone of Christian belief, and this phrase underscores its significance. The Greek word "egeiren" (raised) highlights the power of God in overcoming death, affirming Jesus' victory over sin and the grave. Historically, the resurrection was a pivotal event that transformed the disciples and fueled the spread of Christianity. It assures believers of their own future resurrection and eternal life, providing hope and motivation to live faithfully.

Jesus
The name "Jesus" is derived from the Hebrew "Yeshua," meaning "Yahweh is salvation." This name encapsulates His mission and purpose: to save humanity from sin. In the context of this verse, it is a reminder of the personal and relational aspect of salvation. Jesus is not a distant figure but a Savior who is intimately involved in the lives of His followers, offering grace and redemption.

our deliverer
The term "deliverer" (Greek: "rhuomenon") conveys the idea of rescue and salvation. It reflects Jesus' role in saving believers from sin and its consequences. In the historical context, deliverance was a powerful concept, often associated with liberation from physical or spiritual bondage. For Christians, Jesus as deliverer means freedom from the power of sin and assurance of eternal life, encouraging a life of gratitude and service.

from the coming wrath
This phrase refers to the eschatological judgment that is to come upon the world. The "wrath" of God is a theme throughout Scripture, representing His righteous judgment against sin. In the early church, this was a sobering reminder of the reality of divine justice. For believers, being delivered from this wrath through Jesus is a profound expression of God's mercy and grace, motivating them to share the gospel and live in a way that honors God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The central figure of Christianity, recognized as the Son of God, who was raised from the dead and is awaited by believers for His return.

2. Thessalonica
A city in Macedonia where Paul established a church. The Thessalonians were the recipients of this letter.

3. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter, who wrote to encourage and instruct the Thessalonian believers.

4. The Coming Wrath
Refers to the future judgment of God upon the world, from which believers are delivered through Jesus.

5. Resurrection
The event of Jesus being raised from the dead, affirming His divinity and the hope of eternal life for believers.

Teaching Points

Hope in the Return of Christ
Believers are called to live with an expectant hope for Jesus' return, which should influence their daily lives and priorities.

Assurance of Deliverance
The resurrection of Jesus is the assurance of our deliverance from God's wrath, providing peace and confidence in our salvation.

Living in Light of Eternity
Understanding the reality of the coming wrath should motivate believers to live holy and godly lives, sharing the gospel with urgency.

Faith in the Resurrection
The resurrection is central to Christian faith, affirming Jesus' victory over death and the promise of eternal life for believers.

Encouragement in Persecution
The Thessalonians faced persecution, yet their hope in Christ's return provided strength and encouragement, a model for believers today.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the promise of Jesus' return influence your daily decisions and priorities?

2. In what ways can the assurance of deliverance from wrath provide peace in times of uncertainty or fear?

3. How does the resurrection of Jesus serve as a foundation for your faith and hope?

4. What practical steps can you take to live in light of eternity and share the gospel with others?

5. How can the example of the Thessalonians' faith and hope in persecution encourage you in your own challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 1:11
This verse speaks of Jesus' ascension and the promise of His return, which aligns with the Thessalonians' anticipation of His coming.

Romans 5:9
Discusses being saved from God's wrath through Jesus, paralleling the deliverance mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 1:10.

1 Corinthians 15:20-23
Talks about Christ's resurrection as the firstfruits, which is foundational to the hope expressed in 1 Thessalonians 1:10.

John 3:36
Contrasts belief in the Son with the wrath of God, emphasizing the deliverance available through faith in Jesus.

Revelation 3:10
Promises protection from the hour of trial, similar to the deliverance from wrath mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 1:10.