(Faculty of Theology, University of the Free State, 2003) De Villiers, P. G. R.
English: Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians is often regarded as providing pastoral support
to them in a time of anxiety and stress. Focussing on the introductory part of the
thanksgiving in 1 Thessalonians 1:2-5, this article investigates facets of the text that
are neglected because of this reading. It analyses certain qualities ascribed to the Thessalonian
believers in the first part of the thanksgiving. The qualities are first of all
investigated in their general religious sense and, secondly, in terms of their results. In
a concluding section the function of this portrait is spelled out.