From Hope to Despair in Thessalonica: Situating 1 and 2 Thessalonians

by Colin R. Nicholl

• ISBN13: 9780521073073
• ISBN10: 0521073073
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2008-09-04
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Summary

This ground-breaking analysis cuts to the heart of the critical debate surrounding the two Thessalonian Epistles. Colin R. Nicholl examines the situations giving rise to each Letter with a view to determining how the two relate historically. His book presents an original and compelling hypothesis, arguing that reflected in the Letters are two stages of a single crisis plaguing a recently-formed Greek Church, which spiralled from hope into despair on account of confusion about 'the end'. In addition to making a fresh case for the authenticity of 2 Thessalonians and resolving one of the most difficult problems in the Bible - the identity of 'the Restrainer' - this monograph is the most up-to-date and comprehensive analysis of the Thessalonian Epistles available today. It will provide an indispensable resource for scholars and pastors interested in the Thessalonian correspondence.

Table of Contents

Preface

Abbreviations

Introduction

Grieving without hope

Anxious and fearful

In need of reassurance

Shaken and terrified

Perseverance under threat

Explaining the problem of 'idleness' and the conclusion: the situation underlying 2 Thess. 3:6-15 and 3:16-18

Synthesis and conclusion

Appendix: Michael, the restrainer removed (2 Thess. 2:6-7)

Bibliography

Table of Contents provided by Publisher. All Rights Reserved.