Almost immediately after its inception, the nascent community of believers in Yeshua at Thessaloniki was subjected to unrelenting opposition and persecution. They were a resilient group whose hope was that Yeshua would imminently relieve and rescue them from their distress. The day·of their deliverance would occur at the time of the Parousia which was the beginning phase of the Day of the Lord. Due to the delay of that Day their hope was diminishing, and they became discouraged and dismayed. Sha'ul wrote to the Thessalonians to restore their hope, encourage their perseverance, and clarify any misunderstandings regarding the timing and, details concerning the Day of the Lord.
Paperback, 6 x 9 - 132 pages.
This book is intelligent, accurate, succinct, faithful to the text, insightful, deep, and sheds light on difficult passages that have eluded correct and faithful interpretation worthy of its Jewish Author, Rabbi Sha 'ul (the Apostle Paul). The organization of his commentary allows readers at different stages of study to progress quickly through the text avoiding losing any of the flow. Thus, both casual readers and serious researcher's needs are equally met by the authors exposition. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the manuscript and know that many others will, as well.
—Rabbi A. Antonio Arroyo, PhD, Kol Simcha ,Messianic Congregation, Gainesville, Florida
When one enters the world and word of the Thessalonian correspondences one is engaging (and hopefully being engaged by) Rabbi Sha'ul's first correspondences. What you have in hand is actually the first, extant, official, New(er) Testament document written. This commentary, on it is written by someone who indeed is capable of offering a cogent, Messianic Jewish telling of it. One of our more capable scholars, Dr. Yosef Koelner takes readers to and through the Thessalonian world. A great read for those wanting to examine biblical texts in their context and who appreciate looking at the good news through the eyes of the Jews.
—Prof. Jeffrey Seif, Executive Director, Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations
Dr. Yosef Koelner was born in Chicago, raised in an Orthodox Jewish home. His extended family is among the Chalutzim (Pioneers), early settlers of Israel. After obtaining a BA in Spanish and Latin American Studies from Illinois State University; a Master of Ministry with a concentration in Jewish studies from Messiah Biblical University, a MA in Jewish Studies from Gratz College, he earned a Doctor of Practical Ministry. His ministry spans four decades. Fluent in Spanish, he travels extensively throughout Latin America presenting seminars on Bible and Jewish subjects.