Forced out of Thessalonica by the Jews for his effective ministry, Paul wrote to encourage and teach new believers there. His first letter, according to John Calvin, contains a brief definition of true Christianity. It is a faith that is full of vigor, employing itself in the labors of love, intent upon the hope of the manifestation of Christ, despising everything else, and armed with an endurance that rises above the weariness of time and worldly temptations. Paul’s second epistle then expands upon and clarifies some of his teachings from the first letter. John Calvin delves into the rich meaning of Paul’s encouraging words. He brings insight into the historical church, as well as instructing today’s pastors on maintaining a healthy church and inspiring believers to grow in their daily walk.
“For although not all worship idols, all are nevertheless addicted to idolatry and are immersed in blindness and madness” (Page 22)
“I reckon the effect to be in the root of faith rather than in its fruits—‘a rare energy of faith has shown itself powerfully in you.’” (Page 18)
“From this we may gather a brief definition of true Christianity—it is a faith that is living and full of vigor, so that it spares no labor when assistance is to be given to one’s neighbors. On the contrary, all the pious employ themselves diligently in offices of love and lay out their efforts so that, intent upon the hope of the manifestation of Christ, they despise everything else and, armed with endurance, rise above the wearisomeness of length of time as well as above all the temptations of the world.” (Page 19)
“to wait for his Son. For unless we are stirred up to the hope of eternal life, the world will quickly draw us to itself” (Page 23)
“God alone is the Lawgiver. ‘There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy” (Page 89)