Thessalonica, a thriving port city and capital of Macedonia (modern Greece), was a Roman provincial capital—wealthy, diverse, and deeply pagan.. Paul had preached there for only a few weeks (Acts 17:1-9) before being driven out by persecution. Many Gentiles and some Jews had converted and were now suffering opposition. Persecution quickly forced Paul to leave. Later, Timothy brought news of their endurance, and Paul wrote this letter to encourage, instruct, and comfort them in their faith.
