of the references in the two letters. From the Acts it appears that he remained only three weeks; but the first Epistle indicates that a large and flourishing church had been formed, chiefly of Gentiles (i. 8, 9); and from this, and from the facts that the Philippians, twice during his stay, sent him pecuniary aid (Philip. iv. 16), and that he labored for his own support, his visit would seem to have been longer.
According to the narrative in Acts, he secured some con- verts from among the Jews, but more from the pious Greeks or Proselytes, and many prominent women. Nothing is said of his labours among the heathen. The author of the Acts has, apparently, recorded the least important part of his work, which was evidently begun, according to his usual practice, in the synagogue. The principal part of it, however, was not done in the synagogue.
The cause of Paul’s departure from Thessalonica was a persecution instigated by the Jews, who used the vulgar pagan rabble as their instruments. Most of the Christian converts were from the better classes, and the Politarchs were not dis- posed to interfere actively. But the riot was a serious matter. A powerful, dangerous, lasting sentiment was aroused in the class which fostered it (see ch. ii. 14). The charge against Paul was that of treason against the Emperor, and the Poli- tarchs were forced to take active measures lest they should incur the charge of condoning treason. Their course was the mildest for which they could find precedent. The accused were bound over to keep the peace, and as security was exacted from Jason and the leading Christians of Thessa- lonica, it implied that they were under obligation to prevent Paul from coming to the city again.
Paul, after his departure, was distressed, lest his converts, who had been only partially instructed, might fall from their faith. He had twice made the attempt to revisit them, but in vain. He had sent Timothy to inquire into their condition and to establish and comfort them (iii. 2). Timothy had now rejoined him at Corinth, and the information which he brought called forth the first letter.
The letter, though official, is not stiff nor condescending.