Colin R. Nicholl examines the situations giving rise to each Thessalonian Epistle to determine how the two relate historically. His book presents a compelling hypothesis, arguing that the two letters reflect two stages of a single crisis plaguing a recently formed Greek Church, (which spiralled from hope into despair because of confusion about the "end" time.) This monograph is the most up-to-date and comprehensive account of the Thessalonian Epistles currently available.

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 a comprehensive analysis of the Thessalonian Epistles. It will provide an indispensable resource for scholars and pastors interested in the Thessalonian correspondence.