The author believes that Paul's letters to the Christians in Thessalonica offer three main guidelines to churches at the end of the 20th century. A model for ministry, as Paul's self-giving, prayerful love for the church challenges Christian leaders. A vision for the local church, as the apostle touches on evangelism, pastoral care, ethical standards, fellowship, worship, obedience and future hope. An affirmation of our faith, as he repeatedly returns to the foundation facts that 'Christ has died, Christ is rien, and Christ will come again'.