„ … so dass ihr ein Vorbild geworden seid für alle Gläubigen in Makedonien und Achaia” (1Thess 1,7): Übergemeindliche Verbindungen im 1. Thessalonicherbrief

Abstract

Abstract The occurrences, nature and significance of translocal relationships of early Christian communities are discussed in several issues in New Testament studies. This article examines such links in 1 Thessalonians, one of the early letters of the Pauline mission. Translocal links are constituted through the exchange of information and journeys before the composition of the letter; through the authors who are embedded in early Christian communities, serve in this context and represent them; the spread of news in the Christian network; and missionary activities beyond local confines. Translocal links serve to satisfy mutual longing for each other, encouragement, and ethical instruction, and to secure mission efforts. They find expression in prayer for other Christians and in exchanging greetings. Such links play a significant role in the identity construction of new Christ-followers in adverse circumstances. While there is rhetorical hyperbole, the portrayal of such links is at least historically plausible.