The Entries and Ethics of Orators and Paul (1 Thessalonians 2:1-12)

Abstract

Did Paul take cognizance of the ‘entry’ conventions and the professional behaviour associated with the highly skilled and much admired public orators of his day? In 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 he recounts the nature of his original ‘entry’ to Thessalonica. His autobiographical account is framed in the light of the ‘entry’ protocol and is also contrasted with the ethics of first century orators and sophists. Paul’s concern is that his original ‘entry’ and projected re-entry might be perceived by Thessalonian Christians in these secular categories.