In Paul's depiction of the Lord's coming in 1 Thess. 4:13--5:11, and in its surrounding context, traditional Jewish imagery is found alongside Hellenistic political imagery. This thesis attempts to demonstrate that the origins of all the imagery is to be found in Judaism. Yet, the message of encouragement is directed toward those living under the regime of the Roman Empire. This argument is further strengthened by taking note of the political function of Jewish apocalyptic writings and then exploring how this passage functions within the context of 1 Thessalonians. The implications of this thesis for biblical scholarship is found in the attempt to bring together the political and the religious imagery of Paul's thought world and the recognition that both sets of imagery provide sound insights for Pauline studies.