United Commentaries

1Thes.2.1-3.13

The body of this letter begins by discussing Paul’s and his associates’ character (2:1-12) and the way the Thessalonians received the Good News (2:13-16). It then emphasizes Paul’s sincere care for the church, telling of his attempts to return to visit them (2:17-20) and his decision to send Timothy to them when he himself could not come (3:1-5). Finally, it tells of Paul’s joy over Timothy’s good report (3:6-9) and his prayers to get back to the church himself (3:10-13). This lengthy defense is Paul’s response to criticisms of his abrupt departure and prolonged absence.

1Thes.3.1-5

After preaching in Berea, Paul had departed from Macedonia and sailed to Athens, instructing Silas and Timothy to join him soon (Acts 17:13-15). Timothy returned to Thessalonica (1 Thes 3:2), as Paul’s anxiety for the Thessalonian church had intensified (3:1, 5).

1Thes.3.3

we are destined for such troubles: Suffering for the faith is often part of a Christian’s life (1:6; 2:14; Phil 1:29; 1 Pet 1:6; 2:21; 3:17; 4:19).

1Thes.3.5

Paul was concerned that Satan, the tempter (Mark 1:13; 1 Cor 7:5), had undermined the Thessalonians’ faith (1 Thes 3:2, 6, 8) and rendered his work among them futile (Gal 2:2; Phil 2:16).

1Thes.3.6

Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians from Corinth just after Timothy returned from Thessalonica (3:2, 5; Acts 18:5). Timothy’s report provided good news about the Thessalonians’ faith and love, steadfastness (1 Thes 3:8), and hope (see also 5:8; 2 Thes 1:3-4).

1Thes.3.8

Paul was distressed by his present circumstances (3:7) and deeply concerned for the church (3:1, 5). He was relieved to learn that the Thessalonians remained strong and were standing firm in the Lord even though they were also suffering (2:14; 3:3-4).

1Thes.3.11

Paul’s prayer to return to Thessalonica very soon (3:10) is directed both to the Father and the Lord Jesus, implying Jesus’ divinity.

1Thes.3.12

A characteristic of this church was their love for one another as members of God’s family (4:9; 2 Thes 1:3-4). Paul prays that their love will grow and overflow toward those outside the Christian community (cp. 1 Thes 5:15; Gal 6:10; 2 Tim 2:24; Titus 3:2) even in the face of persecution.

1Thes.3.13

In the final part of this prayer (3:11-13), Paul prays that their hearts—their conduct and moral resolve (Matt 5:8; Acts 15:9; Heb 10:22)—might be strong, blameless, and holy.

When Jesus comes, he will be accompanied by all his holy people, possibly a reference to angels (Deut 33:2; Ps 89:5, 7; Dan 4:13; 8:13; Matt 13:41; Mark 8:38; 13:26-27; 2 Thes 1:7).