1 Thessalonians 3
In this chapter, Paul continues his expression of concern and love for the Thessalonian believers. He explains why he sent Timothy to check on their faith, especially amid persecution, and expresses his joy upon hearing of their steadfastness. Paul prays for their continued growth in faith, love, and holiness, longing to visit them again.
1 Thessalonians 3:1 (NKJV)
"Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone,"
Paul expresses the deep concern he had for the Thessalonian church, indicating that his anxiety about their welfare became unbearable. Being left in Athens was not an easy decision for him, but he prioritized their spiritual wellbeing over his personal comfort. His willingness to be left alone shows the depth of his pastoral care and his selfless love for the believers.
1 Thessalonians 3:2 (NKJV)
"and sent Timothy, our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith,"
Paul sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonian believers in their faith. Timothy is described as a trusted brother and co-laborer in the gospel, emphasizing his role as someone reliable and mature in the faith. Paul knew that the Thessalonian church was facing trials, and he wanted to ensure they remained steadfast in their commitment to Christ, despite these challenges.
1 Thessalonians 3:3 (NKJV)
"that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed to this."
Paul didn’t want the Thessalonians to be unsettled by the persecutions they were facing. He reminds them that suffering and trials are part of the Christian calling. From the beginning, they had been taught that believers would face difficulties. Paul’s intent was to keep their faith rooted firmly in Christ, reminding them that suffering for Christ is part of God's plan and should not cause them to waver.
1 Thessalonians 3:4 (NKJV)
"For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know."
Paul had previously warned them that tribulation would come, and now it had come to pass. The fact that they were now experiencing this persecution should not have been a surprise. Paul’s reminder serves to fortify their faith, knowing that these sufferings were foreseen and are a fulfillment of what Christ’s followers would endure. The Thessalonians' trials confirmed Paul’s earlier teachings.
1 Thessalonians 3:5 (NKJV)
"For this reason, when I could no longer endure it, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor might be in vain."
Paul reiterates his overwhelming concern for the Thessalonians’ spiritual state. He feared that the hardships they faced might have given Satan an opportunity to lead them astray, causing their faith to falter. Paul's expression of worry shows the intensity of his pastoral care, as he feared that the work he and his companions had done could be undone if their faith had weakened.
1 Thessalonians 3:6 (NKJV)
"But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you—"
Timothy’s return brought Paul immense relief and joy. The Thessalonians had remained steadfast in both faith and love, and they still held Paul in high regard, longing to see him again. This good news was a source of comfort to Paul, as it showed that despite the persecutions they endured, the Thessalonians' faith remained strong and vibrant, and their affection for Paul had not diminished.
1 Thessalonians 3:7 (NKJV)
"therefore, brethren, in all our affliction and distress we were comforted concerning you by your faith."
Hearing of the Thessalonians’ enduring faith was a great comfort to Paul, even in the midst of his own afflictions. Their perseverance in faith amidst persecution was an encouragement to Paul and his companions, uplifting their spirits despite their personal trials. It highlights how interconnected Paul felt with the believers and how their spiritual health impacted his emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
1 Thessalonians 3:8 (NKJV)
"For now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord."
Paul’s joy and sense of purpose are so intertwined with the faith of the Thessalonian believers that their steadfastness gives him life. The phrase "now we live" reveals the profound sense of joy and relief Paul felt. Their unwavering commitment to Christ in the face of persecution gave him renewed vitality, showing the depth of his pastoral heart and his emotional investment in their spiritual growth.
1 Thessalonians 3:9 (NKJV)
"For what thanks can we render to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sake before our God,"
Paul is overwhelmed with gratitude to God for the joy that the Thessalonian believers have brought him. He cannot adequately express how thankful he is for their steadfast faith and for the joy it gives him. Paul’s deep sense of thanksgiving to God reflects his awareness that their perseverance is ultimately a result of God’s work in their lives.
1 Thessalonians 3:10 (NKJV)
"night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith?"
Paul emphasizes the intensity of his prayers for the Thessalonians. He continually prayed, day and night, asking God for the opportunity to visit them again and to help them grow even further in their faith. While they had remained steadfast, Paul wanted to continue building them up, addressing any gaps in their spiritual understanding or maturity, and helping them advance in their walk with Christ.
1 Thessalonians 3:11 (NKJV)
"Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you."
Paul’s longing to visit the Thessalonians is presented as a prayer, recognizing that only God can make the way for them to be reunited. His submission to God’s will shows that, despite his intense desire, he acknowledges that it is ultimately up to God to allow it to happen. The reference to both God the Father and Jesus Christ underscores his reliance on divine providence.
1 Thessalonians 3:12 (NKJV)
"And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all, just as we do to you,"
Paul prays that the Thessalonian believers would continue to grow in love for each other and for everyone. He sets the example of love that he and his companions had shown toward them, encouraging them to do the same. Paul emphasizes that love is a vital part of the Christian life, and it must not only be felt toward fellow believers but extended to all people.
1 Thessalonians 3:13 (NKJV)
"so that He may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints."
Paul’s prayer concludes with a focus on the return of Christ. He prays that their love would lead to holiness, so that they would be found blameless before God when Christ returns. Paul connects love and holiness, showing that true love produces a life that is pleasing to God. His ultimate desire is that the Thessalonians would be ready to stand blameless in the presence of Christ at His second coming.