1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:13 | A Picture of the Christian Life

In our passage this week, we find that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy have been torn away from the Thessalonians, a church they love deeply. And although they tried, again and again, to return to them, their plans were thwarted. As the passage proceeds, we can see Paul’s deep love for the Thessalonians as he sends Timothy to exhort them in their faith and as he expresses his most profound wish for them: That they would love each other and all people as Paul had loved them. And that their faith, which grows in the context of love, would culminate in their hearts being blameless in holiness before the Father at the coming of Jesus. As you read and reflect this week, consider the relationship between Paul and the Thessalonian church. This passage offers us a window into their life—their faith, love, and steadfast hope. Isn’t this the kind of life we all long for?