From Concern to Comfort

In this chapter Paul tells the Thessalonian believers that he had sent Timothy from Athens to Thessalonica to encourage them, and to learn how they were getting along in the Christian life. He reminds them that his sufferings were not unexpected but were predicted.Paul states that Timothy had returned with good news about the Thessalonian believers' enduring faith and love. Paul indicates he has comfort and great joy in knowing the believers at Thessalonica were doing well spiritually. He says he is praying around the clock to see them face-to-face and to address any deficiencies in their faith.The chapter closes with Paul praying that the Lord would make the Thessalonian believers' love overflow to one another and to others, as Paul's love overflowed to the Thessalonians.Ultimately, God works in both pastors and the broader church family to have this kind of enduring faith and love.