1 Thessalonians 3

13 verses

TL;DR

Paul sends Timothy to Thessalonica after enduring tribulation, receives encouraging reports, and urges the church to remain steadfast in faith.

Summary

Paul, having suffered tribulation in Athens, feels compelled to send his trusted companion Timothy to Thessalonica. Timothy’s mission is twofold: to strengthen the Thessalonian faith and to reassure Paul that the believers remain faithful amid temptation. Upon Timothy’s return, Paul is comforted by the good news of their steadfast love and devotion. Paul expresses deep gratitude to God for their faith and vows to continually pray for their spiritual growth. He emphasizes the importance of remaining firm in the Lord, so that they may be unblemished in holiness at Christ’s coming.

Outline

Paul’s decision to send Timothy after suffering tribulation
Timothy reports the Thessalonian faith and gratitude
Paul’s encouragement to stay steadfast and his prayers

Themes

Faith under trialEncouragement and supportGrace and holiness

Keywords

faithloveprayertribulationencouragementholinessChristLord

People

PaulTimothyThessaloniansGodLord Jesus Christ

Places

AthensThessalonica

Things

faithcharityloveprayertribulationgood tidingsholiness

Key Verses

1 Thessalonians 3:5: Shows Paul’s concern for the Thessalonian faith and his reason for sending Timothy
1 Thessalonians 3:7: Highlights the comfort Paul feels from Timothy’s report
1 Thessalonians 3:12: Expresses Paul’s prayerful wish for the believers’ love to increase

Questions

How does Paul’s experience of tribulation shape his approach to ministry?
In what ways does Timothy’s report strengthen the Thessalonian community?
What does Paul’s emphasis on remaining steadfast reveal about Christian resilience?
How can believers today apply Paul’s model of encouragement to those facing trials?

Sentiment

positive
Encouraging, supportive, hopeful tone