Thematic Bible




1 Thessalonians 3:1 (show verse)

So, when we could not stand it any longer [Note: Paul's concern for the spiritual well-being of the Thessalonian Christians became unbearable], we [i.e., I, See verse 5] thought it best to be left behind, alone, at Athens [Note: Paul was willing to labor alone at Athens, so he could send his fellow-workers to minister to others. See Acts 17],

1 Thessalonians 3:2 (show verse)

and so we [i.e., I] sent Timothy, our brother and God's fellow-worker in [the ministry of] the Gospel, to strengthen and encourage you in your faith,

1 Thessalonians 3:3 (show verse)

so that no one would be shaken by [having to experience] these difficult times. [See 2:14]. For you yourselves know that we are destined to have such experiences.

1 Thessalonians 3:4 (show verse)

For even when we were with you, we warned you that we were going to be persecuted, and as you know, it has turned out that way.

1 Thessalonians 3:5 (show verse)

[So], for this reason, when I could not stand it any longer, I also sent [Timothy] to find out about your faith. I was afraid that somehow the tempter [i.e., Satan] had tempted you [to give up] and that our work [on your behalf] will have become useless.

1 Thessalonians 3:6 (show verse)

But now Timothy has returned to us from you and brought us good news about your faith and love, and [reported] that you have good memories of us. [He told us that you are] longing to see us, just as we also long to see you.

1 Thessalonians 3:7 (show verse)

So, brothers, through all of our distress and persecution, we were encouraged over you because of your faith,

1 Thessalonians 3:8 (show verse)

for now we [really] live, if you [continue to] stand firm in [the service of] the Lord [i.e., Paul could enjoy life much more in knowing that the Thessalonians were living for the Lord faithfully].

1 Thessalonians 3:9 (show verse)

For how can we thank God [enough] for you, in return for all the joy we have over you, in the presence of our God?

1 Thessalonians 3:10 (show verse)

Night and day we pray very earnestly that we will be able to see you in person, so we can provide what is lacking in your faith.

1 Thessalonians 3:11 (show verse)

Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, open the way for us to go to you.

1 Thessalonians 3:12 (show verse)

And may the Lord cause your love for one another, and for everyone, to increase and overflow, just as ours does for you also.

1 Thessalonians 3:13 (show verse)

May the Lord strengthen your hearts so you will be [found] without just blame and holy, in the presence of our God and Father, when our Lord Jesus Christ returns with all of His holy ones [i.e., angels. See Mark 8:38; II Thess. 1:7].