Prior to a final exhortation in verses 6-15, Paul set a foundation for a proper response from the Thessalonians. The exhortation would include a reminder about that which he already wrote (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:11; 5:14). In order to elicit the most appropriate response, Paul first gave attention to their past and present obedience.

As he commonly did, Paul requested the prayers of his audience on his behalf (along with his companions – Silvanus, and Timothy). The request was not self-serving, but aimed at the success of the spreading of the gospel. His wish was that the gospel was not impeded, or had “free course” (v. 1, KJV). If such was provided, it would be able to receive glory when it was heard and obeyed. This was so with the Thessalonians. Yet, there were some contrary to the gospel who attempted to obstruct the work of the apostle. These men were “unreasonable and wicked” (v. 2). They heard the message, yet did not respond properly – with faith.

While some were “unreasonable and wicked men,” Paul expressed a confidence in the Lord, and the Thessalonians. “The Lord is faithful” – all things which threaten our salvation are without strength when the Lord is on our side. This is why Paul’s confidence in the continued obedience of the Thessalonians was primarily in the Lord – “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think of anything as being from ourselves, but our sufficiency is from God” (2 Corinthians 3:5). In His faithfulness, the Lord is able to give us direction toward expressing the love which God expresses, and displaying the patience which Christ possessed on the path to the cross (v. 5).