After he described his conduct while ministering to the Thessalonians (cf. 2:1-12), Paul thanked God for the Thessalonians’ reaction to the gospel message. The apostles often had to stress the origin of their message due to their audience’s admiration for men-pleasers using “flattering words” (2:5). The Thessalonians did not receive the apostle’s message “as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God” (2:13). Not only did they receive the word, but they “welcomed” it, and allowed it to work in them (cf. 2:13-14).

In this way the word of God effectively worked in them – they imitated their brethren in Judea by suffering the same things they suffered (cf. 2:14). The things they likewise suffered included:

• The rejection of God’s word, and the saving Messiah.
• The rejection of those who preach, and follow God’s word.
• The attempt at preventing the gospel message from spreading to all men.

God’s wrath comes upon those who are contrary to Him. The Thessalonians’ faith was genuine, for they maintained it even in extreme adversity.

Paul developed an affinity for the Thessalonians. He desired to see them in person, yet was hindered in some way by Satan. Paul expressed his love toward these brethren by stating, “For you are our glory and joy” (2:20).