Paul began his second epistle to the Thessalonians as usual. He named himself, and those with him – “Silvanus (Roman for Silas), and Timothy.” Both men accompanied Paul throughout parts of his ministry. Timothy was especially dear to Paul (cf. 1 Timothy 1:2; 2 Timothy 1:2).

The epistle is addressed to the assembly “of the Thessalonians.” This assembly was spiritual in nature, as Paul identified them as being “in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” Upon obedience to the gospel, those in Thessalonica were added to the body of Christ (cf. Ephesians 1:22-23; Galatians 3:26-29). They also are those who enjoy intimate fellowship with God, as Christ is in the Father, and the Father in Him (cf. John 17:20-23). Subsequently, Paul extended his usual greeting of grace from God and Christ, and the peace which follows such.

Paul had a habit of praying to God on behalf of the brethren, and continually gave thanks to God for them. The growth of the Thessalonians’ faith beyond what Paul could have imagined gave him the feeling of obligation to thank God for them. Their faith was working, as it naturally led to their love for each other. Also, their “patience and faith” during “persecutions and tribulations” was the topic of boasting among other Christians. They did not buckle under the opposition they faced in the community, but maintained their trust in God, and were patient for the realization of their hope. Such continuation of patience and faith during hardships would lead God to count them worthy of the eternal kingdom. God’s judgments are always righteous, and to grant them entrance into heaven would be consistent with such due to their continued faithfulness. This future of the eternal glories of “the kingdom of God” was the reason the Thessalonians were willing to suffer. Such is worthwhile, for the sufferings are incomparable to the glory that will be revealed (cf. Romans 8:18).