Paul gave them another reason to thank God - that He is at work in them so they believe. He told them others were persecuted for these beliefs just as they had been. Paul and his companions had missed the Thessalonians and wanted to see them again. They were the pride and joy of Paul and the others.
They sent Timothy to Thessalonica while they remained in Athens. Timothy returned and brought news about their faith and love and friendly greetings. Paul hoped that God would make it possible for them to go to Thessalonica again.
Paul told them about the way they should live for God, which he was pleased to find them doing. He reminded them to avoid sexual immorality and to treat their wives in an honorable and holy way, and be kind to each other. Paul knew he didn't have to tell them how to live in love, because they had been taught by God how to love one another. Paul encouraged them to live a quiet life, mind their own business and earn their own livings. This earned them respect and they didn't have to depend on anyone for what they needed. Paul told them what they could expect when Christ comes again. Those who died believing in Christ will rise to life first, then the living will be gathered into the clouds to meet the Lord in the air.
No one knows when the Lord will return. Everybody will be going about their business and poof! the Lord will come. Only God the father knows when that will be. God chose us to have salvation when He comes again, whether we are alive or dead when He comes. Paul asked them to treat their teachers with respect and love for the work they do. Live peacefully with each other. Paul said, "Be joyful always, pray at all times, be thankful in all circumstances. This is what God wants from you in your life in union with Christ Jesus." He asked them to read the letter to all believers and sent blessings and the grace of the Lord.
Second Thessalonians
After Paul greeted them, he told them how grateful they all were for them. They boasted about the way they stayed strong against persecution. He told them God would do what was right and punish those who had treated them badly. This would happen when Jesus appears from heaven with angels and fire. The punishment would be separation from the presence of the Lord. They prayed for them to remain strong.
Since there was a lot of confusion about the second coming, Paul gave them more information about that. Paul told them that that day would not come until the final Rebellion happens and the Wicked One appears. He will oppose every object of worship and claim to be God. This power of wickedness is already at work, but it is held back until it is time to be unleashed. When the Wicked One (some call this the antichrist) appears, Christ will come and kill him by breathing on him. The Lord's glorious return will completely destroy him. Satan will pretend to do miracles and fool people. There will be many people who would rather believe the lie than the truth. Paul told them God had chosen them for salvation. He asked God to strengthen them and help them always do and say what is good.
Paul asked for their prayers for rescue from wicked people. Paul said, "May the Lord lead you into a greater understanding of God's love and the endurance that is given by Christ." (2Thes 3:5) Paul commanded them in Jesus' name to work hard for everything they needed and not be lazy. Paul reminded them that when he was with them they were told, "Whoever refuses to work is not allowed to eat." (v10) Finally, Paul sent them peace of the Lord at all times, everywhere.
Tomorrow read 1Timothy 1-5
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