Lesson 4 - Thanksgiving, Prayer, and the Joy of Fellowship

Like many places in Scripture, the chapter division leaves much to be desired. Therefore, verse 1 connects these thoughts to what Paul said in chapter 2. He had wanted to come to them time and time again but was hindered by Satan (2:18), so Paul and Silvanus sent Timothy to see them to "strengthen and encourage you concerning your faith so that no one will be shaken by these afflictions" (3:2b-3a).

Paul deeply opened his heart as he expressed his concerns to them. His forced separation from the Thessalonians seemed to intensify his anxiety for them.