Paul is desperate for news of the Thessalonians. Consider the emotional experience of longing for the physical presence of someone you love, and how Paul captures this here. His emotive language leaves us in no doubt of his devotion to them. He feels ‘torn away’ from them (2:17, ESV), and he has an ‘intense longing’ to see them (2:17). Eventually, he can ‘stand it no longer’ (3:1), but is unable to return to Thessalonica himself (see Acts 17:13).

Paul’s longing to see the Thessalonians is intensified because of his delight in them and because of the trials both he and they are facing (3:3–5). What imagery does he use to express his delight (2:19)? Who brings you delight as you think of their faith and their hope in the gospel?

Without the luxury of instant communication, Paul sends Timothy on a mission to find out how they are, and to build them up in their faith (3:2). What does this tell us about how relationships between Christians – both at a distance and within a church community – can be sustained and developed?  

‘Jesus said, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” He answered, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Take care of my sheep.”’¹

Paul speaks here, as elsewhere,² of the opposition and hindrances that have impeded his plans to visit and encourage believers. His detractors had accused him of running away from Thessalonica when the going got hard, abandoning his disciples and failing to care enough for them to return and visit. He says that he was torn away (2:17), using a Greek verb not used elsewhere in the New Testament implying bereavement (‘we were bereft of you’ in the RSV).³ He really wanted to visit them, despite being turned away by satanic interference. The apostle reveals his loving, pastoral heart here and his care for the well-being of those he has led to Christ and discipled. Is this a picture of your motivation for Christian service and ministry?

There is a further insight into what inspired God’s servant here. He regards the Thessalonians as his hope, joy and crown, in which he will glory when Christ returns (v 19). He also reassures them that they will be in the presence of Jesus when he comes. This use of hope is not like our modern usage of the word, but is a confident assurance built upon God’s firm promises. ‘For Paul, “hope abides” (1 Cor 13:13, AV) in the sense that one lives in absolute confidence of a sure future that has been guaranteed by Christ’s own resurrection from the dead.’⁴ This hope of glory should give us strength to fulfil our calling today.

Sending Timothy was no cop-out. This young man was God’s fellow-worker (3:2) – a high calling indeed and a huge commendation. He was sent to strengthen and encourage them in their faith and then to bring news back to their founder and team leader. Pastors cannot always meet the needs of those they care for; sometimes they should delegate. 

Do you see yourself as God’s fellow-worker? He does.⁵ Give thanks to God for this immense privilege and ask for grace to fulfil its responsibilities.

¹ John 21:16  ² Rom 1:13; 15:22  ³ John Stott, Thessalonians, IVP, 1991, p61  ⁴ Gordon Fee, Thessalonians, Eerdmans, 2009, p108  ⁵ 1 Cor 3:9