Approved by God

Paul begins by reminding the Thessalonians that his visit was not in vain. Even after being shamefully treated at Philippi, he and his companions grew bold in God to speak the Good News. Their message did not come from error or trickery. Paul writes: But even as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who tests our hearts. They never used flattery, never sought money, and never sought glory from people.

Though they could have claimed authority as apostles, they chose gentleness. Paul writes: But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother cherishes her own children. They gladly shared not only the Good News of God but their own lives, because the believers had become very dear to them. They labored night and day so they would not burden anyone while preaching.

Paul reminds them how he encouraged and urged each one, as a father does his own children, to walk worthily of God, who invites them to share in His Kingdom and glory. He thanks God that they accepted the message as the word of God, which works in those who believe. Like other churches, they also suffered for their faith. Paul longed to see them, but Satan hindered us. He asks, For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? It is the believers themselves, before the Lord Jesus at his coming.