2 Thessalonians 1:1–12

In these opening verses, we quickly sense the plight of this church and also discern the consolation that Paul pens in order to help them endure. Paul follows ancient epistolary technique by beginning with a greeting and thanksgiving, followed by a prayer. Amid persecution, Paul encourages the church’s perseverance by reminding them of the confidence they have that God will both deliver them in the end and judge their enemies. Paul then prays for the Lord’s work to continue and increase in the church.

Several themes in 1:1–12 continue throughout the rest of the letter; e.g., the encouragement to endure (1:4; 2:13–15, 17; 3:3–5, 13); the emphasis on faith and love (1:3–4, 10–11; 2:10, 12; 3:2, 5); the believers’ responding to grace by performing good works (1:8, 11; 2:17; 3:13); the confidence that the God of justice will vindicate them and overwhelm their enemies (1:5–7; 2:8–12); the eschatology of Jesus’ return (1:7–10; 2:1–12); and the grace and glory of God the Father and the Lord Jesus through it all (1:2, 9, 12; 2:14, 16; 3:16, 18).