(1 Thessalonians 3:1-13)

I. Paul’s concern for the young church (3:1-5)

A. Persecution had forced Paul and Silas to leave the city (Acts 17:5-10)
B. Timothy was sent back to comfort the afflicted (3:1-3)
C. Preparation and comfort (3:4-5; 2 Timothy 3:12; John 15:19; 1 Peter 5:8; Galatians 4:11; Philippians 2:16)

II. Timothy’s good report (3:6-10)

A. We can find encouragement in the faith of others (3:6-8; 1 Corinthians 15:58)
B. Paul found joy in his brethren, even if they were not yet what they should be (3:9-10)

III. Paul’s prayer (3:11-13)

A. Paul prayed that he could return to Thessalonica (3:11), and he did! (Acts 20:1ff)
B. Paul prayed for an abundant increase in love (3:12)
1. Toward each other (4:9-10; 1 John 2:9-11; 3:10-12, 16, 23; 4:7-11; 5:1-2)
2. Toward all men (Luke 6:32-36; Galatians 6:10)

C. The ultimate goal: appear blameless in holiness before God at Jesus’ coming (3:13)