1 The salutation. 3 Paul certifieth the Thessalonians of the good opinion which he had of their faith, love, and patience; 6 of the righteous judgment of God in punishing their enemies, and recompensing their sufferings; 11 and of his prayers that God would fulfil his gracious purpose in them.
1 Paul warneth the Thessalonians against a groundless surmise that the day of Christ was near at hand; 3 shewing that it would be preceded by a great apostasy, and that the man of sin would be first revealed, and by his wicked impostures draw many into perdition. 13 He repeateth his good hopes concerning them, 15 exhorting them to stand fast in his doctrine, and praying God to comfort and stablish them in all goodness.
1 The apostle desireth the Thessalonians to pray for him, 3 testifying his confidence in them, 5 and praying God to direct them. 6 He condemneth the idle and disorderly, and requireth others to abstain from their company: 16 concluding with prayer and salutation.