1 Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone;

2 And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:

3 That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.

4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

5 For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.

6 But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:

7 Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:

8 For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.

9 For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;

10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

11 Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.

12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:

13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle sent Timothy to establish and comfort the Thessalonians
The more we find pleasure in the ways of God, the more we shall desire to persevere therein. The apostle's design was to establish and comfort the Thessalonians as to the object of their faith, that Jesus Christ was the Saviour of the world; and as to the recompence of faith, which was more than enough to make up all their losses, and to reward all their labours. But he feared his labours would be in vain. If the devil cannot hinder ministers from labouring in the word and doctrine, he will, if possible, hinder the success of their labours. No one would willingly labour in vain. It is the will and purpose of God, that we enter into his kingdom through many afflictions. And the apostles, far from flattering people with the expectation of worldly prosperity in religion, told them plainly they must count upon trouble in the flesh. Herein they followed the example of their great Master, the Author of our faith. Christians were in danger, and they should be forewarned; they will thus be kept from being improved by any devices of the tempter.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We - Paul and Silvanus. Could bear no longer - Our desire and fear for you.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Wherefore, when we could no longer endure. By the detail which follows, he assures them of the desire of which he had spoken. For if, on being detained elsewhere, he had sent no other to Thessalonica in his place, it might have seemed as though he were not so much concerned in regard to them; but when he substitutes Timothy in his place, he removes that suspicion, more especially when he prefers them before himself. Now that he esteemed them above himself, he shews from this, that he chose rather to be left alone than that they should be deserted: for these words,we judged it good to be left alone, are emphatic. Timothy was a most faithful companion to him: he had at that time no others with him; hence it was inconvenient and distressing for him to be without him. It is therefore a token of rare affection and anxious desire that he does not refuse to deprive himself of all comfort, with the view of relieving the Thessalonians. To the same effect is the wordεὐδοκήσαμεν, which expresses a prompt inclination of the mind.
McArther Bible Commentary
no longer endure it. The agony of separation between spiritual parent Paul and his children in Thessalonica became unbearably painful (cf. 1Th 3:5). in Athens alone. Paul and Silas stayed behind while Timothy returned (1Th 3:2). This would not be the last time that Timothy went to a church in Paul's place (cf. 1Co 4:17; 1Co 16:10; Php 2:19-24; 1Ti 1:3).
Bible Cross References
Acts 17:15 Acts 17:16 1 Thessalonians 3:5

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle sent Timothy to establish and comfort the Thessalonians
The more we find pleasure in the ways of God, the more we shall desire to persevere therein. The apostle's design was to establish and comfort the Thessalonians as to the object of their faith, that Jesus Christ was the Saviour of the world; and as to the recompence of faith, which was more than enough to make up all their losses, and to reward all their labours. But he feared his labours would be in vain. If the devil cannot hinder ministers from labouring in the word and doctrine, he will, if possible, hinder the success of their labours. No one would willingly labour in vain. It is the will and purpose of God, that we enter into his kingdom through many afflictions. And the apostles, far from flattering people with the expectation of worldly prosperity in religion, told them plainly they must count upon trouble in the flesh. Herein they followed the example of their great Master, the Author of our faith. Christians were in danger, and they should be forewarned; they will thus be kept from being improved by any devices of the tempter.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Our brother. He assigns to him these marks of commendation, that he may shew the more clearly how much inclined he was to consult their welfare: for if he had sent them some common person, it could not have afforded them much assistance; and inasmuch as Paul would have done this without inconvenience to himself, he would have given no remarkable proof of his fatherly concern in regard to them. It is, on the other hand, a great thing that he deprives himself of abrotherandfellow-laborer, and one to whom, as he declares inPhilippians 2:20, he found no equal, inasmuch as all aimed at the promotion of their own interests. In the mean time,he procures authority for the doctrine which they had received from Timothy, that it may remain the more deeply impressed upon their memory.It is, however, with good reason that he says that he had sent Timothywith this view — that they might receive aconfirmation of their faithfrom his example. They might be intimidated by unpleasant reports as to persecutions; but Paul’s undaunted constancy was fitted so much the more to animate them, so as to keep them from giving way. And, assuredly, the fellowship which ought to subsist between the saints and members of Christ extends even thus far — that the faith of one is the consolation of others. Thus, when the Thessalonians heard that Paul was going on with indefatigable zeal, and was by strength of faith surmounting all dangers and all difficulties, and that his faith continued everywhere victorious against Satan and the world, this brought them no small consolation. More especially we are, or at least ought to be, stimulated by the examples of those by whom we were instructed in the faith, as is stated in the end of the Epistle to the Hebrews. (Hebrews 13:7) Paul, accordingly, means that they ought to be fortified by his example, so as not to give way under their afflictions. As, however, they might have been offended if Paul had entertained a fear lest they should all give way under persecutions, (inasmuch as this would have been an evidence of excessive distrust,) he mitigates this harshness by saying —lest any one, or,that no one. There was, however, good reason to fear this, as there are always some weak persons in every society.
McArther Bible Commentary
establish … encourage … your faith. This was a common ministry concern and practice of Paul (cf. Act 14:22; Act 15:32; Act 18:23). Paul's concern did not focus on health, wealth, self-esteem, or ease of life, but rather the spiritual quality of life. Their faith was of supreme importance in Paul's mind as evidenced by five mentions in verses 1Th 3:1-10 (see also 1Th 3:5, 1Th 3:6-7, 1Th 3:10). Faith includes the foundation of the body of doctrine (cf. Jud 1:3) and their believing response to God in living out that truth (cf. Heb 11:6).
Bible Cross References
Acts 16:1 1 Corinthians 3:10 2 Corinthians 1:1 2 Corinthians 2:12 Colossians 1:1 1 Thessalonians 3:5 1 Thessalonians 3:13 2 Thessalonians 2:17

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle sent Timothy to establish and comfort the Thessalonians
The more we find pleasure in the ways of God, the more we shall desire to persevere therein. The apostle's design was to establish and comfort the Thessalonians as to the object of their faith, that Jesus Christ was the Saviour of the world; and as to the recompence of faith, which was more than enough to make up all their losses, and to reward all their labours. But he feared his labours would be in vain. If the devil cannot hinder ministers from labouring in the word and doctrine, he will, if possible, hinder the success of their labours. No one would willingly labour in vain. It is the will and purpose of God, that we enter into his kingdom through many afflictions. And the apostles, far from flattering people with the expectation of worldly prosperity in religion, told them plainly they must count upon trouble in the flesh. Herein they followed the example of their great Master, the Author of our faith. Christians were in danger, and they should be forewarned; they will thus be kept from being improved by any devices of the tempter.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
We are appointed hereto - Are in every respect laid in a fit posture for it, by the very design and contrivance of God himself for the trial and increase of our faith and all other graces. He gives riches to the world; but stores up his treasure of wholesome afflictions for his children.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For ye yourselves know. As all would gladly exempt themselves from the necessity of bearing the cross, Paul teaches that there is no reason why believers should feel dismayed on occasion of persecutions, as though it were a thing that was new and unusual, inasmuch as this is our condition, which the Lord has assigned to us. For this manner of expression —we are appointed to it — is as though he had said, that we are Christians on this condition. He says, however, that theyknowit, because it became them to fight the more bravely,inasmuch as they had been forewarned in time. In addition to this, incessant afflictions made Paul contemptible among rude and ignorant persons. On this account he states that nothing had befallen him but what he had long before, in the manner of a prophet, foretold.
McArther Bible Commentary
appointed. God had promised Paul future sufferings when He commended him to ministry through Ananias (Act 9:16). Paul reminded the Thessalonians of this divine appointment so that they would not think that: (1) God's plan was not working out as evidenced by Paul's troubles, or (2) Paul's afflictions demonstrated God's displeasure with him. To think that way would upset the church's confidence in Paul and fulfill Satan's deceptive purposes (1Th 3:5). Cf. 2Co 4:8-15; 2Co 6:1-10; 2Co 11:23-27; 2Co 12:7-10.
Bible Cross References
Acts 9:16 Acts 14:22

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle sent Timothy to establish and comfort the Thessalonians
The more we find pleasure in the ways of God, the more we shall desire to persevere therein. The apostle's design was to establish and comfort the Thessalonians as to the object of their faith, that Jesus Christ was the Saviour of the world; and as to the recompence of faith, which was more than enough to make up all their losses, and to reward all their labours. But he feared his labours would be in vain. If the devil cannot hinder ministers from labouring in the word and doctrine, he will, if possible, hinder the success of their labours. No one would willingly labour in vain. It is the will and purpose of God, that we enter into his kingdom through many afflictions. And the apostles, far from flattering people with the expectation of worldly prosperity in religion, told them plainly they must count upon trouble in the flesh. Herein they followed the example of their great Master, the Author of our faith. Christians were in danger, and they should be forewarned; they will thus be kept from being improved by any devices of the tempter.
McArther Bible Commentary
suffer tribulation. Paul had told the Thessalonian believers to expect him to suffer as he had already suffered before his Thessalonian experience (1Th 2:14-16; Acts 13, 14). During (Act 17:1-9) and following (Act. 17:10-18:11) his time at Thessalonica, Paul also knew tribulation.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 24:25 1 Thessalonians 2:14 2 Thessalonians 2:5 2 Thessalonians 3:10

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle sent Timothy to establish and comfort the Thessalonians
The more we find pleasure in the ways of God, the more we shall desire to persevere therein. The apostle's design was to establish and comfort the Thessalonians as to the object of their faith, that Jesus Christ was the Saviour of the world; and as to the recompence of faith, which was more than enough to make up all their losses, and to reward all their labours. But he feared his labours would be in vain. If the devil cannot hinder ministers from labouring in the word and doctrine, he will, if possible, hinder the success of their labours. No one would willingly labour in vain. It is the will and purpose of God, that we enter into his kingdom through many afflictions. And the apostles, far from flattering people with the expectation of worldly prosperity in religion, told them plainly they must count upon trouble in the flesh. Herein they followed the example of their great Master, the Author of our faith. Christians were in danger, and they should be forewarned; they will thus be kept from being improved by any devices of the tempter.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Lest perhaps the tempter has tempted you. By this term he teaches us that temptations are always to be dreaded, because it is the proper office of Satan totempt. As, however, he never ceases to place ambushes for us on all sides, and to lay snares for us all around, so we must be on our watch, eagerly taking heed. And now he says openly what in the outset he had avoided saying, as being too harsh — that he had felt concerned lest hislaborsshould bevain, if, peradventure, Satan should prevail. And this he does that they may be carefully upon their watch, and may stir themselves up the more vigorously to resistance.
McArther Bible Commentary
the tempter. Satan had already been characterized as a hinderer (1Th 2:18) and now as a tempter in the sense of trying/testing for the purpose of causing failure (cf. Mat 4:3; 1Co 7:5; Jas 1:12-18). Paul was not ignorant of Satan's schemes (2Co 2:11; 2Co 11:23) or vulnerable to his methods (Eph 6:11), so Paul took action to counterattack Satan's expected maneuver and to assure that all his efforts were not useless (cf. 1Th 2:1).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 4:3 2 Corinthians 6:1 2 Corinthians 11:3 Philippians 2:16 Philippians 2:19 1 Thessalonians 3:1 1 Thessalonians 3:2

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He rejoiced at the good tidings of their faith and love.
Thankfulness to God is very imperfect in the present state; but one great end of the ministry of the word is to help faith forward. That which was the instrument to obtain faith, is also the means of increasing and confirming it, namely, the ordinances of God; and as faith cometh by hearing, so it is confirmed by hearing also.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
But now when Timotheus was come to us from you - Immediately after his return, St. Paul wrote; while his joy was fresh, and his tenderness at the height.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
He shews here, by another argument, by what an extraordinary affection he was actuated towards them, inasmuch as he was transported almost out of his senses by the joyful intelligence of their being in a prosperous condition. For we must take notice of the circumstances which he relates. He was in afflictionandnecessity:there might have seemed, therefore, no room for cheerfulness. But when he hears what was much desired by him respecting the Thessalonians, as though all feeling of his distresses had been extinguished, he is carried forward to joy and congratulation. At the same time he proceeds, by degrees, in expressing the greatness of his joy, for he says, in thefirstplace,we received consolation:afterwards he speaks of a joy that was plentifully poured forth.This congratulation,however, has the force of an exhortation; and Paul’s intention was to stir up the Thessalonians to perseverance. And, assuredly, this must have been a most powerful excitement, when they learned that the holy Apostle felt so great consolation and joy from the advancement of their piety.Faith and love. This form of expression should be the more carefully observed by us in proportion to the frequency with which it is made use of by Paul, for in these two words he comprehends briefly the entire sum of true piety. Hence all that aim at this twofold mark during their whole life are beyond all risk of erring: all others, however much they may torture themselves, wander miserably. The third thing that he adds as to theirgood remembrance of him, refers to respect entertained for the Gospel. For it was on no other account that they held Paul in such affection and esteem.
McArther Bible Commentary
your faith and love. Timothy returned to report the Thessalonians' trust in God, their response to one another, and to Paul's ministry. This news convinced Paul that Satan's plans to disrupt God's work had not been successful and settled his anxiety (1Th 3:7).
Bible Cross References
Acts 16:1 Acts 18:5 1 Corinthians 11:2 1 Thessalonians 1:3 1 Thessalonians 3:7 Philemon 1:5

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He rejoiced at the good tidings of their faith and love.
Thankfulness to God is very imperfect in the present state; but one great end of the ministry of the word is to help faith forward. That which was the instrument to obtain faith, is also the means of increasing and confirming it, namely, the ordinances of God; and as faith cometh by hearing, so it is confirmed by hearing also.
Bible Cross References
1 Thessalonians 3:6 1 Thessalonians 3:8

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He rejoiced at the good tidings of their faith and love.
Thankfulness to God is very imperfect in the present state; but one great end of the ministry of the word is to help faith forward. That which was the instrument to obtain faith, is also the means of increasing and confirming it, namely, the ordinances of God; and as faith cometh by hearing, so it is confirmed by hearing also.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Now we live - Indeed; we enjoy life: so great is our affection for you.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For now we live. Here it appears still more clearly that Paul almost forgot himself for the sake of the Thessalonians, or, at least, making regard for himself a mere secondary consideration, devoted his first and chief thoughts to them. At the same time he did not do that so much from affection to men as from a desire for the Lord’s glory. For zeal for God and Christ glowed in his holy breast to such a degree that it in a manner swallowed up all other anxieties. “We live,” says he, that is, “we are in good health,if you persevere in the Lord.” And under the adverbnow, he repeats what he had formerly stated, that he had been greatly pressed down byafflictionandnecessity;yet he declares that whatever evil he endures in his own person does not hinder his joy. “Though in myself I am dead, yet in your welfare Ilive.” By this all pastors are admonished what sort of connection ought to subsist between them and the Church — that they reckon themselves happy when it goes well with the Church, although they should be in other respects encompassed with many miseries, and, on the other hand, that they pine away with grief and sorrow if they see the building which they have constructed in a state of decay, although matters otherwise should be joyful and prosperous.
McArther Bible Commentary
stand fast. Pictured here is an army that refuses to retreat even though it is being assaulted by the enemy. This is a frequent Pauline injunction (1Co 16:13; Gal 5:1; Eph 6:11, Eph 6:13-14; Php 1:27; Php 4:1; 2Th 2:15).
Bible Cross References
1 Corinthians 16:13 1 Thessalonians 3:7

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He rejoiced at the good tidings of their faith and love.
Thankfulness to God is very imperfect in the present state; but one great end of the ministry of the word is to help faith forward. That which was the instrument to obtain faith, is also the means of increasing and confirming it, namely, the ordinances of God; and as faith cometh by hearing, so it is confirmed by hearing also.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For what thanksgiving. Not satisfied with a simple affirmation, he intimates how extraordinary is the greatness of his joy, by asking himselfwhat thanks he can render to God;for by speaking thus he declares that he cannot find an expression of gratitude that can come up to the measure of his joy. He says that he rejoicesbefore God, that is, truly and without any pretense.
McArther Bible Commentary
joy. Paul, like John (3Jn 1:4), found the highest sense of ministry joy in knowing that his children in the faith were growing and walking in the truth. It led him to the worship of God in thanksgiving and rejoicing.
Bible Cross References
Psalm 116:12 1 Thessalonians 1:2

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He rejoiced at the good tidings of their faith and love.
Thankfulness to God is very imperfect in the present state; but one great end of the ministry of the word is to help faith forward. That which was the instrument to obtain faith, is also the means of increasing and confirming it, namely, the ordinances of God; and as faith cometh by hearing, so it is confirmed by hearing also.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And perfect that which is wanting in your faith - So St. Paul did not know that "they who are once upon the rock no longer need to be taught by man."
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Praying beyond measure. He returns to an expression of hisdesire. For it is never allowable for us to congratulate men, while they live in this world, in such unqualified terms as not always to desire something better for them. For they are as yet in the way: they may fall back, or go astray, or even go back. Hence Paul is desirous to have opportunity given him ofsupplying what is wanting in the faith of the Thessalonians, or, which is the same thing, completing in all its parts their faith, which was as yet imperfect. Yet this is the faith which he had previously extolled marvelously. But from this we infer, that those who far surpass others are still far distant from the goal. Hence, whatever progress we may have made, let us always keep in view ourdeficiencies, (ὑστερήματα,)that we may not be reluctant to aim at something farther.From this also it appears how necessary it is for us to give careful attention to doctrine, for teachers were not appointed merely with the view of leading men, in the course of a single day or month, to the faith of Christ, but for the purpose of perfecting the faith which has been begun. But as to Paul’s claiming for himself what he elsewhere declares belongs peculiarly to the Holy Spirit, (1 Corinthians 14:14) this must be restricted to the ministry. Now, as the ministry of a man is inferior to the efficacy of the Spirit, and to use the common expression, is subordinate to it, nothing is detracted from it. When he says that he prayednight and day beyond all ordinary measure,we may gather from these words how assiduous he was in praying to God, and with what ardor and earnestness he discharged that duty.
McArther Bible Commentary
praying. As to frequency, Paul prayed night and day just as he worked night and day (1Th 2:9). As to fervency, Paul prayed superabundantly (cf. Eph 3:20). lacking. Paul was not criticizing the church but rather acknowledging that they had not yet reached their full potential, for which he prayed and labored (1Th 3:10). The themes of chapters 4 and 5 deal with areas of this lack.
Bible Cross References
1 Samuel 12:23 2 Corinthians 13:9 2 Corinthians 13:11 1 Thessalonians 2:17 2 Timothy 1:3

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And for their increase in grace.
Prayer is religious worship, and all religious worship is due unto God only. Prayer is to be offered to God as our Father. Prayer is not only to be offered in the name of Christ, but offered up to Christ himself, as our Lord and our Saviour. Let us acknowledge God in all our ways, and he will direct our paths. Mutual love is required of all Christians. And love is of God, and is fulfilling the gospel as well as the law. We need the Spirit's influences in order to our growth in grace; and the way to obtain them, is prayer. Holiness is required of all who would go to heaven; and we must act so that we do not contradict the profession we make of holiness. The Lord Jesus will certainly come in his glory; his saints will come with him. Then the excellence as well as the necessity of holiness will appear; and without this no hearts shall be established at that day, nor shall any avoid condemnation.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Direct our way - This prayer is addressed to Christ, as well as to the Father.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Now God himself. He now prays that the Lord, having removed Satan’s obstructions, may open a door for himself, and be, as it were, the leader and director of his way to the Thessalonians. By this he intimates, that we cannot move a step with success,otherwise than under God’s guidance, but that when he holds out his hand, it is to no purpose that Satan employs every effort to change the direction of our course. We must take notice that he assigns the same office to God and to Christ, as, unquestionably, the Father confers no blessing upon us except through Christ’s hand. When, however, he thus speaks of both in the same terms, he teaches that Christ has divinity and power in common with the Father.
McArther Bible Commentary
direct our way. Paul knew that Satan had hindered his return (1Th 2:18). Even though Timothy had visited and returned with a good report, Paul still felt the urgency to see his spiritual children again. Paul followed the biblical admonition of the Psalms (Psa 37:1-5) and Proverbs (Pro 3:5-6) to entrust difficult situations to God.
Bible Cross References
Galatians 1:4 1 Thessalonians 3:13 1 Thessalonians 4:16 1 Thessalonians 5:23 2 Thessalonians 2:16 2 Thessalonians 3:5 2 Thessalonians 3:16 Revelation 21:3

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And for their increase in grace.
Prayer is religious worship, and all religious worship is due unto God only. Prayer is to be offered to God as our Father. Prayer is not only to be offered in the name of Christ, but offered up to Christ himself, as our Lord and our Saviour. Let us acknowledge God in all our ways, and he will direct our paths. Mutual love is required of all Christians. And love is of God, and is fulfilling the gospel as well as the law. We need the Spirit's influences in order to our growth in grace; and the way to obtain them, is prayer. Holiness is required of all who would go to heaven; and we must act so that we do not contradict the profession we make of holiness. The Lord Jesus will certainly come in his glory; his saints will come with him. Then the excellence as well as the necessity of holiness will appear; and without this no hearts shall be established at that day, nor shall any avoid condemnation.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And the Lord fill you. Here we have another prayer — that in the mean time, while his way is obstructed, the Lord, during his absence, may confirm the Thessalonians in holiness, and fill them with love. And from this again we learn in what the perfection of the Christian life consists — in love and pure holiness of heart, flowing from faith. He recommends love mutually cherishedtowards each other, and afterwardstowards all, for as it is befitting that a commencement should be made with those that are of thehousehold of faith, (Galatians 6:10) so our love ought to go forth to the whole human race. Farther, as the nearer connection must be cherished,so we must not overlook those who are farther removed from us, so as to prevent them from holding their proper place.He would have the Thessalonians abound in love and be filled with it, because in so far as we make progress in acquaintance with God, the love of the brethren must at the same time increase in us, until it take possession of our whole heart, the corrupt love of self being extirpated. He prays that the love of the Thessalonians may be perfected by God, intimating that its increase, no less than its commencement, was from God alone. Hence it is evident how preposterous a part those act who measure our strength by the precepts of the Divine law. The end of the law is love, says Paul, (1 Timothy 1:5) yet he himself declares that it is a work of God. When, therefore, God marks out our life,he does not look to what we can do, but requires from us what is above our strength, that we may learn to ask from him power to accomplish it. When he says —as we also towards you, he stimulates them by his own example.
McArther Bible Commentary
love to one another. With over thirty positive and negative "one anothers" in the NT, love appears by far most frequently (cf. 1Th 4:9; Rom 12:10; Rom 13:8; 2Th 1:3; 1Pe 1:22; 1Jn 3:11, 1Jn 3:23; 1Jn 4:7, 1Jn 4:11; 2Jn 1:5). It is the overarching term that includes all of the other "one anothers." Its focus is on believers in the church. to all. In light of the fact that God loved the world and sent His son to die for human sin (Joh 3:16), believers who were loved when they were unlovely (Rom 5:8) are to love unbelievers (see notes on Mat 5:43-44). Other NT commands concerning all people include: pursuing peace (Rom 12:18), doing good (Gal 6:10), being patient (Php 4:5), praying (1Ti 2:1), showing consideration (Tit 3:2), and honoring (1Pe 2:17).
Bible Cross References
Philippians 1:9 1 Thessalonians 4:1 1 Thessalonians 4:10 2 Thessalonians 1:3

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And for their increase in grace.
Prayer is religious worship, and all religious worship is due unto God only. Prayer is to be offered to God as our Father. Prayer is not only to be offered in the name of Christ, but offered up to Christ himself, as our Lord and our Saviour. Let us acknowledge God in all our ways, and he will direct our paths. Mutual love is required of all Christians. And love is of God, and is fulfilling the gospel as well as the law. We need the Spirit's influences in order to our growth in grace; and the way to obtain them, is prayer. Holiness is required of all who would go to heaven; and we must act so that we do not contradict the profession we make of holiness. The Lord Jesus will certainly come in his glory; his saints will come with him. Then the excellence as well as the necessity of holiness will appear; and without this no hearts shall be established at that day, nor shall any avoid condemnation.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
With all his, Christ's, saints - Both angels and men.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
That he may confirm your hearts. He employs the termheartshere to meanconscience, or the innermost part of the soul; for he means that a man is acceptable to God only when he brings holiness of heart; that is, not merely external, but also internal. But it is asked, whether by means of holiness we stand at God’s judgment-seat, for if so, to what purpose is remission of sins? Yet Paul’s words seem to imply this — that their consciences might beirreproveable in holiness. I answer, that Paul does not exclude remission of sins, through which it comes that our holiness, which is otherwise mixed up with many pollutions, bears God’s eye, for faith, by which God is pacified towards us, so as to pardon our faults,precedes everything else, as the foundation comes before the building. Paul, however, does not teach us what or how great the holiness of believers may be, but desires that it may be increased, until it attain its perfection. On this account he says —at the coming of our Lord, meaning that the completion of those things, which the Lord now begins in us, is delayed till that time.With all his saints. This clause may be explained in two ways, either as meaning that the Thessalonians,with all saints, may have pure hearts at Christ’s coming, or that Christ will come withall his saints. While I adopt this second meaning, in so far as concerns the construction of the words, I have at the same time no doubt that Paul employed the termsaintsfor the purpose of admonishing us that we are called by Christ for this end—that we may be gatheredwith all his saints. For this consideration ought to whet our desire for holiness.
McArther Bible Commentary
blameless in holiness. Paul prayed that there would be no grounds of accusation because of unholiness. Cf. 1Co 1:8; 2Co 11:2; Eph 5:25-27; 1Pe 5:16-17; Jud 1:24. His saints. Since this exact term is not used elsewhere in the NT of angels (see note on Jud 1:14), but is commonly used for believers, it is best to understand the coming of the Lord to rapture all His church (see notes on 1Th 4:13-18) and take them to heaven to enjoy His presence (see notes on Joh 14:1-3).
Bible Cross References
Matthew 25:31 Mark 8:38 Luke 1:6 1 Corinthians 1:8 Galatians 1:4 1 Thessalonians 2:19 1 Thessalonians 3:2 1 Thessalonians 3:11 1 Thessalonians 4:17 2 Thessalonians 1:7 2 Thessalonians 2:17 James 5:8