St Paul informs them how, being hindered himself from visiting them, he had sent Timothy to comfort them, of whom he gives a high character, Th1 3:1, Th1 3:2. Shows that trials and difficulties are unavoidable in the present state, Th1 3:3, Th1 3:4. Mentions the joy he had on hearing by Timothy of their steadiness in the faith, for which he returns thanks to God; and prays earnestly for their increase, Th1 3:5-10. Prays also that God may afford him an opportunity of seeing them, Th1 3:11. And that they may abound in love to God and one another, and be unblamable in holiness at the coming of Christ, Th1 3:12, Th1 3:13.