After the introduction (Th2 1:1, Th2 1:2) the apostle begins this epistle with an account of his high esteem for these Thessalonians (Th2 1:3, Th2 1:4). He then comforts them under their afflictions and persecutions (Th2 1:5-10) and tells them what his prayers were to God for them (Th2 1:11, Th2 1:12).