Matthew Henry’s Modern English Commentary1 Thessalonians 1

Inscription and Apostolical SalutationThis introduction gives the names of those sending the letter and the church that receives it. Paul writes with Silvanus (Silas) and Timothy, showing humility and respect for his fellow ministers. The letter is sent to the church in Thessalonica, made up of both Jews and Gentiles who now follow Jesus. Paul notes that the church is “in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ,” showing their close relationship with God and Jesus. Their faith unites them as a true Christian church. They have turned from idols or old beliefs to trust in the true God and Jesus Christ, the promised Savior (1 John 1:3; John 14:1 ).v. 1: Paul begins with a blessing: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:1 ). He wishes them God’s favor and peace, reminding them that all good things come from God the Father and from Jesus Christ. Grace is the source of every blessing, and peace is its result. We can only have true peace and goodness through God, who is our Father because of Jesus Christ.

Thanksgiving to GodPaul begins this letter by thanking God for the Thessalonians. He praises God for the blessings in their lives and the evidence of their faith. Thanksgiving is an important part of worship, and Paul shows how gratitude should include not only our own blessings but also the good things God does for others. He also joins his thankfulness with prayer, always remembering the Thessalonians and asking for God’s continued blessings upon them.v. 2: Paul writes, We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers (1 Thessalonians 1:2 ). He constantly thanks God for the Thessalonians, showing his deep care for them. Along with his gratitude, he prays for them regularly, demonstrating that prayer and thanksgiving go hand in hand (Philippians 4:6 ).

v. 3: Paul is thankful for their faith, love, and hope, saying, Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 1:3 ). Their faith is active, producing good works. Their love motivates them to serve others, and their hope in Jesus gives them patience to endure difficulties. True faith leads to action, love leads to service, and hope gives strength to wait for God’s promises (James 2:18; Romans 8:25 ).

v. 4: Paul adds, Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God (1 Thessalonians 1:4 ). He assures them that their faith, love, and hope are evidence of God’s choice of them. Their salvation is not based on their own merit but on God’s grace and eternal plan (Ephesians 1:11 ). Paul calls them “brethren beloved,” showing the special bond Christians share because of God’s love.

v. 5: Paul explains why he is confident in their faith: For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance (1 Thessalonians 1:5 ). The gospel did not just come as words, but with the power of the Holy Spirit. It deeply changed their hearts and gave them full confidence in its truth. This transformation is a sign of God’s work in their lives. Paul also reminds them of the example he and his fellow workers set, showing what a life lived for Christ looks like.

Evidence of the Apostle's SuccessPaul points out how successful the gospel message was among the Thessalonians. Their changed lives and strong faith became well known in many places. Their response to the gospel set a great example for other believers and showed the real power of God’s word.v. 6: Paul says the Thessalonians became followers of both the apostles and the Lord. They imitated the good example of Paul and his fellow workers, not just in words, but in their way of life. Even though they faced much suffering, they received the gospel with joy given by the Holy Spirit. This joy helped them face trouble with courage and hope, just as Jesus and the apostles did (1 Corinthians 11:1 ).

v. 7: Their faith was so strong that they became examples to other believers in Macedonia and Achaia. Other Christians looked up to them because of their devotion and courage in following Christ, even though they were new to the faith.

v. 8: Paul explains that the message about their faith spread far and wide. People everywhere talked about how the Thessalonians turned away from idols and chose to serve the living and true God. Their story encouraged others to believe and be willing to suffer for Christ. Their faith was known not just in their own city, but in many other places as well.

v. 9: Paul says that others reported how the Thessalonians welcomed the apostles and their message. The Thessalonians left their old ways and became devoted to God. This change was clear proof of the gospel’s power in their lives.

v. 10: Finally, Paul notes that they were now waiting for God’s Son, Jesus, to return from heaven. They believed that God raised Jesus from the dead and trusted Him to save them from the coming judgment (Acts 17:31; Matthew 25:41 ). Their hope was in Jesus, who delivers all believers from God’s future wrath.