I Thessalonians 3:13

your hearts--which are naturally the spring and seat of unholiness. before God, even our Father--rather, "before Him who is at once God and our Father." Before not merely men, but Him who will not be deceived by the mere show of holiness, that is, may your holiness be such as will stand His searching scrutiny. coming--Greek, "presence," or "arrival." with all his saints--including both the holy angels and the holy elect of men (Th1 4:14; Dan 7:10; Zac 14:5; Mat 25:31; Th2 1:7). The saints are "His" (Act 9:13). We must have "holiness" if we are to be numbered with His holy ones or "saints." On "unblameable," compare Rev 14:5. This verse (compare Th1 3:12) shows that "love" is the spring of true "holiness" (Mat 5:44-48; Rom 13:10; Col 3:14). God is He who really "stablishes"; Timothy and other ministers are but instruments (Th1 3:2) in "stablishing." Next: 1 Thessalonians Chapter 4

In this chapter the apostle gives further evidence of his love to the Thessalonians, reminding them of his sending Timothy to them, with the mention of his design therein and his inducements so to do (Th1 3:1-5). He acquaints them also with his great satisfaction at the return of Timothy, with good tidings concerning them (Th1 3:6-10). And concludes with fervent prayer for them (Th1 3:11 to the end).

3:13 In the final part of this prayer (3:11-13), Paul prays that their hearts—their conduct and moral resolve (Matt 5:8; Acts 15:9; Heb 10:22)—might be strong, blameless, and holy. • When Jesus comes, he will be accompanied by all his holy people, possibly a reference to angels (Deut 33:2; Ps 89:5, 7; Dan 4:13; 8:13; Matt 13:41; Mark 8:38; 13:26-27; 2 Thes 1:7).