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minister of God and our fellow labourer--Some oldest manuscripts read, "fellow workman with God"; others, "minister of God." The former is probably genuine, as copyists probably altered it to the latter to avoid the bold phrase, which, however, is sanctioned by Co1 3:9; Co2 6:1. The English Version reading is not well supported, and is plainly compounded out of the two other readings. Paul calls Timothy "our brother" here; but in Co1 4:17, "my son." He speaks thus highly of one so lately ordained, both to impress the Thessalonians with a high respect for the delegate sent to them, and to encourage Timothy, who seems to have been of a timid character (Ti1 4:12; Ti1 5:23). "Gospel ministers do the work of God with Him, for Him, and under Him" [EDMUNDS]. establish--Greek, "confirm." In Th2 3:3, GOD is said to "stablish": He is the true establisher: ministers are His "instruments." concerning--Greek, "in behalf of," that is, for the furtherance of your faith. The Greek for "comfort" includes also the idea, "exhort." The Thessalonians in their trials needed both (Th1 3:3; compare Act 14:22).

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).