2Th_1:3-12. Introduction of the Epistle. Commendatory recognition of the progress of the church in faith and love, as well as in the stedfastness which proved itself anew under persecution (2Th_1:3-4), a comforting and encouraging reference to the recompense commencing at the advent of Christ (2Th_1:5-10), and an assurance that the progress and completion of the Thessalonians in Christianity was continually the subject of the apostle’s prayer (2Th_1:11-12).