1:3 In his earlier epistle to the Thessalonians Paul had urged them to grow in faith (1 Thess. 4:10) and to increase in love (1 Thess. 3:12). He now rejoiced that they were doing both of these things (v. 3).5Paul began each of his epistles except Galatians with thanksgiving for the spiritual progress of his readers. The word translated "greatly enlarged,"which Paul used to describe their faith, occurs only here in the New Testament and means "grown exceedingly,"not just normally. The Thessalonians' growth had been unusual. They were a model congregation in this respect.
"We ought to give thanks"means "We must give thanks"(cf. 2:13). Paul was not saying he knew he should give thanks but did not, but he felt obligated to give thanks and did so.
"Clearly in this entire passage . . . the writers reveal themselves as men who are elated . . . rather than reluctant, exuberant rather than hesitant."6
"Paul was well aware of the shortcomings of the Thessalonian believers, but he did not allow their faults to blind him to their strong points. . . . Instead of criticizing, he is eager to commend."7
1:4 No wonder Paul said he cited the Thessalonians to other churches as an example to follow. This growth had come in the midst of persecution, and this made it even more commendable. "Faith"(Gr. pistis) usually refers to faith in someone or something, but often it means "faithfulness"(e.g., Rom. 3:3; Gal. 5:22; Titus 2:10). It probably has the latter meaning here. His readers were enduring hostile actions ("persecutions") as well as other painful experiences ("afflictions") at the hands of both Jews and Gentiles because of their Christian faith (cf. 1 Thess. 1:6; 2:14; Acts 17:5-9).
