1 Thessalonians 3:5-8 - Joseph Benson’s Commentary on the Old and New Testaments

For this cause The apostle proceeds to explain more fully what he began to speak of 1 Thessalonians 3:1; when I could no longer forbear Or endure the state of anxious uncertainty I was in with regard to persons so dear to me, in such circumstances; I sent to know your faith Whether you continued steadfast and constant in your adherence to the truth; lest the tempter Satan; should have tempted you That is, should by his temptations have caused you to faint under your trials, and so to depart from the faith. Temptations of different kinds usually accompany persecutions. But now, when Timothy came from you Immediately after whose return, it seems, St. Paul wrote this epistle, while his joy was fresh, and his tenderness at the height; and brought us good tidings of your faith, &c ., and that ye have good remembrance of us Think of us with affection, and make respectful mention of us upon all occasions. The apostle undoubtedly means their remembering him and his fellow-labourers with respect, as teachers sent from God; and with gratitude, as those who had given them the knowledge of the true God and of eternal life. These things are the best foundations of a respectful, grateful remembrance; for, as Chandler observes, the persons who are converted by the labours of the faithful ministers of Christ owe to their spiritual fathers their own souls; an obligation that ought not to be soon or easily forgotten. Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over, or concerning, you The faithfulness and constancy of the people of God are a great source of comfort to their teachers. For now we live indeed Our life is worth having; or, we enjoy life; if, or seeing that, ye stand fast in the Lord Continue firm in the faith of Christ and of his grace. So great is our affection for you. In like manner, faithful ministers of the gospel, after the apostle's example, have no higher joy than when they find their wishes, their prayers, and their labours effectual to the conversion of their people, and for their establishment in truth and grace.