This letter was intended as a message of comfort and instruction to those who were in the midst of persecution. In writing, the apostle associated himself with Silas and Timothy. He commenced by referring to the great truth of the Church's safe position as being "in God the Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ"; and then declared the foundation facts of Christian character. They are, first, the "work of faith," by which the apostle referred to the belief through which believers entered into relationship with Jesus Christ; second, the "labour of love," referring to the whole activity of life after belief; and, third, "the patience of hope," referring to the strength issuing from the expectation of the return of the Lord.
The Gospel had come to them "in power and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance." The result was that they "became imitators," and "an example." As a result, the Word of the Lord had sounded forth far and near. This result followed from the fact that the Gospel was, indeed, in power. There is a vital connection between the description of their discipleship and their activity. The "work of faith" consisted in turning "unto God from idols," the "patience of hope" in waiting "for His Son from heaven." Throughout the letter these great facts are recognized, and illustrated, and applied.