OLBGrk; 1 THESSALONIANS CHAPTER 3 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5 The apostle showeth that out of his great care for the Thessalonians he had sent Timothy to comfort and strengthen them in the faith, 1 Thessalonians 3:6-8 whose good report of them had been a great consolation to him in his distresses. 1 Thessalonians 3:8-10 He testifieth his thankfulness to God, and earnest desire to see them, 1 Thessalonians 3:11-13 praying God to guide him to them, and for their increase in love and holiness unto the end. The apostle proceeds upon the same argument to confirm his love to them, and care of them, that they might not doubt of it because of his long absence from them. Therefore he tells them, that though he could not come himself, yet he sent Timothy to them from Athens; which we find not mentioned in the Acts by Luke: and his love herein is commended the more:
1. Because he sent him out of a strong impulse of affection, he could not forbear any longer, or bear, it was a heavy burden to him till he had done it, as the word imports.
2. He was content to be left at Athens alone by parting with Timothy, though his company was so desirable and useful to him at that time. And he was well pleased so to do for their sakes; eudokhsamen, he had a complacence of mind in so doing, so much he preferred their good before his own contentment. (To see numbers 3 and 4: See Poole on "1 Thessalonians 3:2".)