Salutation and Thanksgiving
1. Salutation. For Silvanus (Silas) see Acts 15:22; Acts 16:20; Acts 16:37; Acts 16:38. Timothy was one of St. Paul's most constant companions (Acts 16:1; Romans 16:21; 1 Corinthians 4:14-17; 2 Corinthians 1:19; Philippians 1:1; Philippians 2:19-24; 2 Timothy 1:5; 2 Timothy 3:14). The church.. which is in God, etc.] a phrase peculiar to this Epistle. The Church is in living union with God and Christ (Colossians 2:19).
2-10. Fervent thanksgiving for their conversion and growth in grace.