1 Thessalonians 3:2 Meaning and Explanation
“And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul sent Timothy, his trusted brother and coworker, to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonians in their faith.
What Does 1 Thessalonians 3:2 Mean?
This was the reason for Paul's lonely choice: he sent Timothy in his place. He honors the young man with three titles, 'our brother,' 'minister of God,' and 'fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ,' showing how highly he valued this trusted companion. Timothy's mission was twofold: to 'establish' them, making them firm and steady, and to 'comfort' them in their faith.
Paul could not go himself, so he sent the next best thing, a beloved coworker carrying his own heart. The goal was not merely to check on them but to build them up. New believers under pressure need both stability and encouragement, a faith that stands firm and a spirit that does not lose heart. Timothy went to supply both. There is a beautiful humility in Paul's readiness to send another in his stead and to share the work so freely. The strengthening of the church mattered more to him than the credit for doing it.
1 Thessalonians 3:2 in the Original Language
sterizo (στηρίζω), 'establish' -- to make firm and fixed, to set something solidly in place.
Frequently Asked Questions About 1 Thessalonians 3:2
What does 1 Thessalonians 3:2 mean?
Paul sent Timothy, his trusted brother and coworker, to strengthen and encourage the Thessalonians in their faith.