1Th 3:5-6 | MHM | STEP | v. 5 : Paul says he was worried that the devil, the tempter, might use these hard times to turn them away from Jesus. Lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain (1 Thessalonians 3:5 ). Paul did not want his work to be wasted if they gave up their faith. He knew the devil tries to destroy faith, especially when people suffer. That is why he sent Timothy—to check on their faith and to help them stand strong. Faith is like a shield that protects us from all the attacks of the devil (Ephesians 6:16 ).

‏ 1 Thessalonians 3:5-6

v. 5: Paul says he was worried that the devil, the tempter, might use these hard times to turn them away from Jesus. Lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain (1 Thessalonians 3:5 ^a). Paul did not want his work to be wasted if they gave up their faith. He knew the devil tries to destroy faith, especially when people suffer. That is why he sent Timothy—to check on their faith and to help them stand strong. Faith is like a shield that protects us from all the attacks of the devil (Ephesians 6:16 ^b).

The Mission of Timothy.

This section describes how Paul felt when Timothy came back with news from the Thessalonians. Timothy's report brought Paul great happiness and comfort. Paul saw the faith and love of the Thessalonians as evidence that his work among them was not wasted. He was thankful to God and kept praying for them, hoping their faith would grow even stronger.

v. 6: Timothy returned to Paul with good news. He told Paul that the Thessalonians were strong in their faith and love. They remembered Paul and his friends with kindness and always wanted to see them again. Paul also wanted to see the Thessalonians. This mutual love between Paul and the church was a blessing and helped the gospel grow. But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity... (1 Thessalonians 3:6 ^c).