1 Thessalonians 3:6-13
Separated by time and distance, Paul reports his prayer wish to the Thessalonians. At the top of that list was the desire to return in person that he might minister to them. The purpose of that ministry was the spiritual increase of the Thessalonians. Three categories of increase mark out Paul’s aim for the believer: faith, love, and holiness. This message explores the connection between the role of the ministry and the spiritual increase of the believer.
6 But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always think kindly of us, longing to see us just as we also long to see you, 7 for this reason, brethren, in all our distress and affliction we were comforted about you through your faith; 8 for now we really live, if you stand firm in the Lord. 9 For what thanks can we render to God for you in return for all the joy with which we rejoice before our God on your account, 10 as we night and day keep praying most earnestly that we may see your face, and may complete what is lacking in your faith? 11 Now may our God and Father Himself and Jesus our Lord direct our way to you; 12 and may the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all people, just as we also do for you; 13 so that He may establish your hearts without blame in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all His saints.
New American Standard Bible (NASB)
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