See on ch. 2:9. Here we have a glimpse of the apostle’s hidden life of prayer. Paul worked “night and day” (ch. 2:9); yet, like the high priest, he bore his converts on his heart continuously (see on Ex. 28:29).

 Compare chs. 2:17, 18; 3:6. Paul believed there was something he could do in person that could not otherwise be accomplished. Yet the fact that he was prevented from fulfilling his desire led to the writing of this letter, which accomplished much for his distant friends. But how much more did he accomplish for the church in all ages This epistle, probably the earliest of his known writings (see pp. 224, 225), was penned as a direct result of his unsuccessful attempts to return to Thessalonica (see on ch. 2:18). It is possible that he did visit this church later and gave its members further instruction (see Acts 20:2). But for the present his way was obstructed. The delay forced upon the apostle was by the Lord’s grace made the occasion for the writing of the epistle. Thus the wrath of man was turned to the praise of God.

 Gr. katartizō (see on Luke 6:40; Gal. 6:1). Paul was anxious to supply what was lacking in their spiritual equipment. He had previously extolled their faith, love, and hope (1 Thess. 1:3), but he recognized that they lacked essential virtues (see on chs. 4:11; 5:14), and needed to “increase more and more” (ch. 4:10) in the Christian graces.