You graciously received us, just like you received the gospel. We watched over you, as a nursing mother with her child. We took jobs to pay our own way, to make it easier for you. Our love for you was like that of a devoted father, helping you to learn how to walk with God.

Now the gospel is working inside you. People hate you because they hate the gospel. I wanted to be there during this time of trial, but Satan stood in my way. Hear what I say—you’re my hope—you’re my joy; you’re my crown of boasting before the Lord!

When I realized that I couldn’t be with you, 
I left Timothy and came here. I told him to help you as you faced this persecution. For a long time I didn’t get news on how you were doing. Finally I couldn’t stand it any longer. I sent word to Timothy and asked about you.

He personally came and told me the good news of your faith and love in Christ. He told me that you want to see me as much as I want to see you. Praise God! You’re standing firm in your faith. Oh how I long to be with you and teach you more about walking with the Lord.

Now listen. Continue to live a life that pleases God. Stay away from immorality. Don’t be like those who are enslaved to uncontrolled passions That is a lifestyle that hurts everyone involved. It also offends the Spirit of God who lives inside you. Don’t forget, God severely judges people who live with such filth.

Instead, let your love be godly. But why am I telling you this? God has taught you how to love one another. I just ask that you do it even more.

Timothy told me that you’re concerned about those who have died recently. Don’t worry about them. Remember, Jesus also died, but God raised him from the dead! He’ll do the same with those who have put their trust in him.

When Jesus comes back to earth, he will
 first raise those who have died in him. Then
the rest of us will meet him in the air. Don’t be discouraged like those without our hope. Instead, comfort each other with these words.

Of course we don’t have a schedule as to when this is going to happen. Still, we are to prepare ourselves as if it will happen today.

When it does, those who live in sin will be caught off guard. They’re like people who lock their doors at night and think they’re safe. Suddenly a thief breaks into their home!

The coming of our Lord Jesus will be like the labor pains of a woman about to give birth. People will suddenly find themselves standing before God to be judged. But Jesus Christ died so we can live with him forever. Encourage one another with this truth.

Here is how you are to function as a church until the Lord comes:
• Honor those who meet your spiritual needs.
• Get along with one another.
• Don’t put up with laziness.
• Be patient with those who are discouraged.
• Help the weak.
• Don’t seek revenge when people wrong you.
• Always do that which is good.

Here are the three parts of living a spiritual life:
• First, rejoice, pray, and give thanks. This is God’s will for you.
• Next, listen to God’s Spirit when he speaks to you through others, but make sure it’s from God.
• And finally, hold on to that which is good and stay away from evil.

My dear friends, we’re a family, so pray for me and keep your fellowship sweet. Share this letter with everyone in the church. The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.