The second main division of 1 Thessalonians (i.e., 1 Thessalonians 2:1 – 3:13) deals with Paul’s relationship with the Thessalonians. After describing his entry (Greek: εἴσοδος/eisodos) into the city (1 Thessalonians 2:1–12) and the Thessalonians’ response to the gospel (1 Thessalonians 2:13–16), he now addresses his ongoing relationship with the new converts, from their forced separation up to Timothy’s encouraging report of their progress in the faith (1 Thessalonians 2:17 – 3:10).

Three subdivisions are found within this section: first, Paul shares his response to the forced departure from Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 2:17–20); secondly, he explains how Timothy was sent to encourage the Thessalonian disciples (1 Thessalonians 3:1–5); and thirdly, he expresses relief and gratitude at Timothy’s positive report (1 Thessalonians 3:6–10).

The letter’s second main division is brought to an elegant close with a prayer for renewed contact and for God to strengthen the believers in holiness (1 Thessalonians 3:11–13).¹

The structure of this main division can therefore be represented like this:

First main division: Paul’s relationship with the Thessalonians (1 Thessalonians 2:1 – 3:13)

1. Paul’s entry into Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 2:1–12)

2. The Thessalonian believers’ response and the resulting persecution (1 Thessalonians 2:13–16)

3. Paul’s ongoing relationship with the Thessalonian believers (1 Thessalonians 2:17 – 3:10)

   a. Paul’s separation from the Thessalonians and his longing for them (1 Thessalonians 2:17–20)

   b. Timothy sent to encourage the new believers (1 Thessalonians 3:1–5)

   c. Timothy’s encouraging report (1 Thessalonians 3:6–10)

4. Prayer for renewed contact and for God’s strengthening work (1 Thessalonians 3:11–13)