The Thessalonians are not only Paul’s hope, but also his joy. As in the case of hope, joy is an important element of Paul’s theology. Words referring to joy are found 131 times in his letters. Joy is also closely connected with grace. The believer’s life is to be saturated with joy, which is also closely related to the Christian’s future hope (Romans 5:2–3; Philippians 3:20 – 4:1; Philippians 4:4; cf. Jude 1:24).1 As the Philippians were Paul’s joy and crown (Philippians 4:1), so also the Thessalonians are his joy. When he looks forward to the return of Christ, he is filled with profound happiness at the thought that they will appear blameless before the Lord and that his own ministry will thereby be proved genuine and fruitful.
19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you?