The sense of the importance of Jesus’ coming is enhanced by Paul’s use of the term our Lord Jesus.
These words draw a contrast between Jesus and, for example, the Roman Emperor, who could be referred to as Lord Caesar.
While the use of this language could be seen by the citizens of Thessalonica as subversive (cf. Acts 17:7), it would also have encouraged the Christians in that city to think about Jesus and his coming in highly exalted terms.1 He is not merely a lord or a king, but the king of heaven and earth who is coming to judge the living and the dead.
19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you?