But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and brought us good news of your faith and love, and that you always have good remembrance of us, greatly desiring to see us, as we also to see you—
Truth to Learn
Remember those who have helped you in your faith walk.
Behind the Words
The word “now” is translated from the Greek adverb arti, meaning “now, just now, or the present time.”
“Has come” is from the verb erchomai, meaning “to come” or “to go.” It is expressed here as an aorist participle, so it could be translated as “having come.”
The words “brought … good news” are from euangelidzō, which means “to announce good news.” It is the word from which we get our English word “evangelize.” Most often in the New Testament it is a reference to the good news of the gospel of Christ. Here, however, it refers to the good news about the firm faith of the Thessalonians.
“Remembrance” is translated from mneia, which refers to “a recollection” or “a specific memory about someone or something.”
Epipotheō is the Greek word translated “greatly desiring.” It is made up of epi, used as an intensifier and potheō, meaning “to desire or yearn for something.” Thus, epipotheō refers to a strong yearning or a strong desire.”
Meaning Explained
Before commenting on today’s verse, let’s look at the end of yesterday’s verse. Paul expressed concern that his labor among the Thessalonians might have been empty, or in vain. Some might interpret this as his concern that they had “lost their salvation.” This cannot be, since Paul teaches elsewhere that salvation is “eternal” and secure. Remember that the Thessalonians had been undergoing persecution, which tends to have a “weeding-out” effect on those who profess faith in Christ. Those lacking genuine faith will turn back in the face of such opposition, but true believers will grow and become stronger as a result of trials.
Today’s verse gives a clue regarding when and where this letter was written. Paul says that Timothy has just returned to him. If we look at Acts 18:5, we see that Paul was in Corinth when Timothy and Silvanus (Silas) returned to him from Macedonia. Since it was shortly after their return that Paul was taken before the proconsul Gallio, and we know from historical documents that Gallio was proconsul between AD 51 and AD 52, this letter must have been written around AD 50 or 51.
Upon his return, Timothy reported to Paul the wonderful news that not only has the Thessalonian persecution not driven people from the church, it seems to have solidified their faith. We also learn that they remembered Paul and his companions with good thoughts. This is particularly significant given the accusation that had been made against Paul.
Application
For those of you who have been Christians for a long time, do you remember the people who were significant in your conversion and early grounding in the faith? How often have you given thanks to God for their faithfulness and dedication?
In God's service, for His glory,
Copyright © 2012 Will Krause. All rights reserved