The walk of the Thessalonians was a testimony to all of the fact that they had forsaken their idols, outward or inward, that they were perfectly cleansed from their sins, and that they expected Jesus from heaven.
Paul, reciting his own trials, encouraged them in theirs, and reminded them of his experience at Philippi and of his deliverance.
Paul's ministry was from the heart. Good if it were always so from us. There was no covetousness, deceit, uncleanness, nor guile. He did not use flattery, nor did he seek glory from men.
The apostle was gentle among them as a nurse cherishes her own children. He expressed sincerely his affection for the saints, willing to do all that was possible for them. He labored night and day with his own hands, making tents to pay his way while he ministered to the Thessalonian saints in order that he would not be chargeable to them while he preached the gospel of God.
Paul mentions how holily, justly, and unblamably he and his co-worker behaved themselves among the believers. He exhorted and comforted them as a father would his own children, his desire being that they might walk worthy of God who had called them to His kingdom and glory. The saints had received Paul's teaching as the word of God, and so it was.
There had been much disdain on the part of the Jews toward the brethren, but by grace, the joy of being in God the Father had caused these poor saints in Thessalonica to be followers of the churches of Judea. What a triumph of grace this was. The Jews in hatred to Christ sought to forbid Paul to preach to the Gentiles that they might be saved. Because of this God's wrath has come upon them.
The apostle desired to visit the saints at Thessalonica but was hindered by Satan. Paul's joy was, if not being able to see them again on earth, that they would be his crown of rejoicing in heaven "in the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ at His coming." They will be Paul's glory and joy. This is precious, eternal fruit that will never pass away. Lord, may this be our joy also.