The Thessalonians had received the hope of the Lord's return as a fundamental truth—they were converted to it. They "turned to God from idols.. to wait for His Son from heaven." It was not a new, strange doctrine among them, not a truth held only by a few who had more knowledge than others, but their common hope, and so prominently so, that we see it was the talk of the country round, that here was a set of people waiting for the return of Jesus from heaven.
We see in this epistle, and indeed throughout the New Testament, how the truth of the Lord's return is brought to bear on all subjects that concern us—for joy, comfort, warning, reproof, or encouragement—all is referred to His return.
The true power of living is this waiting for the Lord from heaven, is in personal love to Him; nothing else will give it. Alas, that we should be so dull, cold, loveless, with such a Savior, such a Head, hope, and home!
Thus far the Lord hath led: another year
Has proved His love, His goodness, and His power: His hand has guided through the year gone by. And daily need has met a full supply
Of daily grace. Now in His strength press on, With steadfast patience, for the victor's crown; Looking to Jesus, living but to prove
That He who loves with everlasting love Has claimed the willing service of my heart. Until you see Him nevermore to part.