In Paul’s letters the introductory thanksgiving often introduces themes that will be developed later in the letter. Thus we see this thanksgiving addressing such issues as brotherly love (1 Thessalonians 1:3; see further 1 Thessalonians 4:9–10), the Thessalonians’ conversion (1 Thessalonians 1:5–10; see further 1 Thessalonians 2:13), the character of Paul and his associates (1 Thessalonians 1:5–6; see further 1 Thessalonians 2:1–12), endurance in the midst of persecution (1 Thessalonians 1:6; see further 1 Thessalonians 2:14–16; 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5), and the return of the Lord Jesus (1 Thessalonians 1:10; see further 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 5:10).^1,2