[This letter is from] Paul, and Silvanus and Timothy, [and is being sent] to the church of the Thessalonians [Note: This was a town in present-day northeastern Greece] in [fellowship with] God, the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May God's unearned favor and peace be upon you.

and so became an example to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. [Note: These two provinces make up present-day Greece].

whilst night and day we make our ardent requests to him, that we may once more be present with you, that nothing may be wanting to the perfection of your faith?

I give orders in the name of the Lord that all the brothers are to be present at the reading of this letter.