For when people speak of us, they tell what a welcome you gave us, and how you turned from idols to God, to serve a true and living God,

For what hope or happiness shall we have or what prize to be proud of in the presence of our Lord Jesus when he comes, except you?

and encourage you not to be led astray, any of you, in all these troubles. You know yourselves that this is what we must expect,

as I pray night and day with intense earnestness that I may see your faces and supply what is lacking in your faith?

For you remember what instructions we gave you on the authority of the Lord Jesus.

When people say, "What peace and security!" then suddenly destruction will be upon them, like birth-pains upon a woman about to give birth to a child, and there will be no escape.

Hold them in the highest esteem and affection for what they do. Live at peace with one another.

Thank God whatever happens. For this is what God through Christ Jesus wants you to do.

but test them all, retaining what is good