Verse 1
III.
(1) Finally.—The practical portion is introduced in the same manner as in the First Epistle (1 Thessalonians 4:1), “for the rest,” “as to what I have yet to say.”
Pray for us.—St. Chrysostom remarks: “Himself had prayed for them; now he asks them to pray for him.” How much of a Christian teacher’s power, increasing as time goes on, comes from the accumulation of intercession from his spiritual children! St. Paul leaves people praying for him everywhere (Romans 15:30; 2 Corinthians 1:11; Ephesians 6:18-19; Colossians 4:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:25; comp. Hebrews 13:18). In all these cases the request is for active help in his work of evangelising:” not that he may fall into no danger,” says St. Chrysostom, “for that he was appointed unto.” (Comp. 2 Timothy 2:9.) “That” stands for “in order that,” and does not introduce merely the subject of the prayer.
May have free course.—Quite literally, as in the margin, may run along. Speed and security are contained in this idea: no hesitation about the next turn, no anxious picking of the way, and no opposition from devils and bad men. Bengel compares Psalms 147:15.
And be glorified.—The word does not mean merely “obtain applause,” “win distinction,” as a successful runner; it always implies the recognition or acknowledgment of inherent admirable qualities. (See Notes on 2 Thessalonians 1:12; 1 Thessalonians 2:6.)
Even as it is with you.—Such praise would flush the Thessalonians to pray for him with greater fervour and assurance. “With you” means, in the Greek, “in your direction,” “on turning to you:” people had only to look at Thessalonica, and they were forced to recognise the character of the gospel.
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