2 Thessalonians 1:2
Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Original Language Analysis
χάρις
Grace
G5485
χάρις
Grace
Strong's:
G5485
Word #:
1 of 12
graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἰρήνη
peace
G1515
εἰρήνη
peace
Strong's:
G1515
Word #:
4 of 12
peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity
ἀπὸ
from
G575
ἀπὸ
from
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
5 of 12
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
θεοῦ
God
G2316
θεοῦ
God
Strong's:
G2316
Word #:
6 of 12
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
πατρὸς
Father
G3962
πατρὸς
Father
Strong's:
G3962
Word #:
7 of 12
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
9 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
κυρίου
the Lord
G2962
κυρίου
the Lord
Strong's:
G2962
Word #:
10 of 12
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
Cross References
Romans 1:7To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.1 Corinthians 1:3Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.1 Corinthians 1:8Who shall also confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Historical Context
The Thessalonian church, composed of converted Gentiles and Jews, faced hostility from both pagan neighbors and the Jewish community. Roman imperial pressure and local mob violence (Acts 17:5-9) created an atmosphere of fear. Paul's words provided divine comfort in a hostile environment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God's grace differ from mere optimism or positive thinking during trials?
- In what specific area of life do you most need divine peace right now?
- How does the equal pairing of Father and Son throughout Paul's greetings affirm Christ's deity?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Grace unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ—Paul's standard greeting carries profound theology. Charis (χάρις, grace) is God's unmerited favor, the foundation of salvation and perseverance. Eirēnē (εἰρήνη, peace) is the Hebrew shalom—total well-being, reconciliation with God, and the end of enmity.
These gifts flow from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, a single prepositional phrase indicating one divine source. The Thessalonians, enduring severe persecution (v. 4), desperately needed both grace to stand firm and peace amid turmoil. Paul will show that Christ's return brings ultimate justice and vindication for the suffering faithful.