Yet, in spite of opposition, hardship, and a pagan and immoral environment, they were commended by Paul for their ‘ faithful work, loving labor, and endurance, ’ as well as their contribution to the spreading of the good news far and wide. ​ — 1 Thessalonians 1: 3, 8.
Kuid hoolimata sellest, et nad seisid silmitsi vastupanu ja raskustega ning et neid ümbritsesid amoraalsed inimesed, kes kummardasid ebajumalaid, ei lasknud nad end usus kõigutada. Paulus kiitis neid usutegude, vaevanägemise ja vastupidavuse eest ning ka osaluse eest hea sõnumi laiaulatuslikus levitamises.