1 Thessalonians 3:1-5

Overview:
Paul reminds them that when he had to stay behind in Athens, he sent Timothy to help them grow in their new found faith, and so they wouldn't be discouraged by what was happening with Paul. Paul reminds them that he had warned them that he was going to suffer for the cause of Christ, and now it has happened. He became so lonely for news of them, he sent word to learn about their continued faith. He wanted to check to make sure the tempter (Satan) hadn't gotten them off the path they had begun.
Application:
It's not enough to share your faith and lead someone to make a decision for Christ. You must follow up and help them to grow. They are like a tender young plant that needs continual nourishment and care. Discipleship is so important both for the mature believer (to be obedient to the Word) and for the new convert, to be able to have someone help them with questions they may be too embarrassed to ask. The sad part is that often new converts grow quickly and "out-grow" existing believers who ought to be growing, but are just warming the seats of our churches. Oh to be a growing Christian...we are never too mature to grow!