The letter comes from Paul, Silas and Timothy. They frequently worked together, and, of course, we have two of Paul's letters to Timothy in the New Testament. This is one of the few letters where Paul does not introduce himself as an apostle, though the letter does include the usual "grace and peace to you".
Another feature of chapter one is how short it is! However, that is not really a feature as chapter numbers were put in many years later.
Paul had been force out of Thessalonica, so is assuring the Thessalonians that he has not forgotten about them. Moreover, he thanks God for them.
Verse 3 is one of several instances in Paul's letters where faith, love and hope occur together, 1 Corinthians 13 being the most famous example. Faith and love produce work and labour (ie much the same thing!). Hope produces endurance. Endurance is one of the most important Christian virtues. Many can start well, many can shine for a time, but there are few who keep going, who will see something through to the end, who will press on during the difficult times. Endurance is vital if we are to build something that lasts, and it is hope that enables us to endure. We know that Christ has already won the victory, and we know that we will share in His inheritance, so we have hope for the future.
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