What does 2 Thessalonians 1:2 mean?

Paul greets the Thessalonian church with a combination of Greek and Hebrew salutations. "Grace," a Greek greeting, conveys a sense of God's favor when used in a Christian context. "Peace," a typical Hebrew salutation, conveys a sense of well-being. Well-being results from God's grace at work in a person's heart.

It is significant that grace precedes peace in Paul's salutation. No one can have true peace without first experiencing God's grace. When a person experiences salvation by grace, he or she enters into peace with God. Romans 5:1 tells us, "therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." All who are saved by grace can enjoy the peace of God in their hearts. Jesus told His followers: "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid" (John 14:27).