For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, and so it came to pass, as you know. Truth to Learn Effective ministers of God will suffer opposition and trouble. Behind the Words The words “we told … before” are translated...
1 Thessalonians 3:3 – Suffering From God
that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves know that we are appointed unto this. Truth to Learn Some of our suffering is because God has determined it. Behind the Words “No one” is translated from mēdeis. This word is made up of mē, which...
1 Thessalonians 3:2 – Growth and Service
and sent Timothy, our brother and minister and fellow laborer of God in the gospel of Christ, to establish you and encourage you concerning your faith, Truth to Learn Christians are called both to grow in faith and to serve God through faith. Behind the Words The verb “sent”...
1 Thessalonians 3:1 – Family Ties
Therefore, no longer enduring it, we thought it good to be left in Athens alone, Truth to Learn Christians are all part of the same loving family. Behind the Words The words “enduring it” are translated from the Greek verb stegō. This word literally means “to cover.” It can...
1 Thessalonians 2:20 – A Joyful Coming
For you are our glory and joy. Truth to Learn There will be rejoicing for Christians when Christ returns. Behind the Words The word “glory” is translated from the Greek word doxa. This word primarily means “thought” or “opinion,” especially a favorable opinion. In a secondary sense it means...
1 Thessalonians 2:19 – Present Suffering or Future Glory?
For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? Truth to Learn Keep your focus on eternity when you suffer as a Christian. Behind the Words Elpis is the Greek word...
1 Thessalonians 2:18 – Opposition to Ministries
Therefore we determined to come to you—even I, Paul, time and again—but Satan hindered us. Truth to Learn Christians’ plans may be hindered by God – or by Satan. Behind the Words “We determined” is translated from a form of the verb thelō, meaning “to wish” or “to will.”...
1 Thessalonians 2:17 – Orphaned Christians
But we, brothers, having been taken away from you for a short time in presence, not in spirit, were all the more eager with great desire to see your face. Truth to Learn Persecution of Christians occurs world-wide today. Behind the Words The words “having been taken away” are...
1 Thessalonians 2:16 – Proclaim It Fearlessly
hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins. But wrath has suddenly come upon them to the uttermost. Truth to Learn Christians are to share the Gospel, in spite of persecution. Behind the...
1 Thessalonians 2:15 – Suffering Is Good?
who both killed the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and drove us out. They are not pleasing to God but are contrary to all men, Truth to Learn Persecution and suffering can make us stronger Christians. Behind the Words The word translated “killed” is from the Greek verb...