from the Jews, Truth to Learn Many Christians suffer at the hands of friends and relatives. Behind the Words “Imitators” is from the word mimētēs, which we saw in the sixth verse of the previous chapter. It refers to “someone who mimics, imitates, or follows the example of someone...
1 Thessalonians 2:13 – God’s Effective Work
For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also works in you who believe. Truth to...
1 Thessalonians 2:12 – Walking Worthy
and testifying that you walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. Truth to Learn Encouragement and instruction help us to become more godly. Behind the Words “Testifying” is from the Greek verb marturomai. This word is derived from martus, meaning “a witness.” This...
1 Thessalonians 2:11 – Father Paul
as you know how we were encouraging, and comforting every one of you, as a father does his own children, Truth to Learn We all need some comfort, encouragement, and challenge. Behind the Words The word “as” is from the Greek word kathaper. This word is made up of...
1 Thessalonians 2:10 – Blameless Ministers
You are witnesses, and so is God, how devoutly and righteously and blamelessly we were to you who believe; Truth to Learn Christians should be blameless in whatever ministry they are engaged in. Behind the Words The word “witnesses” is translated from martus, from which we get our English...
1 Thessalonians 2:8 – Spiritual Parenting
So, yearning for you, we were well pleased to give to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. Truth to Learn Mature Christians help younger Christians grow. Behind the Words “So” is from the Greek word houtōs,...
1 Thessalonians 2:9 – Hard Labor
For you recall, brothers, our labor and hard work; laboring night and day so that we might not be a burden to any of you, we preached to you the gospel of God. Truth to Learn Serving God sometimes requires hard work. Behind the Words “Labor” is translated from...
1 Thessalonians 2:7 – Caring Like Mothers
But we became gentle among you, just as a nursing mother tenderly cares for her own children. Truth to Learn Christian service should demonstrate love and care for others. Behind the Words “Gentle” is translated from the Greek word nēpios, which is made up or nē, meaning “not” and...
1 Thessalonians 2:6 – It’s Not About Us
Nor seeking glory from men, either from you or from others, being able to be in authority as apostles of Christ. Truth to Learn Paul didn’t make personal demands, even when he could have. Behind the Words The word “seeking” is from the Greek verb dzēteō, which means “to...
1 Thessalonians 2:5 – No Deceptive Practices
For neither at any time did we come with flattering words, as you know, nor with a pretense of covetousness—God is witness. Truth to Learn Christians don’t need to be deceptive to deliver the truth. Behind the Words The words “at any time” are from pote, which means “at...