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...
1 Thessalonians 2:14 – Family Suffering
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...