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...
1 Thessalonians 2:4 – Be a God Pleaser
But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. Truth to Learn Proclaim the simple truth and seek God’s approval alone. Behind the Words “Approved” is translated from the Greek...
1 Thessalonians 2:3 – Minister Righteously
For our exhortation does not come from error or impurity, nor was it in deceit. Truth to Learn All ministries should be performed honestly and for God. Behind the Words “Exhortation” is translated from paraklēsis, which is derived from parakaleō, meaning “to call near” or “to call alongside.” It...
1 Thessalonians 2:2 – God-Given Courage
But also, we had suffered previously and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much opposition. Truth to Learn Serving God faithfully means you will encounter opposition. Behind the Words The words “we...
1 Thessalonians 2:1 – Opposition Will Come
For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain. Truth to Learn An effective Christian ministry will encounter opposition. Behind the Words “Know” is translated from the Greek verb eidō, which literally means “to see,” but as in English, it carries the meaning of...