But Paul did not use the flattering words that often are a cloak for covetousness. The apostle expressed his thankfulness to God so often upon this account that he seemed to think he never could be sufficiently thankful that God had counted him faithful, and put him into the ministry, and made his ministrations successful. 5. Such a conflict always involves intense exertion and strenuous, persistent effort to overcome the determined opposition or the dangerous antagonist. (Hiebert). You welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God: The Thessalonians received the word of God as it is in truth. 1. He was well pleased to do it because Paul was affectionately longing for the Thessalonians because they had become dear to Paul and his associates. So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become dear to us. These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience. John Schultz This shows that in the few weeks he was there, Paul taught the Thessalonians much about Satan and spiritual warfare. Paul didnt have to say, Please dont look at my life. Proud member These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features. 1 Thessalonians 2 Pulpit Commentary The subject-matter of the apostle's preaching was not vain and idle speculations about useless niceties and foolish questions, but sound and solid truth, such as was most likely to profit his hearers. Paul gave both his care and his knowledge to the Thessalonians. (1 Thessalonians 2:3-5) The integrity of Pauls message in Thessalonica. That you have not perceived spiritual things is true; but it is no proof that there are none to perceive. We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. See Acts 16:23, c. and the notes there.. With much contention. You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. Herein, said this apostle, do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence towards God, and towards men, Acts 24 16. 1 Thessalonians 2 - Marks of Paul's Ministry A. Paul proves he was sincere and not a charlatan. They were more confirmed in the truth of gospel-revelations, confided in gospel-promises, and had lively expectations of another world. This is the way to win people. He mentions the gentleness of their behaviour: We were gentle among you, v. 7. It was that Satan hindered Paul and his associates. Or do ye enter into the priesthood for a morsel of bread, or for what is ominously and impiously called a living, a benefice? Is God witness that, in all these things, ye have no cloak of covetousness? But wo to that man who enters into the labour for the sake of the hire! Perhaps Paul would say that he didnt need a crown in heaven because these precious ones were his crown of victory. And as a nursing mother bears with frowardness in a child, and condescends to mean offices for its good, and draws out her breast, cherishing it in her bosom, so in like manner should the ministers of Christ behave towards their people. Some people like to say that there is a word of God, but that we cant be sure of what He says. The servant of the Lord must not strive, but be gentle unto all men, and patient, 2 Tim 2 24. When Christians forget this, they often disgrace and curse themselves by returning persecution for persecution towards others. Such a Roman flogging was no light matter; it was an experience not soon forgotten. (Hiebert), ii. Most of these religions were missionary minded and sought to spread their faith using itinerant evangelists and preachers. GenesisExodusLeviticusNumbersDeuteronomyJoshuaJudgesRuth1 Samuel2 Samuel1 Kings2 Kings1 Chronicles2 ChroniclesEzraNehemiahEstherJobPsalmsProverbsEcclesiastesSong of SongsIsaiahJeremiahLamentationsEzekielDanielHoseaJoelAmosObadiahJonahMicahNahumHabakkukZephaniahHaggaiZechariahMalachiMatthewMarkLukeJohnActsRomans1 Corinthians2 CorinthiansGalatiansEphesiansPhilippiansColossians1 Thessalonians2 Thessalonians1 Timothy2 TimothyTitusPhilemonHebrewsJames1 Peter2 Peter1 John2 John3 JohnJudeRevelation, Select an Ending Point Pauline Epistles And. Upon this occasion, the apostle gives a character of the unbelieving Jews (v. 15), enough to justify their final rejection and the ruin of their place, and church, and nation, which was now approaching. c. Satan hindered us: Paul, in all his apostolic ministry and authority, could still be blocked by Satan. We should not only be faithful to our calling as Christians, but in our particular callings and relations. He could say to these Thessalonians what he told the Corinthians (2 Cor 4 2): We have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully. The word of man isnt worth suffering for, but a true message from God is worth it. 2. Paul denied his rights and took a higher standard upon himself. Hear this, ye that preach the Gospel! The Thessalonian Christians became imitators of those who had suffered before them. Paul's Instructions to the Thessalonians 4:1--5:28 A. Directions for Growth 4:1-12 B. We should accommodate ourselves to the intention and design of the gospel, and live suitably to our profession and privileges, our hopes and expectations, as becomes those who are called with such a high and holy calling. b. Just as Athenians were tested for their fitness before they were allowed to assume public office, so the missionaries were tested before they were commissioned as Gods messengers. (Hiebert). i. 3 Let no one deceive you in any way. For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which also effectively works in you who believe. Timothy's Visit 3:1-5 3. Many scholars believe that 1 Thessalonians was Pauls earliest letter written as an apostle to a church. Historical Books Such a Roman flogging was no light matter; it was an experience not soon forgotten. (Hiebert), ii. His desire and endeavour were to return again very soon to Thessalonica. The force of this is that Christianity is not just another religion. They were outraged that Gentiles could be saved without first becoming Jews. He accommodated himself to all men's capacities, and became all things to all men. Poetical Books a. If he couldnt be there in person, his letter will go for him and teach and encourage them in his absence. v. Supposing that we have ascertained that hindrances in our way really come from Satan, WHAT THEN? Poetical Books The Jews opposition to the work of the missionaries among the Gentiles was not due to the fact that they were seeking to win Gentiles. 2 Thessalonians appears to have been written shortly after 1 Thessalonians. Pauls statement of defense falls into two parts, a negative and a positive It is his practice first to sweep away the false, and then with the ground cleared to set forth the positive presentation of the truth. (Hiebert). (6.) (3.) 1 Thessalonians 2 NIV - Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica - You - Bible The Thessalonian Christians became imitators of those who had suffered before them. His coming was not empty or hollow, as if he were a mere salesman or marketer. It is not to be named with any of the words proper to religions in general [of that day]. (Morris). Paul assured the Thessalonians that he desired to be with them, but he was hindered by Satan, and that this happened time and again. For the sake of these things wrath has come upon them to the uttermost; that is, wrath was determined against them, and would soon overtake them. No, he was far from this; nor did he flatter men in their sins; nor tell them, if they would be of his party, they might live as they listed. c. Even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts: Paul knew his Gospel wouldnt always please men, but he knew that it was pleasing to God. Note, Suffering in a good cause should rather sharpen than blunt the edge of holy resolution. The force of this is that Christianity is not just another religion. Thomas on covetousness: Pleonexia is self-seeking of all types, a quest for anything that brings self-satisfaction. Over a quarter of 1 Thessalonians and nearly half of 2 Thessalonians deal with problems and issues regarding the parousia or coming of Christ from heaven. Purpose of Writing: In the church of Thessalonica there were some misunderstandings about the return of Christ. What does 1 Thessalonians chapter 2 mean? | BibleRef.com 2. c. But we were gentle among you: Paul was like a nursing mother, who only looks to give to her child. Observe, 1. So, if forty people declare that there is no power of the Holy Ghost going with the word, this only proves that the forty people do not know what others do know. (Spurgeon). a. Get Your Bible Minute in Your Inbox Every Morning. Time is short, all our time on earth is short and uncertain, whether we are present with our friends or absent from them. 1 Thessalonians 5:14 , John 11:19 ; John 11:31 ; rendered uniformly in A.V., "comforting") is the calming and consoling side of exhortation, as addressed to the afflicted or the weak. Christians passed over many Greek words that were commonly used for religious brotherhoods. Also present were the Roman State cults that deified the political heroes of Rome. Our coming to you was not in vain: The word vain here can refer either to the result of the ministry, or the character of the ministry. For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in vain. It has been said that people dont care how much you know until they know how much you care. Pauls statement of defense falls into two parts, a negative and a positive It is his practice first to sweep away the false, and then with the ground cleared to set forth the positive presentation of the truth. (Hiebert). 1. He could see that it effectively works in those who believe. 3. The gospel he preached was without deceit, it was true and faithful; it was not fallacious, nor a cunningly-devised fable. i. Affectionately longing for you: Is from an extremely rare verb of obscure origin. Building on the theme of God's word, I will explore the phrase "being bearers of God's word.". You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. That you have not perceived spiritual things is true; but it is no proof that there are none to perceive. For you also suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did from the Judeans, who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost. There is a valid debate as to if 1 Thessalonians 2:7 should read gentle or babes. (4.) In 1 Thessalonians 2:3 the apostle mentioned the holiness of life that should characterize the one who proclaims the message of God. Because it was evident to everyone that Pauls ministry in Thessalonica was a success, it is better to see it as a reference to the character of Pauls ministry. , having suffered before) that which might have deterred others from preaching. The Whole Bible For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. To the labour of the ministry he added that of his calling, as a tent-maker, that he might get his own bread. 1 Thessalonians 2 Commentary - John Gill's Exposition of the Bible This was Paul's comfort; he was neither daunted in his work, nor driven from it. Then of the manner of his conversation among them, ver 7-12. Paul is something of a dictator (1 Thessalonians 2:7 we were gentle among you). c. Satan hindered us: Paul, in all his apostolic ministry and authority, could still be blocked by Satan. a. iv. Yet Paul assured them that the reason was not a lack of love or desire on his part. 1 Thessalonians 2 - Coffman's Commentaries on the Bible - Bible Their crimes were great; to these their punishment is proportioned. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. The word of the gospel is preached by men like ourselves, men of like passions and infirmities with others: We have this treasure in earthen vessels. ii. Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible (Complete). John 3:16, Jesus faith love), Select a Beginning Point (2.) Verse by Verse Commentary. And this he did not only publicly, but privately also, and from house to house (Acts 20 20), and charged every one of them by personal addresses: this, some think, is intended by the similitude of a father's charging his children. He mentions their faithful discharge of the work and office of the ministry, v. 11, 12. He did not come making demands as an apostle. The Blue Letter Bible ministry and the BLB Institute hold to the historical, Salvation is of the Jews, says our Saviour. (4.) Thessalonica was also an important port and a melting pot city with cultures from all over the world. For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. The dead in Christ shall rise first, while those still living will follow close behind. i. If we can not know what God has spoken, then He may as well not have spoken at all. In all probability, 1 Thessalonians is the earliest of Paul's epistles, particularly because it indicates that the memory. a. The Thessalonians willingly suffered the same things because they were convinced that Paul brought them not the word of man, but the Word of God. i. Study Guide for 2 Thessalonians 1 by David Guzik - Blue Letter Bible Cookie Notice: Such was the rage of his persecutors. 2. What is our great gospel privilegethat God has called us to his kingdom and glory. For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? b. They were outraged that Gentiles could be saved without first becoming Jews. They were observers of their outward conversation in public before men, and God was witness not only of their behaviour in secret, but of the inward principles from which they acted. I have but one piece of advice, and that is, go on, hindrance or no hindrance, in the path of duty as God the Holy Ghost enables you. (Spurgeon). Churches is the ancient Greek word ekklesia; it was not a specifically religious word. He denied himself the liberty he had of taking wages from the churches. He could see that it effectively works in those who believe. of The Thessalonians were mostly Gentile converts, yet when Paul mentioned Satan here, he gave no further explanation. d. For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness: Paul understood that covetousness always has a cloak. Many scholars believe that 1 Thessalonians was Pauls earliest letter written as an apostle to a church. range of evangelical traditions, all of the ideas and principles conveyed ( 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2) Paul's comfort to the troubled Thessalonians and their question. Their fierce opposition was due to the fact that Christian missionaries offered salvation to Gentiles without demanding that they first become Jews. (Hiebert), ii. He had no sinister or worldly design in his preaching, which he puts them in mind to have been. Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming? The Bibles Tab is found in the Tools feature on Bible pages: Note: MLA no longer requires the URL as part of their citation standard. Paul gave both his care and his knowledge to the Thessalonians. We were well pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives: The sacrifices Paul endured for the sake of ministry to the Thessalonians were not a burden. c. And they do not please God and are contrary to all men: Paul also comforted the Thessalonian Christians with the awareness that they were right, that they are the ones pleasing God. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for 1 AND 2 THESSALONIANS (UNDERSTANDING THE BIBLE COMMENTARY By David J. Williams at the best online prices at eBay! The gospel calls us into the kingdom and state of grace here and unto the kingdom and state of glory hereafter, to heaven and happiness as our end and to holiness as the way to that end. ii. But we were gentle among you, just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. Timotheus was sent to Thessalonica, to enquire after their welfare and to establish them in the faith (1 Thessalonians 3:2), and, returning to Paul while he tarried at Athens, was sent again, together with Silas, . Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well. For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness: The purity of Pauls message made it apparent that there was no deceit, uncleanness, or guile in his ministry. Date of Writing: The Book of 1 Thessalonians was written in approximately A.D. 50. The Commendation and Thanksgiving ( 1 Thess. They acted under the consideration of God's omniscience, as in the sight of him who tries our hearts. II. The Thessalonians were familiar with the pretensions, deceit and gross immorality which marked the pagan worship throughout the world of those days, especially among the Gentiles; and it is the contrast with paganism, not Paul's defense of himself from slander, which shines in a passage like this. Chapters Available - 1 Thessalonians - Henry's Complete Commentary on I. Pauls emphatic calling of the Thessalonians to witness did two things. In the first place it showed his confidence in them. The context seems to suggest more of a uncleanness of motive or spirit, while the word itself more indicates moral and especially sexual uncleanness (it often appears in lists with the term fornication). 3 For our appeal does not spring from error or impurity or any attempt to deceive, 4 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 - Sermon Writer ii. For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Do We See Any Gospel Connections in the Book of Numbers? He was their spiritual father; and, as he cherished them like a nursing mother, so he charged them as a father, with a father's affection rather than a father's authority. When we appeal to the Bible, they like to reply, Thats just your interpretation. There are certainly some places where the word of God is hard to precisely interpret, but there are not many such places. Acts 16:23-24 records that the suffering included a public flogging and having their feet in stocks while confined in the citys inner prison. He had met with ill usage at Philippi, as these Thessalonians well knew. in the resource materials are not necessarily affirmed, in total, by this ministry. Major Prophets 1 For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain. Timothy's Encouraging Report 3:6-10 4. Commentators divide as to if the uncleanness Paul defended himself against in 1 Thessalonians 2:3 was uncleanness of spirit or uncleanness of the flesh. 5 For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness: 6 Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. It grows out of complete disinterest in the rights of others an attitude foreign to Paul and his helpers., iii. 19 For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? This was necessary assurance because they were persecuted by religious people and might wonder if these other religious people were in fact right before God in their persecuting. The whole case is like that of the Irishman who tried to upset evidence by non-evidence. He mentions the good effects which his successful preaching had. Verse 2. Gods Word works, it doesnt only bring information or produce feelings. Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ. The words of men are frail and perishing, like themselves, and sometimes false, foolish, and fickle: but God's word is holy, wise, just, and faithful; and, like its author, lives and abides for ever. Error: Passwords should have at least 6 characters, Error: Usernames should only contain letters, numbers, dots, dashes, or underscores. There has probably never been such a variety of religious cults and philosophic systems as in Pauls day Holy men of all creeds and countries, popular philosophers, magicians, astrologers, crack-pots, and cranks; the sincere and the spurious, the righteous and the rogue, swindlers and saints, jostled and clamoured for the attention of the believing and the skeptical. (Neil, cited in Morris). 20 For ye are our glory and joy. If Paul was discredited, then the Gospel message itself would be discredited. Hear this, ye that preach the Gospel! Paul believed in a voice that speaks to mankind with the authority of eternity, and speaks above mere human opinion. 1. 3 For our exhortation was not of deceit . For our exhortation did not come from error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit. i. iii. Our coming to you was not in vain: The word vain here can refer either to the result of the ministry, or the character of the ministry. First, Paul understood that this was Satanic hindrance. Who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us: Paul comforted these suffering Christians with the assurance that they were not the first to suffer this way. But he spent part of the night, as well as the day, in this work; and was willing to forego his rest in the night, that he might have an opportunity to do good to the souls of men in the day time.