1 Thessalonians 2:1

Paul’s Ministry in Thessalonica

2:1 For you yourselves know, brothers and sisters, ¹  about our coming to you – it has not proven to be purposeless. ² 

1 Thessalonians 2:5

2:5 For we never appeared ³  with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed – God is our witness –

1 Thessalonians 3:3

3:3 so that no one would be shaken by these afflictions. For you yourselves know that we are destined for this.

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¹ tn Grk “brothers.” See note on the phrase “brothers and sisters” in 1:4.

² tn Grk “has not become empty.” Paul is defending himself against the charge that he lacked earnestness and personal concern for them, but appeared in their city out of greed or egotism. In his defense he appeals to what they recall of his ministry and what has become of it since he left, all of which demonstrates his God-given earnestness and effectiveness.

³ tn Or “came on the scene,” “came.”