1 Thessalonians 2:3

Translations

Modern

For our appeal does not arise from deceit or ulterior motives or trickery.

Traditional

For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:

Literal

For our exhortation was not out of deceit, nor out of impurity, nor in trickery;

Latin

Exhortatio enim nostra non de errore, neque de immunditia, neque in dolo,

Original

Greek

English

For our appeal does not arise from deceit or ulterior motives or trickery.

Notes

1 Thessalonians 2:1–3:13

The letter begins by discussing the character of Paul and his associates, as well as how the Thessalonians accepted the good news (2:1–12; 13–16).

It emphasizes Paul’s genuine care for the church, mentioning:

his efforts to visit them again (2:17–20), and
his choice to send Timothy when he could not go himself (3:1–5).

It concludes with the apostle Paul’s happiness about Timothy’s positive report and his prayers to return to the church (3:6–9; 10–13). This detailed defense addresses criticisms of Paul’s sudden departure and long absence.

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul)

Related verses

2 Corinthians 4:2
Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
2 Corinthians 2:17
For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God.
1 Thessalonians 4:7
For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness.
1 Thessalonians 2:5–6
As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!
2 Corinthians 7:2
Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.
2 Corinthians 12:16–18
Be that as it may, I was not a burden to you; but crafty as I am, I caught you by trickery.
2 Corinthians 4:5
For we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.
1 Samuel 12:3
Here I am. Bear witness against me before the LORD and before His anointed: Whose ox or donkey have I taken? Whom have I cheated or oppressed? From whose hand have I accepted a bribe and closed my eyes? Tell me, and I will restore it to you.”
2 Peter 1:16
For we did not follow cleverly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.
Numbers 16:15
Then Moses became very angry and said to the LORD, “Do not regard their offering. I have not taken one donkey from them or mistreated a single one of them.”
Acts 20:33–34
I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing.
2 Thessalonians 2:11
For this reason God will send them a powerful delusion so that they believe the lie,

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Cleanness and Uncleanness, Regulations Concerning First Letter to the Thessalonians

Topics

Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Deceit: Ministers should Lay Aside Ministers: should Preach without Deceitfulness Preaching: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Simplicity: should be Exhibited in Preaching the Gospel Sincerity: should Characterise: The Preaching of the Gospel Sincerity: should Characterize: The Preaching of the Gospel

1 Thessalonians 2:3

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Related verses?

Glossary?

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