Keraia
1 Thessalonians 2

1 Thessalonians 2:4

Paul’s Ministry · 1 Thessalonians 2:1–16
Read 1 Thessalonians 2

Translations

Modern
Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts.
Traditional
But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts.
Literal
…but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, the One proving our hearts.
Latin
…sed sicut probati sumus a Deo ut crederetur nobis Evangelium: ita loquimur non quasi hominibus placentes, sed Deo, qui probat corda nostra.

Original

Greek
English
Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts.

Notes

1 Thessalonians 2:4

In the ancient world, people in public office were publicly tested and approved for their work. The Thessalonians and God served as two witnesses to the purity of Paul’s motives. (2:3).

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)

Glossary

Cleanness and Uncleanness, Regulations Concerning First Letter to the Thessalonians

Topics

Agency in Salvation of Men Approval Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Duties of Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning God: Knowledge of Heart: Renewed: Tested Integrity: General Scriptures Concerning Ministers: Entrusted with the Gospel Ministers: should not Be: Men-Pleasers Motives Pleasing God Pleasing People 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