1 Thessalonians 2:5

Translations

Modern

As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!

Traditional

For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness:

Literal

For neither at any time were we with a word of flattery, just as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness—

Latin

Neque enim aliquando fuimus in sermone adulationis, sicut scitis: neque in occasione avaritiæ: Deus testis est:

Original

Greek

English

As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!

Notes

1 Thessalonians 2:5

Flattery was often used to gain money from others. Paul denies flattering the Thessalonians to receive money. He calls both the Thessalonians and God as witnesses (see 2:10; Deuteronomy 19:15; 2 Corinthians 13:1; 1 Timothy 5:19).

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) Work and Patronage

Related verses

Romans 1:9
God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you
2 Corinthians 12:17
Did I exploit you by anyone I sent you?
Acts 20:33
I have not coveted anyone’s silver or gold or clothing.
Galatians 1:20
I assure you before God that what I am writing to you is no lie.
2 Peter 2:3
In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep.
Titus 1:7
As God’s steward, an overseer must be above reproach—not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not greedy for money.
1 Peter 5:2
Be shepherds of God’s flock that is among you, watching over them not out of compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not out of greed, but out of eagerness;
1 Thessalonians 2:10
You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, righteous, and blameless our conduct was among you who believed.
2 Peter 2:14–15
Their eyes are full of adultery; their desire for sin is never satisfied; they seduce the unstable. They are accursed children with hearts trained in greed.
Revelation 18:12–13
…cargo of gold, silver, precious stones, and pearls; of fine linen, purple, silk, and scarlet; of all kinds of citron wood and every article of ivory, precious wood, bronze, iron, and marble;
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.
Malachi 1:10
“Oh, that one of you would shut the temple doors, so that you would no longer kindle useless fires on My altar! I take no pleasure in you,” says the LORD of Hosts, “and I will accept no offering from your hands.

Glossary

First Letter to the Thessalonians

Topics

Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Duties of Christian Minister: Emoluments (Benefits) of Covetousness: General Scriptures Concerning Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning Flattery: Ministers should not Use Ministers: should Preach without Deceitfulness Oaths: Expressions Used as God is Witness 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 2:5

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Original?

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Related verses?

Glossary?

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Translations

Original

Notes

Related verses

Glossary

Topics