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1 Thessalonians 3

1 Thessalonians 3:4

Timothy’s Visit · 1 Thessalonians 3:1–5
Read 1 Thessalonians 3

Translations

Modern
Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.
Traditional
For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.
Literal
For even when we were with you, we were saying beforehand to you that we are about to suffer tribulation, just as also it came to pass, and you know.
Latin
Nam et cum apud vos essemus, prædicebamus vobis passuros nos tribulationes, sicut et factum est, et scitis.

Original

Greek
English
Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.

Notes

1 Thessalonians 3:1–5

After preaching in Berea, Paul left Macedonia and sailed to Athens. He instructed Silas and Timothy to join him soon (Acts 17:13–15). Timothy returned to Thessalonica because Paul had become more concerned about the Thessalonian church (1 Thessalonians 3:2; 3:1, 5).

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) Timothy

Glossary

First Letter to the Thessalonians Persecution Timothy (Person)

Topics

Paul: Persecutions Endured By