1 Thessalonians 2:6

Translations

Modern

Nor did we seek praise from you or from anyone else, although as apostles of Christ we had authority to demand it.

Traditional

Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

Literal

…nor seeking glory from men, nor from you, nor from others, though having power to be with authority as apostles of Christ.

Latin

…nec quærentes ab hominibus gloriam, neque a vobis, neque ab aliis.

Original

Greek

English

Nor did we seek praise from you or from anyone else, although as apostles of Christ we had authority to demand it.

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

Galatians 1:10
Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.
John 5:44
How can you believe if you accept glory from one another, yet do not seek the glory that comes from the only God?
John 5:41
I do not accept glory from men,
Philemon 1:8–9
So although in Christ I am bold enough to order you to do what is proper,
1 Thessalonians 2:9
Surely you recall, brothers, our labor and toil. We worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to anyone while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.
2 Corinthians 13:10
This is why I write these things while absent, so that when I am present I will not need to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.
2 Corinthians 10:1–2
Now by the mildness and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you—I, Paul, who am humble when face to face with you, but bold when away.
Galatians 5:26
Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying one another.
1 Timothy 5:17
Elders who lead effectively are worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.
2 Corinthians 10:10–11
For some say, “His letters are weighty and forceful, but his physical presence is unimpressive, and his speaking is of no account.”
Proverbs 25:27
It is not good to eat too much honey or to search out one’s own glory.
Daniel 4:30
…the king exclaimed, “Is this not Babylon the Great, which I myself have built as a royal residence by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?”

People

Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world

Glossary

Apostle, Apostleship First Letter to the Thessalonians

Topics

Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Duties of Christian Minister: Emoluments (Benefits) of Flattery: General Scriptures Concerning Glory: Seek Not, from Man Glory: Temporal: Seek Not, from Man Ministers: should be Disinterested Preaching: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Simplicity: should be Exhibited in Preaching the Gospel

1 Thessalonians 2:6

Translations?

Original?

Notes?

Related verses?