Keraia
1 Thessalonians 2

1 Thessalonians 2:7

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

Translations

Modern
On the contrary, we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother caring for her children.
Traditional
But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:
Literal
But we were gentle in your midst, as a nursing mother should cherish her own children.
Latin
Cum possemus vobis oneri esse ut Christi apostoli: sed facti sumus parvuli in medio vestrum, tamquam si nutrix foveat filios suos.

Original

Greek
English
On the contrary, we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother caring for her children.

Notes

1 Thessalonians 2:7

we were gentle among you: Some manuscripts say we were like infants. Paul and his associates did not use their authority as apostles to make demands (see Matthew 20:25–28).

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) Paul’s Role as an Apostle

Glossary

First Letter to the Thessalonians Gentleness Nurse

Topics

Breastfeeding Children: Fondness and Care of Mothers For Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Duties of Gentleness of God of Paul Love: Exemplification of the Love of Man for Man Meekness: Paul Ministers: should be Gentle Nurse: General Scriptures Concerning Preaching: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Simplicity: should be Exhibited in Preaching the Gospel