Keraia
1 Thessalonians 2

1 Thessalonians 2:9

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

Translations

Modern
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.
Traditional
For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.
Literal
For you remember, brothers, our labor and toil: Working night and day in order not to be burdensome upon any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God.
Latin
Memores enim estis, fratres, laboris nostri, et fatigationis: nocte ac die operantes, ne quem vestrum gravaremus, prædicavimus in vobis Evangelium Dei.

Original

Greek
English
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.

Notes

1 Thessalonians 2:9

Paul and his associates worked with their hands to support themselves while in the city (see Acts 18:1–4; 1 Corinthians 9:12–18). They did this to set an example for the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 3:8–9). They also wanted to avoid being an economic burden to them.

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.

Glossary

First Letter to the Thessalonians Night Paul the Apostle Tentmaker Work

Topics

Christian Minister: Character and Attributes of Christian Minister: Emoluments (Benefits) of Diligence: Paul Industry: Requisite to Supply: Our own Wants Ministers: should Preach without Charge, If Possible Paul: His Independence of Character Preaching: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul