


1 Thessalonians 2:1
Bible Versions
¶ For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
You yourselves know, brothers, that our visit to you was not fruitless.
You yourselves know, brothers, that our visit to you was not in vain.
For yourselves, brethren, know our entering in unto you, that it hath not been found vain:
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2 Thessalonians 3:1
¶ Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified, even as [it is] with you: -
1 Corinthians 15:2
By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. -
1 Thessalonians 2:13
¶ For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received [it] not [as] the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. -
1 Corinthians 15:58
¶ Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. -
Habakkuk 2:13
Behold, [is it] not of the LORD of hosts that the people shall labour in the very fire, and the people shall weary themselves for very vanity? -
Psalms 127:1
¶ A Song of degrees for Solomon. Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh [but] in vain. -
Philippians 2:16
Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
1 Thessalonians 2:1 (KJV): "For ye yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:"
Context
This verse marks the beginning of Paul's defense and explanation of his ministry in Thessalonica. Following his expression of thanksgiving for the Thessalonians' faith and steadfastness in Chapter 1, Paul now addresses the character and impact of his initial evangelistic work among them. He appeals directly to their firsthand knowledge and experience, asserting that his arrival and the subsequent preaching of the gospel were genuine and had a profound effect. This passage serves to counter any potential accusations or misunderstandings about his motives or methods, reinforcing the integrity of his apostolic mission.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word translated as "in vain" is kenos (κενός). It literally means empty, void, or without result. By stating that his entrance was "not in vain," Paul strongly asserts that his ministry was not empty or fruitless, but rather full of purpose, power, and tangible spiritual outcomes. It contrasts with any idea of a superficial or ineffective presentation of the gospel.
Practical Application
For believers today, 1 Thessalonians 2:1 provides a vital lesson on the nature of Christian witness and service. It encourages us to engage in ministry with authenticity, transparency, and integrity, knowing that genuine efforts for the Kingdom are never wasted. Our proclamation of the gospel, when true to its divine source, carries inherent power and is never "in vain." We are called to faithfully sow the seed of God's Word, trusting that, like the rain and snow that water the earth, it will not return to Him empty but will accomplish His purposes, as promised in Isaiah 55:11.