1:10 1:10

1 Thessalonians 2:1

2:2 2:2

Bible Versions

¶ For yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
For {G1063} yourselves {G846}, brethren {G80}, know {G1492} our {G2257} entrance in {G1529} unto {G4314} you {G5209}, that {G3754} it was {G1096} not {G3756} in vain {G2756}:
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:

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

  • Authenticity of Ministry: Paul emphasizes that his "entrance," or initial visit and work, was sincere and transparent. He was not motivated by deceit or hidden agendas, a point he elaborates on in the verses that follow. This highlights the importance of integrity in Christian leadership and evangelism.
  • Effectiveness of the Gospel: The phrase "not in vain" underscores the powerful and transformative impact of the message Paul preached. It signifies that his efforts bore fruit, leading to genuine conversions and the establishment of a thriving church. This demonstrates the inherent power of the gospel to change lives.
  • Shared Experience and Witness: Paul appeals to the Thessalonians' personal memory and observation ("ye yourselves, brethren, know"). This shared history and mutual understanding serve as a powerful testament to the legitimacy and spiritual depth of Paul's ministry among them.

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.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 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.
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