1 Thessalonians 2:6

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

Nor {G3777} of {G1537} men {G444} sought {G2212} we glory {G1391}, neither {G3777} of {G575} you {G5216}, nor {G3777} yet of {G575} others {G243}, when we might {G1410} have been {G1511} burdensome {G1722}{G922}, as {G5613} the apostles {G652} of Christ {G5547}.

Nor did we seek human praise — either from you or from others.

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

nor seeking glory of men, neither from you nor from others, when we might have claimed authority as apostles of Christ.

Context

In 1 Thessalonians chapter 2, the Apostle Paul, along with Silvanus (Silas) and Timothy, defends the integrity and sincerity of their ministry among the Thessalonians. They had previously faced opposition and suffering (1 Thessalonians 2:2), and this section serves to affirm their genuine motives and conduct. Verse 6 specifically addresses the common accusations or expectations of ancient teachers and leaders who often sought personal gain, praise, or financial burdens from their followers. Paul contrasts their selfless approach with such practices, emphasizing that their mission was driven by God, not by human ambition.

Key Themes

  • Selfless Ministry: Paul emphatically states that he and his companions did not seek human praise, honor, or recognition from anyone—neither the Thessalonians nor others. Their motivation was pure, focused on serving God and spreading the Gospel, not on personal aggrandizement.
  • Rejection of Exploitation: The phrase "when we might have been burdensome" highlights that Paul and his team had the legitimate right to receive financial support as "apostles of Christ." However, they chose not to exercise this right to avoid placing any financial weight or obligation on the new believers, ensuring their message was received without suspicion of mercenary motives. This demonstrates a profound commitment to the integrity of their witness.
  • Authentic Apostolic Authority: Paul's conduct validated his claim as a true apostle. Unlike false teachers who often sought personal glory or exploited their position, Paul exemplified a servant leadership, confirming his divine commission through humble and selfless service.

Linguistic Insights

The word "glory" here comes from the Greek word doxa (δόξα), which in this context refers to human praise, honor, or reputation. Paul makes it clear that their objective was not to accumulate such earthly accolades. The phrase "might have been burdensome" translates the Greek en barei einai (ἐν βάρει εἶναι), literally meaning "to be a weight" or "to be heavy." It signifies imposing a financial or personal burden, implying that they had the apostolic right to be supported, yet chose not to be a financial strain on the fledgling church.

Related Scriptures

Paul's refusal to be a financial burden, despite having the right, is a consistent theme in his letters. He often worked with his own hands to support himself and his team, as mentioned in Acts 20:34 and 2 Thessalonians 3:8. His teachings on the right of ministers to receive support, which he often forewent, are extensively detailed in 1 Corinthians 9:4-14. Furthermore, Paul's consistent aim to please God rather than men is echoed in Galatians 1:10, reinforcing the pure motives behind his ministry.

Practical Application

This verse offers powerful lessons for all who serve, especially those in leadership roles within the church and beyond. It challenges believers to examine their motives for service: Are we seeking praise from people, or are we genuinely seeking to honor God? It also highlights the principle of servant leadership, where those in authority prioritize the well-being of others over personal gain or convenience. For congregants, it provides a standard by which to evaluate spiritual leaders, looking for humility and a genuine heart for ministry rather than those who seek personal glory or financial advantage. Ultimately, it calls us to embody the selfless spirit of Christ in all our endeavors.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Galatians 1:10

    ¶ For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:9

    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.

  • John 5:44

    How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that [cometh] from God only?

  • Philemon 1:8

    ¶ Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,

  • Philemon 1:9

    Yet for love's sake I rather beseech [thee], being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

  • John 5:41

    I receive not honour from men.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:1

    ¶ Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence [am] base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

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