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.
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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:
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
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.