1 Thessalonians 3:4

KJV

For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} verily {G2532}, when {G3753} we were {G2258} with {G4314} you {G5209}, we told {G4302} you {G5213} before {G4302} that {G3754} we should {G3195} suffer tribulation {G2346}; even {G2532} as {G2531} it came to pass {G1096}, and {G2532} ye know {G1492}.

Complete Jewish Bible

even when we were with you, we kept telling you in advance that we were about to be persecuted; and indeed it has happened, as you know.

Berean Standard Bible

Indeed, when we were with you, we kept warning you that we would suffer persecution; and as you know, it has come to pass.

American Standard Version

For verily, when we were with you, we told you beforehand that we are to suffer affliction; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In the Apostle Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers of a vital truth he had shared during his initial ministry among them: they were to expect suffering and tribulation for their faith. This verse serves as a powerful affirmation of Paul's transparent and honest ministry, validating his prophetic insight and the inherent reality of the Christian journey, which often involves hardship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's deeply pastoral first letter to the Thessalonians, specifically in a section where he expresses his profound concern for their spiritual well-being following his abrupt departure from their city. Having been forced to leave Thessalonica due to persecution ([Acts 17:5-10](/acts/17-5-10 "Acts 17:5-10 - Persecution in Thessalonica")), Paul was anxious about the young church's ability to withstand the trials they were facing. He had sent Timothy to strengthen and encourage them in their faith, "that no man should be moved by these afflictions" ([1 Thessalonians 3:2-3](/1_thessalonians/3-2-3 "1 Thessalonians 3:2-3 - Timothy's Mission to Strengthen Faith")). Verse 4 directly reinforces the message Timothy was to deliver, reminding them that their current suffering was not a sign of God's abandonment or an unexpected turn of events, but rather the fulfillment of a clear warning Paul had given them. This reminder serves to anchor their faith in the face of adversity, preventing disillusionment.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's ministry in Thessalonica, as recounted in [Acts 17:1-9](/acts/17-1-9 "Acts 17:1-9 - Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica"), was brief but impactful. He preached in the synagogue for three Sabbaths, leading to conversions among both Jews and "devout Greeks" and "chief women." However, this success quickly stirred up opposition from unbelieving Jews who incited a mob, accusing Paul and Silas of "turning the world upside down" and proclaiming "another king, one Jesus." This immediate and violent persecution forced Paul and Silas to flee to Berea. For new converts, especially those from a pagan background, facing such intense social and potentially physical hostility for abandoning traditional worship and embracing Christ would have been a profound test. The Roman Empire, while generally tolerant of diverse religions, viewed any exclusive loyalty that challenged the emperor's divinity or public order with suspicion. Therefore, the "tribulation" mentioned by Paul would have encompassed social ostracism, economic hardship, verbal abuse, and potentially physical violence, all stemming from their allegiance to Christ.

* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several overarching themes in 1 Thessalonians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the **Reality of Christian Suffering**, emphasizing that tribulation is not an anomaly but an expected component of discipleship, a truth Jesus himself articulated in [John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Forewarns of Tribulation"). Secondly, it underscores **Apostolic Integrity and Transparency**. Paul's forewarning demonstrates that he did not present a "gospel of ease" but was honest about the cost of following Christ, thereby validating his message and leadership. This honesty would have built trust and credibility with the Thessalonians. Thirdly, the verse subtly promotes **Steadfastness and Endurance** in faith. By reminding them that their suffering was foretold, Paul implicitly encourages them to view their trials through a theological lens—as part of God's sovereign plan, not as a sign of His displeasure or absence. This perspective is crucial for maintaining hope and perseverance, as seen in Paul's later encouragement in [Romans 5:3-5](/romans/5-3-5 "Romans 5:3-5 - The Benefits of Suffering").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **told you before (Greek, _prolégō'_):** From G4302, meaning "to say beforehand, i.e., predict, forewarn." This word is crucial as it emphasizes Paul's deliberate and explicit communication of future hardship. It wasn't a vague hint but a direct prophecy or warning, indicating that the suffering was not unforeseen by the apostles, and therefore should not be surprising or destabilizing for the believers.
* **suffer tribulation (Greek, _thlíbō'_):** From G2346, meaning "to crowd (literally or figuratively); to afflict, narrow, throng, suffer tribulation, trouble." While the KJV translates it as "suffer tribulation," the Greek verb `thlíbō` itself carries the sense of being "pressed" or "squeezed." This vividly conveys the intense pressure, distress, and affliction that the Thessalonian believers were experiencing, whether from social ostracism, economic hardship, or physical persecution. It speaks to the real and tangible difficulties they faced for their faith.
* **ye know (Greek, _eídō'_):** From G1492, meaning "to see (literally or figuratively); by implication, (in the perfect tense only) to know." This word signifies a deep, experiential knowledge or understanding. The Thessalonians didn't just hear about suffering; they were living through it. Their "knowing" was not merely intellectual assent to Paul's prior warning but a personal, undeniable confirmation through their current circumstances, validating the truth of Paul's words.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For verily, when we were with you":** Paul begins by grounding his statement in their shared past experience. The "verily" (a combination of G1063 `gár` and G2532 `kaí`) emphasizes the truth and certainty of what follows. He appeals to their memory of his direct presence among them, establishing the historical context and the personal nature of his previous warnings.
* **"we told you before that we should suffer tribulation":** This is the core of Paul's reminder. He explicitly states that he and his companions (referring to the apostolic team, using "we" to include himself, Silas, and Timothy) had forewarned the Thessalonians about the inevitable suffering that would accompany their Christian walk. The phrase "should suffer tribulation" (G3195 `méllō` G2346 `thlíbō`) indicates an intended or expected future event, not a mere possibility, but a certainty for those who follow Christ.
* **"even as it came to pass, and ye know":** This concluding clause serves as a powerful confirmation. "Even as it came to pass" (G2532 `kaí` G2531 `kathṓs` G1096 `gínomai`) affirms the fulfillment of the prophecy; their current reality perfectly aligned with Paul's earlier warning. The final phrase, "and ye know" (G2532 `kaí` G1492 `eídō`), appeals to their direct, undeniable, and painful experience. They were living proof of the truth of Paul's words, which would have reinforced his credibility and the divine nature of his message.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs several literary devices. **Foreshadowing** is central, as Paul explicitly states he "told you before that we should suffer tribulation," setting up the expectation of future hardship. This is immediately followed by **Verification**, where the reality of their suffering is confirmed with "even as it came to pass, and ye know." This direct correspondence between prediction and fulfillment serves to underscore Paul's **Apostolic Authenticity** and the divine origin of his message. His ability to accurately foretell their trials would have significantly bolstered his credibility in the eyes of the Thessalonians, assuring them that he was a true messenger of God, not one who offered a false gospel of ease. The use of "ye know" also acts as a form of **Audience Engagement**, directly appealing to their lived experience and confirming their shared understanding of the situation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Thessalonians 3:4](/1_thessalonians/3-4 "1 Thessalonians 3:4 - Paul's Forewarning of Tribulation") powerfully reinforces the consistent biblical theme that suffering is an expected, even integral, part of the Christian life. It challenges any notion of a pain-free discipleship, aligning with the New Testament's broader teaching that following Christ often entails opposition from a world hostile to God. This foreknowledge of tribulation is not meant to discourage but to prepare believers, allowing them to interpret their difficulties not as signs of divine abandonment or personal failure, but as opportunities for spiritual growth, perseverance, and a deeper identification with Christ. Paul's transparency in warning them also underscores the integrity required of spiritual leaders, who must faithfully present the full reality of the gospel, including its challenges.

* [John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus' Promise of Tribulation and Peace"): "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
* [2 Timothy 3:12](/2_timothy/3-12 "2 Timothy 3:12 - Persecution for Godliness"): "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."
* [Romans 5:3-5](/romans/5-3-5 "Romans 5:3-5 - The Benefits of Suffering"): "And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Thessalonians 3:4](/1_thessalonians/3-4 "1 Thessalonians 3:4 - Paul's Forewarning of Tribulation") offers profound and enduring lessons for believers today. In a world that often promotes comfort and ease, this verse serves as a sober reminder that the path of discipleship is not devoid of hardship. Paul's forewarning prepares us mentally and spiritually, preventing disillusionment when trials inevitably arise. Understanding that suffering is a shared experience among believers, and even foretold by apostolic teaching, allows us to view our afflictions not as random misfortunes but as part of God's sovereign plan for our sanctification and the advancement of His kingdom. It encourages us to cultivate resilience, relying on God's grace to endure, knowing that our trials can produce perseverance, character, and hope. Furthermore, this verse calls us to value and seek out spiritual leadership that is truthful and transparent, preparing us for the realities of the Christian walk rather than offering an unrealistic, problem-free existence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does knowing that suffering is an expected part of the Christian life change your perspective on personal difficulties?**
* **In what ways might God use tribulation to deepen your faith or reveal His power in your life?**
* **How can you better prepare yourself and others for the inevitable challenges of following Christ in today's world?**
* **What does Paul's honesty about suffering teach us about the kind of spiritual leadership we should seek or embody?**

### FAQ

**Why did Paul forewarn the Thessalonians about suffering, and what was the effect of this warning?**

Answer: Paul forewarned the Thessalonians about suffering for several crucial reasons. Firstly, it was to prepare them mentally and spiritually for the inevitable opposition that comes with following Christ. He wanted them to understand that tribulation was not an anomaly or a sign of God's displeasure, but an expected part of the Christian journey ([John 16:33](/john/16-33 "John 16:33 - Jesus Forewarns of Tribulation")). This foreknowledge was intended to prevent them from being "moved" or shaken in their faith when trials arose ([1 Thessalonians 3:3](/1_thessalonians/3-3 "1 Thessalonians 3:3 - Not to be Moved by Afflictions")). Secondly, Paul's accurate prediction served to validate his apostolic message and integrity. When their suffering "came to pass," it confirmed that Paul was a true messenger of God, not someone who offered a false gospel of ease. The effect was to strengthen their faith and trust in Paul's teaching, enabling them to endure their trials with a clearer understanding and greater steadfastness.

**Does this verse imply that God causes suffering, or simply allows it?**

Answer: This verse, by stating "we should suffer tribulation," indicates that suffering is an anticipated and certain reality for believers, fitting within God's sovereign plan, rather than implying God directly causes every specific instance of suffering. The Greek word `méllō` (G3195), translated "should," conveys a sense of divine intention or necessity for what is "about to be." This aligns with the biblical understanding that while God is not the author of evil or suffering, He permits it and can use it for His redemptive purposes, such as refining faith ([1 Peter 1:6-7](/1_peter/1-6-7 "1 Peter 1:6-7 - Faith Tested by Fire")) and conforming believers to the image of Christ ([Romans 8:28-29](/romans/8-28-29 "Romans 8:28-29 - God Works for Good in All Things")). The suffering mentioned here is specifically persecution for their faith, which is often instigated by human opposition to the gospel, but which God incorporates into His overarching plan for His people.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Thessalonians 3:4](/1_thessalonians/3-4 "1 Thessalonians 3:4 - Paul's Forewarning of Tribulation") finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Paul's warning that believers "should suffer tribulation" directly mirrors the path of the Messiah himself, who was "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - The Suffering Servant")). Jesus consistently forewarned His disciples that they would face persecution, just as He did, stating, "If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you" ([John 15:20](/john/15-20 "John 15:20 - Persecution of Disciples")). The tribulation experienced by the Thessalonians, and by all believers, is a participation in the sufferings of Christ ([Philippians 3:10](/philippians/3-10 "Philippians 3:10 - Sharing in Christ's Sufferings")), a hallmark of genuine discipleship that identifies us with our suffering Savior. Yet, this suffering is not without purpose; it is through Christ's own suffering that He was "made perfect through sufferings" as the Captain of our salvation ([Hebrews 2:10](/hebrews/2-10 "Hebrews 2:10 - Christ Perfected Through Suffering")). Our tribulation, therefore, is not a sign of God's abandonment but a means by which we are conformed to Christ's image, sharing in His redemptive work and anticipating the ultimate glory that will be revealed with Him ([Romans 8:17-18](/romans/8-17-18 "Romans 8:17-18 - Suffering with Christ for Future Glory")). Thus, the foretold and experienced tribulation of believers points to Christ as the one who suffered on our behalf, conquered suffering through His resurrection, and empowers us to endure, knowing that our momentary afflictions are preparing us for an eternal weight of glory far beyond comparison ([2 Corinthians 4:17](/2_corinthians/4-17 "2 Corinthians 4:17 - Our Light Affliction for Eternal Glory")).

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.

Cross-References

1 Thessalonians 2:14

For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in Christ Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own countrymen, even as they [have] of the Jews:

2 Corinthians 8:1

¶ Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;

2 Corinthians 8:2

How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

1 Thessalonians 2:2

But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi, we were bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.

Acts 17:13

But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.

John 16:1

¶ These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended.

John 16:3

And these things will they do unto you, because they have not known the Father, nor me.