TRV
Translation
King James Version
For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;
Complete Jewish Bible
Indeed, how can we thank God enough for you or express to our God all the joy we feel because of you?
Berean Standard Bible
How can we adequately thank God for you in return for our great joy over you in His presence?
American Standard Version
For what thanksgiving can we render again unto God for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;
World English Bible Messianic
For what thanksgiving can we render again to God for you, for all the joy with which we rejoice for your sakes before our God;
Geneva Bible (1599)
For what thankes can wee recompense to God againe for you, for all the ioy wherewith we reioyce for your sakes before our God,
Young's Literal Translation
for what thanks are we able to recompense to God for you, for all the joy with which we do joy because of you in the presence of our God?
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In the KJVVerse 29,600 of 31,102
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Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 3 verses 6–10
6 ¶ But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:
7 Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:
8 For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.
9 For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God;
10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?
Here we have Paul's great satisfaction upon the return of Timothy with good tidings from the Thessalonians, in which we may observe,
I. The good report Timothy made concerning them, Th1 3:6. Without question, he was a willing messenger of these good tidings. Concerning their faith, that is, concerning their stedfastness in the faith, that they were not shaken in mind, nor turned aside form the profession of the gospel. Their love also continued; their love to the gospel, and the ministers of the gospel. For they had a good and a kind remembrance of the apostles, and that constantly, or always. The names of the apostles were very dear to them, and the thoughts of them, and what they themselves had received from them, were very precious, insomuch that they desired greatly to see them again, and receive some spiritual gift from them; and there was no love lost, for the apostle was as desirous to see them. It is happy where there is such mutual love between minister and people. This tends to promote religion, and the success of the gospel. The world hates them, and therefore they should love one another.
II. The great comfort and satisfaction the apostle had in this good report concerning them (Th1 3:7, Th1 3:8): Therefore, brethren, we were comforted in all our affliction and distress. The apostle thought this good news of them was sufficient to balance all the troubles he met with. It was easy to him to bear affliction, or persecution, or fightings from without, when he found the good success of his ministry and the constancy of the converts he had made to Christianity; and his distress of mind on account of his fears within, lest he had laboured in vain, was now in a good measure over, when he understood their faith and the perseverance of it. This put new life and spirit into the apostle and made him vigorous and active in the work of the Lord. Thus he was not only comforted, but greatly rejoiced also: Now we live, if you stand fast in the Lord, Th1 3:8. It would have been a killing thing to the apostles if the professors of religion had been unsteady, or proved apostates; whereas nothing was more encouraging than their constancy.
III. The effects of this were thankfulness and prayer to God on their behalf. Observe, 1. How thankful the apostle was, Th1 3:9. He was full of joy, and full of praise and thanksgiving. When we are most cheerful we should be most thankful. What we rejoice in we should give thanks for. This is to rejoice before our God, to spiritualize our joy. Paul speaks as if he could not tell how to express his thankfulness to God, or his joy and rejoicing for their sakes. But he was careful God should not lose the glory of the comfort he received in the welfare of his friends. His heart was enlarged with love to them and with thanksgiving to God. He was willing to express the one and the other as well as he could. As to thankfulness to God, this especially is very imperfect in the present state; but, when we come to heaven, we shall do this work better than now we can. 2. He prayed for them night and day (Th1 3:10), evening and morning, or very frequently, in the midst of the business of the day or slumber of the night lifting up his heart to God in prayer. Thus we should pray always. And Paul's prayer was fervent prayer. He prayed exceedingly, and was earnest in his supplication. Note, When we are most thankful we should always give ourselves to prayer; and those we give thanks for have yet need to be prayed for. Those whom we most rejoice in, and who are our greatest comforts, must be our constant care, while in this world of temptation and imperfection. There was something still lacking in their faith; Paul desired that this might be perfected, and to see their face in order thereunto. Note, (1.) The best of men have something wanting in their faith, if not as to the matter of it, there being some mysteries or doctrines not sufficiently known or believed by them, yet as to the clearness and certainty of their faith, there being some remaining darkness and doubtings, or at least as to the effects and operations of it, these being not so conspicuous and perfect as they should be. And, (2.) The ministry of the word and ordinances is helpful, and to be desired and used for the perfecting of that which is lacking in our faith.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 6–10. Public domain.
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John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily on 1 Thessalonians 4
"For what thanksgiving can we render again unto God for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face, and may perfect that which is lacking in your faith?"
Not only, he says, are ye the causes of life to us, but also of much joy, and so much that we cannot worthily give thanks to God. Your good behavior, he says, we consider to be the gift of God. Such kindnesses have you shown to us, that we think it to be of God; yea, rather, and it is of God. For such a disposition of mind comes not of a human soul or carefulness.
"Night and day," he says, "praying exceedingly." This too is a sign of joy. For as any husbandman, hearing concerning his land that has been tilled by himself, that it is burdened with ears of grain, longs with his own eyes to see so pleasant a sight, so Paul to see Macedonia. "Praying exceedingly." Observe the excess; "that we may see your face, and may perfect that which is lacking in your faith."
Here there is a great question. For if now thou livest, because they stand fast, and Timothy brought thee "glad tidings of their faith and love," and thou art full of so much joy as not to be able worthily to give thanks to God, how sayest thou here that there are deficiencies in their faith? Were those then the words of flattery? By no means, far be it. For previously he testified that they endured many conflicts, and were no worse affected than the Churches in Judaea. What then is it? They had not enjoyed the full benefit of his teaching, nor learned all that it behoved them to learn. And this he shows toward the end. Perhaps there had been questionings among them concerning the Resurrection, and there were many who troubled them, not by temptations, nor by dangers, but by acting the part of teachers. This is what he says is lacking in their faith, and for this reason, he has so explained himself, and has not said, that you should be confirmed, where indeed he feared concerning the faith itself, "I have sent," he says, "Timothy to confirm you," but here, "to perfect that which is lacking," which is rather a matter of teaching than of confirming.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
First Thessalonians 3:9 encapsulates the apostle Paul's profound and inexpressible gratitude to God for the steadfast faith and love of the Thessalonian believers. Having sent Timothy to ascertain their spiritual well-being amidst severe persecution, Paul receives a report confirming their perseverance, which fills him and his companions with overwhelming joy. This verse serves as a rhetorical question, highlighting that no amount of thanksgiving could adequately express the spiritual delight they experienced in God's presence, knowing the Thessalonians remained firm in their commitment to Christ.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is the climactic expression of Paul's relief and joy following Timothy's return from Thessalonica. Paul had been deeply anxious about the young church, fearing that the intense persecution they faced might have undermined their faith (1 Thessalonians 3:5). Timothy's positive report, detailed in 1 Thessalonians 3:6, confirmed their steadfastness in faith and love, bringing immense comfort to Paul and his companions in their own afflictions. This overflow of gratitude in 1 Thessalonians 3:9 naturally leads into Paul's fervent prayer for them in the subsequent verses (1 Thessalonians 3:10-13), where he expresses his longing to see them again and to perfect what is lacking in their faith. The entire chapter 3 of 1 Thessalonians beautifully illustrates the deep pastoral bond between Paul and the churches he founded.
Historical & Cultural Context: The church in Thessalonica was established during Paul's second missionary journey, as recorded in Acts 17:1-9. His ministry there was brief but impactful, marked by significant conversions among both Jews and Gentiles, but also by intense opposition from hostile Jewish leaders who incited a mob against him. This forced Paul and his companions, Silas and Timothy, to leave the city hastily. The persecution did not cease for the new believers, who continued to face tribulation (1 Thessalonians 1:6). Paul's concern was heightened by the fact that he had left them relatively quickly, potentially without fully grounding them in the faith. In the ancient world, communication was slow and perilous, making the receipt of a direct, positive report from Timothy an extraordinary relief and cause for genuine celebration for Paul, Silas, and Timothy, who were then in Corinth.
Key Themes: 1 Thessalonians 3:9 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the epistle and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the overwhelming gratitude of the apostle, demonstrating that spiritual blessings in the lives of others are a profound cause for thanksgiving to God. Secondly, it underscores the communal nature of Christian joy, revealing that Paul's deepest gladness was not for personal gain but for the spiritual flourishing and perseverance of the church, even amidst suffering (2 Corinthians 7:4). Thirdly, the phrase "before our God" emphasizes the God-centeredness of this emotion and thanksgiving, indicating that true spiritual joy is experienced in God's presence and ultimately directed towards Him as the source of all grace and steadfastness. Finally, the verse beautifully illustrates Paul's deep pastoral heart and his genuine affection for the believers, serving as a model for spiritual leadership that prioritizes the spiritual health and growth of the flock above all else (Philippians 1:3-4).
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse to convey the depth of his emotion. The most prominent is the Rhetorical Question: "For what thanks can we render to God again for you...?" This question is not meant to be answered but serves to emphasize the inexpressible nature of Paul's gratitude. By posing it, he implies that no amount of thanksgiving would be adequate, thereby magnifying the blessing he perceives in the Thessalonians' faith. Another significant device is Repetition, specifically of the root word for "joy" ("joy wherewith we joy"). This intensifying repetition, known as polyptoton, underscores the overwhelming and abundant nature of the spiritual delight Paul experiences. It conveys a sense of overflowing emotion that cannot be contained by a single expression of joy. Finally, there is an element of Hyperbole in the implied inadequacy of any thanks. Paul's language suggests that his joy is so profound that it transcends normal human expressions of gratitude, further highlighting the magnitude of God's work in the Thessalonians and the comfort it brings to the apostle.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly illustrates the interconnectedness of the body of Christ and the divine source of true spiritual joy. Paul's joy is not derived from personal gain or worldly success, but from observing the perseverance and growth of fellow believers in their faith, even amidst severe trials. This points to a theology where the spiritual health of one part of the body brings genuine rejoicing to another, fostering a communal and selfless love that reflects the very heart of God. It also highlights that all true spiritual fruit, including steadfast faith and love in the face of adversity, is ultimately God's work, prompting an outpouring of worship and thanksgiving directed solely to Him. The verse serves as a powerful reminder that our deepest gratitude should be for God's transformative work in the lives of His people, recognizing Him as the sustainer of faith and the wellspring of all comfort and joy.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's overflowing joy and gratitude in 1 Thessalonians 3:9 offer a timeless and profound model for believers today. In a world often characterized by self-focus and individualistic pursuits, this verse calls us to cultivate a radical other-centeredness, finding our deepest spiritual satisfaction not in what we gain, but in what God is doing in the lives of others. It challenges us to actively seek out and celebrate the spiritual growth, perseverance, and faithfulness of our brothers and sisters in Christ, especially when they navigate difficult circumstances. This requires intentional awareness, genuine care, and a heart quick to give thanks to God for His work in His people. Furthermore, Paul's example reminds us that our thanksgiving should be directed "before our God," acknowledging Him as the ultimate source of all spiritual strength and the one who sustains faith. This transforms our gratitude into an act of worship, reinforcing our dependence on Him and deepening our trust in His ongoing work within the body of Christ. Such a perspective fosters a vibrant, mutually encouraging, and God-glorifying Christian community.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Paul so joyful about the Thessalonians' faith?
Answer: Paul's joy stemmed from a deep pastoral love and concern for the Thessalonian believers, whom he had left somewhat abruptly due to persecution. He had sent Timothy specifically to check on their spiritual condition, fearing that the intense trials they faced might have caused them to waver in their faith (1 Thessalonians 3:5). When Timothy returned with a positive report—confirming their steadfastness in faith and love despite ongoing tribulation (1 Thessalonians 3:6)—it brought immense comfort and relief to Paul, who was also experiencing his own afflictions. His joy was therefore a profound spiritual gladness rooted in seeing God's sustaining grace at work in their lives, validating his ministry and confirming their genuine conversion.
Is it appropriate for our joy to be so dependent on others' spiritual state?
Answer: Yes, in a healthy Christian community, our joy is intrinsically linked to the spiritual well-being of others. The New Testament frequently portrays believers as members of "one body" (1 Corinthians 12:26), where "if one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together." Paul's joy in the Thessalonians' faith is not a sign of unhealthy dependence but rather a beautiful expression of genuine spiritual love and the communal nature of the church. It reflects a selfless concern for the spiritual flourishing of others, which is a hallmark of Christ-like love (Philippians 2:4). This joy is ultimately directed to God, who is the source of all spiritual growth and perseverance.
How does this verse relate to the practice of thanksgiving in prayer?
Answer: This verse powerfully illustrates the vital role of thanksgiving in prayer, particularly for other believers. Paul's rhetorical question, "For what thanks can we render to God again for you," is not a lament but an expression of overwhelming gratitude that spills over into worship. It models for us that our prayers should not solely consist of petitions for our needs or the needs of others, but also fervent thanksgiving for what God is already doing in the lives of His people. Paul consistently begins his epistles with expressions of thanksgiving for the churches, demonstrating that acknowledging God's work in others is a fundamental aspect of a healthy spiritual life and a powerful act of worship "before our God" (Philippians 1:3-4).
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Thessalonians 3:9 directly expresses Paul's joy in the Thessalonians' faith, it finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the profound truth that such faith and perseverance are themselves gifts secured and sustained by Jesus Christ. Paul's joy is not merely in human steadfastness, but in the evidence of Christ's transformative and preserving work within His church. It is the resurrected Christ who builds His church, against which "the gates of hell shall not prevail" (Matthew 16:18). The Thessalonians' ability to stand firm amidst persecution is a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit, whom Christ poured out on His people (Acts 2:33), enabling them to bear the fruit of faith, love, and joy (Galatians 5:22). Paul's "joy wherewith we joy" mirrors the joy of Christ Himself over His redeemed people, a joy that led Him to endure the cross (Hebrews 12:2). Ultimately, our ability to give thanks to God for the faith of others is a direct result of Christ's intercession for His saints (Romans 8:34) and His ongoing work as the Good Shepherd who keeps His sheep safe in His hand (John 10:28). Thus, Paul's overflowing gratitude is, in essence, a thanksgiving to God for the victorious and sustaining work of Christ in the lives of His beloved.