1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 - Paul's Approach To Ministry In Thessalonica

¹ For you brothers [should] know that our coming to you was not a waste of time. ² But [even though] we had already suffered and been mistreated at Philippi [See Acts 16:19-24], as you people know, we had the boldness, [with help] from God, to tell you His message in spite of much struggle [i.e., opposition]. ³ For our appeal [to you was] not based on error, or impure [motives], or deception. ⁴ Instead, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the Gospel. So, we speak, not trying to please people but God, who examines [the motives of] our hearts. ⁵ For we were never found using flattering words at any time, as you know, nor did we try to cover up any greedy desires. God can testify [to this]. ⁶ [And] we were not looking for honor from people, either from you or from anyone else, even though, as apostles of Christ, we could have become a burden [to you]. [Note: The idea seems to be that the apostles could have claimed financial support, but chose not to]. ⁷ But we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother caring for her children. ⁸ And so, since we have such deep affection for you, we were very pleased to share with you, not only the Gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you had become very dear to us. ⁹ For you brothers remember how we labored and toiled, working hard night and day, so that we would not burden any of you [while] we proclaimed to you the Gospel of God. ¹⁰ You can testify, [just] as God can, how holy, righteous and blameless our conduct was toward you believers. ¹¹ For you know that we treated each one of you like a father treats his own children, exhorting you, and comforting you, ¹² and urging you to live up to the standards of God, who calls you into His own kingdom and splendor.