for the gospel we brought did not come to you in words only, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit, and with deep conviction. Indeed, you know what kind of people we proved to be while we were with you, acting on your behalf.

For people keep telling us what kind of welcome you gave us and how you turned away from idols to serve a living and true God

Here is another reason why we constantly give thanks to God: When you received God's word, which you heard from us, you did not accept it as the word of humans but for what it really is the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.

In fact, when we were with you, we told you ahead of time that we were going to suffer persecution. And as you know, that is what happened.

You know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.

For we declare to you what the Lord has told us to say: We who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who have died.

Make sure that no one pays back evil for evil. Instead, always pursue what is good for each other and for everyone else.

Instead, test everything. Hold on to what is good.