richmahn_en_tn/en_tn_53-1TH.tsv

Book	Chapter	Verse	ID	SupportReference	OrigQuote	Occurrence	GLQuote	OccurrenceNote
1TH	front	intro	jp2y			0		# Introduction to 1 Thessalonians<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of 1 Thessalonians<br><br>In this letter, the apostles Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy encourage and make appeals to the Thessalonian Church (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/names/thessalonica.md]]). In certain places, Paul makes direct comments (See 2:18; 3:5; 5:27). The background story for the apostles’ activity in Thessalonica can be found in Acts 17:1-10.<br><br>1. Apostolic memories of the Thessalonian Church (1:1-10)<br>   * Greeting (1:1)<br>   * Thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Christians (1:2-4)<br>   * Examples of Thessalonian suffering (1:6-10)<br>1. Apostolic authority (2:1-16)<br>   * Persecution of the Church (2:1-13)<br>   * Opposition to the Church (2:14-16)<br>1. Timothy’s visit to Thessalonica (3:1-13)<br>   * Reason for the visit (3:1-5)<br>   * Report about the visit (3:6-13)<br>1. Apostolic teachings (4:1-18)<br>   * Holiness (4:1-8)<br>   * Christian love (4:9-12)<br>   * Manner of the Second Coming of Christ (4:13-18)<br>1. Final teachings (5:1-28)<br>   * Timing of the Second Coming of Christ (5:1-10)<br>   * Final appeals and teachings (5:11-28)<br><br>### Who wrote 1 Thessalonians?<br><br>Paul narrated 1 Thessalonians, along with the apostles Silvanus and Timothy. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus. Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth. Of all Paul’s letters that are in the Bible, many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter Paul wrote.<br><br>Silvanus is also mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:1; 1 Peter 5:12. “Silas” is a contracted form of Silvanus. Timothy was leader of the church at Ephesus (see 1 Timothy 1:1-4). These apostles wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth. Many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter Paul wrote.<br><br>### What is the Book of 1 Thessalonians about?<br><br>Paul wrote this letter to the church in the city of Thessalonica. He wrote it after the Jews in the city forced him to leave. In this letter he said he considered his visit to them a success, even though he was forced to leave (See Acts 17:1-10).<br><br>Paul responded to the news from Timothy about the Thessalonian believers. The believers there were being persecuted. He encouraged them to continue living in a way that pleased God. He also comforted them by explaining what happens to those who die before Christ returns.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “1 Thessalonians” or “First Thessalonians.” They may instead prefer to choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s First Letter to the Church in Thessalonica,” or “The First Letter to the Church in Thessalonica.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### Trinity<br><br><br>In this letter, the mention of the Holy Trinity is explicit. The terms: God, Father, Son, Lord, Jesus, and Holy Spirit appear numerous times. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/god.md]])<br><br><br>### The Gospel<br><br>In this letter, the apostles' frequently refer to their Gospel ministry and use different phrases to communicate the concept of God's good news about Jesus Christ. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/goodnews.md]])<br><br><br>### Prayer<br><br>The apostles reassure the Thessalonians that they frequently pray for them (See [1:2](../01/02.md). They also give instructions about prayer (See [5:17](../05/17/md)), and ask the Thessalonians to pray for them (See [5:25](../05/25.md)). (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/pray.md]])<br><br><br>### Faith and Faithfulness<br><br><br>Through the letter the Thessalonians are commended for their faithfulness to God. They are reminded to trust God and remain faithful to Gospel living. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/faithful.md]])(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/faith.md]])<br><br><br>### Apostolic authority<br><br><br>Much of this letter is a defense of the apostles authority, based on their teaching and living. The term “apostles” is used in [2:6](../02/06.md) to reinforce that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are sent by God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/apostle.md]])<br><br>### Second Coming of Christ<br><br>Paul wrote much in this letter about Jesus’ eventual return to Earth. When Jesus returns, he will judge all mankind. He will also rule over creation, and there will be peace everywhere.<br><br>### The Fate of reposed Christians<br><br>Paul made clear that those who who die before Christ’s return will come back to life and be with Jesus. They will not remain dead forever. Paul wrote this to encourage the Thessalonians. For some of them worried that those Christians who died would miss the great “day of the Lord” when Jesus returns.<br><br>### Idolatry<br><br>The Greek and Roman cultural background in Thessalonica meant that many members of the church were former pagans who practiced some sort of idolatry (See [1:9](../01/09.md)(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/image.md]]). <br><br>### Suffering<br><br>Much of this letter addresses both the sufferings of the apostles and the Thessalonian Church for faithfulness to the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/afflict.md]])(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/persecute.md]])(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/suffer.md]])<br><br>### Sanctification<br><br>The concept of holiness is prevalent in this letter. Chapter four discusses how a Christian should practice a holy life. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/sanctify.md]])<br><br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What did the apostles mean by expressions like “in Christ” and “in Christ Jesus” and “in the Lord Jesus Christ” and “in God the Father” and “in the Holy Spirit”?<br><br>Paul meant to express the idea of a trinitarian union between God and Christians. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about these kind of expressions.<br><br><br>### What did the apostles mean by expressions like “his coming” and “the coming of the Lord Jesus” and “the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ”?<br><br>The apostles use a technical word when speaking of the Second Coming of Christ. Depending on the nuances of your language, you may need to translate this with a special concept or word.<br><br>### What did the apostles mean by expressions like “the word of God” or “the word of the Lord”?<br><br>Throughout this letter, the apostles use certain well-known phrases or abbreviations to refer to the Gospel message.<br><br><br>### What did the apostles mean by expressions like “brothers”?<br><br>Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom that includes females. (See 1:4; 2:1, 9, 14, 17; 3:7; 4:1, 6, 10, 13; 5:1, 4, 12, 14, 26, 27)<br><br>### Major translation issues in 1st Letter to the Thessalonians<br><br>For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br><br>*   “May grace and peace be to you” (See [1:1](../01/01.md)). Some older versions read: “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”<br>*   “Instead, we were as gentle among you as a mother comforting her own children.” (See [2:7](../02/07.md)) Other manuscripts read, “Instead, we were like babies among you, as when a mother comforts her own children.”<br>*   “Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God” (See [3:2](../03/02.md)). Some other versions read: “Timothy, our brother and servant of God.”<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	1	intro	y8c5			0		# 1 Thessalonians 1 General Notes<br><br>## Outline of 1 Thessalonians 1<br><br>1. Greeting (1:1)<br>2. Prayer of thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Church (1:2-10)<br>*   Memory of the Thessalonians (1:2-5)<br>    *   apostolic prayers (1:2)<br>    *   work of the Thessalonians (1:2-3)<br>    *   God's election of the Thessalonians (1:4-5)<br>*   Thessalonians’ example (1:6-10)<br>    *   reception of the apostles’ teaching (1:6)<br>    *   examples to Macedonia and Achaia (1:7-10)<br>        *   example of suffering (1:7)<br>        *   preaching of the gospel (1:8)<br>        *   turned away from idolatry to God (1:9)<br>        *   waiting for the Second Coming of Christ (1:10)<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Verse 1 formally introduces this letter. Letters in the ancient Near East commonly had introductions of this type.<br>Verses 2-4 give a general thanksgiving and encouragement to the Thessalonian Church.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Trinity<br><br>God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are mentioned numerous times in this chapter. They are described in their identity, activity, and the union that the Christian has in them.<br><br>### Hardship<br><br>Like the apostles before them, the Thessalonian Church endured persecution for the sake of the Gospel. Their faith filled response to the Gospel even in affliction, and Gospel preaching made them examples to the churches throughout the regions of Macedonia and Achaia.<br><br>### Faithfulness<br><br>The apostles mention the faithfulness of Thessalonian Church throughout this chapter: “work of faith” in [1:3](..01/03.md), “example to all those who believe” in [1:7](../01/07.md), and “faith toward God” in [1:8](../01/08.md).<br><br>
1TH	1	1	xb1i	figs-explicit	Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος	1		The assumed knowledge in this verse, is that the Thessalonian Church knows who **Paul and Silvanus and Timothy** are and that they are writing the letter. The UGNT places a semicolon after **Timothy**, indicating that all three wrote the letter, or it comes from all three. Alternate translation: “Paul and Silvanus and Timothy:” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	1	1	ms5e	figs-ellipsis	Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος	1	Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church	Here, the verb is omitted that clearly communicates that these three people are writing this letter, although **Paul** is clearly the main narrator (See [2:18](../02/18.md)). (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH	1	1	n0l2	figs-metonymy	τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ	1		The phrase translated, **the church** literally means “the summoned/called out ones,” and is equivalent to the Old Testament Hebrew word that means, “assembly.” Here, it is a metonymy that refers to “the people of **God** who trust in the **Christ**.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])  <br>
1TH	1	1	ujkk	writing-background	Θεσσαλονικέων	1		Ancient Thessalonica was located on the southeast coast of ancient Macedonia, and is now called Thessaloniki, located in northeast Greece. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	1	1	d86o		ἐν	1		The word translated **in** is the first reference in 1 Thessalonians to the important concept of union with **God** (See introductory remarks Part 3).
1TH	1	1	vlb3	guidelines-sonofgodprinciples	Θεῷ Πατρὶ καὶ Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστῷ	1		When **God** is called **Father** (See [1:3](../01/03..md)) it is meant to highlight his relationship to **Jesus** as “Son” (See [1:10](../01/10..md)). Here, the Old Testament title for **God**, **Lord**, is applied to **Jesus**, equating him with **God**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
1TH	1	1	luw5	translate-blessing	χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη	1	Grace and peace to you	This phrase is a common biblical blessing formula and greeting (See Rom. 1:7; 1 Cor. 1:3; 2 Cor. 1:2; Gal. 1:3; Eph. 1:2; Phil. 1:2; Col. 1:2; 2 Th. 1:2; Philem. 1:3; 1 Pet. 1:2; 2 Pet. 1:2; Rev. 1:4). It could be translated in one of two ways: 1) Blessing. Alternate translation: “May God give you his grace and peace” 2) Greeting. Alternate translation: “I pray that God shows you favor and keeps you safe” (See[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])<br><br>
1TH	1	1	nn67	figs-you	ὑμῖν	1	to you	 Throughout this letter, the plural word **you** refers to the church of Thessalonica, unless otherwise noted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1TH	1	2	of3g	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	εὐχαριστοῦμεν…ποιούμενοι	1		The main verb is **we give thanks**. The word **making** simultaneously describes how the writers of this letter “give thanks.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])<br>
1TH	1	2	o7cp	figs-hyperbole	πάντοτε…μνείαν ποιούμενοι ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν ἡμῶν, ἀδιαλείπτως	1		Here, the combination of **always … continually making mention of you in our prayers** expresses hyperbole (also “remembering” in [1:3](../01/03.md), indicating the intensity and frequency of the **prayers** offered up to **God** by Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. Alternate translation: “regularly mentioning you when we pray” or “constantly remembering to pray for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	1	2	af2j	memorialoffering	μνείαν ποιούμενοι ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν ἡμῶν	1		It is possible that **making mention of you in our prayers** expresses Old Testament sacrificial language. Alternate translation: “continually reminding ourselves to offer you as a memorial when we pray” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/memorialoffering). 
1TH	1	2	y98w	figs-exclusive	ἡμῶν	1	General Information:	In this letter, the words **we** and **our** refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. <br>Throughout the letter, **we** and **our** is used to convey that all three are included as authors of the letter, though Paul is clearly the main narrator (See [2:18](../02/18.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])<br>
1TH	1	3	ecw0	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	μνημονεύοντες	1		The main verb of this sentence is “we give thanks” (See [1:2](../01/02.md)). **remembering** simultaneously describes how the writers of this letter “give thanks.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])<br>
1TH	1	3	w769	figs-possession	τοῦ ἔργου τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τοῦ κόπου τῆς ἀγάπης, καὶ τῆς ὑπομονῆς τῆς ἐλπίδος	1		The writers are using the genitive form in this lengthy clause. This phrase could refer to: 1) Description. Alternate translation: “faithful work and loving labor and enduring confidence” 2) Purpose. Alternate translation: “deeds for the sake of faith and hard work for the sake of love and endurance for the sake of lasting confidence” 3) Origin. Alternate translation: “work motivated by faithfulness and hard labor rooted in love and endurance based on future promises” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	1	3	hu8u	figs-synecdoche	τοῦ ἔργου τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τοῦ κόπου τῆς ἀγάπης, καὶ τῆς ὑπομονῆς τῆς ἐλπίδος	1		It is possible that these terms are meant as a synecdoche for the Christian faith as a whole (see 1 Corinthians 13:13). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH	1	3	vg87	figs-possession	τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν	1		This phrase could be separated from the previous idea (See UST). It would then refer to how the **work … labor … steadfastness** are accepted in the presence of **God**, through the representation of **Jesus**. Thus, it could refer to two different concepts: 1) Means of prayer. Alternate translation: “It is only through our Lord Jesus Christ that God our Father accepts our prayers on your behalf” 2) Relationship. “It is only through our Lord Jesus Christ that we can call God our Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	1	3	kr8q	figs-possession	τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ	1		The genitive form is used here. It could refer to: 1) Association or relationship. Alternate translation: “for our Lord Jesus Christ” 2) Means or Instrument. (See UST) 3) Origin. Alternate translation: “that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	1	3	t5rw	figs-idiom	ἔμπροσθεν	1		The word translated **before** literally means “in front of.” In this case, it is being used as an idiom for prayer. <br>The writers of this letter are comparing their prayers to being in the actual presence of God. Alternate translation: “in the presence of” or “in the sight of” or “in front of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) 
1TH	1	3	kz0n	figs-possession	τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν	1		Again, the genitive form is used. Here, **our God and Father** indicates that **God** and **Father** are the same Divine Person. Paul, Silvanus, Timothy, and Thessalonian Church are the spiritual children of God the Father in or through Jesus. **Father** also describes **God** as distinct from **our Lord Jesus Christ** who is also **God**. Alternate translation: “God our Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	1	3	tvrg	figs-hendiadys	τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν	1		This phrase could also be considered hendiadys, since **Father** modifies **God**. Alternate translation: “our God, the Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	1	4	psc4	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	εἰδότες	1		Here, **knowing** continues the simultaneous description of how the writers of this letter “give thanks” (See UST). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1TH	1	4	qx5o	figs-nominaladj	ἀδελφοὶ ἠγαπημένοι ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		This phrase acts as nominal adjective that describes the Thessalonian Church in relational terms. They are spiritual siblings in their relationship with the writers of the letter, and beloved children in their relationship with **God** the Father (See [1:3](../01/03.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH	1	4	erb6	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοὶ	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	1	4	egkq	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοὶ	1		Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	1	4	kiz3		ἠγαπημένοι	1		The word translated **loved** indicates a past relationship with continuing results (literally, “has been and/or continues to be loved”). If your language has this verbal distinction, you could emphasize the past and present nuances in your translation. Alternate translation: “who have always been loved” or “who are continually loved”<br>
1TH	1	4	j08t	figs-activepassive	ἠγαπημένοι ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		If it is clearer in your language, this passive form **loved** could be changed to an active form. Alternate translation: “whom God has always loved” (see UST)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	1	4	t70n	grammar-connect-logic-result	τὴν ἐκλογὴν ὑμῶν	1		This phrase **your election** is the direct objective of **knowing** and the beginning of a result clause. The reason why the writers of this letter know that the Thessalonians have been chosen as God's people is found in the following verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	1	4	ohtl	figs-abstractnouns	τὴν ἐκλογὴν ὑμῶν,	1		Here, **your election** is an abstract noun phrase. If this is unclear in your language, you could change this abstract noun to a verb form. Alternate translation: “that he chose you to belong to him,” or “that he ordained you to be his children,” or starting a new sentence, “God selected you to be his people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	1	5	jxfs	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὅτι	1		Here, **because** is the marker of a result clause. The writers of this letter are certain of the “election” and identity of the Thessalonian Church as God's people [1:4](../01/04.md), **because** they received the gospel message in all the ways described in verse 5. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	1	5	ude4	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐγενήθη εἰς ὑμᾶς ἐν λόγῳ μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ, καὶ πληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ	1	not in word only	The writers of this letter use a contrasting clause to emphasis the multi-faceted effect of the gospel. Alternate translation: “our gospel preaching did not come to you as only a simple message, but even accompanied with power and the Holy Spirit and full assurance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	1	5	sm4j	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐγενήθη εἰς ὑμᾶς ἐν λόγῳ μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ, καὶ πληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ	1	not in word only	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this extended phrase to a simultaneous clause, framed in a positive way. Alternate translation: “our gospel message was completely validated: by our words, by a display of power, by the Holy Spirit, by your own full assurance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1TH	1	5	ud0p	figs-explicit	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν	1		The assumed knowledge is that **our gospel** is a technical term for the message that the Apostles preach about the Lord Jesus Christ. This is made emphatic by including the definite article **the** in the ancient Greek text, marking it as the “well-known” or “one and only” **gospel**. Alternate translation: “happy message about the Christ” or “good news about the coming of the Christ” or “great news about the kingdom of God's Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	1	5	h675		ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ	1	but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit	This could mean: 1) the **Holy Spirit** gave the apostles the ability to preach the **gospel** powerfully. Alternate translation: “but also empowered by the Holy Spirit” 2) the **Holy Spirit** caused the preaching of the **gospel** to have a powerful effect among the Thessalonian Church (see UST). 3) the **Holy Spirit** demonstrated the truth of the **gospel** preaching through displays of **power**. Alternate translation: “but also with powerful signs from the Holy Spirit”
1TH	1	5	gxzy	translate-textvariants	Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ	1		The assumed knowledge is that the Thessalonians know who or what **the Holy Spirit** is. This is also seen in some ancient manuscripts that use a common abbreviation that indicates this is the “well-known” **Holy Spirit**. The UGNT capitalizes the phrase to indicate this fact. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	1	5	t1w3	figs-abstractnouns	πληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ	1	in much assurance	**in much assurance** is an abstract noun phrase. Alternate translation: “with full assurance” or “with full confidence” or “with full conviction” or “with weighty evidence.” If it is more clear in your language you could change the nouns to a verb form. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit fully assured you” or “the Holy Spirit gave you full confidence” or “the Holy Spirit fully convinced you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	1	5	wdr7		καθὼς οἴδατε οἷοι	1		The phrase **just as you know what kind of men** is used by writers of this letter to validate the gospel message, by the example of their own conduct amongst the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “you even experienced it for yourself” or “you are well aware how we behaved”
1TH	1	6	cs49	figs-activepassive	καὶ ὑμεῖς μιμηταὶ ἡμῶν ἐγενήθητε καὶ τοῦ Κυρίου	1	you became imitators	[DELETE] To “imitate” means to act like or to copy the behavior of another.<br><br>The writers of this letter add another reason why their gospel message is valid: the response of the Thessalonian Church. If it is clearer in your language, you could change this to an active form. Alternate translation: “And all of you mimicked us and the Lord” or “And all of you copied us and the Lord” or “And all of you behaved like us and the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	1	6	kgjr	figs-rpronouns	ὑμεῖς	1	you became imitators	The word translated **you** includes a reflexive pronoun that is used for emphasis. If your language has this concept, you could include the pronoun for emphasis. Alternate translation: “you personally” or “you yourselves”  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	1	6	b607	figs-explicit	τοῦ Κυρίου	1		The assumed knowledge in this verse, is that **the Lord** refers to Jesus [1:3](../01/03.md). This is a common way of communicating in the biblical text, to make a previous reference clear by using a contracted word form and/or the definite article **the**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	1	6	cl6r	figs-activepassive	δεξάμενοι τὸν λόγον ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1	having received the word	Here, the word translated **having received** indicates that what is described in the rest of the verse happened before they **became imitators**, and also is what defines them as **imitators**. The Thessalonian Church shows its “imitation” of Paul, Silvanus, Timothy, and the Lord Jesus in the way they received **the word**. If it is clearer in your language, you could translate it with active forms. Alternate translation: “you received the gospel message enduring deep distressed, while the Holy Spirit caused you to rejoice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	1	6	w222	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	δεξάμενοι τὸν λόγον ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ	1		It is possible that this phrase is meant to express contrast. Alternate translation: “This was despite the fact that you endured much distress” or “although you received the message while enduring deep distress, the Holy Spirit caused you to rejoice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]]) 
1TH	1	6	c2hl	figs-explicit	τὸν λόγον	1		By using the definite article **the** before **word** the writers of this letter are indicating that what they are referring to is the same gospel message mentioned in [1:5](../01/05.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	1	6	q4gm	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1	in much hardship	This phrase indicates two different things that happened at the same time. The Thessalonian Church received the gospel message in the condition of **much hardship**, yet with an attitude of **joy**. Alternate translation: “severely distressed, but rejoicing through the Holy Spirit” or “under powerful pressure, while experiencing joy from the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])<br>
1TH	1	6	wura	figs-abstractnouns	ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ	1		This abstract noun phrase can be translated in two main ways: 1) Location. Alternate translation: “in a place where there was great distress” 2) Sphere. Alternate translation: “while experiencing great difficulty” or “while under extreme pressure”<br><br>If it is clearer in your language, you could change the phrase to a verb form. Alternate translation: “while you were deeply distressed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	1	6	to6k	grammar-connect-time-background	ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1		This phrase could also be meant to give background information (Acts 17:1-10). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
1TH	1	6	r7o6	figs-abstractnouns	μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1		This abstract noun phrase is meant to show how the Thessalonian Church received the gospel message. If it is clearer in your language, you could change it to a verb form. Alternate translation: “you rejoiced because of the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	1	6	ohen	figs-possession	μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1		This genitive phrase can refer to: 1) Origin. Alternate translation: “from the Holy Spirit” 2) Means. Alternate translation: “with joy through the Holy Spirit” or “with joy by the Holy Spirit” 3) Subject. Alternate translation: “with the Holy Spirit’s joy” or “the Holy Spirit caused you to rejoice” 4) Relationship. Alternate translation: “with the joy of those who belong to the Holy Spirit” or “with the joy of belonging to the Holy Spirit” 5) Association. Alternate translation: “with the joy associated with the Holy Spirit” or “with the joy characterized by the Holy Spirit” 6) Containment. Alternate translation: “with joy that is full of the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	1	7	lwbm	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὥστε γενέσθαι ὑμᾶς τύπους	1		This phrase is a result clause. What is spoken about in verse 6, caused the results of verse 7. Alternate translation: “This is how you modeled the Christian life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	1	7	hemp	figs-activepassive	ὥστε γενέσθαι ὑμᾶς τύπους	1		If it is clearer in your language, you can change this phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “This is how you modeled the Christian life” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	1	7	j1oz	figs-idiom	τοῖς πιστεύουσιν	1		This is an idiom for all believers in God or Christ [2:10, 13](../02/10.md)(../02/13.md). Alternate translation: “to those who continue to trust in God” or “among those who remain faithful to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	1	7	c1hc	figs-synecdoche		1		This phrase also represents a partial reference to the whole Christian life. Alternate translation: “to those who continue to trust in God” or “among those who remain faithful to Christ” or “the faithful ones.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH	1	7	mhfa	figs-metonymy		1		This phrase can also be considered a substitute concept that is associated with the whole Christian life. Alternate translation: “to those who continue to trust in God” or “among those who remain faithful to Christ” or “the faithful ones.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	1	7	xetp	writing-background	ἐν τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ καὶ ἐν τῇ Ἀχαΐᾳ	1		The prepositional phrases translated **in Macedonia and in Achaia** can also indicate distance or space. Alternate translation: “throughout Macedonia and Achaia” or “throughout the regions of Macedonia and Achaia” or “across all of Macedonia and Achaia” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	1	7	pg6t	translate-names	Μακεδονίᾳ	1		This is an ancient province, located north of ancient Greece (modern day location is between Albania and Bulgaria). The word could be transliterated or referenced by its modern name, depending on your translation aim. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1TH	1	7	ydoc	translate-names	Ἀχαΐᾳ	1		This is an ancient province, located in southern Greece (modern day Greece West and Peloponnese). The word could be transliterated or referenced by its modern name, depending on your translation aim. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1TH	1	8	cqab		 ἀφ’ ὑμῶν γὰρ	1		This introductory phrase is meant to show double emphasis, in its placement at the beginning of the sentence and by using the strong preposition **For**. It is also meant to specify how the Thessalonian Church became a Christian example throughout Macedonia and Achaia. Alternate translation: “Certainly from you” or “Indeed from all of you” or “Because from you”
1TH	1	8	qyk6	figs-metonymy	ὁ λόγος τοῦ Κυρίου	1	the word of the Lord	The phrase **the word of the Lord** is metonymy for “the whole message of the Lord's gospel.” Alternate translation: “the gospel message about the Lord Jesus Christ” or “the Lord's gospel message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	1	8	sht4	figs-metaphor	ἐξήχηται	1	has been sounded out	The writers of this letter use the metaphor of a ringing bell or resounding instrument to describe the impact of the Thessalonians’ gospel preaching and living throughout the world. This is expressed emphatically in both the meaning of the verb and its form. The word translated **has been sounded out** literally means “has and continues to make an echo.” Alternate translation: “has echoed” or “has resounded” or “continues to ring” or “continually reverberates” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])  
1TH	1	8	esk9	figs-synecdoche	ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν ἡ πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν	1		**faith** is synecdoche for the way the Thessalonian Church models a faithful Christian life. Here, the word translated **toward** can have different nuances. Alternate translation: “the report about your faithfulness toward God” “your faithful example before God” or “the way you trust in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH	1	8	lxc3	figs-parallelism	ἐξελήλυθεν	1		The verb translated **has gone out** literally means “has and/or continues to go out.” It is used as a parallel synonym for the previous verb **has sounded out**. The Thessalonians’ faithful way of life has impacted the world in the same way as their preaching. Alternate translation: “has reached” or “has extended” or “continues to reach” or “continues to extend” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	1	8	wtg5	figs-hyperbole	ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ	1		**into every place** is hyperbole for “all over the inhabited world” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	1	8	z9eu	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὥστε μὴ χρείαν ἔχειν ἡμᾶς λαλεῖν τι	1		This is a result clause. Because the gospel message and faithful model of the Thessalonian Church was so effective, the writers of this letter have no need to add anything to it. The verb forms in the present tense can indicate that this is a continuing reality. Alternate translation: “This is why we have no reason to keep saying anything” or “As a result, we have no need to say another thing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	1	9	nsws	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γὰρ 	1		Here, **For** is used to emphasize and explain why the writers of this letter do not need to **say anything** [1:8](../01/08.md). Alternate translation: “Because” or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	1	9	rd2b	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ γὰρ περὶ ἡμῶν ἀπαγγέλλουσιν 	1	they themselves report	The writers of the letter use the pronoun **themselves** to emphasize at least two things: 1) These are the same people who heard about the Thessalonians’ gospel message and way of life. 2) The way the writers of this letter know that the Thessalonians’ gospel message and way of life has spread “into every place” is from the **report**. Alternate translation: “Those people who heard about the Thessalonian Church tell” or “These same people proclaim” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	1	9	vq7j		ἀπαγγέλλουσιν	1		This present tense verb could indicate that those people who **report** are repeatedly or constantly talking. The word translated **report** literally means “sending out a message,” and comes from the root word for “angel” or “messenger.” Alternate translation: “are sending out the message” or “are proclaiming”
1TH	1	9	v145	figs-abstractnouns	ὁποίαν εἴσοδον ἔσχομεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς	1	what kind of reception we had with you	This abstract noun phrase **what kind of reception we had with you** can be expressed using an active verb form. Alternate translation: “how readily you received us” or “how enthusiastically you welcomed us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	1	9	u1um	figs-metaphor	ἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ	1	you turned to God from the idols to serve the living and true God	This phrase is a metaphor for abandoning the slavery of worshipping false gods and beginning to worship the true God. The word translated **serve** refers to “serving as a slave” or “serving as a bond-servant.” Alternate translation: “you stopped worshipping dead idols, in order to start worshipping the living God” or “you abandoned the slavery of idolatry, for the purpose of serving the living and genuine God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	1	9	fa47	grammar-connect-logic-goal	δουλεύειν	1		This word translated **to serve** expresses a purpose clause. The reason why these people stopped worshipping idols was in order **to serve** God. Alternate translation: “in order to begin serving” or “for the purpose of serving” or “so that you could serve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	1	9	juwo	grammar-connect-logic-result	πῶς ἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ	1		You could also translate this as a result clause. If it would be clearer in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “how because you started to serve the living and true God, you rejected your idols” or “how when you started worshipping the living and true God, you abandoned the idols” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])<br>
1TH	1	9	o3ad	figs-doublet	Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ	1		**living and true** uses two terms that are synonymous. Alternate translation: “the God who is alive and real” or “the genuine and living God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH	1	9	gv76	figs-parallelism	ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ	1		This phrase expresses parallelism, by contrasting the deadness and falseness of idols with the living and real God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	1	10	wkt5	grammar-connect-words-phrases	καὶ ἀναμένειν τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν	1		This phrase is the first mention of this letter’s theme of the Second Coming of Christ (see Introduction to 1 Thessalonians, Part 2). **and** is a connecting word that links the action of **wait** with **serve** [1:9](../01/09.md). Alternate translation: “and also to wait expectantly for the second coming of his Son from Heaven” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	1	10	v5cm		ἀναμένειν	1		Here, the word translated **wait** is emphatic in two ways: 1) the verb form indicates a continual activity of waiting. 2) The verb definition is intensified, and literally means “to continue to wait more” or “to stay up.” Alternate translation: “to wait expectantly for” or “to remain eagerly waiting for” or “to continue waiting for”
1TH	1	10	og49	guidelines-sonofgodprinciples	τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ	1		The word translated **his** contains a definite article “the”. This could indicate that **Jesus** is “the only **Son** of God.” This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God the Father [1:1](../01/01.md). Here, **his** refers back to God [1:9](../01/09.md). Alternate translation: “God’s only Son” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]]) 
1TH	1	10	dg6a	translate-textvariants	Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ	1	his Son	Some ancient manuscripts validate that this is meant as a title of Jesus, by abbreviating the word translated **Son**. Alternate translation: “God’s Son” (UST) or “the Son of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	1	10	wil8	figs-metaphor	ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν	1		Here, the phrase translated **from the heavens** expresses the spiritual sphere where Jesus is currently located and the place from where he will return to the physical location of Earth. Here, **the heavens** is a metaphor for “the place where God is.” This special use of **heavens** is further reinforced by the use of the definite article **the**. If your language has a special word or concept for “the place where God is,” you could use that here instead of **the heavens**. Alternate translation: “from Heaven” or “from God’s realm” or “from the place where God is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	1	10	pmi8	writing-pronouns	ὃν ἤγειρεν ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν, Ἰησοῦν,	1	whom he raised	**whom** is a reference to **Son**, and **he** and **his** refer back to **God** [1:9](../01/09.md). So, it is God who **raised** **Jesus** **from the dead**. You can make the subject **God** explicit in your translation if the use of this pronoun is unclear in your language. Alternate translation: “God raised Jesus from the dead” or “God resurrected Jesus from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1TH	1	10	ffro	figs-idiom	ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν	1		Here, the phrase translated **the dead** is plural and a common biblical concept that refers to “dead people.” It emphasizes that Jesus physically died and was buried. This is not a metaphor for symbolic death. Yet, it is referring to general sphere of the dead, called “Hades” or “Sheol” in the Bible. If your language has a special word or phrase for the place dead people go, you could use it. Alternate translation: “from the place where dead people are” or “from death” or “from the place where corpses are” or “from the grave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	1	10	dbcl	figs-distinguish	Ἰησοῦν, τὸν ῥυόμενον ἡμᾶς	1		This clause is acting as an adjective that describes Jesus’ resurrected role as rescuer. If this is not clear in your language, you can convert it to a pronoun phrase to make it explicit. In addition, the verb form indicates that this action of **rescuing** is something Jesus is characterized by or could be a title, “the rescuer.” Alternate translation: “he is our rescuer” “Jesus is our rescuer” or “Jesus, who rescues us” or “it is Jesus who is going to rescue us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])<br>
1TH	1	10	pt1s	figs-exclusive	ἡμᾶς	1	the one rescuing us	This is an inclusive use of **us**, including Paul, Silvanus, Timothy, and the Thessalonians–and by extension– all Christians. Alternate translation: “all of us Christians” or “we who trust in Christ” or “all of us believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	1	10	g3zz	figs-abstractnouns	ἐκ τῆς ὀργῆς τῆς ἐρχομένης	1		**wrath** is an abstract noun referring to the destined **coming** God's future and final Judgment. If it is clearer in your language, you could translate this as a verb form. Alternate translation: “from the future time when God punishes those who do not trust in him” or “when God will certainly punish those who worship idols” or “from God’s impending judgment” (See: [What is the “second coming” of Jesus?](../front/intro.md))(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	intro	kt5l			0		# 1 Thessalonians 2 General Notes<br><br>## Outline of 1 Thessalonians 2<br><br>1. Apostolic Suffering (2:1-13)<br>* Apostolic preaching (2:1-6)<br>* Apostolic conduct (2:7-9)<br>* Apostolic witness (2:10-3)<br>2. Persecution of the Church (2:14-16)<br>* Thessalonian persecution (2:14a)<br>* Jewish persecution (2:14b-16)<br>3. Paul's Desire to Visit (2:17-20)<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The first part of this chapter is a defense of their apostleship and sufferings. They second part is a recounting of the Thessalonians’ sufferings. Lastly, the Apostle Paul makes known his deep desire to visit the Thessalonian Church.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Apostolic Witness<br><br>Here, Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy make a defense of their apostleship. By their preaching, conduct and witness, they prove to be messengers of Christ. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/apostle.md]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/testimony]])<br><br>### The Gospel of God<br><br>The foundation of the apostolic witness is that they were “entrusted with the gospel” (see [2:4](../02/04.md).The apostles authority makes them: “bold to speak” (See [2:2](../02/02.md)), “impart” (See [2:8](../02/08.md)), “preach” (See [2:9](..02/09.md)), and thank God that the Thessalonian Church “received the word of God” (See [2:13](../02/13/md)).  <br><br>### The Second Coming of Christ<br><br>In this chapter is the first mention of the Second Coming of Christ in its two facets. First, the apostles mention that the persecutors of Christ’s Church will be judged with the phrase “wrath has come upon them” in [2:16](../02/16.md). Next, the apostles mention the “hope” and “joy” and “glory” for those who will “be saved” (See [2:16](../02/16.md)) “in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming” in [2:19-20](../02/19.md).
1TH	2	1	ii5j	grammar-connect-words-phrases	αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε, ἀδελφοί	1		In the biblical letters, there are no clear chapter or heading markers. A change in topic is indicated by the structure of the sentence or certain repeated or key phrases. Here, **For you yourselves know, brothers** functions as a transition into the next topic, by including the same words **brothers** and **know** used in the [1:4](../01/04.md), combined with emphatic pronoun use. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	2	1	gpr4	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ…οἴδατε	1	you yourselves know	The words **you** and **yourselves** refer to the Thessalonian Church and are used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	2	1	f5x2		οἴδατε	1		Here, like the similar phrase in [1:4](../01/04.md), **know** does not refer to simple knowledge. Alternate translation: “you are convinced” or “you are aware” or “you recognize” or “you realize”
1TH	2	1	tdl3	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [1:4](../01/04.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	1	wlyf	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1		Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	2	1	nwlt	figs-abstractnouns	τὴν εἴσοδον ἡμῶν	1		In the phrase translated **our coming** there is a definite article “the” that points back to the same word used in [1:9](../01/09.md), “reception.” This abstract noun phrase could be translated in a verb form. Alternate translation: “when we entered” or “when we were received” or “when we were welcomed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	1	g6qq	figs-exclusive	ἡμῶν	1	our coming	Here “our” is exclusive, referring to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy–but not the Thessalonian Church [1:9](../01/09.md). (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	2	1	w584	figs-doublenegatives	οὐ κενὴ γέγονεν	1	has not been in vain	This verse uses a double positive **you yourselves** and a double negative **not ... vain** This indicates a strong emphasis. Depending on your target language, there are two main options to indicate the double negative: 1) Retain the negative. Alternate translation: “has not been useless” or “has not been without a purpose” or “has not been worthless” 2) Express as a positive. Alternate translation: “has proved quite beneficial” or “has definitely been worthwhile” or “has been very useful” or “has been demonstrated to be quite profitable” (See:[[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]]) OR (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1TH	2	1	ew61		οὐ κενὴ γέγονεν	1		The verb phrase translated **has not been in vain** can also indicate both a past and present condition. You might consider emphasizing the continuous state or resulting condition of the verb. 1) Negatively. Alternate translation: “has never nor will ever be useless” or “has not nor remains worthless” 2) Positively. Alternate translation: “has proved to be and continues to be quite beneficial” or “has definitely been and remains worthwhile”<br>
1TH	2	2	w0qu	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες, καθὼς οἴδατε, ἐν Φιλίπποις ἐπαρρησιασάμεθα ἐν τῷ Θεῷ ἡμῶν	1		**But** begins a contrasting clause emphasizing that the coming of Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy was **not in vain** [2:1](../02/01.md). The verb translated **we were bold** is an emphatic contrast to the normal response one would expect from suffering. Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are able to respond this way because their boldness comes from God. Alternate translation: “But … we found courage because of our God” or “But … we had confidence in our God’s power” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	2	2	le4l	writing-background	προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες…ἐν Φιλίπποις	1		The phrase translated **having previously suffered and have been shamefully treated at Philippi** is a background clause that gives information about what happened when Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy were in the city of Philippi (see Acts 16).You can add implied words that help clarify this idea. Alternate translation: “Although we already suffered and were insultingly disgraced when visiting the city of Philippi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	2	2	fac4		ἀλλὰ προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες	1		This combination of words can be translated in a number of ways. Alternate translation: “even though we already experienced suffering and were mistreated” or “although we already suffered and were treated outrageously” or “despite the fact that we had earlier suffered and were violently abused” or “since we previously suffered and were shamefully insulted” 
1TH	2	2	clqq		καθὼς οἴδατε	1		This is an emphatic phrase similar to “you yourselves” [2:1](../02/01..md). It is meant reinforce the previous statement that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy’s “coming … has not been in vain.” Alternate translation: “as you are well aware” or “which you certainly realize”
1TH	2	2	lw7k	writing-background	ἐπαρρησιασάμεθα ἐν τῷ Θεῷ ἡμῶν, λαλῆσαι πρὸς ὑμᾶς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν πολλῷ ἀγῶνι	1		This is another background reference to the apostolic preaching during the persecution of the Thessalonian Church as recorded in Acts 17:1-10. See [1:6](../01/06.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	2	2	pqt4	figs-activepassive	ἐπαρρησιασάμεθα ἐν τῷ Θεῷ ἡμῶν	1		If it makes more sense in your language, you can change **we were bold in our God** to an active verb form. Alternate translation: “our God made us bold” or “our God made us confident” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	2	2	daei	figs-possession	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		The genitive phrase can be translated a number of ways: 1) Source. Alternate translation: “the gospel from God” 2) Possession. Alternate translation: “God’s gospel” 3) Association. “the gospel about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	2	2	v4dg	figs-abstractnouns	ἐν πολλῷ ἀγῶνι	1	in much struggle	The words translated **in much struggle** literally mean “in great agony.” It can also refer to a spiritual contest or game. Alternate translation: “in a formidable spiritual battle” or “during our powerful spiritual contest” or “with intense agony.” If it makes more sense in your language you could translate this abstract noun phrase with a verb form. Alternate translation: “although we struggled hard” or “despite how much we agonized” or “while we battled” or “during the time we contested” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	3	xg1c	figs-abstractnouns	ἡ γὰρ παράκλησις ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ	1		If it makes more sense in your language you could translate this list of abstract nouns using verb forms. Alternate translation: “Certainly, when we appealed to you: we did not try to lead you astray, we did not speak impurely, we did not try to deceive you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	3	jlly	figs-abstractnouns	 ἡ γὰρ παράκλησις ἡμῶν	1		The abstract noun **exhortation** can mean different things. Here, it is a synonym for "the gospel of God" [2:2](../02/02.md). Alternate translation: (See UST).<br><br>If it makes more sense in your language you could translate this abstract noun phrase with a verb form. Alternate translation: “Because when we encouraged you it” (UST) or “Certainly when we warned you it” or “Indeed when we appealed to you it” or “When we urged you it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	3	hl9c	figs-litany	ἡ γὰρ παράκλησις ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ	1		**For** is the beginning of a list of reasons describing why Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy had boldness to speak and defends how their message was “the gospel of God” [2:2](../02/02.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	2	3	t7ty	figs-doublenegatives	οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ	1	was not from error, nor from impurity, nor in deceit	This list of double negative phrases highlights the sincere motive and true content of the **exhortation** Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy shared with the Thessalonian Church. You could describe these phrases in a positive manner. Alternate translation: “was from honest, pure, sincere motives” or “was made properly, purely, and sincerely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TH	2	4	is1a	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ καθὼς	1	we have been approved by God to be entrusted	These two words are meant to contrast the negative items of verse 3, and reinforce that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are authorized to preach the gospel. Alternate translation: “It is actually true that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	2	4	lfv7	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἀλλὰ καθὼς δεδοκιμάσμεθα ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ, πιστευθῆναι	1		This phrase could also be translated to express the result of God's approval. Alternate translation: “Actually God approved us, then we were entrusted” or “However, just as God tested and approved us, so that we were entrusted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	2	4	ue4y		δεδοκιμάσμεθα ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ, πιστευθῆναι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον	1		The combination of these two verbs **approved** and **entrusted** are meant to highlight how Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy have trustworthy credentials to preach the gospel (See UST). The verb translated **approved** literally means “has been and/or continues to be examined and tested and approved.” **entrusted** is the verb form of “faithfulness.” Alternate translation: “we have been proved to be genuine guardians of the gospel” or “we are marked with God’s seal of approval as faithful preachers of the gospel” 
1TH	2	4	rnfs		τὸ εὐαγγέλιον	1		Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy continue to give their authoritative credentials for the message by again using the phrase **the gospel**. The combination of being **approved by God** and the reference to “the gospel of God” reinforces that their authority comes from God. Alternate translation: “to preach the gospel” or “with God’s gospel”
1TH	2	4	m8sq	grammar-connect-logic-result	οὕτως λαλοῦμεν	1		**so we speak** expresses the result of their approval for gospel preaching. There are two main ways you could translate **so**: 1) Manner. Alternate translation: “so this is how we speak” 2) Reason. Alternate translation: “this is why we keep talking about it” or “so, we keep speaking” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	2	4	qqj2	figs-explicit	λαλοῦμεν	1	we speak	The implicit information in the phrase **we speak** is that it refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy’s preaching or teaching of the gospel. See [2:2](../020/02.md) for the same verb. The verb form in the UGNT indicates a continual or regular action. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	2	4	b0yy	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	οὐχ ὡς ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκοντες, ἀλλὰ Θεῷ	1		This contrast clause refers back to [2:3](../02/03.md) and the list of double negatives that express Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy’s godly motives. Here, it serves as an introduction to a longer section about their past godly behavior among the Thessalonian Church (verses 5-12). Alternate translation: “not like those who are trying to please people, but God” or “not to flatter people, but please God” or “not hoping to satisfy people, but God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	2	4	k1m9	figs-parallelism	ἀλλὰ Θεῷ, τῷ δοκιμάζοντι τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν	1	the one who examines our hearts	Here, the writers of this letter use parallelism to reinforce that they **have been approved by God**. The word translated **we have been approved** is the same as the word translated **the one who examines**. Alternate translation: “Actually, we seek to do what is pleasing to God. He is the one who continually examines our affections” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	2	4	bq9a	figs-metonymy	τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν	1		The phrase **our hearts** is a metonym for Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy’s deepest thoughts, affections, motives, or wills. Alternate translation: “our deepest thoughts” or “our affections” or “our wills” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	2	4	ntpt	figs-metaphor	τῷ δοκιμάζοντι τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν	1		**the one who examines our hearts** is a metaphor that compares God’s examination of our deepest thoughts, affections, motives, and wills to that of a doctor performing heart surgery or a smelter testing the purity of refined metal. If you have an equivalent metaphor from your culture, you could use it. Alternate translation: “the one who can determine what motivates us” or “the one who refines the quality of our motives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	2	5	xk2o	grammar-connect-words-phrases	οὔτε γάρ ποτε…ἐγενήθημεν	1		The phrase translated **For we did not come at that time**, carries a triple emphasis. It literally means “Certainly not ever.” Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy defend their apostolic authorization from God. Alternate translation: “Certainly we never came” or “Indeed at no time did we come” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	2	5	u28j	figs-litany	οὔτε…ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας…οὔτε ἐν προφάσει πλεονεξίας	1		This is a litany of negating examples that continues into [2:6](../02/06.md). You can use a form in your language to list things that someone should not do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	2	5	rojr		ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας	1		This phrase contrasts “the word of the Lord” in [1:8](../01/08.md) and “the gospel of God” in [2:8](../02/08.md). Alternate translation: “with a flattering message” 
1TH	2	5	hqih		καθὼς οἴδατε	1		This is an emphatic phrase [2:2](../02/02..md). It is meant reinforce the previous statement that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy **did not come at that time in words of flattery**. In addition, it is meant to validate the gospel message, through their own conduct amongst the Thessalonian Church [1:5](../01/05.md). Alternate translation: “as you are well aware” or “which you certainly realize” or “as you experienced for yourself”
1TH	2	5	q2yh	figs-metaphor	ἐν προφάσει πλεονεξίας	1		The word translated **pretext** literally means “shine in front” expressing the concept of “disguised” or “masked.” It is also possible that this is intended to be a metaphor for duplicity. Alternate translation: “with deceitful and greedy intent” or “for the purpose of dishonest greed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	2	5	lfym	figs-metaphor	(Θεὸς μάρτυς)	1		Again, Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are appealing to God to validate their gospel message and motives. This time they utilize an emphatic courtroom metaphor, as if they are summoning God as a witness to testify on their behalf before a judge. Alternate translation: “We swear to/by God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	2	5	qqia	figs-ellipsis	(Θεὸς μάρτυς)	1		The phrase translated **God {is} witness** has two nouns, “God” and “witness.” This is an example of an absolute ellipsis, where the reader has to supply the necessary verb “is” to make sense of the phrase. Alternate translation: “God is our witness!”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH	2	6	j6c4	figs-synecdoche	οὔτε ζητοῦντες ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δόξαν, οὔτε ἀφ’ ὑμῶν, οὔτε ἀπ’ ἄλλων	1		Here, the writers of the letter use emphatic synecdoche. **men** is another way of saying “any individual person,” and **from you or from others** is another way of saying “all people.” Alternate translation: “We were not looking for praise from any human being–not you or anyone else–” or “We were not hoping for any human honors” or “We did not want to be honored by anyone at all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH	2	6	afcc		ζητοῦντες	1		The form of the verb **seeking** indicates a continual behavior, action, or attitude. If your language has this nuance, you could emphasize it in your translation. Alternate translation: “continually seeking” or “constantly trying to receive”
1TH	2	7	u7y2	figs-hypo	δυνάμενοι ἐν βάρει εἶναι, ὡς Χριστοῦ ἀπόστολοι	1		Here, Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy make their most emphatic assertion of spiritual authority: that they are **apostles of Christ**. This means that they are specially authorized ambassadors, sent from and representing Christ himself. The phrase translated **being able to be burden**, literally means “show our weighty power” or “impose our authority.” It could be emphasizing one or two things: 1) Indicating rights. Alternate translation: “As Christ’s apostles, we could have made ourselves a burden by demanding (financial) support” 2) Indicating dominance. Alternate translation: “As Christ’s apostles we have authority to require obedience” (See UST) 3) Indicating rights and dominance. Alternate translation: “As Christ’s apostles, we have the power to demand support and submission” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1TH	2	7	bslq	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ	1		Here, **but** indicates the beginning of a contrast clause, where the opposite of **burden** is expressed. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])<br>
1TH	2	7	y3bi	figs-metaphor	ἐγενήθημεν νήπιοι ἐν μέσῳ ὑμῶν	1		**became little children in the midst of you** is a metaphor indicating how gently the apostles treated the Thessalonian Church. You could translate this with an active form, using a simile. Alternate translation: “we acted as mild infants when we visited you” (see UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	2	7	rglp	translate-textvariants	ἐγενήθημεν νήπιοι	1		Some ancient manuscripts read the word translated **little children** as “gentle ones” or “mild ones” or “soothing ones.” Alternate translation: “we were gentle” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	2	7	bnp2	figs-idiom	ἐν μέσῳ ὑμῶν	1		**in the midst of you** is a common biblical idiom that means “spending time” or “visiting”. Alternate translation: “while visiting you” or “while spending time with you” or “when we were with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	7	ag1l	figs-simile	ὡς ἐὰν τροφὸς θάλπῃ τὰ ἑαυτῆς τέκνα	1	as if a mother might comfort her own children	Here, what is translated **as if a mother might comfort** literally means “like a nurse warms” or “like a nurturer nourishes.” In the same way a **mother** would gently **comfort** her **children**, so Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy gently and affectionately [2:8](../02/08.md) nurtured the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TH	2	8	r8b4	figs-abstractnouns	οὕτως ὁμειρόμενοι ὑμῶν	1	Having affection for you in this manner	The abstract noun phrase **having affection** can also be translated in a verb form. Alternate translation: “Since we constantly long for you this way” or "Because we desire you so much” or “Since we yearn for you like this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	8	q86v	figs-metaphor	εὐδοκοῦμεν μεταδοῦναι ὑμῖν, οὐ μόνον τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὰς ἑαυτῶν ψυχάς	1	we were pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls	**our own souls** is used as a metaphor for the whole person or the life of the apostles. The apostles became so fond of the Thessalonians that they were even willing to **impart** or give up their own lives through persecution (See [2:2](../02/022.md)) and labors (See [2:9](../02/09.md)). Alternate translation: “we were happy to share with you both the gospel and our own lives” or “we thought it appropriate to give you the gospel, even if it meant giving up our very lives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	2	8	p4e4	figs-activepassive	διότι ἀγαπητοὶ ἡμῖν ἐγενήθητε	1	you had become beloved to us	This passive phrase **Because you had become beloved to us** could be translated as an active verb form. Alternate translation: “This is because we began to love you so much” or "This is because we were so fond of you” or “Because we had so much affection for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	2	9	f4nk	figs-imperative	μνημονεύετε γάρ	1		Here, **remember** is translated as a statement, but could also be translated as a polite request or appeal. Alternate translation: “Please remember” or “Indeed, we urge you to recall” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH	2	9	v837	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γάρ	1		This connecting word **For** can also be translated to express emphasis. Alternate translation: “Certainly” or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	2	9	j9lu	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [2:1](../02/01.md).(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	9	exw6	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1		Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	2	9	tc98	figs-doublet 	τὸν κόπον ἡμῶν καὶ τὸν μόχθον	1	our labor and toil	The use of these synonyms emphasizes how hard they worked. It could be translated as a doublet. Alternate translation: “our hard work and exertion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) 
1TH	2	9	xph1	figs-hendiadys	τὸν κόπον ἡμῶν καὶ τὸν μόχθον	1	our labor and toil	The use of these synonyms emphasizes how hard they worked. It could be translated as a hendiadys. Alternate translation: "our toilsome labor” or “our hard labor” or “how hard we worked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	2	9	ilj2	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι	1		The word translated **working** combined with **preached** indicates the idea of concession or simultaneous activity. Alternate translation: “Although working night and day” or "Despite the fact that we kept working night and day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1TH	2	9	ylkl	figs-idiom 	νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας	1		**night and day working** is an idiom. Alternate translation: “we stayed busy working” or “we continued to work during the day and night” or “we never stopped working” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) 
1TH	2	9	geb7	grammar-connect-logic-goal	πρὸς τὸ μὴ ἐπιβαρῆσαί τινα ὑμῶν	1		This is a purpose clause expressing the purpose for why the apostles were **night and day working**. The word translated **burden** means “weigh down” or “press down on,” and is the emphatic form of the word previously used [2:7](../02/07.md) Alternate translation: “so that we would not be a burden on any of you” or "so that we would not impose on anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	2	9	ezqn	figs-possession	ἐκηρύξαμεν εἰς ὑμᾶς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		This is the apostles’ true purpose for visiting the Thessalonian Church. Again, the phrase **the gospel of God** is used to indicate that the apostles’ message is of Divine origin [2:2](../020/02.md). Alternate translation: “we announced God’s gospel” or “we declared the good news from God” or “we preached the gospel message about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	2	10	re18	figs-metaphor	ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες καὶ ὁ Θεός	1		This phrase again uses the metaphor of summoning a witness in a legal courtroom. Here, in addition to God being called to testify about the godly behavior of the apostles [2:5](../02/05.md), the Thessalonian Church is called on as a witness. Alternate translation: “You are our witnesses, as well as God himself” or “As well as God, you have personally testified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	2	10	pgom	figs-parallelism	ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες καὶ ὁ Θεός, ὡς ὁσίως, καὶ δικαίως, καὶ ἀμέμπτως, ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν ἐγενήθημεν	1		This verse parallels the concepts that express the apostles’ pure motives and behavior in [2:5-6](../02/05.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	2	10	h52a	figs-ellipsis	ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες καὶ ὁ Θεός	1		The phrase translated **You {are} witnesses, and {so is} God** is an example of absolute ellipsis, where the implied verbs need to be supplied. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH	2	10	il3e	figs-litany	ὡς ὁσίως, καὶ δικαίως, καὶ ἀμέμπτως, ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν ἐγενήθημεν	1	holy, and righteous, and blameless	This phrase gives a litany of metaphorical “legal evidence” for why the Thessalonian Church and God are evoked as witnesses. Alternate translation: “how holy, and righteously, and blamelessly we lived among those who trust in God” or “just how faithful, and just, and innocent we conducted ourselves toward you believers in God” or “how we acted reverently, and fairly, and blamelessly while visiting the faithful” or “how perfectly we modeled the Christian life when visiting your church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	2	10	lx4m	figs-metonymy	ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν	1		The phrase translated **toward you who believe** literally means “to you who continue to trust” or “with you who remain faithful” or “among you faithful ones.” Here, it describes all the believers in God or Christ at Thessalonica with metonymy [1:7](../01/07.md). Alternate translation: “toward you who continue to trust in Christ” or “among you who remain faithful to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	2	11	vlvo	figs-parallelism	καθάπερ οἴδατε ὡς ἕνα ἕκαστον ὑμῶν, ὡς πατὴρ τέκνα ἑαυτοῦ	1		This verse repeats similar concepts from the previous verses with parallelism. **just as you know as each one of you** is synonymous with “You are witnesses, and so is God” in [2:10](../02/10.md). **as a father his own children** is similar to “how holy and righteous, and blameless we became toward you who believe” in [2:10](../02/10.md) and “as if a mother might comfort her own children” in [2:7-8](../02/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	2	11	oug6	figs-metaphor	καθάπερ οἴδατε ὡς ἕνα ἕκαστον ὑμῶν	1		The apostles again use the emphatic phrase **just as you know**. [2:5](../02/05.md), and adds **as each one of you** to heighten the emphasis. It is meant reinforce the previous statement about their godly behavior. In addition, it is meant to validate the gospel message, through their own conduct amongst the Thessalonian Church [2:9](../02/09.md). Alternate translation: “just as you each and every one of you are well aware” or “just as each one of you certainly realize” or “just as each one of you experienced for yourself”
1TH	2	11	i58m	figs-simile	ὡς πατὴρ τέκνα ἑαυτοῦ	1	as a father his own children	The apostles compare themselves to a father who models and instructs in proper behavior for his children. They see themselves as spiritual fathers to the Thessalonian Church, so they nurture them in the Christian faith like a father would care for the overall well-being of his own children. Alternate translation: "like a father nurtures his own children" or "just as a father cares for his own children" or "like a father trains his own children" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TH	2	12	m91e	figs-doublet	παρακαλοῦντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ παραμυθούμενοι, καὶ μαρτυρόμενοι…ὑμᾶς	1	exhorting you and encouraging and testifying for you	[DELETE] The words **exhorting,** **encouraging**, and ** testifying** are used together to express how passionately Paul’s group encouraged the Thessalonians. Alternate translation: “We were strongly encouraging you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])<br><br>The use of **exhorting**, **encouraging**, and **testifying** are for the purpose of emphasis and nuance. The word translated **exhorting** literally means “to call or invite next to.” The word translated **encouraging** literally means “to tell a story with or next to.” The word translated **testifying** literally means “to act as a personal witness or personally testify.” All three words indicate a constant or continual practice or activity. Alternate translation: “encouraging and cheering you up and acting as your witness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])<br>
1TH	2	12	vhjt	figs-litany	παρακαλοῦντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ παραμυθούμενοι, καὶ μαρτυρόμενοι	1		This list of action words could also be translated as a litany. Alternate translation: “We kept instructing you through appeals, encouragement, and our own personal example” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	2	12	clhg	figs-litany	παρακαλοῦντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ παραμυθούμενοι, καὶ μαρτυρόμενοι	1		The verbal forms describe the apostles’ fatherly behavior toward the Thessalonian Church. These forms can be expressed in a number of ways: 1) Means. Alternate translation: “by exhorting … testifying” 2) Cause. Alternate translation: “because we kept exhorting … testifying” 3) Result. Alternate translation: “with the result that we kept exhorting … testifying” 4) Manner. Alternate translation: “how we kept exhorting … testifying”
1TH	2	12	afop		μαρτυρόμενοι, εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		The same root word translated here as **testifying** is used in [2:10](../02/10.md), where Paul calls the Thessalonian Church “witnesses” to the apostles’ godly behavior. With this in mind, the second part of this verse could be translated: “testifying that you are walking worthily of God" or "personally testifying that you are living the way God desires"
1TH	2	12	go6b	figs-possession	εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		This genitive phrase **of God** could refer to God as: 1) Object. Alternate translation: “to live in a way that shows honor to God” 2) Subject. Alternate translation: “to live in a way that God honors” or “to live in a way that God considers worthy” 3) Association. “to live in a way that shows you are worthy of being God’s people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	2	12	idl2	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς	1		Here, the words translated **for … to walk** could also be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you would live” or “for the purpose of your living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])  
1TH	2	12	udek	figs-metaphor	εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν	1		**to walk** is common biblical metaphor that can mean “to live.” Alternate translation: “for you to keep living” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	2	12	v9ph	figs-parallelism	τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς εἰς τὴν ἑαυτοῦ βασιλείαν καὶ δόξαν	1		**who is calling …** is an informing relative clause that refers to God and describes what he is doing through or in parallel with the apostles' teachings. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH	2	12	b0by	figs-parallelism	τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς	1		**who is calling you** is a parallelism that equates the apostles’ **exhorting**, **encouraging**, and **testifying** with God’s **calling**. See also [2:13](../02/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	2	12	ycww	figs-parallelism	τοῦ καλοῦντος	1		This phrase indicates a continual or constant activity of God. Alternate translation: “who continues to call” or “who continually summons” or “who constantly invites” or “who keeps beckoning” (UST)
1TH	2	12	vbd2	figs-hendiadys	εἰς τὴν ἑαυτοῦ βασιλείαν καὶ δόξαν	1		This phrase **into his own kingdom and glory** is likely expressing a single idea. Alternate translation: “into his own glorious kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	2	12	n8dr	figs-doublet	εἰς τὴν ἑαυτοῦ βασιλείαν καὶ δόξαν	1	into his own kingdom and glory	It is possible that **kingdom** and **glory** refer to the same thing. Alternate translation: “into his own kingdom glory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])<br>
1TH	2	13	au3b	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ διὰ τοῦτο	1	General Information:	This phrase **And because of this** indicates that what follows are the reasons why the apostles are thankful for the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	2	13	zja7	figs-hyperbole	καὶ ἡμεῖς εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ ἀδιαλείπτως	1		These exact words translated **thank God** and **constantly** are found in [1:2](../01/02.md), translated **thanks to God** and **continually**. This phrase uses hyperbole to emphasize the apostles' attitude of gratitude. The word translated **constantly** literally means “not with lack” or “not leaving behind”. Alternate translation: “We ourselves also are constantly giving thanks to God” or “we personally never stop thanking God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	2	13	ruy0	figs-rpronouns	ἡμεῖς	1		Here, **we** expresses emphasis. If your language has this concept, you could include the pronoun for emphasis.  Alternate translation: “we personally” or “we ourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	2	13	ei3j	figs-distinguish	ὅτι παραλαβόντες λόγον ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐδέξασθε	1	General Information:	This clause explains **because of this**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “that you accepted God's message after we reported it to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH	2	13	i39s	grammar-connect-time-sequential	ὅτι παραλαβόντες λόγον ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐδέξασθε	1	General Information:	This clause indicates timing. The Thessalonian Church **accepted** the **word of God** after **having received** it. If the timing would be misunderstood in your language, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “that after you received … then you accepted it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
1TH	2	13	dr6q	figs-litany	ὅτι	1		Here, **that** marks of the beginning of the litany of reasons why the apostles are thankful to God. Because it signals the beginning of a list, **that** could be represented by a colon (See UST). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])<br>
1TH	2	13	yivb	figs-activepassive	παραλαβόντες λόγον ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		The passive form **having received** emphasizes that the apostles’ message comes from God himself. In addition, the word translated **having received**, literally means “take along with” or “receive an inheritance.” This indicates that the Thessalonian Church began to associate God’s “calling” (See [2:12](../02/12.md)) with the what they **heard** from the apostles. Alternate translation: “when we reported God's message to you, you began to associate yourselves with it” or “when we told you God’s message, you made it your own” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	2	13	r6om	figs-abstractnouns	ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν	1		 You could change this abstract noun phrase **heard from us** to an active form. Alternate translation: “that we reported” or “that we told you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	13	zj5f	figs-parallelism	ἐδέξασθε οὐ λόγον ἀνθρώπων, ἀλλὰ καθὼς ἀληθῶς ἐστὶν, λόγον Θεοῦ	1	not as the word of man	This part of the sentence parallels the previous phrase. **you accepted it** is synonymous with **having received**, **heard from us** is similar to **not {as} the word of man**, **the word of God** parallels **but just as it truly is, the word of God**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	2	13	f6ta	figs-metonymy	λόγον ἀνθρώπων…λόγον Θεοῦ	1		Here, **word** is a metonym for “message.” Alternate translation: “a human message … God’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	2	13	rpb1		ἀλλὰ καθὼς ἀληθῶς ἐστὶν	1	the word of God	With this triply emphatic phrase, the apostles clarify that the source of their message is not just the opinion of the apostles or the Thessalonian Church. Alternative translation: “but in fact what it really is”
1TH	2	13	ci1e	figs-personification	ὃς καὶ ἐνεργεῖται ἐν ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν	1	which is also working in you who believe	The apostles refer to God’s gospel message as if it were a person or tool doing work. If this could be misunderstood by your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “God is energizing you faithful ones with this message” or “God is activating this message among you who trust in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH	2	13	czj0	figs-activepassive	ὃς καὶ ἐνεργεῖται ἐν ὑμῖν	1	which is also working in you who believe	The word translated **working in** literally means “being energized in” or “activated within”. You could translate this phrase with an active form. Alternate translation: “God is energizing you faithful ones with this message” or “God is activating this message among you who trust in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])<br>
1TH	2	13	z89g	figs-explicit	ὃς 	1	which is also working in you who believe	Here, the pronoun **which** could refer to **the word** or **God** or both. You could make this explicit in your language if it provides clarification:  Alternate translation: “this word” or “that” or “who” or “God” or “God's word” or “his word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
1TH	2	13	x7oi	figs-metonymy	ἐν ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν	1		The phrase translated **in you who believe** describes all the believers in God or Christ at Thessalonica by using metonymy [2:10](../02/10.md). Alternate translation: “among you who continue to trust in Christ” or “among you who remain faithful to God” or “among you faithful ones” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	2	14	mh8n			0	became imitators of the churches	Verses 14-16 provide background information about how the Thessalonian Church suffered persecutions similar to the Judean Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	2	14	ij9j	figs-abstractnouns	ὑμεῖς γὰρ μιμηταὶ ἐγενήθητε, ἀδελφοί, τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		**imitators** is an abstract noun (See [1:6](../01/06.md). If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could change this whole phrase to a verb form. Alternate translation: “Certainly brothers, you yourselves mimicked the churches of God” or “In fact, you brothers, personally imitated the churches of God” or “Indeed, you brothers, modeled yourselves after the churches of God” or “For you yourselves brothers, followed the example of the churches of God” or “Truly brothers, you yourselves copied the behavior of God's churches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	14	xopt	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γὰρ	1		The proof of God's energizing message among the Thessalonian Church, is indicated by this emphatic connecting phrase that begins with **For**. Alternate translation: “Certainly” or “Because” or “In fact” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	2	14	fy23	figs-rpronouns	ὑμεῖς…ὑμεῖς	1		Both uses of **you** are express emphasis. If your language has this concept, you could include the pronouns for emphasis. Alternate translation: “you personally” or “you yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	2	14	s2mp	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [2:9](../02/09.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	14	hika	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1		Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	2	14	bunh	figs-metonymy	τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		The phrase translated, **the churches** literally means “the summoned/called out ones,” and is equivalent to the Old Testament Hebrew word that means, “assemblies.” Here, it is a metonymy that refers to “the people of God who trust in the Christ.” [1:1](../01/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]]) 
1TH	2	14	fe8c	writing-background	ἐν τῇ Ἰουδαίᾳ	1		Ancient Judea was bordered in the north by Samaria and in the south by Idumea. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	2	14	g0t5		ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ	1		**in Christ Jesus** expresses at least two things: 1) the theme of “union with Christ” (see introductory remarks Part 3) and [1:1](../01/01.md). 2) God's churches are synonymous with Christ's churches. God's new “assembly” is identified with “Jesus the Messiah.” Alternate translation: “in union with Jesus the Christ” or “united by Christ Jesus”
1TH	2	14	cxm3	writing-background	ὅτι τὰ αὐτὰ ἐπάθετε, καὶ ὑμεῖς ὑπὸ τῶν ἰδίων συμφυλετῶν, καθὼς καὶ αὐτοὶ ὑπὸ τῶν Ἰουδαίων,	1	from your own countrymen	This is another background reference to the persecution of the Thessalonian Church as recorded in Acts 17:1-10/. See [1:6](../01/06.md), [2:2](../02/02.md). The similar persecution of the churches in Judea is described in verse 15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	2	14	teax		τῶν ἰδίων συμφυλετῶν	1		The word translated **countrymen** is a technical term referring to “those together in the same tribe.” (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/tribe.md).
1TH	2	15	a6xd	writing-background	τῶν καὶ τὸν Κύριον ἀποκτεινάντων Ἰησοῦν, καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων	1		This is the specific content of the background information about the Jewish persecution of Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	2	15	pgzz	figs-synecdoche	τῶν καὶ τὸν Κύριον ἀποκτεινάντων Ἰησοῦν, καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων	1		By synecdoche, the whole history of the persecution of God's people is summarized in three parts: the killing of Old Testament prophets, the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus, and persecution of the apostles. The verb forms indicate that these things happened prior to the persecution of the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH	2	15	ucaz	figs-events	τῶν καὶ τὸν Κύριον ἀποκτεινάντων Ἰησοῦν, καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων	1		This list of those persecuted by the Jews is not chronological, but emphasizes the order of importance and intensity of persecution. If this is confusing in your language, you could order these phrases chronologically. Alternate translation: “who have killed the prophets, then the Lord Jesus, and finally persecuted us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])
1TH	2	15	on6h	figs-exclusive	ἡμᾶς 	1		Here, **us** speaks exclusively of the apostles, as verse 16 makes clear. Alternate translation: “us apostles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	2	15	ugmt		ἐκδιωξάντων	1		Here, **persecuted** is an intensive form of this verb. Alternate translation: “have severely persecuted” or “have completely chased away” or “have totally driven out” 
1TH	2	15	ihh7	figs-activepassive	ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων; καὶ Θεῷ μὴ ἀρεσκόντων	1		The verb form indicates that God’s attitude toward these Jews is a continual or thorough displeasure. To indicate and emphasize God’s reaction toward their persecution, you could begin a new active sentence with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “have persecuted us. This is why God is continually displeased.” or “have persecuted us. This is why God is completely displeased.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	2	15	zkq3		 καὶ πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων,	1		This phrase **and {are} hostile to all men** summarizes the present attitude of the Jews against Christians. Verse 16 will list the specifics of this and the consequences that follow. 
1TH	2	15	tfc4	figs-parallelism	καὶ Θεῷ μὴ ἀρεσκόντων, καὶ πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων,	1		This phrase is a parallelism expressing the nature of the Jewish persecution of Christians. **not pleasing** is parallel with **hostile**, and **to God** is parallel with **to all men**. Alternate translation: “And they are not pleasing to God, and are opposed to all people.” or “And they are displeasing to God, and are enemies against all humanity.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	2	15	g6q1	figs-possession	πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων,	1		This genitive construction can refer to many things: 1) Predicate reference to those who **are not pleasing**. Alternate translation: “opponents of all people” or “enemies against all humanity” 2) Means. Alternate translation: “through hostility to all people” or “through opposition to all people” or “by being enemies against all humanity” 3) Content. Alternate translation: “full of hostility toward all men” or “full of opposition against all humanity” 4) Descriptive. Alternate translation: “characterized by hostility toward all men” or “characterized by their opposition to all humanity” 5) Origin. Alternate translation: “arising from hostility toward all men” or “coming from their opposition to all humanity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	2	15	pg9u	figs-idiom	πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις	1		**to all men** is an idiom meaning “all people types” or “the whole human race.” Here, it particularly refers to “the nations” or “the Gentiles” [2:16](../02/16.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	16	rw7e		κωλυόντων ἡμᾶς τοῖς ἔθνεσιν λαλῆσαι	1	forbidding us to speak	This phrase expresses how the Jewish persecutors presently oppose God and his apostles. The verb form indicates a repeated activity. Alternate translation: “continually hindering us from speaking to the nations” or “constantly preventing us from teaching the non-Jews” or “constantly trying stop us”
1TH	2	16	r5fi	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα σωθῶσιν	1		This is a purpose clause. It tells us the reason why the Jews are trying to prevent the apostles from preaching the gospel to the Gentiles (See note for “to all men” in [2:15](../02/15.md)). Here, **to speak** expresses the way the Gentiles **might be saved.** It is uncertain whether or not the emphasis of **so that** is referring to the Jews purposely trying to keep the Gentiles from salvation or that the speaking is the purposely meant to save. It could refer to both concepts. Alternate translation: “in order that the Gentiles can be saved” or “so that the Gentiles would be saved” or “for the purpose of the nations’ salvation” or “for the salvation of humanity” or “to hinder the Gentiles from salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])<br>
1TH	2	16	iuj9	figs-activepassive	ἵνα σωθῶσιν	1		If it is clearer in your language, you can also change this passive verb to an active form. Alternate translation: “so that the gospel message saves them” or “so that God saves them through our message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	2	16	n2ue	figs-metaphor	, εἰς τὸ ἀναπληρῶσαι αὐτῶν τὰς ἁμαρτίας πάντοτε	1	to always fill up their own sins	Paul, Silas, and Timothy speak of the Jews' sins with the metaphor of filling a container. Alternate translation: "causing their own sins to always overflow" or "so that their own sins are constantly spilling over" or "causing them to always reach the limit of their sinfulness" <br><br>If it is clearer in your language, you could start a new sentence here (see UST). Alternate translation: “. So then, their sins have reached full capacity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	2	16	z5fr	grammar-connect-logic-result	εἰς τὸ ἀναπληρῶσαι	1		This is a result clause. See previous note for alternate translations. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	2	16	jzjj	figs-pastforfuture	ἔφθασεν δὲ ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς ἡ ὀργὴ εἰς τέλος.	1		The sentence translated **But wrath has come upon them in the end.** literally means “Indeed the wrath arrived on top of them for completion/end/finality.” There are two main things this phrase could refer to: 1) Certain judgment. Alternate translation: “Certainly, God's wrath has completely overtaken them” or “In fact, their punishment has finally arrived” 2) Final judgment. Alternate translation: “Certainly, final wrath will overtake them” or “In fact, their complete punishment will arrived on them” See [5:9](../05/09.md)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1TH	2	16	fq9m	grammar-connect-words-phrases	δὲ	1	wrath has come upon them in the end	**But** is a connecting word used emphatically that can communicate at least two concepts: 1) Certainty. Alternate translation: “Certainly” or “In fact” 2) Contrast. Alternate translation: “However” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	2	16	sprh	figs-abstractnouns	ἡ ὀργὴ	1		The word translated **wrath** includes the definite article “the.” In biblical usage, this often indicates a specialized meaning of the noun it accompanies. Here, “the” **wrath** emphasizes one of two things: 1) God's wrath. Alternate translation: “God's wrath” or “God's fury” or “God's punishment” or “God's judgment” 2) Final wrath (See note at [1:10](../01/10.md). Alternate translation: “the Final Judgment” or “the Final Punishment” or “the Wrath of Judgment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	16	v928	figs-pastforfuture	ἔφθασεν	1		This verb form could also indicate a predictive use of the past tense. This is a special use that emphasis the certainty of the future state. Alternate translation: “will come on” or “will overtake” (also UST)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
1TH	2	17	edb1	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἡμεῖς δέ	1	brothers	The use of the contrasting word **But** and the emphatic **we** expresses that this is a contrasting phrase that switches the attention back to the apostles' relationship with the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	2	17	tisy	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1		Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [2:14](../02/14.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br>
1TH	2	17	m5sf	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1		Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])<br>
1TH	2	17	yhhy	figs-metaphor	ἀπορφανισθέντες ἀφ’ ὑμῶν	1		The phrase translated **having been separated from you** literally means “having been orphaned from you.” This is likely a metaphorical reference back to [2:7](../02/07.md) where the apostles affectionately compare themselves to “little children.” Alternate translation: “since we have been apart from you we feel like orphans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	2	17	lmpu	figs-idiom	πρὸς καιρὸν ὥρας	1		**for the time of an hour** is an idiom that indicates a short time span. Alternate translation: “for short time” or “for a little while” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	17	vr7v	figs-metonymy	προσώπῳ οὐ καρδίᾳ	1	by face, not in heart	Here, **heart** represents concerns, feelings, and affections. **face** is metonymy for “person” or “physical presence”. Though the apostles were not physically present in Thessalonica, they continued to care about and show concern for their relationship with the church there. Alternate translation: “in person, not in affection” or “in presence, not in concern” or “by distance, not in feeling” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	2	17	ko8f	figs-synecdoche	προσώπῳ οὐ καρδίᾳ	1	by face, not in heart	Similarly, this phrase also expresses synecdoche, where **face** represents the whole physical person, and **heart** represents the whole range of emotions. Alternate translation: “in our physical bodies, not in our emotional connection” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH	2	17	vqq1		περισσοτέρως ἐσπουδάσαμεν	1	to see your faces	The intensely affectionate language is heightened by this emphatic phrase. Alternate translation: “we made every possible effort” or “we quickly hurried”
1TH	2	17	yxzu	figs-parallelism	τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν ἐν πολλῇ ἐπιθυμίᾳ	1	to see your faces	This phrase parallels **separated … by face, not in heart**, to create more emphasis of the apostles’ intense desire to visit the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])<br><br>
1TH	2	17	jgi2	figs-activepassive	τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν ἐν πολλῇ ἐπιθυμίᾳ.	1	to see your faces	This phrase translated **in much desire** is a doubly emphatic phrase that literally means “with much desire upon desire.” It can also be translated as an active phrase. Alternate translation: “deeply desiring to see you in person” or “passionately longing to see your faces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	2	17	ot1s	figs-idiom	τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν 	1	to see your faces	Here, **to see your faces** is an idiom that expresses the apostles’ strong desire to personally visit and share spiritual intimacy with the Thessalonian Church, as with a family. Alternate translation: “to see you in person” or “to visit you” or “to spend quality time with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	18	zlny	writing-background	διότι	1	to see your faces	**For** signals this as an explanatory clause, giving background for why Paul had not yet visited. Alternate translation: “Indeed” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	2	18	pnw3	figs-go	ἠθελήσαμεν ἐλθεῖν πρὸς ὑμᾶς	1	to see your faces	Depending on the use of motion words in your language, you could translate **come** with a more appropriate word. Alternate translation: “we wanted to go to you” or “we wished to visit you” or “we hoped to travel to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
1TH	2	18	n0jl	figs-ellipsis	ἐγὼ μὲν Παῦλος, καὶ ἅπαξ καὶ δίς	1	to see your faces	This is an example of relative ellipsis. The verb **come** is assumed to apply to this phrase as well. Alternate translation: “I Paul personally tried to come” or “Indeed, I, Paul tried to go” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH	2	18	uqg6	figs-rpronouns	ἐγὼ μὲν Παῦλος	1	to see your faces	Here, the identity of the main writer of this letter is emphasized by using a reflexive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	2	18	yj0w	figs-idiom	καὶ ἅπαξ καὶ δίς	1	to see your faces	This is an emphatic idiom. Alternate translation: “twice” or “two times” or “more than once” or “many times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	18	crv7	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	καὶ ἐνέκοψεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Σατανᾶς	1	to see your faces	This phrase expresses contrast and a double emphasis for why the apostles could not visit the Thessalonian Church. The verb **hindered** and **Satan** both have similar root meanings of opposition. Alternate translation: “but Satan stopped us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	2	18	uuae	figs-idiom	καὶ ἐνέκοψεν	1	to see your faces	The word translated **hindered** is an idiom expressing violent obstruction, that literally means “cut off” or “cut into” or “beat in.” Alternate translation: “powerfully prevented us” or “violently obstructed us” or “cut off our route” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	18	jpss	translate-transliterate	ὁ Σατανᾶς	1	to see your faces	**Satan** is a borrowed Hebrew term that refers to an “adversary” or ”opponent.” Here, the word translated **Satan** is literally “the Satan,” indicating that this is the proper and well-known name of the chief enemy of God and his people, also referenced in the New Testament as “the Devil.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-transliterate]])
1TH	2	19	j7j5	figs-rquestion	τίς γὰρ ἡμῶν ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως? ἢ οὐχὶ καὶ ὑμεῖς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ, ἐν τῇ αὐτοῦ παρουσίᾳ?	1	For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of boasting? Is it not even you before our Lord Jesus at his coming?	Paul uses these rhetorical questions to conclude this section on why the apostles want to visit the Thessalonian Church. He answers the question **For what {is} our hope or joy or crown of boasting?** in the second half of this verse with **{Is it} not…coming?** and also in [2:20](../0220/.md). If it would be misunderstood in your language, you change these questions to statements. Alternate translation: “Certainly, you are the ones who will make us hopeful, and joyful, and victoriously boast in the presence of the Lord Jesus when he comes again.” Or “Indeed, it is you who will make us confident, you will cause us to rejoice, and God will victoriously reward us based on how much you spiritually succeed, in the presence of the Lord Jesus when he returns.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br>
1TH	2	19	mj9n	figs-personification	ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	our hope … Is it not even you	Here, Paul speaks of the abstract nouns **hope** **joy** and **crown** as if they were the people in the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH	2	19	jfak	figs-abstractnouns	ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	our hope … Is it not even you	If the abstract nouns **hope** **joy** and **crown** would be misunderstood in your language, you could change the nouns into verb forms. Alternate translation: “Because what makes us hopeful? What causes us to rejoice? What gives us reason to boast victoriously?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	2	19	e7tl	figs-metonymy	στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	crown of boasting	Here, **crown** refers to a laurel wreath awarded to victorious athletes. The expression **crown of boasting** means a reward for victory, or having competed well. It could refer to the apostles and/or the Thessalonian Church's reward for faithful service to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	2	19	uvb4	figs-possession	στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	crown of boasting	This genitive use can refer to: 1) Object/Product. Alternate translation: “crown that produces boasting” 2) Subject. Alternate translation: “boasting about our crown” 3) Means/Agent. Alternate translation: “crown through which we boast” 4) Origin. Alternate translation: “crown from which we boast” 5) Association. Alternate translation: “crown associated with boasting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])<br>
1TH	2	19	voqz	translate-textvariants	καυχήσεως	1	crown of boasting	Two ancient manuscripts read “loud shouting” or “celebration” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	2	19	mksc	figs-idiom	ἐν τῇ αὐτοῦ παρουσίᾳ	1	crown of boasting	The proof the apostles' success will ultimately be displayed at the Second Coming of Christ, if the Thessalonian Church remains faithful to God [4:13-5:11](../04/13/.md). Here, the word translated **coming** is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ [3:13](../03/13.md) or the “Day of the Lord” [5:2](../05/02.md). It literally means, “arrival” or “being with” or “presence.” Alternate translation: “at his Second Coming” or “when he arrives again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	2	19	h7gh	figs-metonymy	ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ	1	crown of boasting	Here, **before** refers to location or sphere, used as a substitute for “in front of” or “in the presence of.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in the presence of our Lord Jesus” or “in front of our Lord Jesus” or “in the sight of our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	2	20	nlbd	figs-personification	ὑμεῖς γάρ ἐστε ἡ δόξα ἡμῶν, καὶ ἡ χαρά	1	crown of boasting	Here, the Thessalonian Church is compared to the abstract concepts of **glory and joy**. If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could use verb forms instead. Alternate translation: “Certainly, we will become glorified and rejoice because of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH	2	20	l3m0	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γάρ	1	crown of boasting	Here, **For** is a connecting word used for emphasis. Alternate translation: “Certainly“ or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	2	20	d8dz	figs-rpronouns	ὑμεῖς	1	crown of boasting	This reflexive pronoun **you** is used for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])<br>
1TH	3	intro	j379			0		# 1 Thessalonians 3 General Notes<br><br><br>## Outline of 1 Thessalonians 3<br><br>1. Timothy’s Visit (3:1-5)<br>* Apostolic concern (3:1-2)<br>* Apostolic encouragement (3:3-5)<br>2. Timothy’s Report (3:6-13)<br>* Good news (3:6-10)<br>* Apostolic prayer (3:11-13)<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>The first part of this chapter recounts Timothy's visit to Thessalonica. The second part tells about his report to Paul and Silvanus at Athens. Lastly, the apostles offer a prayer on behalf of the Thessalonian Church.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>In this chapter, the Apostle Paul uses the phrase “stand firm” in [3:8](../03/08.md) as a metaphor of faithfulness to the Gospel, and “be shaken” in [3:3](../03/03.md)) as the opposite of being faithful. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])<br><br>Use a building metaphor, the apostles pray that God will “strengthen the “hearts” of the Thessalonian Church “blameless” (See [3:13](../03/13.md). <br><br>The enemy of God’s people, “Satan” (See [2:18](../02/18.md)) is here called “the tempter” (See [3:5(../03/05.md)).<br><br>### Hyperbole<br><br>He uses emotional and extreme language when speaking of his memory of the Thessalonian Church. “Enduring it no longer,” the apostles and especially Paul (See [3:1,5](../03/01.md)), feel compelled to find out about the spiritual condition of the church. The intensity and duration the apostles’ prayers is described as “night and day pleading earnestly” (See [3:10](../03/10.md)).<br><br>### The Second Coming of Christ<br><br>Here, the apostles pray that the Thessalonian Church will be preserved holy when Christ's comes again with all his holy ones, or “saints” (See [3:13](../03/13.md).<br>
1TH	3	1	fqe3	grammar-connect-logic-result	διὸ μηκέτι στέγοντες, ηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι ἐν Ἀθήναις μόνοι	1	enduring it no longer	This verse indicates a return to the topic of a visit from the apostles [2:17-18](../02/17/.md). If it would be clearer in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “We thought it proper to stay behind in Athens alone, because we could not endure it any longer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])<br>
1TH	3	1	kctx	translate-versebridge		0	enduring it no longer	If the sending of Timothy in [3:2](..02/03.md) needs to precede the result, you could create a verse bridge in your translation. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-versebridge)
1TH	3	1	amxf	figs-hyperbole	διὸ μηκέτι στέγοντες	1	enduring it no longer	This phrase uses a double hyperbole to express the apostles' extreme desire to visit the Thessalonian Church. The word translated **enduring** conveys the concept of keeping water out of a ship or trying to contain or holding something back. Combined with **no longer**, this intensifies the idea. Alternate translation: “So then, when we could no longer stand it” or “Thus, since we could not bear to wait any longer” or “So, when we could no longer contain our feelings” or “Therefore, because we could not ignore these emotions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	3	1	zwif	figs-idiom	 μηκέτι στέγοντες	1	enduring it no longer	This verb phrase could also be considered an idiom expressing deep emotional distress. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	1	dpxj	figs-activepassive	ηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι	1	enduring it no longer	If it is clearer in your language, you could phrase this with an active form. Alternate translation: “We thought it was a good idea to remain” or “it seemed good to stay” or “we considered it appropriate to stay behind” or “we decided to stay back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	3	1	t3vt	translate-names	ἐν Ἀθήναις	1	we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone	This is a proper name location, the ancient capital of the Attica region, and modern capital of Greece. The word should be transliterated or referenced by its modern name, depending on your translation aim. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1TH	3	1	n47x	figs-explicit	ηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι ἐν Ἀθήναις μόνοι	1	we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone	The assumed knowledge is that **we** and **alone** refer to Paul and Silvanus (and perhaps Timothy), since [3:2](../03/02.md) says “we sent Timothy.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate this explicitly. Here you would need to rephrase the second part of this verse. Alternate translation: “Silas and I thought it was good idea to remain alone in Athens” (see also UST)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
1TH	3	2	d8yy	figs-explicit	καὶ ἐπέμψαμεν Τιμόθεον, τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν, καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	This phrase is meant to show that Timothy is authorized by the apostles and God himself. If it is clearer if your language, you could make this information explicit. Alternate translation: “and we sent Timothy who is our fellow worker and an authorized servant of God” or “and we sent Timothy. He is our assistant and God’s authorized servant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
1TH	3	2	yyio	figs-idiom	τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν	1	our brother and a servant	The immediate context suggests **our** refers to the apostles. Yet, this idiom **our brother** could mean three things here: 1) Fellow apostle. Alternate translation: “our fellow apostle” or “our associate” 2) Fellow Christian. Alternate translation: “one of your fellow believers in God” or “a fellow Christian with us” 3) Both. Alternate translation: “a fellow Christian and our fellow apostle” or “a fellow believer in God and our associate” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	2	lkvo	figs-possession	καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	The context suggests this **servant** is parallel reference to **brother** expressing apostolic credentials. Yet, **and a servant of God** could express some different nuances: 1) A deacon. Alternate translation: “and a deacon of God” or “and also is God's deacon” or “who also serves God as a deacon” 2) A servant. Alternate translation: “and a minister of God” or “and assistant to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	3	2	cv49	translate-textvariants	διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	Some ancient manuscripts omit **servant of God** and add “co-worker” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	3	2	oomb	figs-abstractnouns	, τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν, καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ τοῦ Χριστοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	If it is clearer in your language, you could convert these noun phrases into a separate sentence with an active form. Alternate translation: “. He assists us and ministers for God in the preaching of the gospel about Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	3	2	dsnc		ἐν	1	our brother and a servant	This preposition **in** could convey a few different nuances of meaning: 1) Association. Alternate translation: “associated with” or “partnering in” 2) Cause. Alternate translation: “for the cause of” or “for the sake of” 3) Instrument. Alternate translation: “through” or “by means of”<br>
1TH	3	2	pqif	figs-possession	τοῦ Χριστοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	This genitive phrase could refer to one or more of these things: 1) Association. Alternate translation: “about Christ” or “for the sake of Christ” 2) Origin. Alternate translation: “that came from Christ” 3) Possession. Alternate translation: “that belongs to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	3	2	x4vx	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμᾶς καὶ παρακαλέσαι	1	our brother and a servant	This is a purpose clause. It answers the implicit question “why did Paul and Silas send Timothy?” Alternate translation: “in order to strengthen and comfort you” or “for the purpose of strengthening and comforting you” or “so that you would be supported and encouraged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	3	2	o1qp	figs-possession	ὑπὲρ τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν	1	our brother and a servant	**regarding your faith** is a genitive phrase that could refer to: 1) Interest/Representation. Alternate translation: “for the sake of your faithfulness” 2) Purpose. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of your faithfulness” or “so that you would remain faithful” 3) Object. “to stay faithful” or “to continue to trust” or “in your faithfulness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	3	3	u7vo	figs-abstractnouns	τὸ μηδένα σαίνεσθαι ἐν ταῖς θλίψεσιν ταύταις	1	no one be disturbed	If it is clearer in your language you could make this abstract noun phrase into an active form. Alternate translation: “so that these difficulties would not cause anyone to be disturbed” or “so that these distresses would not make anyone waver” or “then these troubles would not deceive anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]) 
1TH	3	3	o4w8	grammar-connect-logic-goal	τὸ μηδένα σαίνεσθαι	1	no one be disturbed	This could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that no one would become disturbed” or “in order that no one would waver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	3	3	gxxn	grammar-connect-logic-result	τὸ μηδένα σαίνεσθαι	1	no one be disturbed	This could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “this was to make sure no one would be disturbed” or “then no one would be disturbed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	3	3	v8q7	grammar-collectivenouns	μηδένα σαίνεσθαι	1	no one be disturbed	This phrase can also refer to something someone does to/for himself. Here, **no one** is a masculine collective noun that includes male or female. If it is clearer in your language you could use an inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “no one shakes himself” or “no person agitates themselves” or “no one deceives himself” or “no person tricks themselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1TH	3	3	y74m	figs-idiom	σαίνεσθαι	1	no one be disturbed	The Greek word translated as **disturbed** literally means “wagging tail,” as an idiom of a dog who is flattered or fawned upon. It could refer to: 1) Physical motion. Alternate translation: “is shaken” or “is agitated” 2) Emotional manipulation. Alternate translation: “is deceived” or “is tricked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br>
1TH	3	3	ubmt	figs-explicit	αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε ὅτι, εἰς τοῦτο κείμεθα	1	no one be disturbed	The assumed information is that the apostles had already taught the Thessalonian Church that they going to undergo afflictions in [3:4](../03/04.md). Alternate translation: “In fact, you are well aware that we are destined for these afflictions” or “Indeed, you realize God determined that we would endure affliction” or “Certainly, you already know that God appointed us for afflictions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
1TH	3	3	t0vs	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε ὅτι	1	no one be disturbed	Here, **yourselves** expresses emphasis by using a reflexive pronoun. Alternate translation: “In fact, you know for yourselves that” or “Certainly, you are well aware of the fact that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	3	3	cdaa	grammar-collectivenouns	εἰς τοῦτο	1	no one be disturbed	This is a collective singular pronoun that equates **afflictions** with a condition or state of being. Alternate translation: “for this very thing” or “for this purpose” or “for this destiny” or “for a life of afflictions’  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1TH	3	3	rkx9	figs-explicit	κείμεθα	1	we are appointed	Paul assumes that the Thessalonian Church knows who **appointed** the apostles for **afflictions**. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “God appointed us” or “God destined us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	3	3	yyqp	figs-activepassive	κείμεθα	1	we are appointed	If it would be misunderstood in our language, you could change this passive form **are appointed** to an active form. Alternate translation: “God appointed us” or “God destined us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	3	3	gla7	figs-exclusive	κείμεθα	1	we are appointed	Here, **we** refers exclusively to the apostles. Alternate translation: See UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	3	4	nm1l	writing-background	καὶ γὰρ ὅτε πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἦμεν, προελέγομεν ὑμῖν ὅτι μέλλομεν θλίβεσθαι, καθὼς καὶ ἐγένετο καὶ οἴδατε	1	to suffer affliction	This verse gives the background information for the assumed knowledge in [3:3](../03/03.md). Paul is emphasizing that he sent Timothy to remind them of what they already know is true, in order “to strengthen and to comfort” the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “Indeed, the last time we visited you, we kept telling you before it happened, ‘We are destined to be afflicted.’ You are well aware that it happened exactly as we told you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	3	4	uqn6	figs-parallelism	καὶ γὰρ ὅτε πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἦμεν, προελέγομεν ὑμῖν ὅτι μέλλομεν θλίβεσθαι, καθὼς καὶ ἐγένετο καὶ οἴδατε	1	to suffer affliction	This verse is meant to emphasize the apostles’ desire that none of the Thessalonians would “be disturbed,” through parallelism with the content of [3:3](../03/03.md). **just as you also know** is a parallel with “For you yourselves know”, and **we were about to suffer affliction** is a parallel with “these afflictions … for this we are appointed”. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	3	4	wo6q	figs-exclusive	ἦμεν, προελέγομεν…μέλλομεν	1	to suffer affliction	Here, **we** is exclusive of the apostles. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])<br>
1TH	3	4	a5y6		καὶ ἐγένετο	1	to suffer affliction	Here, **and it happened** is meant to emphasize Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy’s apostolic credentials by verifying their prophetic words.
1TH	3	4	wuco	figs-quotations	προελέγομεν ὑμῖν ὅτι μέλλομεν θλίβεσθαι	1	to suffer affliction	This verb translated **we were telling** indicates a continual action in the past. Here, the verb translated **we were about** is present tense, which could either express emphasis or be a quotation marker of what the apostles said. If it is more natural in your language, you could make it a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “we kept telling you ahead of time, “We are destined to endure distress.”” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
1TH	3	5	tj4e	writing-participants	διὰ τοῦτο κἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων, ἔπεμψα εἰς τὸ γνῶναι τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν	1	I also no longer enduring it	This phrase concludes the apostles' reasons for sending Timothy. It parallels the language in [3:1-2] (../03/01.md). Here, Paul represents the apostles (**I sent**) and shows that he is summarizing the story, by leaving out mention of Timothy as redundant information. If it is clearer in your language, you could include mention of Timothy. Alternate translation: “Again, since I could not wait any longer, I sent Timothy to learn about your faithfulness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
1TH	3	5	st3d	figs-hyperbole	κἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων	1	I also no longer enduring it	This verb phrase uses triple hyperbole to express deep concern. **I also** is an emphatic conjunction. **no longer** is extreme language. **enduring it** is a verb form that indicates a constant state of concern. See your translation at [3:1](../03/01.md). ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]]) 
1TH	3	5	zn36	figs-explicit	ἔπεμψα	1	sent	Here, it is implied that Paul **sent** Timothy. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, sent Timothy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	3	5	judq	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ γνῶναι τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν	1	sent	This is a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that I could learn if you were faithful” or “in order to know if you had remained faithful” or “to discern if you still trust God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	3	5	nopp	figs-idiom	ὁ πειράζων	1	our labor	Here, **the tempter** is an idiom or title referring to Satan (See [2:18](../02/18.md). Alternate translation: “if somehow Satan tempted you to stop trusting God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br>
1TH	3	5	ua7i	grammar-connect-logic-goal	μή πως ἐπείρασεν ὑμᾶς ὁ πειράζων	1	our labor	Here, Paul’s concern is meant to explain the phrase, “that no one be disturbed” in [3:3](../03/03.md). Timothy was sent “to strengthen” the faithfulness of the Thessalonian Church (See [3:2](../03/02.md)) against Satan’s spiritual attacks (See [2:18](../02/18.md)). It could be phrased as a negative purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that the tempter would not have somehow tempted you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	3	5	gnow	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ εἰς κενὸν γένηται ὁ κόπος ἡμῶν	1	our labor	This phrase could be read as a result clause. Alternate translation: “then how hard we worked would have been worthless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	3	5	g92s	figs-metaphor	καὶ εἰς κενὸν γένηται ὁ κόπος ἡμῶν	1	our labor	This phrase is a metaphor comparing the apostles’ spiritual efforts to the product of physical labor. Alternate translation: “then our hard work would have yielded no profit” or “then our hard labor would be for nothing” or “then our toiling would be worthless” or “then our spiritual struggle would prove useless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	3	5	jnzb	figs-hyperbole	εἰς κενὸν	1	our labor	**in vain** is hyperbole to express how sad the apostles would be if the Thessalonian Church did not remain faithful to God. Alternate translation: “purposeless” or “profitless” or “useless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])<br>
1TH	3	6	esxw	grammar-connect-time-background		0	Connecting Statement:	Verse 6 describes Timothy's current report about the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
1TH	3	6	r4pa	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ἄρτι δὲ ἐλθόντος Τιμοθέου πρὸς ἡμᾶς ἀφ’ ὑμῶν	1	Connecting Statement:	**But just now** brings the narrative into the present. Alternate translation: “But recently Timothy returned to us from visiting you” or “But now Timothy has come back to us from his visit with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	3	6	gci4	figs-exclusive	 πρὸς ἡμᾶς	1	to us	This is an exclusive use of **us**, referring to Paul and Silvanus. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	3	6	mni7		καὶ εὐαγγελισαμένου ἡμῖν	1	to us	Paul is using a pun to connect the **good news** of the report about the spiritual health of the Thessalonian Church, by using the verb form of **gospel** (See [2:2](../02/02.md)). 
1TH	3	6	x9u8	figs-litany	τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν, καὶ ὅτι ἔχετε μνείαν ἡμῶν ἀγαθὴν πάντοτε, ἐπιποθοῦντες ἡμᾶς ἰδεῖν, καθάπερ καὶ ἡμεῖς ὑμᾶς	1	to us	This is a list of things Timothy reported. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	3	6	tu8d	figs-abstractnouns	τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν	1	of your faith	If it is clearer in your language, these abstract nouns could be translated as verbs. Alternate translation: “that you trust and love God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	3	6	fu8h	figs-hendiadys	τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν	1	of your faith	It is possible that this could be read as hendiadys. Alternate translation: “your faithful love” or “your faithful love toward God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	3	6	tf95	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ ὅτι ἔχετε μνείαν ἡμῶν ἀγαθὴν πάντοτε, ἐπιποθοῦντες ἡμᾶς ἰδεῖν	1	you always have good memories	This phrase could indicate a result clause. If it would be clearer in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes.  Alternate translation: “and you constantly desire to visit with us, because you always remember us fondly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	3	6	e6kx	figs-abstractnouns	καὶ ὅτι ἔχετε μνείαν ἡμῶν ἀγαθὴν πάντοτε	1	you always have good memories	Here, **memories** translates the exact same word used in [1:2](../01/02.md)(“mention”). The feelings of the Thessalonian Church toward the apostles are reciprocated. If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract phrase to a verb form. Alternate translation: “and you always remember us fondly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	3	6	tx4h		ἐπιποθοῦντες ἡμᾶς ἰδεῖν, καθάπερ καὶ ἡμεῖς ὑμᾶς	1	longing to see us	This phrase expresses the Thessalonian Church’s reciprocal feelings toward the apostles. The word translated **longing** indicates a characteristic desire or constant condition. Alternate translation: “constantly longing to visit with us, exactly as we long to visit you”
1TH	3	7	f8nz		διὰ τοῦτο παρεκλήθημεν, ἀδελφοί, ἐφ’ ὑμῖν ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν, διὰ τῆς ὑμῶν πίστεως	1	brothers	What inspires the apostles to persevere in their gospel persecutions, is how churches that they started are remaining faithful to God. Alternate translation: “Fellow believers in Christ, every time they violently afflicted us, we took courage because you still trust in God”
1TH	3	7	dpij	grammar-connect-logic-result	διὰ τοῦτο παρεκλήθημεν, ἀδελφοί, ἐφ’ ὑμῖν…διὰ τῆς ὑμῶν πίστεως	1	brothers	This phrase is a result clause. This phrase could emphasize two things:  1) The good news from Timothy in [3:3](../03/03.md) represented by the phrase **Because of this**. Alternate translation: “We were encouraged, fellow believers in Christ, because of Timothy's good news about you … since you remain faithful” or “Timothy's good news about you encouraged us brothers, … through your faithfulness” 2) The phrase **because of your faith**. Alternate translation: “Our fellow believers in Christ, we were comforted … because you still trust in God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	3	7	mqy5	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [2:17](../02/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br>
1TH	3	7	bhpx	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])<br>
1TH	3	7	csz7	figs-hendiadys	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν	1	in all our distress and affliction	The words translated as “abused” and “afflicted” both express the idea of pressure or force. This emphatic phrase is meant to express how much and how intensely the apostles were persecuted. Alternate translation: “the whole time of our abusive affliction” or “at every moment of our abusive affliction” or “in all our violent suffering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])<br>
1TH	3	7	e96u	figs-abstractnouns	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν	1	in all our distress and affliction	If it is clearer in your language, you could change these abstract nouns into verb forms. Alternate translation: “the whole time Satan caused us such abusive affliction” or “in every way the tempter violently forced us” or “each time we violently suffered” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	3	7	k54j	figs-abstractnouns	διὰ τῆς ὑμῶν πίστεως	1	because of your faith	This phrase refers back to the Thessalonians’ “faithfulness” [3:5,6](../03/05.md), and points forward to how they “stand firm in the Lord” [3:8](../03/08.md). If it is clear in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase into a verb form. Alternate translation: “through your faithfulness” or “that you remain faithful to God” or “that you still trust God”  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	3	8	mb2p	figs-parallelism	ὅτι νῦν ζῶμεν, ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	we live	This verse parallels the past tense concepts in [3:7](../03/07.md) with the present tense reality. **because** parallels “because of this”, **we live** parallels “we were comforted”, **if you stand firm in the Lord** parallels “because of your faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	3	8	ede9	figs-idiom	ὅτι νῦν ζῶμεν	1	we live	It is possible that this verb form could be translated as an idiomatic interjection. Alternate translation: “O how we now feel alive!” or “O how we now live!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	8	y1vb	figs-metaphor	ὅτι νῦν ζῶμεν	1	we live	This word translated **live** could refer to a different verb form meaning, “boil.” This would express a metaphor comparing bubbling or boiling water with spiritual refreshment. Alternate translation: “Certainly, we are now refreshed” or “Because we happily rejoice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	3	8	x5xt	figs-idiom	ζῶμεν	1	we live	This is an idiom expressing the apostles’ present joy and thanks for the Thessalonians’ faithfulness to God [3:9](../03/09.md). Alternate translation: “we flourish” or “we thrive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	8	x4zn	figs-idiom	ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	This idiom **stand firm** expresses the idea of an unwavering relationship with God (this exact form is also found in Philippians 4:1). Alternate translation: “if your relationship with the Lord remains solid” or “if you continue unwavering in your relationship with the Lord” or “if you remain unmoved in your relationship with Lord” or “if you continue faithfully” or “if you remain faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	8	zbyo	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	The word translated **if** could also refer to: 1) Cause. Alternate translation: “since you are standing firm in the Lord” 2) Time. Alternate translation: “whenever you remain devoted to the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])<br>
1TH	3	8	e3pe	figs-rpronouns	ὑμεῖς	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	Here, the pronoun translated **you** expresses emphasis. Alternative translation: “you yourselves” or “indeed you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])<br>
1TH	3	8	hk91	figs-idiom	στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	**Lord** refers to “Jesus” (See [2:19](../02/19.md)). But **in the Lord** is an idiom that could refer to a number of things: 1) Union with Christ. Alternate translation: “standing firm in your union with the Lord Jesus” 2) Relationship/Association. Alternate translation: “standing firm in your relationship with the Lord Jesus” 3) Cause. Alternate translation: “standing firm because of the Lord Jesus” 4) Agency. Alternate translation: “standing firm for the sake of the Lord Jesus” 5) Interest. Alternate translation: “devoted to the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) 
1TH	3	9	pzq7	figs-rquestion	τίνα γὰρ εὐχαριστίαν δυνάμεθα τῷ Θεῷ ἀνταποδοῦναι περὶ ὑμῶν, ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν δι’ ὑμᾶς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν	1	For what thanks are we able to give back to God concerning you, for all the joy in which we rejoice before our God because of you,	This is the beginning of a rhetorical question that continues to the end of the next verse. It can be expressed as a statement, but it will be necessary to change the question mark to a period or exclamation point at the end of [3:10](../03/10.md). Alternate translation: “We could not possibly thank God enough for what he has done for you! When we pray to our God, we greatly rejoice because of you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1TH	3	9	pdc5	figs-metaphor	τίνα γὰρ εὐχαριστίαν δυνάμεθα τῷ Θεῷ ἀνταποδοῦναι περὶ ὑμῶν	1	before our God	The apostles speak of giving **thanks … concerning you** using the metaphor of owing God a debt for the sake of the Thessalonian Church’s faithfulness (See UST). Alternate translation: “Indeed, what kind of thanksgiving could we give in place of you to repay our debt to God” or “In fact, how could we give enough thanks for you to repay God” or “Because, how could we possibly show our gratitude to God about you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	3	9	r1mc	figs-parallelism	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν δι’ ὑμᾶς	1	before our God	This phrasing is a parallel to [3:7](../03/07.md). In the same way the apostles found comfort “in all … distress and affliction” because of the Thessalonian Church’s faithfulness to God, so here the apostles have **all the joy … because of** the Thessalonian Church “stands firm in the Lord” (See [3:8](../03/08.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	3	9	j6pj	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν δι’ ὑμᾶς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν	1	before our God	This phrase is a result clause. If it would be clearer in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Since this is a rhetorical question, you could change it to a statement, and begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Because of you, we greatly rejoice when we pray to God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	3	9	p5ka	figs-idiom	ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν	1	before our God	The apostles speak of their prayers to God as if being in his personal presence (See [3:10](../03/10.md)). If it is clearer in your language, you could change this into a verb form (See UST). Alternate translation: “in the presence of our God” or “right in front of our God” or “before the face of our God” or “when we pray to our God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	9	h0tx	translate-textvariants	Θεῷ…τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	before our God	Some ancient manuscripts replace the two uses of **God** with “Lord.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	3	10	k71n	figs-hyperbole	νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας, ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ δεόμενοι	1	earnestly	This emphatic phrase indicates  hyperbole. The phrase **night and day** expresses the continual nature of their prayers. This word translated **earnestly** literally means “super excessively.” The verb form **pleading** indicates a constant or repeated activity. You could highlight this in your translation if your language has a way to communicate this expression. Alternate translation: “we never stopped intensely begging” or “we kept passionately pleading and pleading” or “we continually and fervently prayed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	3	10	nv4k	figs-merism	νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας	1	earnestly	**night and day** is merism, expressing that the apostles were **pleading** constantly, by referring to the end parts of the day. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])<br>
1TH	3	10	eb26	figs-idiom	εἰς τὸ ἰδεῖν ὑμῶν τὸ πρόσωπον	1	to see your face	**to see your face** is an idiom. Alternate translation: “to visit you” or “to spend time with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	10	s0xz	figs-synecdoche	ὑμῶν τὸ πρόσωπον	1	to see your face	**your face** also expresses a synecdoche referring to the whole Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH	3	10	e5fh	figs-abstractnouns	καὶ καταρτίσαι τὰ ὑστερήματα τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν	1	to see your face	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract phrase **what {is} lacking in your faith**,” into verb form (See [2:17](../02/17.md)). Alternate translation: “and to provide support so that you remain faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	3	11	tet9	grammar-connect-words-phrases	αὐτὸς δὲ ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν, καὶ ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦς, κατευθύναι τὴν ὁδὸν ἡμῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς	1	General Information:	Here, **But**, and the verb form **may … direct**, indicate that this verse is the beginning of an apostolic prayer that continues through [3:13](../03/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	3	11	mc2m	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸς	1	may our God and Father … direct	**himself** is a reflexive pronoun, used for emphasis and to distinguish **our God and Father**, from **God** the Son, **our Lord Jesus**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	3	11	xi8f	figs-possession	ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν	1	our God and Father … our Lord	This phrase uses the genitive form. Here, **our God and Father** indicates that **God** and **Father** are the same Divine Person. **Father** also describes **God** as distinct from **our Lord Jesus** who is also **God**. Alternate translation: “God our Father.” (See your translation at [1:3](../01/03.md)).(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	3	11	f3wh	figs-hendiadys	ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν	1	our God and Father … our Lord	This phrase could also be considered hendiadys, since **Father** modifies **God**. Alternate translation: “our God, the Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	3	11	bql9	figs-exclusive	ἡμῶν…ἡμῶν…ἡμῶν	1	our God and Father … our Lord	It is possible that these first two uses of **our** are inclusive of the apostles, the Thessalonian Church–and by extension–the whole Christian Church. Yet, the third use of **our** exclusively refers to the apostles. So, it is most likely that **our** refers exclusively to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy in this whole verse (see also [1:9, 2:1, 3:9](../01/09.md)). (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	3	11	um1c	figs-metaphor	κατευθύναι τὴν ὁδὸν ἡμῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς	1	may … direct our way to you	Here, the apostles refer to God as if he was a pilot or captain of a ship. This is to express their desire for the God and Jesus to permit them to visit the Thessalonian Church again. The word translated **direct** indicates a longing or wishing, and carries the idea of “rushing along at a good pace.” Alternate translation: “may...make our road straight” or “to direct our voyage so that we can visit you” or “O that...would quickly bring us to you!”  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	3	12	qgsr		ὑμᾶς δὲ ὁ Κύριος πλεονάσαι καὶ περισσεύσαι τῇ ἀγάπῃ εἰς ἀλλήλους, καὶ εἰς πάντας, καθάπερ καὶ ἡμεῖς εἰς ὑμᾶς;	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	The verbal form expressing “longing” or “wishing” found in [3:11](../03/11.md) continues. Alternative translation: “O that the Lord would allow your love for one another and all people to completely flourish, in the same way we love you!” or “O that the Lord would give you a totally thriving love for each and every person–like we love you!” or “O that the Lord would cause you to love each and every person as we love you–increasing more and more!
1TH	3	12	nf7l	figs-abstractnouns	ὑμᾶς δὲ ὁ Κύριος πλεονάσαι καὶ περισσεύσαι τῇ ἀγάπῃ	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	If it is clearer in your language, you could change the abstract noun phrase **in love** to a verb form. Alternate translation: “O that the Lord would cause you to love more and more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]]<br>
1TH	3	12	o80n	figs-metaphor	τῇ ἀγάπῃ	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	Here **love** is spoken of as something that can be quantified or measured. Alternate translation: “lovingly increase and abound” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	3	12	qonz	figs-explicit	ὁ Κύριος	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	It is assumed that the **Lord** refers to Jesus (See [3:11](../03/11.md)). If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus” or “our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	3	12	f4ma	figs-doublet	πλεονάσαι καὶ περισσεύσαι	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	The two verbs **increase and abound** are a doublet, indicating emphasis by combining two synonymous words. Alternate translation: “totally thrive” or “completely flourish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH	3	12	ofl2	figs-merism	εἰς ἀλλήλους, καὶ εἰς πάντας	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	Here merism is used as a way to emphasize the whole human race. Altenrate translation: “toward each and every person” or “toward the whole human race” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1TH	3	12	dm6c		καθάπερ καὶ ἡμεῖς εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	**just as we also toward you** is an emphatic phrase meant to reinforce the deep love the apostles have for the Thessalonian Church (also in [3:6](..03/06.md). Alternate translation: “exactly as we love you” or “in the same way we love you”
1TH	3	13	ms8t	figs-abstractnouns	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας, ἀμέμπτους ἐν ἁγιωσύνῃ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	If it is clearer in your language, you could translate this abstract noun phrase with a verb form. Alternate translation: “so that the Lord establishes you with innocent affections that are appropriate for those who belong to him” or “so that the Lord will strengthen and innocently set your wills apart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	3	13	ly21	figs-metaphor	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας	1	to strengthen your hearts, blameless	Here,**strengthen your heart** is a metaphor comparing the human will or affections to a building that can be established or supported. Alternate translation: “to establish your affections” or “to strengthen your will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	3	13	taws	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας	1	to strengthen your hearts, blameless	This could be translated as a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that the Lord will establish your affections for him” or “in order that the Lord will build up your will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	3	13	wu3s	grammar-connect-logic-result	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας	1	to strengthen your hearts, blameless	This could be translated as a result clause. Alternate translation: “then the Lord will establish your affections for him” or “with the result that the Lord will build up your will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	3	13	jev8	figs-doublet	ἀμέμπτους ἐν ἁγιωσύνῃ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	This phrase is likely indicating a doublet that refers to: 1) Means/Instrument. Alternate translation: “blameless through holiness” 2) Cause. Alternate translation: “blameless because of holiness” 3) Condition. Alternate translation: “blameless in a condition of holiness” 4) Relation. Alternate translation: “blameless with those who belong to God”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH	3	13	p12j	figs-idiom	ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	This an idiom for being in the personal presence of God (See [3:9](../03/09.md)). Alternate translation: “in the presence of our Father God” or “right in front of God our Father” or “before the face of God our Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	13	vnsi	figs-explicit	ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ, μετὰ πάντων τῶν ἁγίων αὐτοῦ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	This is a reference to the Zechariah 14:5 (See also 2 Thessalonians 1:7,10; Jude 14). The assumption is that these **saints** are the same as “those who have fallen asleep” [4:14](../04/14.md). Alternate translation: “at the time the Lord Jesus arrives along with all his holy people” or “when the Lord Jesus returns a second time with all those who belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	3	13	ytqg	figs-idiom	ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	Here, the word translated **coming** is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ [2:19](../02/19.md) or the “Day of the Lord” [5:2](../05/02.md). It literally means, “presence” or “being with or near.” Here, **coming** expresses “presence,” so the emphasis is on the lasting presence of the Lord Jesus (see also Matthew 24). The definite article **the** indicates either the one and only Coming of the Lord, or the well-known Coming of the Lord. This exact phrase, **at the coming of our Lord Jesus**, is only used elsewhere in the NT at [4:15; 5:23](..04/15/.md) and 2 Peter 1:16. Alternate translation: “in the presence of our Lord Jesus at his Second Coming” or “in the sight of our Lord Jesus when he arrives again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	3	13	slaw	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	ἐν	2	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	The parallel phrases **before our God and Father** and **at the coming** indicate that these are simultaneous events. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1TH	3	13	py9f	translate-textvariants	ἀμήν	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	Many ancient manuscripts omit this word. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	intro	b1z5			0		# 1 Thessalonians 4 General Notes<br><br><br>## Outline of 1 Thessalonians 4<br><br>1. Apostolic Teachings on Holiness (4:1-8)<br>2. Apostolic Teachings on Christian Love (4:9-12)<br>* Reminder (4:9-10)<br>* Keep Busy (4:11-12)<br>3. Apostolic Teachings on the Manner of the Second Coming of Christ (4:13-18)<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Christian love<br><br><br>The apostles address this topic of Christian love that the Thessalonian Church had previously asked about. The apostles encouraged the church that they were already loving well, and to continue to grow in this practice. The apostles also link “brotherly love” to living in harmony with each other and minding their own businesss, so that they would be a good example to non-Christians (See [4:11-12](../04/11.md)). <br><br>### Dying before the Second Coming of Christ<br><br>The Thessalonian Church was concerned about what would happen if a believer died before Christ returned. They were anxious to know whether or not those who died before Christ returned would be part of the Kingdom of God. Paul addresses that concern in [4:13-5:11](../04/13.md).<br><br>### The manner of the Second Coming of Christ <br><br>In [4:13-18](../04/13.md), the apostles teach about the events related to the Second Coming of Christ (called “the day of the Lord” in [5:2](../05/02.md). This is so that the Thessalonians  can “comfort one another with these words” (See [4:18](../04/18.md)).<br><br>## Important translation issues in this chapter<br><br>### Sexual immorality<br><br>Different cultures have different standards of sexual morality. These different cultural standards may make translating this passage difficult. Translators will have to consider the most appropriate way to communicate these sensitive issues.<br><br>### The Second Coming of Christ <br><br>Historically, there has been one teaching on the Second Coming of Christ. As the Nicene Creed of 381 states: “I await the resurrection of the dead and the life of the age to come.” Christ came once as Incarnate God and will return once as Resurrected Judge. This is what [4:13-5:11](../04/13.md) unequivocally refers to. Here, “the coming of the Lord” and the “day of the Lord” [5:2](../05/02.md) are the same event, as is clear from the context. One confusion stems from the fact that novel and heterodox interpretations have become popularized. Prior to the mid-1800's there was no other view in any denomination of the Church. Another confusion comes from the reliance on modern chapter headings that often confuse readers about when and where subject matter changes. The original text of 1 Thessalonians had no chapter or verse markings, so it would have been more obvious to an ancient reader that chapter four and five are talking about the same event.<br>
1TH	4	1	vtas	grammar-connect-words-phrases	λοιπὸν οὖν	1	brothers	This phrase could express the idea of: 1) Summary. Alternate translation: “So, in summary,” or 2) Remainder. “So then, here is what remains to talk about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	4	1	wk39	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [3:7](../03/07.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	4	1	la8p	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	4	1	u2lw	figs-doublet	ἐρωτῶμεν ὑμᾶς καὶ παρακαλοῦμεν	1	we beg and exhort you	**beg and exhort** convey similar ideas, and are used for double emphasis. Alternate translation: “we are begging and urging you” or “we are urging and appealing to you” or “we are strongly appealing to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH	4	1	foeh	figs-idiom	ἐν Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ	1	we beg and exhort you	Here, the idiom **in the Lord Jesus** refers to the apostles’ source of authority. Alternate translation: “with our authority from the Lord Jesus” or “as spokespersons for the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) <br>
1TH	4	1	le21	figs-activepassive	Ἰησοῦ, καθὼς παρελάβετε παρ’ ἡμῶν, τὸ πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν καὶ ἀρέσκειν Θεῷ<br>(καθὼς καὶ περιπατεῖτε), ἵνα περισσεύητε μᾶλλον	1	you received from us	The passive verb phrase **you received from us** combined with **how it is necessary** and the mention of “commands” in [4:2](../04/02/.md) indicate that **you received from us** can be read as a command. If it is clearer in your language, you could divide these phrases into two or three active sentences (See UST). Alternate translation: “Jesus! Continue to apply what we taught you about how important it is for you to keep living to please God. Then you will grow more and more faithful”
1TH	4	1	iij6	figs-activepassive	παρελάβετε παρ’ ἡμῶν	1	you received from us	If it is clearer in your language, you could change the passive verb phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “we taught you” or “we instructed you” or “we commanded you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	4	1	p4db	figs-metaphor	τὸ πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν	1	it is necessary for you to walk	**walk** is a common biblical metaphor that can mean “live” (Also [2:12](../02/12.md)). The phrase translated **it is necessary** conveys the idea of “being bound or tied.” Alternate translation: “about how you must live” or “about how you are obligated to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	4	1	ckii	figs-hendiadys	τὸ πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν καὶ ἀρέσκειν Θεῷ<br>(καθὼς καὶ περιπατεῖτε)	1	it is necessary for you to walk	**to walk and to please** expresses a hendiadys. The following summarizing repetition of the verb **you are walking** indicates that **walk** and **please** are synonyms. Alternate translation: “about how you must live to please God (exactly as you live now)” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	4	1	eoen	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἵνα περισσεύητε μᾶλλον	1	it is necessary for you to walk	This could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “then you can excel more and more” or “then you will thrive even more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	1	q937	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα περισσεύητε μᾶλλον	1	it is necessary for you to walk	This could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you can excel more and more” or “in order that you thrive even more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	4	2	oyu3	grammar-connect-time-background	οἴδατε γὰρ τίνας παραγγελίας ἐδώκαμεν ὑμῖν διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ	1	through the Lord Jesus	This verse gives background information about the content of the apostles’ teachings, during the previous visit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
1TH	4	2	dg4p	grammar-connect-logic-result	οἴδατε γὰρ τίνας παραγγελίας ἐδώκαμεν ὑμῖν διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ	1	through the Lord Jesus	This verse expresses why the Thessalonians should listen to the apostles’ teachings. Alternate translation: “Because you recognize that the Lord Jesus commanded you through what we taught” or “Since you are aware that when we gave commands it was actually the Lord Jesus who taught you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	2	ebjm	figs-metaphor	γὰρ	1	through the Lord Jesus	**For** is a connecting word that alerts the Thessalonian Church to pay attention to what is said next. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	4	2	vg16	figs-metaphor	διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ	1	through the Lord Jesus	The **commands** that the apostles gave the Thessalonian Church are expressed as if they came directly from **Jesus**. **Jesus** is not to be seen as a messenger of the apostles, but the apostles are messengers bringing the **commands** of **Jesus**. In fact, the word translated **commands** literally means “messages from.” Alternate translation: “by order of the Lord Jesus himself” or “through a message from the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	4	3	ycsw		τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὁ ἁγιασμὸς ὑμῶν,	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “Indeed, God desires that you live like those who belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	4	3	vnp0	grammar-connect-words-phrases	τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	**this** is a collective singular pronoun that emphasizes what **is the will of God**. Alternate translation: “In fact, this is God's will” or “Certainly, this very thing is God's will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1TH	4	3	lit4	grammar-connect-words-phrases	τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	This phrase indicates that this is the beginning of a section about the content of the “commands … through the Lord Jesus.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	4	3	mw4j	figs-litany	ἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τῆς πορνείας	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Here, begins a list that explains what **sanctification** means. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	4	3	lgac	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τῆς πορνείας	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Here, **sexual immorality** is contrasted with **sanctification**. Alternate translation: “to refrain from sexually immoral acts” or “to hold yourself back from sexually immorality activity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])<br><br>
1TH	4	3	lhxi	figs-imperative	ἀπέχεσθαι	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	The following list of verb forms could be translated as commands (See [4:2](../04/02.md)). Here, the verb form is likely meant to express a strong suggestion. Alternate translation: “you must refrain” or “so you should” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH	4	3	le7j	translate-textvariants	τῆς πορνείας	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Some ancient manuscripts read “all **sexual immorality**” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	4	ox95	figs-abstractnouns	εἰδέναι ἕκαστον ὑμῶν τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ,	1	to know to possess his own vessel	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “each husband must only have sexual knowledge of his own wife, by treating her like she belongs to God and by honoring her” or “each man should know how to practice self-control by setting apart and honoring his own body” or (See UST for two separate sentences)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	4	4	zis1	figs-abstractnouns	εἰδέναι ἕκαστον ὑμῶν τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ,	1	to know to possess his own vessel	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase into two active sentences (See UST). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	4	4	vhbp	figs-euphemism	εἰδέναι…κτᾶσθαι	1	to know to possess his own vessel	**to know … to possess** is a euphemism for sexual intimacy or knowledge (See previous note for an alternate translation). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1TH	4	4	f4ux	figs-metaphor	τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι	1	to know to possess his own vessel	**to possess his own vessel** is a metaphor or idiom that compares sexual self-control to a proper use of a container. It could refer to: 1) A husband's own body. Alternate translation: “to practice self-control with his own body” or “to control his own body” 2) His wife's body. Alternate translation: “to hold onto his wife's body” or “to properly care for his own wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	4	4	fk6n	figs-nominaladj	ἕκαστον	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This nominal adjective is used to emphasize that every husband or man must obey this teaching. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])<br>
1TH	4	4	arkf	figs-rpronouns	ἑαυτοῦ	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This reflexive pronoun further emphasizes the necessity of “sanctification” [4:3](../04/03.md), that the **vessel** belongs to the husband or man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])<br>
1TH	4	4	ihqe	figs-hendiadys	ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This phrase is a hendiadys. Alternate translation: “by sanctifying and honoring his body” or “by sanctifying and honoring her body” or “by honorably setting it apart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	4	4	nppk		ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This phrase could also refer to: 1) Condition. Alternate translation: “in the condition of holiness and honor” or “in a state of holiness and honor” 2) Association. Alternate translation: “with holiness and honor” 3) Means. Alternate translation: “through holiness and honor”
1TH	4	5	y9g2	figs-parallelism	μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας, καθάπερ καὶ τὰ ἔθνη τὰ μὴ εἰδότα τὸν Θεόν	1	in the passion of lust	This verse expresses a contrasting parallelism. **in the passion of lust** contrasts “in holiness and honor”. **each of you to know** contrasts “the Gentiles who do not know”. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	5	utvd	figs-abstractnouns	μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας	1	in the passion of lust	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase into an active form (See UST), Alternate translation: “You must not passionately lust” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	4	5	x2t7		μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας	1	in the passion of lust	Like the previous phrase, this could refer to: 1) Condition. Alternate translation: “in the condition of lustful passion” or “in a state of passionate lust” 2) Association. Alternate translation: “with lustful passion” 3) Means. Alternate translation: “through lustful passion” 
1TH	4	5	vjej	figs-possession	πάθει ἐπιθυμίας	1	in the passion of lust	This genitive phrase could refer to: 1) Attribute. Alternate translation: “lustful passion” 2) Source. Alternate translation: “from lustful passion” or “from desire’s passion” 3) Object. Alternate translation: “passion that leads to lust” 4) Means. Alternate translation: “through lustful passion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	4	5	nrmz	figs-distinguish	καθάπερ καὶ τὰ ἔθνη τὰ μὴ εἰδότα τὸν Θεόν	1	in the passion of lust	This emphatic clause is meant to inform. **who do not know** indicates a past state of being that continues. **God** indicates “the one true **God**” or “the only **God**”. Alternate translation: “the nations who remain ignorant of God act like this” or “this is the way those nations who live, who continually refuse to give recognition to God” or “exactly like all the people who have no relationship with God” or “this is exactly the way the Gentiles, who have never known God, live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH	4	5	tz8o	figs-genericnoun	τὰ ἔθνη	1	in the passion of lust	Here, **the Gentiles** is a generic noun that refers to all non-Christians (See [2:16](../02/16.md)). Alternate translation: “all those nations” or “all the people” or “the pagan nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1TH	4	6	wmb6	figs-parallelism	τὸ μὴ ὑπερβαίνειν καὶ πλεονεκτεῖν	1	transgress and wrong	This is a parallel clause that strongly repeats the prohibitive “not” concept found in [4:5](../04/05.md). Alternate translation: “no one should offend and take advantage of” or “no one must violate and exploit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	6	a9st	figs-doublet	ὑπερβαίνειν καὶ πλεονεκτεῖν	1	transgress and wrong	The words translated **transgress and wrong** are a superlative doublet. The word translated **transgress** can mean “to overstep.” The word translated **wrong** can mean “possess more.” Here it conveys the nuance of “claiming what does not belong to someone,” or “to take advantage of.” The idea is that no one is permitted to violate or cross over the bounds of lawful marital relations, by taking what belongs to another man. Alternate translation: “trespass against and claim what belongs to” or “violate and exploit” or “transgress and take advantage of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])<br>
1TH	4	6	ckez	figs-metaphor	ἐν τῷ πράγματι τὸν ἀδελφὸν αὐτοῦ	1	the Lord is an avenger	Here, **in this matter** uses a business metaphor to speak of sexual immorality [4:3](../04/03.md). The idea is that no one should intrude in the marital relationship of another **brother** or “fellow Christian.” Alternate translation: “in the marital matters of his fellow Christian” or “in the marriage relationship of another Christian” or (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	4	6	q7bf	grammar-connect-logic-result	διότι ἔκδικος Κύριος περὶ πάντων τούτων	1	the Lord is an avenger	This clause gives the final result of those who live “in the passion of lust” [4:5](../04/05.md). This could refer to: 1) The sexually immoral people. Alternate translation: “This is because the Lord will punish all those people” 2) All the matters spoken of in verses 3-6. Alternate translation: “Certainly, the Lord will avenge for all these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])<br>
1TH	4	6	r9n4	figs-metaphor	ἔκδικος Κύριος 	1	the Lord is an avenger	This is a metaphorical title used of God throughout the Old Testament (See Judith 9:2 for a similar use in relational to sexual immorality). **avenger** literally means “judge from.” If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun into a verb form. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus will avenge” or “the Lord Jesus will punish” or “the Lord Jesus will judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	4	6	jitm	figs-explicit	Κύριος	1	the Lord is an avenger	The assumed knowledge here is that **Lord** refers to “Jesus“ (See [4:2](../04/02.md)). Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	4	6	d1ip	writing-background	καθὼς καὶ προείπαμεν ὑμῖν καὶ διεμαρτυράμεθα	1	we also forewarned you and testified	This is background information referring to the apostles earlier visit. The same root word translated **testified** here, is used twice in [2:10-12](../02/10.md). Alternate translation: “in the just the way we previously told and warned you” or “This will happen just we already told and solemnly warned you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])<br>
1TH	4	6	ix4p	figs-doublet	καθὼς καὶ προείπαμεν ὑμῖν καὶ διεμαρτυράμεθα	1	we also forewarned you and testified	**just as** combined with these two similar verbs, indicates that this is a doublet. If it is clearer in your language, you could combine the verbs to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “as we also previously warned you” or “exactly as we also solemnly forewarned you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) 
1TH	4	7	qx6y	figs-abstractnouns	οὐ γὰρ ἐκάλεσεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ	1	God did not call us	This verse parallels [4:4](../04/04.md). If it is clearer in your language, you could change these abstract nouns into verb forms, the double negatives to positive statements, and the reorder the clauses. Alternate translation: “God called us, so we must purify and set ourselves apart like those who belong to God” or “We must not live impurely or act unholy, because God did not call us as his people for this purpose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	4	7	v3np	figs-doublenegatives	οὐ γὰρ ἐκάλεσεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ	1	God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness	The double negative is used as a strong prohibition against sexual immorality [4:3](../04/03.md). Alternate translation: “Because God did not summon us for impurity, but into sanctification”. You could also state this in positive form. Alternate translation: “Because God called us to be pure and holy” or “Certainly God summoned us to pure and holy living” or “Indeed, God invited us to become pure and holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TH	4	7	ie7g		ἐκάλεσεν	1	God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness	The word translated **called** can also refer to simple statement of fact or summarizing act. Alternate translation: “summons” or “beckons” or “invites” 
1TH	4	7	q4tj	figs-exclusive	ἡμᾶς 	1	God did not call us	Here “us” is inclusive, referring to the apostles, the Thessalonian Church, and by extension all Christians (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	4	7	qli0		ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ	1	God did not call us	The prepositions translated **to** and *in** can refer to: 1) Disadvantage and advantage. Alternate translation: “for the sake of … for the sake of” 2) Purpose and rule. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of … to conform to” 3) Basis and association. Alternate translation: “on the basis of … in association with” 4) Destination. Alternate translation: “to lead to … leading to”  5) Means. Alternate translation: “through … through”
1TH	4	8	zdsc	figs-parallelism	τοιγαροῦν ὁ ἀθετῶν, οὐκ ἄνθρωπον ἀθετεῖ, ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν, τὸν διδόντα τὸ Πνεῦμα αὐτοῦ τὸ Ἅγιον εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	the one rejecting this	This verse parallels some of the concepts found in [4:7](../04/07.md). The words translated **Therefore** and “For” have the same root. **the one rejecting** and **rejects** parallel “uncleanness.” **Holy Spirit** parallels “in holiness.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	8	mn5y	grammar-connect-words-phrases	τοιγαροῦν	1	the one rejecting this	This triply emphatic connecting word is meant to mark the end of this section prohibiting sexual immorality. Alternate translation: “Now pay close attention” or “So then, you must realize” or “It is absolutely certain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])<br>
1TH	4	8	gzz8	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ὁ ἀθετῶν…ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν, τὸν διδόντα	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	The words translated **the one rejecting this** and **who gives** indicate continual or repeated activity. God's constant giving of the **Holy Spirit** is contrasted with person who constantly **rejects** the apostolic teaching. Alternate translation: “he who continues to reject … but actually God himself, who continues to give” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	4	8	su51	figs-ellipsis	ὁ ἀθετῶν	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	The phrase translated **the one rejecting this** does not contain **this**, but the context implies that it should be included. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH	4	8	mm3n	translate-textvariants	διδόντα	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	Many ancient manuscripts read “**who** gave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	8	k7fr	translate-textvariants	ὑμᾶς	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	Many ancient manuscripts read “us”. This could either refer exclusively to the apostles or inclusively to all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	8	vrbs	figs-explicit	ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν, τὸν διδόντα τὸ Πνεῦμα αὐτοῦ τὸ Ἅγιον	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	In [1:5,6](../01/05.md) we see that the **Holy Spirit** gives power and joy. Here, two implicit teachings are contained: the divinity of the Holy Spirit, and the doctrine of the procession of the Spirit from the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	4	9	uxn8	figs-explicit	περὶ δὲ τῆς φιλαδελφίας, οὐ χρείαν ἔχετε γράφειν ὑμῖν	1	brotherly love	This connecting phrase implies that the apostles are answering a specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian Church. If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Now as it relates to your question about how fellow believers in Christ should show affection to each other …” or “Now, about your question referring to Christian relationships …” or “Now, about your question relating to Christian friendships” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	4	9	sgen	grammar-connect-logic-result	οὐ χρείαν ἔχετε γράφειν ὑμῖν, αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε, εἰς τὸ ἀγαπᾶν ἀλλήλους	1	brotherly love	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “because God himself teaches you that you should love each other, you do not need us to write to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	9	l1n7	figs-hyperbole	οὐ χρείαν…ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε	1	brotherly love	The apostles use hyperbolic phrases **no need** and “**you yourselves** are those **taught by God**” to express how successfully the Thessalonian Church is practicing Christian love. “(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])<br>
1TH	4	9	xxg8	translate-textvariants	ἔχετε	1	brotherly love	Some ancient manuscripts read “we were having.” Other manuscripts read “we are having.” Alternate translation: “we do not need to write to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	9	j7z0	figs-metaphor	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε, εἰς τὸ ἀγαπᾶν ἀλλήλους	1	brotherly love	This phrase could also be using a metaphor, speaking as if the Thessalonian Church has God himself physically present as their teacher. Alternate translation: “God is the one who teaches you how to love each other” or “God himself teaches you that you must love one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	4	9	ctiq	grammar-connect-logic-result	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε, εἰς τὸ ἀγαπᾶν ἀλλήλους	1	brotherly love	This clause could indicate: 1) Content of God's teaching. Alternate translation: “Because it is God himself who teaches you: love each other” 2) Manner. Alternate translation: “Indeed, God is the one who teaches you how to love each other” 3) Purpose/Result. Alternate translation: “the reason why God teaches you is so that you would love each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	10	e3e0	writing-background	καὶ γὰρ ποιεῖτε αὐτὸ εἰς πάντας τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς, τοὺς ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ	1	you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia	This is background reference that shows another aspect of how the Thessalonian Church “became an example” to the churches in Macedonia and Achaia (See [1:7-8](../01/07.md)). Alternate translation: “Certainly, you make a practice of showing love to all your fellow believers in Christ throughout the region of Macedonia” or “In fact, you are doing just that, to all the fellow Christians throughout the province of Macedonia” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	4	10	dec9	grammar-connect-words-phrases	καὶ γὰρ	1	you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia	These connecting words indicate a following example of the Thessalonian Church's Christian love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	4	10	hg7a	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸ 	1	you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia	This reflexive pronoun **this** refers back to the phrase “to love” [4:9](../04/09.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	4	10	jcg3	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοὺς	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [4:1](../04/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	4	10	k81f	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοὺς	1	brothers	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	4	10	gxfa	figs-litany	παρακαλοῦμεν δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί, περισσεύειν μᾶλλον	1	brothers	This is the beginning of a list of five verb forms that continues into [4:11](../04/11.md), that the apostles **exhort** the Thessalonian Church to do. Alternate translation: “Now, fellow believers in Christ, we are urging you: to excel more and more,” or “But, fellow Christians, we are encouraging you: to surpass even more,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])<br>
1TH	4	11	h2df	figs-metaphor	καὶ φιλοτιμεῖσθαι, ἡσυχάζειν καὶ πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια, καὶ ἐργάζεσθαι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσὶν ὑμῶν	1	to strive	The combination of these verbs could be a metaphor for peaceful communal living. Alternate translation: “and to love to honor others: by living quietly and tending to your own business and focusing on doing your own work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	4	11	d2fg	figs-hendiadys	καὶ φιλοτιμεῖσθαι, ἡσυχάζειν	1	to strive	This phrase continues the litany of exhortations from the apostles. These two verbs could: 1) Express separate ideas. Alternate translation: “and to love to honor others, to live quietly” 2) Complement each other. Alternate translation: “and to aspire to live quietly” or “and to show ambition to honor others by living silently” or “to aim to be still” 3) Function as hendiadys. Alternate translation: “and to quietly love to honor others” or “and to silently love to honor others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH	4	11	j4c7	figs-explicit	πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια	1	to live quietly	The implicit meaning of self-sacrificial thoughts and actions in the phrase **to perform your own things** is made explicit by the surrounding verbs. Alternate translation: “to focus on your own tasks” or “to focus on your own business” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]]) 
1TH	4	11	jmt9	figs-idiom	ἐργάζεσθαι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσὶν ὑμῶν	1	to perform your own things	**to work with your own hands** is an idiom for “earning a living.” Alternate translation: "to work hard to earn what you need" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br>
1TH	4	11	bz8s	figs-distinguish	καθὼς ὑμῖν παρηγγείλαμεν	1	to work with your own hands	This phrase and the following verse signal the end of this larger section of teaching (See [4:1,2](../04/02.md) for the same wording). Here, the apostles are reminding the Thessalonian Church of what they already taught them, by way of summary. It also equates that what God taught the Thessalonian Church is the same thing as what the apostles teach [4:9](../04/09.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH	4	12	hp6g	figs-idiom	περιπατῆτε εὐσχημόνως	1	you may walk properly	Here, **walk** is the common biblical idiom that means “live.” The word translated **properly** literally means “well-formed.” It can also mean “appropriately, decently, modestly, nobly.” Alternate translation: “you would live appropriately” or “you would live nobly” or “you would behave modestly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	4	12	wj25	grammar-connect-logic-goal	 ἵνα περιπατῆτε	1	you may walk properly	**so that you may walk** could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you live” or “ in order that you live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])<br>
1TH	4	12	oo9l	grammar-connect-logic-result		1	you may walk properly	**so that you may walk** could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “then you will live”. It is possible that this phrase refers to both purpose and result. If there is a way to indicate this in your language, you could express this dual meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	12	k59r	figs-metaphor	πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω	1	before those outside	**those outside** is a metaphor for “non-Christians.” Alternate translation: “in the presence of non-Christians” or “in front of unbelievers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	4	12	uwsf	figs-distinguish	καὶ μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχητε	1	before those outside	This clause signals the end of the shorter section of teaching, by using the same phrase found in [4:9](../04/09.md). Here, the apostles are reminding the Thessalonian Church of what they already taught them about “brotherly love.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH	4	12	nait	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχητε	1	before those outside	This phrase also continues the idea of self-sufficiency found in verse 11, by using a result clause. It is possible that this phrase refers to both purpose and result. If there is a way to indicate this in your language, you could express this dual meaning. Alternate translation: “and so that you would not need anything” or “then you will be self-sufficient” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	13	vi2y	grammar-connect-words-phrases	δὲ 	1	General Information:	**Now** is a connecting word that signals the beginning of an extended section [4:13-5:11](..04/13/.md) about the Second Coming of Christ (See chapter and book introduction)(See also 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2:3-12). If our language has a special section marker, you could use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	4	13	lan8	figs-doublenegatives	οὐ θέλομεν δὲ ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν	1	General Information:	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this double negative or litotes to a positive form. Alternate translation: “But, we want you to know for certain” or “Now, we desire to clarify” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TH	4	13	mmy0	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	General Information:	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [4:10](../04/10.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	4	13	wt7l	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	4	13	qt5b	figs-explicit	περὶ	1	you may not grieve	This phrase implies that the apostles are answering another specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian Church (See [4:9](../04/09.md)). If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “as it relates to your question about” or “concerning your question about”  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	4	13	j68e	figs-euphemism	τῶν κοιμωμένων	1	General Information:	In the biblical usage, **fallen asleep** often refers to physical death. It could indicate an idiom or euphemism. The verb form indicates that this is a present condition “are sleeping.” If you have a cultural idiom or euphemism for representing death as “sleeping”, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “those who are already dead” or “those who have died” or “those who have been laid to rest” or “those who continue to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1TH	4	13	wzr3	translate-textvariants	κοιμωμένων	1	General Information:	Many ancient manuscripts read “have fallen asleep (and remain asleep)”  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	13	ocjp	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα μὴ λυπῆσθε	1	brothers	This is a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you would not sorrow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	4	13	vw34	figs-activepassive	ἵνα μὴ λυπῆσθε	1	brothers	If your language does not use the passive voice, you could change this to an active form and say who performed the action. Alternate translation: “so that you do not grieve” or “in order that you do not sorrow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	4	13	r9f8	figs-explicit	καθὼς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ, οἱ μὴ ἔχοντες ἐλπίδα.	1	so that you may not grieve just as also the rest	At least two things are assumed in this phrase. 1) **the rest** are non-Christians. 2) **hope** refers to resurrection salvation (See [1:3; 2:19; 4:16; 5:8](../01/03.md)). If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “in the same way as the rest of humanity who possess no hope of life after death” or “in the same way as the rest of humanity who possess no confidence of life after death” or “in the same way as the rest of humanity who possess no assurance of life after death” or “like people who do not have confidence in the future promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
1TH	4	13	ov2w	figs-ellipsis	καθὼς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ, οἱ μὴ ἔχοντες ἐλπίδα.	1	so that you may not grieve just as also the rest	This phrase is also an example of relative ellipsis. **hope** was previously associated with the Second Coming of Christ in [2:19](../02/19.md).(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH	4	14	j09o	figs-hypo	εἰ γὰρ πιστεύομεν ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη	1	if we believe	This clause frames the apostles’ argument as if it were a hypothetical idea. If it is clearer in your language, you could make it an active statement. Alternate translation: “We certainly believe that Jesus died and resurrected” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1TH	4	14	hmw4	figs-explicit	εἰ γὰρ πιστεύομεν ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη	1	if we believe	As **Jesus died and rose again** is the main content of the gospel, it is also assumed knowledge. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	4	14	ybz6	figs-exclusive	πιστεύομεν	1	if we believe	Though, **we believe** could be inclusive of the Thessalonian Church (and by extension all Christians), it is most likely exclusive of Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, since the previous [3:11](../03/11.md) and subsequent uses (See “we say” in [4:15](../04/15.md)) are clearly referring to the apostles. It mostly likely is a reference to their authoritative teaching. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	4	14	kmk2	grammar-connect-logic-result	οὕτως καὶ ὁ Θεὸς τοὺς κοιμηθέντας διὰ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἄξει σὺν αὐτῷ.	1	rose again	This phrase could express at least two things: 1) Manner. Alternate translation: “this is the way God …” or “this is how God …” 2) Result. Alternate translation: “then God will also …” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	14	m1fy	figs-possession	καὶ ὁ Θεὸς τοὺς κοιμηθέντας διὰ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἄξει σὺν αὐτῷ	1	rose again	This genitive phrase could refer to: 1) Those who are only temporarily dead through/associated with/in union with Jesus’ resurrection power. Alternate translation: “God … those who through Jesus are asleep” or “God … those who are asleep in Jesus” 2) It is through Jesus that God will bring them back again. Alternate translation: “through Jesus, God will also bring those who sleep along with Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])<br>
1TH	4	14	b3gs	figs-explicit	ὁ Θεὸς…τοῦ Ἰησοῦ	1	rose again	The assumed knowledge is that **God** is equated with Father, and he is one who sends the Son **Jesus** back to earth at the Second Coming. If it would be clearer in your language, you could make this distinction explicit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	4	14	tjqj	figs-explicit	αὐτῷ	1	rose again	This is a reflexive pronoun that refers to Jesus. If it would be clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	4	15	vvda	grammar-connect-words-phrases	τοῦτο γὰρ ὑμῖν λέγομεν ἐν λόγῳ Κυρίου	1	by the word of the Lord	This clause indicates a strong emphasis in form and content (See [1:8](../01/08.md) for **the word of the Lord**). Alternate translation: “Certainly, what we now say to you is the Lord's message” or “In fact, what we are saying is from the Lord himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	4	15	ni3m	figs-metonymy	ἐν λόγῳ Κυρίου	1	by the word of the Lord	Here, **word** is a metonym for “message.” It could refer to: 1) Means of the message. Alternate translation: “with the Lord's message” 2) Authority of the message. “with the authorization of the Lord” or “is the Lord's message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	4	15	gbe1	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ὅτι	1	by the word of the Lord	This connecting word indicates that what follows is the content of **the word of the Lord**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	4	15	fdwk	figs-exclusive	ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες	1	by the word of the Lord	Though, **we who are alive** could be exclusive of the apostles (See note at [4:14](../04/14.md)), the universal content of the following section, implies that this is inclusive of all Christians. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	4	15	hdlr	figs-distinguish	οἱ περιλειπόμενοι	1	by the word of the Lord	The relative clause **who are left behind** refers to **we who are alive**. Alternate translation: “who survive” or “who are remain around” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH	4	15	b786	figs-idiom	εἰς τὴν παρουσίαν τοῦ Κυρίου	1	at the coming of the Lord	Here, the word translated **coming** is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ [3:13](../03/13.md) or the “Day of the Lord” [5:2](../05/02.md). It literally means, “presence” or “being with or near.” Here, **coming** expresses “presence,” so the emphasis is on the lasting presence of the Lord Jesus (see also Matthew 24). The definite article **the** indicates either the one and only Coming of the Lord, or the well-known Coming of the Lord. The word translated **until** could indicate: 1) Duration. Alternate translation: “until the Lord returns” or “until the second coming of the Lord” 2) Event. Alternate translation: “at the coming of our Lord Jesus” or “at the arrival of the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	4	15	byit	figs-explicit	τοῦ Κυρίου	1	at the coming of the Lord	It is assumed that the **Lord** refers to Jesus (See [4:1](../04/01.md)). If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus” or “our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	4	15	k9n9	translate-textvariants	 τοῦ Κυρίου	1	at the coming of the Lord	One important ancient manuscript reads “of Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	15	xd2y	figs-exclusive	οὐ μὴ φθάσωμεν τοὺς κοιμηθέντας	1	by the word of the Lord	This double negative **certainly not** is an idiom for “never.” Alternate translation: “will never precede those who are dead” or “can never overtake those already dead” or “are not permitted to come before those asleep in the Lord”. If it is clearer in your language, you could express this with an active form. Alternate translation: “those who are dead will certainly go ahead of us” or “those who are already dead must precede us” or “those who are asleep in the Lord will attain it before us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TH	4	16	ah7p	grammar-connect-time-sequential	ὅτι 	1	the Lord himself … will descend	**For** marks the beginning of the events of the Second Coming. Alternately translation: “Certainly” or “Because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])<br>
1TH	4	16	yk2q	figs-litany	ὅτι αὐτὸς ὁ Κύριος ἐν κελεύσματι, ἐν φωνῇ ἀρχαγγέλου, καὶ ἐν σάλπιγγι Θεοῦ, καταβήσεται ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ; καὶ οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον,	1	the Lord himself … will descend	The list of the events of the Second Coming continues through verse 17. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	4	16	c26b	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	ὅτι αὐτὸς ὁ Κύριος ἐν κελεύσματι, ἐν φωνῇ ἀρχαγγέλου, καὶ ἐν σάλπιγγι Θεοῦ, καταβήσεται ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ	1	the Lord himself … will descend	These things happen at the same time **the Lord** descends. The text emphasizes the order of events by listing them prior to the main verb. If it is clearer in your language, you could place the main verb before the accompanying actions. Alternate translation: “Certainly, the Lord Jesus himself will come down from heaven: with a commanding shout, with the archangel's voice, and with God's trumpet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]]) OR (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]]) ????
1TH	4	16	ygfp	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸς ὁ Κύριος	1	the Lord himself … will descend	This reflexive noun **himself** emphasizes that “with him” in [4:14](../04/14.md) refers to **the Lord** Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus himself” or “it is the Lord Jesus who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	4	16	z9ka		ἀρχαγγέλου	1	of the archangel	See Jude 9.
1TH	4	16	pjrh	figs-parallelism	καταβήσεται ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ; καὶ οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον	1	the Lord himself … will descend	The first main verb **descend** is listed after the events that describe it. This is to show a contrasting parallelism with the second verb **rise**. After the Lord Jesus comes down form heaven, the dead Christians will resurrect from the earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	16	k7sg	grammar-connect-time-sequential	καὶ	2	the Lord himself … will descend	Here, the word translated **and** indicates sequence. If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “then next” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
1TH	4	16	ni7n	figs-parallelism	οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	This is a parallel phrase to “those who are asleep through Jesus” in [4:14](../04/14.md). Alternate translation: “those who died in union with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	16	dr89	figs-explicit	οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	**the dead in Christ** are the same as “the sleepers” in [4:13–15](../04/13.md). The verb translated “rise” refers to this section's main theme of resurrection. Alternate translation: “Christians who have already died will be the first to resurrect” or “those who died united with Christ will resurrect first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
1TH	4	16	gnp0	figs-parallelism	οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	This clause parallels and explains, “may not certainly go before those who have fallen asleep” [4:15](../04/15/md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	16	wboi	figs-parallelism	ἐν Χριστῷ	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	**in Christ** is another reference to the important concept of union with Christ or God (See [2:14](../02/14.md)). <br>This is also a parallel phrase to “those who are asleep through Jesus” in [4:14](../04/14.md). Alternate translation: “united to Christ” or “in union with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	16	offz	translate-textvariants	πρῶτον	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	Some ancient manuscripts read “**the first** ones” referring to **the dead**, not the timing of resurrection. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])<br>
1TH	4	17	ay13	figs-parallelism	ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες, οἱ περιλειπόμενοι	1	we who are alive	**who are alive, who are left behind** is a parallel reference to [4:15](../04/15.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	17	l5l1	figs-exclusive	ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες	1	we who are alive	Though, **we who are alive** could be exclusive of the apostles (See note for the same phrase at [4:15](../04/15.md)), the universal content of this section, implies that all Christians are in view. It also implies that the apostles assumed Second Coming would happen in their lifetime. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])<br>
1TH	4	17	otiq	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	ἅμα σὺν αὐτοῖς	1	we who are alive	**together with them** could indicate three things: 1) Simultaneous event. Alternate translation: “with them at the same time” 2) Association. Alternate translation: “along with them” 3) Both event and association. Alternate translation: “at the same time together with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1TH	4	17	wvi8	figs-123person	αὐτοῖς	1	with them	The word **them** refers to the resurrected dead who are united to Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-123person]])
1TH	4	17	m3gb	writing-background	ἁρπαγησόμεθα ἐν νεφέλαις εἰς ἀπάντησιν τοῦ Κυρίου εἰς ἀέρα	1	with them	This phrase indicates a reference to the words of the angels at Jesus’ Ascension in Acts 1:9-11, as a fulfillment of the prophecy of Daniel 7:13-14. Alternate translation: “we will be snatched up on clouds to encounter the Lord Jesus in the air” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH	4	17	o7lj	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς ἀπάντησιν	1	with them	Here, the word translated **to meet** indicates purpose, and a positive encounter and/or royal escort. Alternate translation: “as a royal escort of” or “for a meeting with” or “to encounter” (See Exodus 19:17 where this same root word is used when God's people encounter God, and Matthew 25:6 where this word is used in the same context of the Second Coming with bridal escorts). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	4	17	ukh1	writing-symlanguage	ἐν νεφέλαις…εἰς ἀέρα	1	with them	Here, **clouds … air** could be considered symbolic language representing God’s presence and the spiritual realm. (See Exodus 19; Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 17; 21; Ephesians 2:2). Alternate translation: “ (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-symlanguage]])
1TH	4	17	ti69	writing-endofstory	καὶ οὕτως πάντοτε σὺν Κυρίῳ ἐσόμεθα	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This clause is meant to signal the end of the events related to the Second Coming. You can use the natural form in your language for expressing the conclusion of a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])
1TH	4	17	ouvu	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ οὕτως πάντοτε σὺν Κυρίῳ ἐσόμεθα	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This clause also indicates the result of the meeting with **the Lord**. Alternate translation: “and then we will always be together with the Lord Jesus” or “this is the how we will be with the Lord Jesus forever” or “as a result, we will always be together with the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	4	17	k6qc	figs-parallelism	σὺν Κυρίῳ	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	Here, **with the Lord** parallels **together with them** to express union with Christ as communion with his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	4	17	pdqi	translate-textvariants	σὺν	2	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	One important ancient manuscript reads “united to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	4	18	gt91	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὥστε παρακαλεῖτε	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This is a result clause. Alternate translation: “because of this, you should comfort" or “as a result, you can bring comfort to” or “so then, you ought to encourage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]
1TH	4	18	y7zi	figs-imperative	παρακαλεῖτε	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This clause also could express an appeal or polite command. Alternate translation: “you should encourage” or “you must encourage” or “keep comforting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH	4	18	aya5	writing-pronouns	ἀλλήλους	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This pronoun indicates association among the Thessalonian Church. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “the fellow member of your church” or “your fellow Thessalonian Christian” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1TH	4	18	xsus	figs-metonymy	ἐν τοῖς λόγοις τούτοις	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	**with these words** is a reference to “and in this way we will always be with the Lord” in [4:17](../04/17.md) or a metonymy for all that has been said in [4:13-17](../04/17.md). Alternate translation: (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH	5	intro	ay3d			0		# 1 Thessalonians 5 General Notes<br><br>## Outline of 1 Thessalonians 5<br><br>1. Apostolic Teachings on the Second Coming of Christ (5:1-10)<br>* Timing (5:1-3)<br>* Preparation (5:4-8)<br>* God’s plan (5:9-10)<br>2. Final Instructions (5:11-28)<br>* Final Commands (5:11-22)<br>* Final Prayer (5:23-24)<br>* Final Appeals (5:25-27)<br>* Final blessing (5:25-27)<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul concludes his letter in a way that was typical of letters in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Idiom<br><br>#### Day of the Lord<br><br>The “day of the Lord” is an idiom for the time of final salvation for God’s people final judgment for God’s enemies. “Day” is metaphorical for a time period. Thus, the exact time of the coming “day of the Lord” will be a surprise to the world. The simile “like a thief in the night” refers this surprise timing. Because of this, Christians must prepare for the coming of the Lord by living with faith, hope and love [5:8](../05/08.md) toward God and others. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]]<br><br>### Simile<br><br>#### Like a Thief<br><br>The simile “like a thief in the night” refers this surprise timing. Because of this, Christians must prepare for the coming of the Lord by living with faith, hope and love [5:8](../05/08.md) toward God and others. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])<br><br>### Metaphor<br><br>#### Day and Night, Light and Darkness<br><br>The apostles use many metaphors throughout [5:1-11](../05/1.md). “Night,” “darkness,” “drunk,” “sleep” are all metaphors about spiritual ignorance or lack of readiness. “Day,” “light,” “sober,” “watch” are all metaphors  about spiritual awareness and readiness. <br><br><br>#### Armor<br><br>Here, the apostles use a military metaphor to urge the Thessalonian Church to be ready for Christ's Second Coming at “the day of the Lord.” Just as soldiers must always be armed and ready to fight, so the Christian must live prepared for Christ's return. Faithfulness and love are compared to a breastplate, and the hope of salvation is likened to a helmet [5:8](../05/08.md).<br><br>#### Prophecy<br><br>Those who “despise prophecies” in [5:20](../05/20.md) are said to “quench the Spirit.” This is a metaphor for trying to hinder the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the Church. All prophecies are to be examined and tested to determine if they adhere to apostolic teaching [5:21](../05/21.md). All prophecies that are proven to agree with apostolic teaching, are to be retained as good [5:21-22](..05/21/.md).<br><br>### Submission to Christian Leadership<br><br><br>The apostles link the well-being and spiritual safety of the Thessalonian Church to obedience to their leaders. Christian leaders are to be given recognition and loving respect by the church [5:12-13](../05/13.md).<br><br>### Holy Kiss<br><br>This refers to the ancient practice of exchanging a kiss of peace on the cheek during the liturgy. Different cultures have different standards of appropriate physical contact. These different cultural standards may make translating this passage difficult. Translators will have to consider the most appropriate way to communicate this sensitive issue [5:26](../05/26.md).
1TH	5	1	i2vm	figs-explicit	περὶ δὲ	1	General Information:	**Now concerning** signals a change in subject (See [4:9](../04/09.md)). Here, the timing of and preparation for the Second Coming is in view. This phrase implies that the apostles are answering another specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian Church. If it could be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Now as it relates to your question about” or “Now, about your question referring to” or “Now, about your question relating to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	5	1	a8f3	figs-idiom	τῶν χρόνων καὶ τῶν καιρῶν	1	General Information:	**the times and the seasons** is an idiom referring to a specific amount of time. Alternate translation: “the appointed time” or “the fixed time” (See Acts 1:7 for this exact phrase referring to the same thing). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	1	z1s6	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	Connecting Statement:	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [4:13](../04/13.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	1	pjf6	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	Connecting Statement:	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	5	1	bcsa	figs-activepassive	οὐ χρείαν ἔχετε ὑμῖν γράφεσθαι	1	General Information:	If you have no passive form in your language, you could make it active (See this same phrase in [4:9](../04/09.md)). Alternate translation: “we do not need to write to you” or “you have no need for us to write it for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	5	1	caue	figs-you	ἔχετε	1	General Information:	The word **you** is plural and refers to the believers in the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1TH	5	2	dqgk	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ἀκριβῶς οἴδατε	1	perfectly well	The words **For**, *yourselves**, and **perfectly** emphasize the how clearly the Thessalonian Church should understand the way the Lord’s Second Coming will happen. Alternate translation: “Certainly you are well aware” or “Because you understand perfectly well” or “Indeed, you know precisely” or “In fact, you recognize accurately” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])<br>
1TH	5	2	yvg3	figs-exmetaphor	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ἀκριβῶς οἴδατε ὅτι ἡμέρα Κυρίου, ὡς κλέπτης ἐν νυκτὶ οὕτως ἔρχεται	1	perfectly well	This verse begins an extended list of contrasting metaphors that continues through verse 8. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exmetaphor]])
1TH	5	2	mcq9	grammar-connect-logic-result	γὰρ	1	perfectly well	This connecting word gives the reason why the Thessalonian Church has no need to have anything written to them about the timing and manner of the Lord’s Second Coming. Alternate translation: “Because” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	5	2	tu9t	figs-idiom	ἡμέρα Κυρίου	1	in this manner—like a thief in the night	This is an idiom that refers to the Old Testament concept of the time of God’s final judgment. This passage makes it clear that **the day of the Lord** is synonymous with “the coming of the Lord” in [2:15](../02/15.md). (See also Acts 2:20; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Peter 3:10). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	2	tmj3	figs-simile	ὡς κλέπτης ἐν νυκτὶ οὕτως ἔρχεται	1	in this manner—like a thief in the night	This simile expresses the unknown timing and exact manner, but certain reality of the Second Coming of the Lord. Alternate translation: “is coming as unexpectedly as a robber at night” or “is going to come so surprisingly” or “is going to happen like this–all of a sudden” (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TH	5	3	p1wi	figs-hypo	ὅταν λέγωσιν, εἰρήνη καὶ ἀσφάλεια	1	When they may say	This clause continues the theme of unexpected timing of the Lord's Coming, by using a hypothetical situation to express the suddenness of the “the day of the Lord.”  Alternate translation: “Whenever they might say, ‘Everything is safe and sound,’” or “At a time when people are saying, ‘All is well,’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1TH	5	3	ne9n	figs-parallelism	τότε αἰφνίδιος αὐτοῖς ἐφίσταται ὄλεθρος	1	then sudden destruction	**sudden destruction** parallels the idea of terror that accompanies a sudden attack by “a thief in the night” [5:2](../05/02.md). Alternate translation: “right then immediate destruction is looming over them” or “at that moment unseen destruction hovers over them” or “then swift destruction attacks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	3	f1xr	figs-simile	ὥσπερ ἡ ὠδὶν τῇ ἐν γαστρὶ ἐχούσῃ; καὶ οὐ μὴ ἐκφύγωσιν	1	like birth pains to the one having in the womb	**like birth pains** is a simile of the suddenness and inescapable nature of God's judgment. Alternate translation: “just as suddenly as labor pains seize a pregnant woman–they can never escape this destruction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TH	5	3	sde2	figs-parallelism	ὥσπερ ἡ ὠδὶν τῇ ἐν γαστρὶ ἐχούσῃ; καὶ οὐ μὴ ἐκφύγωσιν	1	like birth pains to the one having in the womb	**like birth pains** parallels **sudden**, and **destruction** parallels **certainly not escape**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	4	sk6v	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ὑμεῖς δέ	1	you, brothers	**But you** begins a clause that contrasts the destruction of those appointed “to wrath” (See [5:9](../05/09.md)) with the Thessalonian Church who are **not in darkness**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	5	4	rr9j		ἀδελφοί	1	you, brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [5:1](../05/01.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	4	nr5f	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	you, brothers	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH	5	4	b6lv	figs-metaphor	οὐκ ἐστὲ ἐν σκότει	1	are not in darkness	Here **in darkness** is a metaphor for “unaware” or “unprepared” or “living in sin (like a thief)” (See [4:6-8](../0406.md)). Alternate translation: “are not unaware” or “are not unprepared” or “are not living in sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	4	elp9	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἵνα ἡ ἡμέρα ὑμᾶς ὡς κλέπτας καταλάβῃ	1	so that the day might overtake you like a thief	This is a result clause that refers to “**the day** of the Lord.” Alternate translation: “causing the day of the Lord to surprise you in the same way as a thief” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	5	5	zp3z	figs-metaphor	πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς υἱοὶ φωτός ἐστε, καὶ υἱοὶ ἡμέρας	1	For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day	**sons of the light and sons of the day** are metaphors for prepared Christians who will be saved (See [5:8-9](../05/08.md)). This is opposite of those **of the darkness**. See also “those outside” in [4:12](../04/12.md). Alternate translation: “This is because all of you are ready for Christ’s coming” or “Certainly none of you are characterized by ignorance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	5	ilv4	grammar-connect-logic-result	πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς…ἐστε	1	For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day	This reason clause uses an emphatic reflexive pronoun **you** and the inclusive **all* in order to “comfort” the Thessalonians [4:18, 5:11](../04/18.md). Alternate translation: “Certainly all of you are” or “This is because you are all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	5	5	d6fm	figs-metaphor	οὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους	1	We are not of the night nor of the darkness	**night** and **darkness** are metaphors for “ignorant,” “unprepared,” or “sin" (See [5:4](../05/04.md). Alternate translation: “We are not characterized by spiritual ignorance” or “We are not unprepared like those who live in the darkness, like those at night” or “we do not live like those who are characterized by sinful activities” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	5	5	kq0x	figs-exclusive	ἐσμὲν	1	We are not of the night nor of the darkness	**we** is inclusive of all Christians in [5:5-5:10](../05/05.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	5	6	paqf	grammar-connect-logic-result	 ἄρα οὖν	1	we might keep watch and be sober	This phrase indicates as strong emphatic reason clause. Alternate translation: “This is the reason why,” or “As a result,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	5	6	d2aj	figs-metaphor	μὴ καθεύδωμεν ὡς οἱ λοιποί	1	we might keep watch and be sober	Here, **sleep** is used as a metaphor for “unprepared” or “unaware” (See note at [5:4](../05/04.md)). **the rest** refers to non-Christians: “those outside” in [4:12](../04/12.md), those “in darkness” in [5:4](../05/04.md), those “of the night and of the darkness” in [5:5](../05/05.md). Alternate translation: “we must not be unprepared like non-Christians” or “we must not remain spiritually unaware like the rest of humanity” or “let us not be like others, who are not aware that Jesus is coming back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	5	6	on3d	figs-metaphor	μὴ καθεύδωμεν…γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν	1	we might keep watch and be sober	These verbs can be translated in three main ways: 1) Commands. Alternate translation: “we must not sleep … we must keep watch and be sober” 2) Suggestions/Obligations. Alternate translation: “we should not sleep … we should keep watch and we should be sober” 3) Appeals. Alternate translation: “let us not sleep … let us keep watch and let us be sober” 
1TH	5	6	q33e	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ	1	we might not sleep	This is a contrast clause. Alternate translation: “however” or “instead” or “on the contrary” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	5	6	sdww	figs-metaphor	γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν	1	we might not sleep	The metaphor of spiritual preparedness and awareness continues with the phrase **keep watch and be sober**. Alternate translation: “instead, we must stay spiritually alert and prepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	5	6	r8cx	figs-activepassive	γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν	1	we might not sleep	If it your language does not contain passive verbs, you change them into active forms. Alternate translation: “we must stay attentive and aware” or “let us remain alert and prepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	5	7	s253	figs-metaphor	οἱ γὰρ καθεύδοντες, νυκτὸς καθεύδουσιν	1	For those who are sleeping, sleep at night	Here again, like in [5:6](../05/06.md), **sleep** is used as a metaphor for “unprepared” or “unaware” or even “sinful” (see also note at [5:4](../05/04.md). Here, this is combined with the metaphor of **night** [5:2](../05/02.md). This verb forms also conveys habitual or repeated activity. Alternate translation: “Because those who are sleep are unaware” or “Certainly those who are asleep are unprepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	5	7	exa8	figs-metaphor	οἱ μεθυσκόμενοι, νυκτὸς μεθύουσιν	1	those who are getting drunk, get drunk at night	Again, the metaphor of “unprepared” or “unaware” is compared to “drunkenness.” So, here, **sleeping** and **getting drunk** are metaphorical synonyms. Both verbs indicate a repeated or habitual practice. Alternate translation: “those who are drunk are unaware” or “Certainly those who are drunk are unprepared” or “those who drink too much alcohol, do it at night” or “alcoholics tend to get drunk at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	8	wh3g	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	 ἡμεῖς δὲ ἡμέρας ὄντες, νήφωμεν	1	we, being of the day	This contrasting clause concludes this section’s main theme of **day** (See first note at [5:2](../05/02.md) and emphasizes the previous term **sober** [5:6](../05/06.md) as a contrast to “getting drunk.” Alternate translation: However, since we are ready for Christ's coming, we must stay prepared” or “Instead, because we are ready, let us remain aware” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	5	8	i8j1	figs-exclusive	ἡμεῖς	1	might stay sober	Here, **we** is inclusive of all Christians (See note at [4:17, 5:5](../04/17.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	5	8	iv63	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	νήφωμεν	1	we, being of the day	This verb can be translated in three main ways (see your translation at [5:6](../05/06.md): 1) Command. Alternate translation: “we must remain sober” 2) Strong Suggestion/Obligation. Alternate translation: “we should remain sober” 3) Appeal. Alternate translation: “let us remain sober” 
1TH	5	8	jqqo	figs-metaphor	ἡμέρας ὄντες	1	we, being of the day	**being of the day** could refer to: 1) Belonging. Alternate translation: “belong to Christ” or “are part of those who are ready for Christ's coming” 2) Character. (See your translation at [5:5](../05/05.md). Alternate translation: “This is because all of you are ready for Christ’s coming” or “Certainly none of you are characterized by ignorance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH	5	8	ev6i	figs-metaphor	ἐνδυσάμενοι θώρακα πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ περικεφαλαίαν, ἐλπίδα σωτηρίας	1	having put on the breastplate of faith and of love	The military metaphor of **breastplate** and **helmet** reinforces that **sober** refers to readiness. As a soldier must equip himself with armor in order to be ready to fight, so the Christian must prepare himself for the Second Coming of Christ with spiritual protection (See also Ephesians 6:10-18,23). Alternate translation: “having equipped ourselves with faithfulness and love, like a soldier wears a breastplate; and having put on the confidence of salvation, like a helmet” or “by arming ourselves with faithful love, as with a breastplate; and salvation's confident assurance, as with a helmet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	8	l89q	figs-possession	πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης…σωτηρίας	1	having put on the breastplate of faith and of love	Here is a reference to three things that “remain: faith, hope, love” (1 Corinthians 13:13). These genitive phrases **of faith and of love … of salvation** can refer to: 1) Means. Alternate translation: “through faith … love … salvation” 2) Source. Alternate translation: “from faith … love … salvation” 3) Association. Alternate translation: “associated with faith … love … salvation” or “that is characterized by faith … love … salvation” 4) Attribute. Alternate translation: “of faithful love … salvation's hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	5	9	sgu8	figs-activepassive	ὅτι οὐκ ἔθετο ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς εἰς ὀργὴν, ἀλλὰ εἰς περιποίησιν σωτηρίας διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ,	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	If your language does not have passive forms, you could make this verse active, and add a sentence. Alternate translation: “Because God did not destine us for wrath. Actually, God destined that our Lord Jesus Christ would preserve and save us.” or “Certainly, God did not determine to punish us. Instead, he determined that our Lord Jesus Christ would protect and save us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	5	9	lrx6	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὅτι	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	Here, **For** signals a reason clause. Alternate translation: “This is because” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])<br>
1TH	5	9	h5y2	figs-abstractnouns	ὅτι οὐκ ἔθετο ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς εἰς ὀργὴν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	Here, **wrath** is an abstract noun referring to God's future and final Judgment. See your translation of **wrath** at [1:10, 2:16](../01/10/.md). If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate this phrase with a verb form. Alternate translation: “This is because God did not determine that he would judge us” or “Certainly, God did not destine to punish us” (See: [What is the “second coming” of Jesus?](../front/intro.md))(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	5	9	y7bg	figs-exclusive	ἡμᾶς 	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	Here, **us** is inclusive of all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	5	9	qmo5	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This contrast clause emphasizes the impossibility of God' people experiencing final judgment. Alternate translation: “but actually” or “instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH	5	9	ea58	figs-parallelism	εἰς περιποίησιν σωτηρίας	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This clause reinforces the impossibility of Christians experiencing God's final **wrath**, and parallels the language of [5:8](../05/08.md). This word translated **to obtain** is a noun that literally means “placed around,” echoing the language of “helmet.” So then, **to obtain** and “hope” are parallels describing **salvation** in both verses. Alternate translation: “for possession of salvation” or “for preserving salvation” or “for the protection of salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	9	qfcf	figs-possession	περιποίησιν σωτηρίας	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This genitive phrase expresses possession. Alternate translation: “possession of salvation” or “acquiring of salvation” or “preserving of salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	5	9	ytdm	grammar-connect-time-sequential	εἰς περιποίησιν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase could refer to destination. Alternate translation: “leading to the obtaining of” or “towards possession of” or “toward preserving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
1TH	5	9	m8y1	grammar-connect-logic-result	εἰς περιποίησιν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “with the result of the possession of” or “causing us to obtain” or “so then preserving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]) 
1TH	5	9	c8t7	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς περιποίησιν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of possessing” or “in order to obtain” or “so that we preserve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	5	9	reki	translate-textvariants	Χριστοῦ	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	A number of ancient manuscripts omit **Christ**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	5	10	arhm	figs-distinguish	τοῦ ἀποθανόντος περὶ ἡμῶν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This relative clause gives the guarantee that we will “obtain salvation,” because Jesus **died for us**. Alternate translation: “he died for our sake” or “he died on our behalf” or “he died on our in place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH	5	10	dzq0	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν, ἅμα σὺν αὐτῷ ζήσωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that … we would live together with him” or “in order that … we could both live together with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH	5	10	j2ye	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἵνα εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν, ἅμα σὺν αὐτῷ ζήσωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “resulting in the fact that … we will live together with him” or “. So then, … we will both live together with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	5	10	w59c	figs-euphemism	εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	**awake or asleep** is likely a euphemism that refers to “the dead and the living.” The previous use of **asleep** refers to those “appointed to wrath,” so it would not make sense to have the same meaning here. Alternate translation: “whether alive or dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1TH	5	10	q3oy	figs-metaphor	εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This could also be continuing the metaphor of spiritual alertness or sleepiness. See [5:6](../05/05.md)) where the same words have this meaning. Here, it would indicate that since Christ **died for us**, we are assured “to obtain salvation” [5:9](..05/09.md). Alternate translation: “even if we are spiritually alert or groggy” or “whether we are prepared or caught unaware” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	10	lrxs	figs-parallelism	ἅμα σὺν αὐτῷ ζήσωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase echoes the language of [4:17](../04/17.md), indicating that this life **together with him** is eternal life. Here, **for us** parallels **together with him** to express union with Christ as communion with his people. Alternate translation: “we would both live eternally with him” or “both the living and dead will live forever with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	11	r921	grammar-connect-words-phrases	διὸ παρακαλεῖτε ἀλλήλους, καὶ οἰκοδομεῖτε εἷς τὸν ἕνα, καθὼς καὶ ποιεῖτε	1	build up one the other	**Therefore** indicates the conclusion of this section about “the day of the Lord,” echoing and expanding on the closing exhortation and exact phrase **comfort one another** found in [4:18](../04/18.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	5	11	m2c9	figs-doublet	διὸ παρακαλεῖτε ἀλλήλους, καὶ οἰκοδομεῖτε εἷς τὸν ἕνα, καθὼς καὶ ποιεῖτε	1	build up one the other	This verse uses a doublet to make an emphatic appeal to the Thessalonian Church. **comfort one another** is similar to **build up one the other**. **just as** is a common emphatic phrase in this letter (See [4:1](../04/01.md)). Alternate translation: “So then, keep encouraging each other and edifying one another, exactly as you are now doing” or “This is why you must keep consoling each other and confirming each one, doing it just as you are now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]]) 
1TH	5	11	fx2f	figs-idiom	οἰκοδομεῖτε	1	build up one the other	**build up** is an idiom that refers to spiritual strengthening or a metaphor that compares building a house to strengthening another person's faithfulness. Alternate translation: “keep supporting” or “continue to confirm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	11	kdae	figs-idiom	εἷς τὸν ἕνα	1	build up one the other	The phrase translated **one the other** literally means “one the one.” It is an idiom that means “each and every one” or “each one” or “one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	12	pd47	grammar-connect-words-phrases	δὲ	1	General Information:	This connecting word indicates the final section of instructions from the apostles. Alternate translation: “Finally” or “But” or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	5	12	jeeb	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ἐρωτῶμεν δὲ ὑμᾶς	1	General Information:	Here, **we ask you** is a final appeal to the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “Now we appeal to you” or “But we urge you” (See [4:1](../04/01.md) for a similar phrase).
1TH	5	12	rka4		ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [5:4](../05/04.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	12	xnnz	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) 
1TH	5	12	ksp2		εἰδέναι 	1	to acknowledge those who are laboring	In [5:12-13](../05/12/.md) the verb forms **to know** and “to regard” are used twice to urge the Thessalonian Church to submit to their leaders. Alternate translation: “to acknowledge the authority of” or “to recognize the authority” 
1TH	5	12	fqh3	figs-merism	τοὺς κοπιῶντας ἐν ὑμῖν, καὶ προϊσταμένους ὑμῶν ἐν Κυρίῳ, καὶ νουθετοῦντας ὑμᾶς	1	leading you in the Lord	This clause is merism that expresses different functions or categories for the same group of leaders: working, leading, training. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1TH	5	12	f4jv	figs-idiom	ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	leading you in the Lord	Here, the idiom **in the Lord** indicates that the Thessalonian Church must **acknowledge** these leaders because they are authorized by Lord Jesus himself (See also [4:1](../04/01.md). Alternate translation: “with their authority from the Lord Jesus” or “as spokespersons of the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]]) 
1TH	5	12	zlqn		νουθετοῦντας	1	leading you in the Lord	The word translated **admonishing** literally means “placing in mind” or “putting within the perceptions.” In essence, it refers to all the aspects of spiritual instruction. Alternate translation: “instructing” or “training” or “warning” or “disciplining”<br>
1TH	5	13	c966	figs-parallelism	καὶ ἡγεῖσθαι αὐτοὺς ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ, διὰ τὸ ἔργον αὐτῶν	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This verse uses intensified parallelism [5:12](../05/12.md), by adding **highly in love**. **to regard** parallels “to acknowledge,” **because of their work** parallels “laboring.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	13	jq0o	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ ἡγεῖσθαι αὐτοὺς ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ, διὰ τὸ ἔργον αὐτῶν	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Because of their work for you, we also ask you to regard them highly in love” or “Since they work so hard for you, we also urge you to show them the highest honor out of love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	5	13	qcw4		καὶ ἡγεῖσθαι αὐτοὺς ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This phrase uses double emphasis. The word translated **regard** is meant to be a pun for leadership. The apostles are urging the Thessalonian Church “to lead the way” by their “excessive love” for their leaders. Alternate translation: “and to continue to model for them how to abundantly love” or “and to keep showing them the highest honor in love” or “and to lovingly demonstrate the utmost consideration”
1TH	5	13	p6m4		ἐν ἀγάπῃ	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This phrase could refer to: 1) Means. Alternate translation: “with love” 2) Association. Alternate translation: “in the communion of love” 3) Basis. Alternate translation: “on the basis of love” or “from love”
1TH	5	13	rqs8	figs-imperative	εἰρηνεύετε ἐν ἑαυτοῖς	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here is the first of seventeen final appeals that apostles give the Thessalonian Church in [5:13-26](../05/13.md). **Be at peace** is an imperative, but the previous use of “we ask” in [5:12](../05/12.md) and following use of “we exhort” in [5:14](../05/14.md) communicate polite requests rather than a command. You could use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. **among yourselves** refers to the Thessalonian Church at its leaders. Alternate translation: “Continue to live at peace with your leaders” or “Reconcile with each other” or (See UST)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH	5	14	tdxa	grammar-connect-words-phrases	παρακαλοῦμεν δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί,	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This phrase signals the apostles’ final appeals to the Thessalonian Church. Since there are fourteen commands in this section [5:14-22](../05/14.md), you could use a marker from your language to indicate this final section. Alternate translation: “Now, we urge you, fellow believers in Christ:” See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH	5	14	qadb	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	See notes at [5:12](../05/12.md) about **brothers**.
1TH	5	14	lajk	figs-litany	νουθετεῖτε τοὺς ἀτάκτους, παραμυθεῖσθε τοὺς ὀλιγοψύχους, ἀντέχεσθε τῶν ἀσθενῶν, μακροθυμεῖτε πρὸς πάντας	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here begins a litany of commands that extends through [5:22](../05/22). It most likely is addressed to the leaders spoken of in [5:12-13](../05/12.md). All of these verbs indicate an emphasis of characteristic or repeated action. If your language makes this distinction, you could indicate this emphasis in your translation. Alternate translation: “Keep admonishing … toward all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH	5	15	oz10	figs-parallelism	ὁρᾶτε μή τις κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ τινι ἀποδῷ, ἀλλὰ πάντοτε τὸ ἀγαθὸν διώκετε, καὶ εἰς ἀλλήλους καὶ εἰς πάντας	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This verse uses contrasting parallelism: **pay back evil for evil** contrasts **pursue good**, **no one** contrasts **always**. This verse also uses synonymous parallelism: **to anyone** is similar to **both for one another and for all**. If this parallelism is unclear in your language, you could make it emphatic. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	15	vlp7	figs-idiom	ὁρᾶτε μή τις κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ τινι ἀποδῷ	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here, **See that** is an idiom for commanding attention. Alternate translation: “Be certain that no one repays evil in place of evil” or “It is forbidden for anyone to pay back evil instead of evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	15	pe3l	figs-merism	καὶ εἰς ἀλλήλους καὶ εἰς πάντας	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here, **both for one another and for all** is used as a way to emphasize the whole human race (See how you translated this phrase in [3:12](../03/12.md). If **both for one another and for all** would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “for everyone” or “for each and every person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1TH	5	15	mc2z	figs-hyperbole	πάντοτε	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here, **always** could be using a hyperbole to express emphasis. Alternate translation: “constantly” or “habitually” or “make every effort to” or (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	5	16	chw9	figs-hyperbole	πάντοτε	1	Rejoice always	Here again, **always** could be using a hyperbole to express emphasis. Alternate translation: “constantly” or “habitually” or “make every effort to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	5	17	l63i	figs-hyperbole	ἀδιαλείπτως προσεύχεσθε	1	Pray without ceasing	Here, **without ceasing** could be using a hyperbole to express emphasis. Alternate translation: “Keep praying regularly” or “Continue to habitually pray” or “Be in a prayerful state” or “Retain a prayerful state of mind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH	5	18	bt5q		ἐν παντὶ εὐχαριστεῖτε	1	In everything	Here, **in everything** could refer to: 1) Situation/Circumstance. Alternate translation: “In every situation give thanks” or “In every circumstance be thankful” or “No matter what happens offer thanks to God” 2) Time. Alternate translation: “At every time give thanks” or “In every moment be thankful” 3) Both. Alternate translation: “In every situation and moment”
1TH	5	18	z9gg	figs-infostructure	ἐν παντὶ εὐχαριστεῖτε	1	In everything give thanks	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “Continue to give thanks in everything” or “Keep giving thanks at every time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1TH	5	18	q7gn	grammar-connect-logic-result	τοῦτο γὰρ θέλημα Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	for this is the will of God	This is a reason clause. Alternate translation: “Because this is God's will for you who are united to Christ Jesus” or “Certainly, this very thing is God's will for you who are in union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])<br>
1TH	5	18	l3sk	grammar-collectivenouns	τοῦτο γὰρ θέλημα Θεοῦ	1	for this is the will of God	**this** emphasizes what **is the will of God**. **this** refers either to **in everything give thanks** or all the commands in [5:14-18](../05/14.md). See your translation of **the will of God** at [4:3](../04/03.md). Alternate translation: “In fact, this is God's will” or “Certainly, this very thing is God's will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])<br>
1TH	5	18	sw8b	figs-abstractnouns	θέλημα Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	for this is the will of God	If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “God desires that you live like those who are in union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH	5	19	j1ei	figs-metaphor	τὸ Πνεῦμα μὴ σβέννυτε	1	Do not quench the Spirit	**quench** is a metaphor comparing the **Spirit** to a breath or wind that can be snuffed out. Alternate translation: “Do not extinguish the Spirit” or “Do not reject the Spirit” or (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	19	sv8r	figs-litotes	μὴ σβέννυτε	1	Do not quench the Spirit	If **do not quench** would be misunderstood in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “Continue to kindle the Spirit” or “Keep working along with the Spirit” or “Be fervent in the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1TH	5	19	lqc3	figs-explicit	τὸ Πνεῦμα	1	Do not quench the Spirit	The phrase translated **the Spirit** is assumed to refer to “the Holy **Spirit**” (See [4:8](../04/08.md). Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit” or “the Spirit of God” or “God’s Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	5	20	iv1n		προφητείας μὴ ἐξουθενεῖτε	1	Do not despise prophecies	This could refer to: 1) The content of “quench the Spirit.” Alternate translation: “Do not despise prophecies from the Spirit” 2) A separate issue within the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “Do not revile prophecies” or “Do not scorn prophetic messages”
1TH	5	21	wx69	figs-metaphor	πάντα δοκιμάζετε	1	Test all things	**all things** refers to “prophecies” [5:20](../05/21.md). (See [2:4](../02/04.md) for the word translated **test** as “approved” used in the same context). Here, **test** is a metaphor comparing “prophecies” to metal tested for purity in a refiner's fire. If you have an equivalent metaphor from your culture, you could use it. Alternate translation: “Examine and approve all prophecies” or “Test and examine all prophetic messages” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	21	qgay	translate-textvariants	πάντα δοκιμάζετε; τὸ καλὸν κατέχετε	1	Test all things	Many ancient manuscripts add a contrasting “But” at the beginning of this verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	5	21	n1jv	figs-metaphor	τὸ καλὸν κατέχετε	1	Test all things	Here, “prophecies” are spoken of as **what {is} good**, compared to objects that someone could hold in his hands. Alternate translation: “Hold on tight to a genuine prophecy from the Spirit” or “Keep only the good prophecies” or “Clutch whatever prophecies are excellent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH	5	22	bm8l	figs-parallelism	ἀπὸ παντὸς εἴδους πονηροῦ ἀπέχεσθε	1	Test all things	This verse is a contrasting parallel to [5:21](../05/21.md). **Stay away** is the opposite of “Hold fast,” **all** parallels “all things,” **appearance of evil** is opposite of “what is good.” Alternate translation: “Hold back from accepting any prophecy that appears wicked” or “Don't hold on tight to any prophecy that appears false” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	22	z9k0	figs-personification	παντὸς εἴδους πονηροῦ	1	Test all things	**appearance** is used to personify prophecy as if someone or something that can be seen. If **appearance** might be misunderstood by your readers, you could express **appearance** in clear terms. Alternate translation: “all apparently evil prophecies” or “all obvious evil prophecies” or “any clearly wicked prophecies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH	5	23	mqi7	translate-blessing	 δὲ…ἁγιάσαι…τηρηθείη	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	The verbs **may sanctify … be kept** indicate that this is a final blessing or prayer section. You could use a form that people would recognize as a blessing or prayer in your language. Alternate translation: “Now I pray, … would cause you to be set apart as those who belong to him … be guarded” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]]) 
1TH	5	23	ozyh	figs-parallelism	ἁγιάσαι ὑμᾶς ὁλοτελεῖς, καὶ ὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα, ἀμέμπτως…τηρηθείη	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	Here, the words translated **completely** and **entire** have parallel forms and meanings. **sanctify** parallels **be kept blamelessly**. See also [3:13](../03/13.md) for a parallel passage. Alternate translation: “may … fully preserve you as his people to the end, and may every part of you be protected” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	23	sbxc	figs-possession	ὁ Θεὸς τῆς εἰρήνης	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	**the God of peace** is a title for God found in the New Testament (See Romans 15:33; 16:20; Philippians 4:9; Hebrews 13:20). **the God of peace** can refer to: 1) God's character. Alternate translation: “the God who is characterized by peace” 2) What God does. Alternate translation: “the God who gives peace” 3) Both. Alternate translation: (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH	5	23	nb1x	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸς 	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	**himself** is used to emphasize the urgency of the apostles’ prayer or blessing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	5	23	vkhs	figs-activepassive	ὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα, ἀμέμπτως…τηρηθείη.	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	The passive verb form **may be … kept** indicates God is one who is being asked to complete the action. The word translated **may ... be kept** also indicates a strong desire or hope. Alternate translation: “O that ... would be kept” or “may ... be guarded blamelessly” or “may ... be protected blamelessly” or “may ... be preserved blamelessly”. You could also change this phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “may God make your whole life sinless” or “may God keep you completely blameless” or (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	5	23	s36k		ὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	Here, the concepts **your entire spirit, and soul, and body** represent the whole person. If your language does not have three words for these concepts you can state it as “your whole life” “your entire life” or “all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1TH	5	23	nyma	figs-idiom	ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	Here, the word translated **coming** is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ [4:15](../04/15.md) or the “Day of the Lord” [5:2](../05/02.md). It literally means, “presence” or “being with or near.” Here, **coming** expresses “presence,” so the emphasis is on the lasting presence of the Lord Jesus (see also Matthew 24). The definite article **the** indicates either the one and only Coming of the Lord, or the well-known Coming of the Lord. Alternate translation: or “when the Lord Jesus Christ presents himself” or “at the arrival of the Lord Jesus Christ” or “when our Lord Jesus Christ arrives”  (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	24	vx20		πιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς, ὃς καὶ ποιήσει	1	Faithful is he who calls you	This statement concludes the blessing of [5:23](../05/23.md).
1TH	5	24	mq2u	figs-parallelism	πιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς	1	Faithful is he who calls you	This verse specifically parallels the language of [4:7](../04/07.md) and also [2:12](../02/12.md). Alternate translation: “The faithful God keeps summoning you to complete sanctification” or “The trustworthy God is inviting you to completely belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH	5	24	i03k	grammar-connect-logic-result	πιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς, ὃς καὶ ποιήσει	1	who will also do it	Here, **who will also do it** is the reason of result clause. If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Because God is faithful, he will also completely sanctify you” or “Since God is trustworthy, he will also accomplish your complete sanctification” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH	5	24	j08v	figs-ellipsis	ὁ καλῶν	1	Faithful is he who calls you	This is an example of relative ellipsis, where the presumed reference is “the God of peace” in [5:23](../05/23.md). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “God who calls” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH	5	24	c3jg	figs-rpronouns	ὃς	1	who will also do it	The pronoun **who** refers to **he**, and emphasizes the faithfulness of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH	5	25	q8ki	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	General Information:	Throughout this letter, **brothers** is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” [5:14](../05/14.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])<br>
1TH	5	25	qa1c	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom **brothers** includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]]) <br>
1TH	5	25	b7w3	figs-imperative	προσεύχεσθε	1	brothers	**pray** is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please pray” or “We ask you to pray” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH	5	25	i5yv	translate-textvariants	καὶ	1	brothers	Some ancient manuscripts omit “also” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	5	25	tbhj	figs-exclusive	ἡμῶν	1	brothers	Here, **us** refers exclusively to the apostles. Your language may require you to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “us apostles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH	5	26	j46q	figs-imperative	ἀσπάσασθε	1	brothers	**Greet** is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. Alternate translation: “Make it your habit to greet” or “Make it your practice to greet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH	5	26	dwl8	figs-idiom	τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς πάντας	1	brothers	Here, **all the brothers** is an idiom that refers to the whole Thessalonian Church–and by extension–all Christians. Alternate translation: “all believers in Christ” or “all Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	26	v9iy	figs-explicit	ἐν φιλήματι ἁγίῳ	1	brothers	**a holy kiss** is a reference to a symbolic greeting of Christian affection that the Thessalonian Church would have understood. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	5	26	jhvi		φιλήματι ἁγίῳ	1	brothers	This letter's theme of holiness is reinforced by calling it a **holy kiss**. Alternate translation: “a kiss shared by those who belong to God” or “a kiss that shows that you belong to God's people”
1TH	5	27	xn0n	writing-oathformulas	ἐνορκίζω ὑμᾶς τὸν Κύριον	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	The phrase **I solemnly charge you by the Lord** is an oath formula. If you have a term or phrase that would be most natural in your language to express an oath in this context, consider using that. Alternate translation: “I put you under oath to the Lord that this read this letter must be read” or “I implore you by the Lord to read this letter” or “You must swear an oath to the Lord that you will read this letter” or “You must make a vow to the Lord that you will read this letter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformulas]])
1TH	5	27	n5cn	figs-explicit	ἀναγνωσθῆναι τὴν ἐπιστολὴν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	**to have this letter read** indicates the content of the **charge** **by the Lord**. The assumption is that this letter would be read out loud by someone in the local church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH	5	27	yp7e	figs-activepassive	ἀναγνωσθῆναι τὴν ἐπιστολὴν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	If your language does not contain passive verbs, you could change it to an active verb. Alternate translation: “to make sure you read this letter out loud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH	5	27<br><br>	fyc7		πᾶσιν τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	Here, **all the brothers** is an idiom that refers to the whole Thessalonian Church–and by extension–all Christians (See [5:26](../05/26.md). Alternate translation: “to the whole church at Thessalonica” or “to all believers in Christ” or “to all Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH	5	27<br><br>	ojue	translate-textvariants	πᾶσιν τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	Many ancient manuscripts read “**all the** holy **brothers**” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
1TH	5	28	ykkr	translate-blessing	ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μεθ’ ὑμῶν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	This is a blessing formula. You should use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May our Lord Jesus Christ show you his kindness” or “May the favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be among you all” or “I pray that the Lord Jesus Christ will give all of you his favor” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
1TH	5	28	d35d	translate-textvariants	μεθ’ ὑμῶν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	Many ancient manuscripts add “Amen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])