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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 apostle Paul, along with Silvanus and Timothy, encourages and makes appeals to the Thessalonian Church (See: rc://en/tw/bible/names/thessalonica.md). Paul is the spokesman for all of them, using “we” to refer to the group, but in certain places Paul speaks for himself using “I” (See [2:18](../02/18.md); 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 wrote 1 Thessalonians, with the agreement of 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,” the name used in the book of Acts, is a contracted form of Silvanus and considered to be the same person. Timothy was leader of the church at Ephesus (see 1 Timothy 1:1-4). Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth with these two men. The mention of all three men in 1:1 indicates they were in Thessalonica together at some point. Many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter that 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, after the Jews in the city forced him to leave. 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). Paul wrote it. In this letter Paul 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>In this letter, the doctrine of the Holy Trinity finds solid support. The terms: God, Father, Son, Lord, Jesus, and Holy Spirit appear numerous times. (See: rc://en/tw/bible/kt/god.md)<br><br>### The Gospel<br><br>In this letter, Paul frequently refers to the apostles' ministry of the gospel and uses different phrases to communicate the concept of God's good news about Jesus Christ. (See: rc://en/tw/bible/kt/goodnews.md)<br><br>### Prayer<br><br>Paul reassures the Thessalonians that his group of apostles frequently prays for them (See [1:2](../01/02.md). He also gives instructions about prayer (See [5:2](../05/17.md), and asks the Thessalonians to pray for them (See [5:25](../05/25.md)). (See: rc://en/tw/bible/kt/pray.md)<br><br>### Faith and Faithfulness<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>### Apostolic authority<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>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What did Paul 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 union between God and Christians that includes all three persons of the Trinity. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about these kind of expressions.<br><br>### What did Paul mean by expressions like “his coming” and “the coming of the Lord Jesus” and “the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ”?<br><br>Paul used “coming” in a specific way in relation to Jesus Christ to refer to the time when he will come again to earth, this time displaying his glory and power and gathering his people to himself. Depending on the nuances of your language, you may need to translate this with a special concept or word.<br><br>### What did Paul mean by expressions like “the word of God” or “the word of the Lord”?<br><br>Throughout this letter, Paul uses these well-known phrases or abbreviations to refer to the Gospel message.<br><br>### What did Paul mean by expressions like “brothers”?<br><br>Throughout this letter, “brothers” is a metaphor that that refers to all believers, including females. (See [1:4](../01/04.md); 2:1, 9, 14, 17; 3:7; 4:1, 6, 10, 13; 5:1, 4, 12, 14, 26, 27)<br><br>### Major textual issues in the text of the book of First Thessalonians<br><br>When ancient manuscripts of the Bible differ, ULT puts the reading that scholars consider to be the most accurate in its text, but it puts other possibly accurate readings in footnotes. The introductions to each chapter will discuss places where the ancient manuscripts differ in significant ways, and notes will address those places again where they occur in the book. If a translation of the Bible already exists in your region, consider using the readings found in that version. If not, we recommend that you follow the readings in the ULT text. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants)<br><br>* “Grace and peace to you” (See [1:1](../01/01.md)). Some other manuscripts read: “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”<br>* “but we became little children in the midst of you, as if a mother might comfort her own children” (See [2:7](../02/07.md)). Some other manuscripts read, “Instead, we were as gentle among you as a mother comforting her own children.” <br>* “Timothy, our brother and a servant of God” (See [3:2](../03/02.md)). Some other manuscripts read: “Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for 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. The way that they responded with faith to the gospel message even in affliction and then preached that gospel to others made them examples to the churches throughout the regions of Macedonia and Achaia.<br><br>### Faithfulness<br><br>Paul mentions the faithfulness of the Thessalonian church throughout this chapter. See, for example, “work of faith” in 1:3, “example to all those who believe” in 1:7, and “faith toward God” in 1:8.<br><br>
1TH 1 1 ms5e figs-ellipsis Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church Here, some words are omitted that a sentence would need in order to be complete in many languages. Alternate translation: “We are Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, writing to the church” (See rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)
1TH 1 1 zivb figs-explicit Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος 1 Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church Paul is understood to be the author of this letter. Silvanus and Timothy are with him as he writes and are in agreement with what he writes. If that might not be understood in your language, you could include this information in your translation. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, together with Silvanus and Timothy, write” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 1 1 r7n0 translate-names Σιλουανὸς 1 Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church The name **Silvanus** is a longer form of the name **Silas**, the form of the name used for this same man in the book of Acts. You could choose to use the shorter form here, as well, or you could choose to use the longer form here and include a footnote explaining that they are forms of the same name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
1TH 1 1 z7wu figs-metaphor ἐν Θεῷ Πατρὶ καὶ Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστῷ 1 Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church Here, Paul speaks figuratively of the believers as though they were occupying space inside of God and Jesus. This metaphor expresses the idea that believers are spiritually united to God and Jesus. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you can express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation: “united to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” or “sharing life with God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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**. Be sure to accurately translate these titles in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])<br><br>
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). Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing that could be used as a greeting in your language. Alternate translation: “May God give you his grace and peace” or “I pray that God shows you favor and keeps you safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
1TH 1 1 qx70 translate-blessing χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη 1 Grace and peace to you The words **grace** and **peace** are abstract nouns. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with verbs or description words. If so, you can use them in your translation. Alternate translation: “We pray that God will treat you kindly and give you peaceful relationships.” Also see the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
1TH 1 1 nn67 figs-you ὑμῖν 1 to you Throughout this letter, the word **you** is plural and refers to the church of Thessalonica, unless otherwise noted. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you)<br>
1TH 1 2 of3g figs-infostructure εὐχαριστοῦμεν…ποιούμενοι 1 In this verse, Paul describes the apostles’ prayers for the Thessalonians in two clauses. The first clause is specific, that they **give thanks to God**, and the second is general, that they **make mention** of them. If it would be clearer in your language you can reverse the order of the clauses. See the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)<br>
1TH 1 2 o7cp figs-hyperbole πάντοτε…μνείαν ποιούμενοι ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν ἡμῶν, ἀδιαλείπτως 1 Here, the words **always** and **continually** are exaggerations that figuratively express the intensity and frequency of the prayers offered up to God by Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy for the Thessalonians. If your language would not use exaggeration in this way, use plain language and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We regularly give thanks to God for all of you, very often making mention of you in our prayers” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole)<br>
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. Throughout the letter, **we** and **our** is used to convey that all three are in agreement with the letter. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive)<br>
1TH 1 3 ecw0 figs-idiom μνημονεύοντες 1 The main verb of this sentence is “we give thanks” (See [1:2](../01/02.md)). The phrase **remembering…before our God and Father** is an idiom that also means to thank God in prayer. The apostles are remembering these things about the Thessalonians and thanking God for them. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could move the phrase **before our God and Father** to follow **remembering**. Alternate translation: “offering thanks for…to our God and Father” or “gratefully mentioning to our God and Father” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom)<br>
1TH 1 3 w769 figs-possession τοῦ ἔργου τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τοῦ κόπου τῆς ἀγάπης, καὶ τῆς ὑπομονῆς τῆς ἐλπίδος 1 Paul uses three pairs of words in a possessive relationship here. The most likely meaning of this possessive relationship is that the second word of each pair is the motivation for the first word of the pair. Alternate translation: “work motivated by faith and labor because of love and endurance based on future promises” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession)<br>
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 kr8q figs-possession τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 The words **hope in our Lord Jesus Christ** is a possessive form. The relationship between **our Lord Jesus Christ** and **hope** could be: 1) Jesus is the object of hope. Alternate translation: “that our Lord Jesus Christ will do what he has promised” 2) Jesus is the source of hope. Alternate translation: “that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession)<br>
1TH 1 3 tvrg figs-hendiadys τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our God and Father** refers to the one divine person who is both God and Father. This phrase is a hendiadys, since Father further describes God. Alternate translation: “God our Father” or “our Father God” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys)<br>
1TH 1 3 v01e figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 Here, **our** refers to Paul, Silvanus, Timothy, and the Thessalonian church. All believers are the spiritual children of God the Father through Jesus. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive)
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-metaphor ἀδελφοὶ 1 brothers Throughout this letter, **brothers** is a metaphor meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ.” If your readers would not understand what **brothers** means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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-abstractnouns καὶ ὑμεῖς μιμηταὶ ἡμῶν ἐγενήθητε καὶ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 you became imitators If your language would not use a noun for the idea behind **imitators**, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. 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-abstractnouns)<br>
1TH 1 6 kgjr figs-rpronouns ὑμεῖς 1 you became imitators The word translated **you** is in a position that gives it special emphasis as a new topic. Use a natural way in your language to show that Paul is now going to talk about the Thessalonians. Alternate translation: “on your part, you” or “you yourselves” <br>
1TH 1 6 b607 figs-explicit τοῦ Κυρίου 1 **Lord** here refers to Jesus, as in [1:3](../01/03.md). If it would be helpful to your readers, you can include the name here. See the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)<br>
1TH 1 6 cl6r figs-activepassive δεξάμενοι τὸν λόγον ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου 1 having received the word The Thessalonian Church shows its “imitation” of Paul, Silvanus, Timothy, and the Lord Jesus in the way they received **the word**. Alternate translation: “you received the gospel message enduring deep distress, while the Holy Spirit caused you to rejoice”
1TH 1 6 w222 grammar-connect-logic-contrast μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου 1 If it is natural in your language, you may want to indicate a contrast between this phrase and the one before it. Alternate translation: “In spite of that, you had joy from the Holy Spirit” or “even so, the Holy Spirit caused you to be joyful” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast)<br>
1TH 1 6 c2hl figs-metonymy τὸν λόγον 1 Here, **the word** figuratively represents a message that is made up of words. It refers to the same message called “our gospel” in [1:5](../01/05.md). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “the gospel message” or “God's message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])<br>
1TH 1 6 wura figs-abstractnouns ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ 1 If your language would not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **hardship**, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “while you were deeply distressed” or “as people made you suffer” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)<br>
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 (See 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 If your language would not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **joy**, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “you rejoiced because of the Holy Spirit” or “but remaining joyful because of the Holy Spirit” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)<br>
1TH 1 6 ohen figs-possession μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου 1 Paul is using the possessive form to describe a relationship between **the Holy Spirit** and **joy**. This relationship could be: 1) the Holy Spirit is the source of joy. Alternate translation: “with joy from the Holy Spirit” or “as the Holy Spirit caused you to rejoice” 2) joy is the response to having the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “with the joy of those who belong to the Holy Spirit” or “with joy because you belong to the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])<br>
1TH 1 7 lwbm grammar-connect-logic-result ὥστε 1 **As a result** indicates that what was spoken about in verse 6 caused the results of verse 7. Use a natural way in your language to introduce verse 7 as the result of verse 6. Alternate translation: “Therefore” or “Because of that” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result)<br>
1TH 1 7 et1h figs-abstractnouns γενέσθαι ὑμᾶς τύπους πᾶσιν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν ἐν τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ καὶ ἐν τῇ Ἀχαΐᾳ 1 If your language would not use an abstract noun for the idea behind **example**, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia wanted to imitate you” or “all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia started to copy how you live” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
1TH 1 7 j1oz figs-explicit τοῖς πιστεύουσιν 1 The word **believers** here and throughout the letter refers to people who believe or trust in Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you can include that information here. Alternate translation: “those who believe in Jesus” or “those who trust in Jesus” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)<br>
1TH 1 7 xetp writing-background ἐν τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ καὶ ἐν τῇ Ἀχαΐᾳ 1 The phrases **in Macedonia** and **in Achaia** mean that **the believers** lived in any part of those provinces. Alternate translation: “throughout Macedonia and Achaia” or “throughout the regions of Macedonia and Achaia” or “across all of Macedonia and Achaia” <br>
1TH 1 8 da73 figs-infostructure ἀφ’ ὑμῶν γὰρ ἐξήχηται ὁ λόγος τοῦ Κυρίου 1 By putting **For from you** at the beginning of the sentence, Paul is emphasizing that it was the Thessalonians who have spread the word of God throughout the area. Use a natural way in your language to emphasize this. Alternate translation: “Indeed, it was from you that people heard the word of the Lord” or “Yes, you were the ones who proclaimed the word of the Lord” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
1TH 1 8 smjv grammar-connect-words-phrases ἀφ’ ὑμῶν γὰρ 1 This verse connects to verse 7 as an explanation of how the Thessalonian Church became an example of faithfulness to God throughout Macedonia and Achaia and beyond. Use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation in your language. Alternate translation: “Certainly, from you” or “Indeed from all of you” or “Because from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])<br>
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 Here, **has been sounded out** uses a metaphor of a ringing bell or resounding instrument that can be heard from far away to describe how clearly and far the news of the Thessalonians’ faithfulness to God has spread throughout the world. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use an equivalent metaphor or plain language. Alternate translation: “has shone forth” or “has spread far and wide” or “has been heard” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)<br>
1TH 1 8 esk9 figs-synecdoche ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν ἡ πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν 1 Here, **faith** stands for the way that the Thessalonian church lived in faithful obedience to God. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use an expanded phrase. Alternate translation: “news of the way that you trust in God” or “the report about your faithfulness toward God” or “your faithful example before God” (See rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche)<br>
1TH 1 8 lxc3 figs-metaphor ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν ἡ πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἐξελήλυθεν 1 Here, **your faith toward God has gone out** is a metaphor that pictures **faith** as something that can travel. This metaphor has the same meaning as the previous one about the sound of a bell going out. It means that the news of the Thessalonians’ faithfulness to God has spread very far. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use an equivalent metaphor or plain language. Alternate translation: “people have heard about your faith toward God in every place” or “news of your trust in God has been heard in every place” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)<br>
1TH 1 8 wtg5 figs-hyperbole ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ 1 The phrase **into every place** is a hyperbole. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use plain language. Alternate translation: “all over the inhabited world” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole)<br>
1TH 1 8 z9eu grammar-connect-logic-result ὥστε μὴ χρείαν ἔχειν ἡμᾶς λαλεῖν τι 1 **Therefore** marks what follows as the result of what came before. 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. Use a natural way in your language to show this result relationship. Alternate translation: “This is why we have no reason to say anything more” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result)<br>
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 Alternate translation: “these same people are sending out the message” or “they themselves are proclaiming”<br>
1TH 1 9 v145 figs-abstractnouns ὁποίαν εἴσοδον ἔσχομεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 what kind of reception we had with you If your language does not use a noun for the idea behind the abstract noun **reception**, you can express that idea with a verb or in another way. Alternate translation: “how readily you received us” or “how enthusiastically you welcomed us” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)<br>
1TH 1 9 xeff figs-explicit ὁποίαν εἴσοδον ἔσχομεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 what kind of reception we had with you Paul implies that the **kind of reception** they had from the Thessalonians was a good one. If that would not be understood by your readers, you could indicate it explicitly. Alternate translation: “what a good reception we had with you” or “how gladly you welcomed us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 1 9 dkv4 figs-idiom πῶς ἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν 1 you turned to God from the idols to serve the living and true God Here, the phrase **how you turned** is an idiom that simply refers to the fact that they turned, not to the manner of how they turned. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “that you turned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 1 9 wpbm figs-doublet 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 If it would be more natural in your language, you can combine the two phrases **to God** and **to serve the living and true God** into one phrase. Alternate translation: “you turned from serving the idols to serve the living and true God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH 1 9 u1um figs-metaphor ἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων 1 you turned to God from the idols to serve the living and true God Paul speaks figuratively of the Thessalonian believers as if they had been facing toward their idols and then turned around to face toward God. He means that they no longer worship idols but now they worship God. If this metaphor might be misunderstood in your language, use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “you started worshipping God and left the idols behind” or “you abandoned the idols so that you could worship God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
1TH 1 9 fa47 grammar-connect-logic-goal δουλεύειν 1 Here, **to serve** introduces a purpose clause. The reason why these people stopped worshipping idols was in order to serve God. Use a natural method of introducing a purpose clause in your language. 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)<br>
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 9 ou5h figs-explicit ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ 1 By using the terms **living and true** to describe God, Paul is implying that these terms do not apply to the idols or to the gods that those idols represent. The idols themselves are made of materials that are not alive. The gods that they represent are living beings, but they are not **true** gods because people do not owe them obedience or worship as they do to the God who created them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could include this information in the text or a footnote. Alternate translation: “from worshipping the non-living statues of false gods in order to serve the real God who is alive” or “from the dead idols in order to serve the God who lives and deserves our worship” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
1TH 1 10 wkt5 grammar-connect-logic-goal καὶ ἀναμένειν τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν 1 The phrase **and to wait** adds a second purpose for which the Thessalonian believers stopped worshipping idols. Use a natural method for connecting this as another purpose clause in your language. Alternate translation: “and also to wait expectantly for the second coming of his Son from heaven” (See the Introduction to 1 Thessalonians, Part 2 for a discussion of the Second Coming of Christ.) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])<br>
1TH 1 10 og49 guidelines-sonofgodprinciples τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ 1 **Son** is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God the Father. Alternate translation: “God’s only Son” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples)<br>
1TH 1 10 wil8 ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν 1 Here, the phrase translated **from the heavens** expresses the spiritual place where God is and where Jesus is currently located. It is the place from where he will return to the physical location of Earth. Make sure that your translation means this and not merely “the sky.” Alternate translation: “from the place where God is” or “from God’s realm” <br>
1TH 1 10 pmi8 writing-pronouns ὃν ἤγειρεν ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν, Ἰησοῦν, 1 whom he raised Here, **whom** is a reference to **Son**, who is the same person as Jesus. Also, **he** and **his** refer back to God in [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 the pronoun is unclear in your language. Alternate translation: “Jesus, whom God raised from the dead” or “whom God resurrected from the dead. This is Jesus” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns)<br>
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 means that Jesus physically died and was buried. If your language has a word or phrase for the place that dead people go, you could use it here. 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)<br>
1TH 1 10 dbcl figs-distinguish Ἰησοῦν, τὸν ῥυόμενον ἡμᾶς 1 The clause **the one rescuing us** is functioning as an adjective that describes Jesus in his role as rescuer. It makes this action of rescuing to be a characteristic of Jesus or even a title: “the rescuer.” Translate this in a way that makes this a description of Jesus. Alternate translation: “Jesus, our rescuer” or “Jesus, who rescues us” or “Jesus, the one who is going to rescue us” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish)<br>
1TH 1 10 yh5s figs-distinguish τὸν ῥυόμενον 1 Here, **rescuing** does not mean being taken away from God’s wrath after experiencing it. Instead, it means being taken away from any danger of experiencing God’s wrath. Alternate translation: “the one saving us”
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 1 10 cx5g figs-metaphor τῆς ὀργῆς τῆς ἐρχομένης 1 Paul speaks figuratively of **wrath** as though it were something that could travel and is **coming** to where people are. He means by this that in the future, an event will happen when God will act wrathfully against people who have sinned and who have not trusted in Jesus to forgive their sins. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “God's judgment that will happen” or “when God will punish people for sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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 defends how he, Silvanus, and Timothy are God’s apostles. By their preaching, conduct and witness, they prove to be authorized 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, Paul mentions that the persecutors of Christ’s Church will be judged by using the phrase “wrath has come upon them” in [2:16](../02/16.md). Next, Paul speaks of 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” (See [2:19-20](../02/19.md)).
1TH 2 1 ii5j grammar-connect-words-phrases αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε, ἀδελφοί 1 Here, **For you yourselves know, brothers** functions as a chapter transition into the next topic of the apostles’ suffering. You could emphasize this if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Certainly, you are fully aware” (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. Paul uses this emphasis to express how well the Thessalonians understand the benefit of the apostles previous visit. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “you fully realize” or “you personally understand” (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. You could make this clear in your language. Alternate translation: “you are aware” or “you are convinced” or “you recognize” or “you realize”
1TH 2 1 tdl3 figs-metaphor ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Throughout this letter, **brothers** is a metaphor meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [1:4](../01/04.md)). If your readers would not understand what **brothers** means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 1 nwlt figs-abstractnouns τὴν εἴσοδον ἡμῶν τὴν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 This is an abstract noun phrase that refers to the apostles’ previous visit (See “reception” in [1:9](..01/09)). If your language does not use abstract noun phrases for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun phrase with a verb form. Alternate translation: “when we visited you” or “when you received us” or “when you welcomed us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])<br>
1TH 2 1 g6qq figs-exclusive τὴν εἴσοδον ἡμῶν τὴν…ὅτι 1 our coming Here **our** is exclusive, referring to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy–but not the Thessalonian Church (See [1:9](../01/09.md)). Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “when we apostles came” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 2 1 w584 figs-litotes οὐ κενὴ γέγονεν 1 has not been in vain Here, **not ... vain** a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. There are two main options to indicate the double negative: 1) express negatively. Alternate translation: “has not been useless” or “has not been without a purpose” or “has not been worthless” 2) express positively. Alternate translation: “has proved quite beneficial” or “has definitely been worthwhile” or “has been very useful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
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. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “However … God made us confident in how powerful he is” or “Instead … God encouraged us” or (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 2 2 clqq figs-infostructure ἀλλὰ προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες, καθὼς οἴδατε, ἐν Φιλίπποις 1 Here, **just as you know** is meant to emphasize how well the Thessalonian church understands the apostles’ suffering. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “But, as you are well aware that we already suffered and were badly insulted at Philippi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])<br>
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 information about what happened when Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy were in the city of Philippi (see Acts 16). Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. 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 figs-doublet προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες 1 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that how badly the apostles suffered. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “despite the fact that we had earlier suffered being violently abused” or “since we already suffered being shamefully insulted” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])<br>
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 (Also [1:6](../01/06.md)). Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “God allowed us to courageously proclaim his good news to you at Thessalonica even while struggling intensely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH 2 2 daei figs-possession τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 This possessive phrase **the gospel of God** expresses how **gospel** relates to **God**. It can refer to three main ideas: 1) possession. Alternate translation: “God’s gospel” 2) source. Alternate translation: “the gospel from God” 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 Here, **in much struggle** can also refer to a spiritual contest or game. If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **in much struggle** in another way. Alternate translation: “although we struggled hard” or “despite how much we agonized” or “during the time we contested” (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 0 **For** is the beginning of a list of reasons describing why Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy had boldness to speak. This list of reasons also defends how their message was “the gospel of God” (See [2:2](../02/02.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH 2 3 xg1c figs-abstractnouns ἡ γὰρ παράκλησις ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind these abstract nouns in another way. 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” (See [2:2](../02/02.md)). If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **exhortation** in another way. Alternate translation: “Because when we encouraged you that it” or “Certainly when we warned you that it” or “When we urged you that it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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. If these double negative phrases would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate them as a positive statement. 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 Here, **but just as** is meant to contrast the negative items in [2:3](../02/03.md), and reinforce that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are authorized to preach the gospel. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. 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 τὸ εὐαγγέλιον 1 Here, **to be entrusted** expresses the result of **been examined**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “Certainly, God trusts us to proclaim the gospel because he tested and approved us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])<br>
1TH 2 4 ue4y figs-explicit δεδοκιμάσμεθα ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ, πιστευθῆναι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον 1 The combination of these two verbs **examined** and **entrusted** are meant to emphasize how the apostles have trustworthy credentials to preach the gospel. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. 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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 2 4 m8sq grammar-connect-logic-result οὕτως λαλοῦμεν 1 Here, **so we speak** expresses the result of **been examined**. The reason why the apostles have confidence and authority to proclaim the gospel is because God tested and approved them. There are two main ways you could translate **so**: 1) reason for speaking. Alternate translation: “this is why we keep talking about it” or “so, we keep speaking” 2) manner of speaking. Alternate translation: “so this is how we speak” (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 the apostles’ preaching or teaching of the gospel (See [2:2](../020/02.md) for the same verb). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “we apostles keep proclaiming” (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 summarizes the list of double negatives in [2:3](../02/03.md), in order to express the apostles’ godly motives. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “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 the same verb form to reinforce that they **have been examined by God**. 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]])<br>
1TH 2 4 bq9a figs-metonymy τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν 1 The phrase **our hearts** is a metonym for the apostles’ motives, affections, or deepest thoughts. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “what motivates us” or “our affections” or “our deepest thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH 2 4 ntpt figs-metaphor τῷ δοκιμάζοντι τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν 1 Here, **the one who examines our hearts** is a metaphor that compares God’s examination of our motives, our affections, or deepest thoughts 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]])<br>
1TH 2 5 xk2o grammar-connect-words-phrases οὔτε γάρ ποτε ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας ἐγενήθημεν 1 Here, the phrase **For we did not come at that time** signals that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are going to defend their apostolic authorization from God. This phrase is also meant emphasize their godly motives. Alternate translation: “Because previously when we came, it was not to flatter you” or “Certainly we never came in order to flatter you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])<br><br>
1TH 2 5 u28j figs-litany οὔτε…ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας…οὔτε ἐν προφάσει πλεονεξίας 1 Here, Paul uses a series of negative examples in [2:5-6](../02/05/md) to describe behavior that is not fitting for Christ’s apostles. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” You can use a form in your language to list things that someone should not do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])<br>
1TH 2 5 hqih οὔτε γάρ ποτε ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας ἐγενήθημεν, 1 Paul places **just as you know** in a position that gives it special emphasis (See also [2:2](../02/02..md)). It is meant to reinforce the sincere words of the apostles, and to validate their gospel message by how they behaved amongst the Thessalonian Church (See [1:5](../01/05.md)). If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “As you are well aware, we did not previously come to flatter” <br>
1TH 2 5 q2yh figs-metaphor ἐν προφάσει πλεονεξίας 1 Here, **pretext** figuratively expresses the idea of people with greedy motives by comparing them to people wearing a mask or disguise to cover up their evil intent. If the concept of a masking or disguising would not communicate a covering over true motives, you could you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “disguising greedy intent” or “trying to hide greed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 5 qqia figs-ellipsis (Θεὸς μάρτυς) 1 In the phrase **God {is} witness**, Paul is leaving some the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “God is our witness!”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 2 5 lfym figs-metaphor (Θεὸς μάρτυς) 1 Again, the apostles are appealing to God to validate their gospel message and personal motives. Here, they utilize an emphatic courtroom metaphor, **God {is} witness**, as if they are summoning God as a witness to testify on their behalf before a judge. If your readers would not understand what **God {is} witness** means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “We swear to/by God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 6 j6c4 figs-synecdoche οὔτε ζητοῦντες ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δόξαν, οὔτε ἀφ’ ὑμῶν, οὔτε ἀπ’ ἄλλων 1 Here, Paul refers figuratively to **men** to speak of any individual person.” He also refers to **from you or from others** as another way of saying “all people.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. 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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])<br>
1TH 2 6 afcc figs-abstractnouns ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δόξαν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun **glory** in another way. Alternate translation: “for humans to honor us” or “to have people praise us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 2 7 u7y2 figs-hypo δυνάμενοι ἐν βάρει εἶναι, ὡς Χριστοῦ ἀπόστολοι 1 With the phrase **being able to be a burden**, Paul uses a hypothetical condition to draw attention to the divine authority of the **apostles of Christ**. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. It could indicate two main things: 1) authority. “As Christ’s apostles we have authority to require obedience” 2) rights. Alternate translation: “As Christ’s apostles, we could have burdened you by demanding financial support” 3) authority and rights. Alternate translation: “As Christ’s apostles, we have the power to demand support and submission” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])<br>
1TH 2 7 a75z figs-hypo δυνάμενοι ἐν βάρει εἶναι 1 Paul speaks figuratively of the apostles as if they were a heavy weight or pack. He means that if they wanted to, they could impose their apostolic authority in a way that could seem oppressive to the Thessalonian church. If your readers would not understand what **burden** means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation, “Although we could impose our authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 7 bslq grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 Here, what follows the word **but** is in contrast to the idea of **burden**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
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** can also mean “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-collectivenouns 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 spanning from [4:3-8](../04/03.md) 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 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 p80j figs-abstractnouns ἔκδικος 1 the Lord is an avenger If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun into a verb form. Alternate translation: “is a punisher” or “is a judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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.” 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 that what follows in an example of how the Thessalonian Church shows 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 10 u3fl figs-litany 1 brothers Here, **abound** refers back to “love one another” in [4:9](../04/09.md) in a relative ellipsis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
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. If it is clearer in your language, you could use an expression that explains this metaphor for peaceful communal living. Alternate translation: “and seek to lovingly 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. Here, **and to strive to live quietly** could: 1) Express separate ideas. Alternate translation: “and seek to lovingly 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 seek to lovingly honor others” or “and to silently seek to lovingly honor others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH 4 11 j4c7 figs-explicit πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια 1 to live quietly Here, **to perform your own things** implicitly refers to self-sacrificial thoughts and actions. The surrounding verbs make this explicit. 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 Here, **about** 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 Here, **so that you may not grieve** is a purpose clause that informs how the Thessalonian Church should respond to **those who are asleep**. Alternate translation: “so that you would not sorrow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 4 13 r9f8 figs-explicit καθὼς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ 1 so that you may not grieve just as also the rest Here, it is assumed that **the rest** are non-Christians. If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “in the same way as the rest of humanity” or “like the rest of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
1TH 4 13 f9eq figs-explicit οἱ μὴ ἔχοντες ἐλπίδα 1 so that you may not grieve just as also the rest Here, it is assumed that **hope** refers to resurrection salvation (See [1:3; 2:19; 4:16; 5:8](../01/03.md)), and was previously associated with the Second Coming of Christ in [2:19](../02/19.md). Alternate translation: “who possess no hope of life after death” or “who possess no confidence of life after death” or “who possess no assurance of life after death” or “who do not have confidence in the future promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 14 j09o grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ γὰρ πιστεύομεν ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη 1 if we believe This clause frames the apostles’ argument as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but they actually mean that it is true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think what the apostles are saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “We certainly believe that Jesus died and resurrected” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])<br>
1TH 4 14 hmw4 figs-explicit Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη 1 if we believe Here, it is assumed that the Thessalonian Church knows that**Jesus died and rose again** is the main content of the gospel message. (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, referring to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. The previous use in [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 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 **through Jesus** 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. Alternate translation: “God the Father … his Son Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 14 tjqj figs-rpronouns 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-doublenegatives 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”. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TH 4 16 ah7p grammar-connect-words-phrases ὅτι 1 the Lord himself … will descend **For** marks the beginning of the sequence of events related to the Second Coming. The word then indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event it has just described. Alternately translation: “Certainly” or “Because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])<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]])
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)). 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 writing-pronouns αὐτοῖς 1 with them The word **them** refers to the resurrected dead who are united to Christ. Alternate translation: “the resurrected dead who are united to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
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: Here, **the times and the seasons** is an idiom referring to: 1) a specific period in time. Alternate translation: “the appointed time of Jesus’ return” or “the fixed time when Jesus returns” (See Acts 1:7 for this exact phrase referring to the same thing). 2) a specific amount of time. Alternate translation: “how long it will take for the Lord Jesus to return” or “when the Lord Jesus will return” (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 when and how 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-simile αὐτοὶ γὰρ ἀκριβῶς οἴδατε ὅτι ἡμέρα Κυρίου, ὡς κλέπτης ἐν νυκτὶ οὕτως ἔρχεται 1 perfectly well This verse begins an extended list of contrasting similes that continues through [5:8](./05/08.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
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 mjvd grammar-connect-logic-contrast τότε 1 When they may say This verse expresses a contrast to what is expected. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
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. Alternate translation: “causing you to be like people surprised by a robber. You are ready for the time when he returns” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 5 4 otz2 figs-ellipsis ἡ ἡμέρα 1 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day Here, **the day** is a relative ellipsis referring to the “**the day** of the Lord.” If it would be misunderstood in your language, you can make it clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 5 5 ddce figs-doublet πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς υἱοὶ φωτός ἐστε, καὶ υἱοὶ ἡμέρας. οὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους 1 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day Here, **sons of the light** means the same thing as **sons of the day**. Also, **of the night** means the same thing as **of the darkness**. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “Certainly, all of you are ready for Christ’s second coming. None of us are ignorant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH 5 5 ww4y figs-parallelism πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς υἱοὶ φωτός ἐστε, καὶ υἱοὶ ἡμέρας. οὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους 1 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day Here, **you are all sons of the light and sons of the day** is a contrasting parallelism to **We are not of the night, nor of the darkness**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
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)). **sons** means “Christians who are characterized by.” **light** and **day** mean “spiritually ready.” 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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br>
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 μὴ καθεύδωμεν…γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν 1 we might keep watch and be sober Here, the verb forms **sleep**, **keep watch**, and **be sober** 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 marks the beginning of 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 osxu figs-doublet γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν 1 we might not sleep Here, **keep watch** and **be sober** could refer to the same thing. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “let us remain soberly awake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
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 fxca figs-parallelism οἱ γὰρ καθεύδοντες, νυκτὸς καθεύδουσιν; καὶ οἱ μεθυσκόμενοι, νυκτὸς μεθύουσιν 1 For those who are sleeping, sleep at night This verse utilizes structural parallelism to compare **sleeping** and **getting drunk**. It uses the same phrasing in both clauses to convey this parallelism. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
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 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” (See 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: “that comes from faith … that comes from love … that comes from 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-parallelism 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 To emphasize the contrast of this parallelism, you could convert these clauses into two sentences. 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-parallelism]])
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 Here, **but** marks the beginning of a contrast clause that emphasizes the impossibility of God’s 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 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 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 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 ἁγιάσαι 1 may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly The verbs **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, that God himself, who gives peace, would sancitfy” (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. You could 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 a64t 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 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”.
1TH 5 23 s36k figs-merism 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**. **he** refers to God 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 figs-idiom 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 how kind he is” or “May the favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be among you all” or “I pray that the Lord Jesus Christ will favor all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
1TH 5 28 n8ur figs-abstractnouns ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μεθ’ ὑμῶν 1 I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read **grace** is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “May our Lord Jesus Christ always show you how kind he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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]])
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