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](../03/05.md); [5:27](../05/27.md)). 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>2. Apostolic authority (2:1–16)<br> * Persecution of the church (2:1–13)<br> * Opposition to the church (2:14–16)<br>3. 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>4. 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>5. 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, writing 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, Saul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, Paul traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire, telling people about Jesus. Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth. Many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter Paul wrote of all Paul’s letters that are in the Bible.<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; Silas and Silvanus are 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.<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). 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]])<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
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.
1TH 1 1 ms5e figs-ellipsis Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος; τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ 1 Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church Here Paul omits some words 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 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 could 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]])
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 figs-abstractnouns 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 could use them in your translation. Alternate translation: “We pray that God will treat you kindly and give you peaceful relationships.” (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)
1TH 1 2 of3g figs-infostructure εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ πάντοτε…μνείαν 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 are **making mention** of them. If it would be clearer in your language, you could reverse the order of the clauses, as done in the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
1TH 1 2 o7cp figs-hyperbole εὐχαριστοῦμεν…πάντοτε…μνείαν ποιούμενοι…ἀδιαλείπτως 1 Here the words **always** and **continually** are exaggerations that 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 … very often making mention of you” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole)
1TH 1 3 ecw0 figs-idiom μνημονεύοντες ὑμῶν τοῦ ἔργου τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τοῦ κόπου τῆς ἀγάπης, καὶ τῆς ὑπομονῆς τῆς ἐλπίδος τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν; 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 … Christ” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom)
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)
1TH 1 3 kr8q figs-possession τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 The words **in our Lord Jesus Christ** is a possessive form. The relationship between **our Lord Jesus Christ** and **hope** could refer to: (1) Jesus as the object of hope. Alternate translation: “that our Lord Jesus Christ will do what he has promised” (2) Jesus as the source of hope. Alternate translation: “that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession)
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)
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. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (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 Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. 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 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: [[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 it is 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, **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 emphasize 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 h675 ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ 1 but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit This phrase could refer to: (1) the **Holy Spirit** who gave the apostles the ability to preach the **gospel** powerfully. (2) the **Holy Spirit** who caused the preaching of the **gospel** to have a powerful effect in the Thessalonian church. Alternate translation: “but also empowered by the Holy Spirit” (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 t1w3 figs-abstractnouns πληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ 1 in much assurance Here, **assurance** is an abstract noun. If your language does not use the abstract noun **assurance**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “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 for yourself what type of men” or “you are well aware how we behaved while”
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)
1TH 1 6 kgjr 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”
1TH 1 6 b607 figs-explicit τοῦ Κυρίου 1 **Lord** here refers to Jesus, as in [1:3](../01/03.md). Throughout this letter, whenever Paul uses the title **Lord**, it refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could include the name here. See the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
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: “yet in spite of that, you had joy from the Holy Spirit” or “and even so, the Holy Spirit caused you to be joyful” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast)
1TH 1 6 c2hl figs-metonymy τὸν λόγον 1 Here, **the word** 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]])
1TH 1 6 wura figs-abstractnouns ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ 1 If your language would not use the abstract noun **hardship**, you could express the idea behind it 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)
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)
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]])
1TH 1 7 lwbm grammar-connect-logic-result ὥστε 1 **As a result** indicates that what was spoken about in verse 6 caused what follows in verse 7. Use a natural way in your language to introduce verse 7 as the outcome of verse 6. Alternate translation: “Therefore” or “Because of that” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result)
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 the abstract noun **example**, you could express the idea behind it 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 πᾶσιν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν 1 Here and throughout the letter, the phrase **to all the ones believing** refers to people who believe or trust in Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could include that information here. Alternate translation: “to all those who trust in Jesus” or “to everyone who remains faithful to Jesus” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
1TH 1 7 xetp ἐν τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ καὶ ἐν τῇ Ἀχαΐᾳ 1 The phrases **in Macedonia** and **in Achaia** mean that **the ones believing** 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”
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]])
1TH 1 8 qyk6 figs-metonymy ὁ λόγος τοῦ Κυρίου 1 the word of the Lord The phrase **the word of the Lord** refers to “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 use 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)
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)
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 use 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)
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)
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 the faithful model of the Thessalonian church were 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)
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 v145 figs-abstractnouns ὁποίαν εἴσοδον ἔσχομεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 what kind of reception we had with you If your language does not use the abstract noun **reception**, you can express that idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “how readily you received us” or “how enthusiastically you welcomed us” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
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 from 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 could 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 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 worshiping 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]])
1TH 1 9 fa47 grammar-connect-logic-goal δουλεύειν 1 Here, **to serve** introduces a purpose clause. The reason why these people stopped worshiping 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)
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 worshiping 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 worshiping 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]])
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)
1TH 1 10 wil8 ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν 1 Here, the phrase **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”
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)
1TH 1 10 ffro figs-idiom ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν 1 Here, the phrase **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)
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)
1TH 1 10 yh5s figs-explicit 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” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
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. Your language may require you to mark these forms. 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 Here, **wrath** is an abstract noun referring to the destined **coming** of 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)) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 1 10 cx5g figs-metaphor τῆς ὀργῆς τῆς ἐρχομένης 1 Paul speaks 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 it would be helpful in your language, 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. The second part is a recounting of the Thessalonian church’s sufferings. Lastly, the apostle Paul makes known his deep desire to visit the Thessalonian church.<br><br>## “We” and “You”<br><br>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 apostles are in agreement with the letter.<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]] 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, 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 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 r14z figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH 2 1 nwlt figs-abstractnouns τὴν εἴσοδον ἡμῶν τὴν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 Here, **our coming** is an abstract noun phrase that refers to the apostles’ previous visit (See “reception” in [1:9](../01/09.md)). If your language does not use abstract noun phrases for this idea, you can 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]])
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 to 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, **has not been in vain** is a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that has the opposite of the intended meaning. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning 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 h9s8 writing-background 0 This verse provides background information about what happened when Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy were in the city of Philippi (See Acts 16–17:1–10; [1:6](../01/06.md)). Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
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 phrase **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” (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]])
1TH 2 2 fac4 figs-doublet προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες 1 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how badly the apostles suffered. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “despite the fact that we had earlier suffered violently” or “since we already suffered being shamefully abused” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
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 the abstract noun **struggle**, for this idea, you can express the idea behind it 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 1 Paul uses a repetitive series of phrases to describe why Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy had boldness to speak. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” This list of phrases also defends how their message was “the gospel of God” (See [2:2](../02/02.md)). Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone has done right. (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 nouns **exhortation**, **error**, **impurity**, and **deceit**, you can express the idea behind them 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 t7ty figs-litotes οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ 1 was not from error, nor from impurity, nor in deceit Paul uses this list of figures of speech that express a strong positive meaning by using a negative words together with words that are the opposite of the intended meaning. Here this list highlights the sincere motive and true content of the **exhortation** Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy shared with the Thessalonian church. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “was from honest, pure, sincere motives” or “was made properly, purely, and sincerely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
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 **have 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]])
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 are authorized to preach the gospel. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God has verified that we can be trusted to proclaim his good news” or “we have passed God’s test 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 having **been examined**. The reason why the apostles have confidence and authority to **speak** the gospel is because God tested and approved them. This could refer to: (1) reason for speaking. Alternate translation: “this is why we keep talking about it” (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 Paul is leaving out some of 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: “we apostles keep speaking the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 2 4 b0yy grammar-connect-logic-contrast οὐχ ὡς ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκοντες, ἀλλὰ Θεῷ 1 Here, the word **but** contrasts **men** and **God**. Paul is indicating that **God** and **men** are different beings. Paul is also expressing the idea that the apostles’ motive for speaking the **gospel** is to please **God**, and not to be **pleasing to men**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “not to flatter people, but to please God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
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 use plain language. Alternate translation: “what we love” or “what we ponder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
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** marks a transition where the apostles defend their motives by describing their previous godly conduct. 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]])
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]])
1TH 2 5 hqih figs-infostructure 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)). 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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1TH 2 5 q2yh figs-metaphor ἐν προφάσει πλεονεξίας 1 Here, **pretext** expresses the idea of people with greedy motives by comparing them to people wearing a mask or a disguise to cover up their evil intent. If the concept of a masking or disguising would not communicate a covering of true motives, 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 out some of 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 The apostles are appealing to God to validate their gospel message and personal motives. They speak 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 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 use 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 from anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH 2 6 afcc figs-abstractnouns ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δόξαν 1 If your language does not use the abstract noun **glory**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “for people to 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. This phrase could refer to: (1) authority of the apostles. “as Christ’s apostles we have authority to force obedience” (2) rights of the apostles. Alternate translation: “as Christ’s apostles, we could have burdened you by demanding financial support” (3) authority and rights of the apostles. Alternate translation: “as Christ’s apostles, we have the power to demand support and submission” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1TH 2 7 a75z figs-metaphor δυνάμενοι ἐν βάρει εἶναι 1 Paul speaks 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, **but** signals that the rest of the verse will contrast the idea of **burden**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “however” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 2 7 y3bi figs-metaphor ἐγενήθημεν νήπιοι ἐν μέσῳ ὑμῶν 1 Here, **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 as infants when we visited you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 7 bnp2 figs-idiom ἐν μέσῳ ὑμῶν 1 Paul uses the idiom **in the midst of you** that means “spending time” or “visiting”. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. 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 The point of this comparison is that in the same way a **mother** would gently **comfort** her **children**, so the apostles gently and affectionately nurtured the Thessalonian church (See [2:8](../02/08.md)). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “as we affectionately cared for you” (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 If your language does not use the abstract noun **affection**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “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 τὰς ἑαυτῶν ψυχάς 1 we were pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls Paul uses **{our} own souls** to speak of the apostles’ bodies or their life. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “our own selves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 9 v837 grammar-connect-words-phrases γάρ 1 Here the connecting word **For** emphasizes that what follows is something else important that the Thessalonian church should pay attention to. Alternate translation: “Certainly,” or “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 2 9 exw6 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH 2 9 tc98 figs-doublet τὸν κόπον ἡμῶν καὶ τὸν μόχθον 1 our labor and toil Here, **labor** and **toil** mean basically the same thing. The repetition emphasizes how hard the apostles worked. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases or make them active. Alternate translation: “our toilsome labor” or “how hard we worked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH 2 9 ilj2 figs-distinguish νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι 1 This phrase further explains **our labor and toil**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “although working night and day” or “despite the fact that we kept working night and day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 2 9 ylkl figs-idiom νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι 1 Here, **night and day working** is an idiom for excessive labor. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “we stayed busy working” or “we never stopped laboring” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 2 9 kedf figs-metaphor πρὸς τὸ μὴ ἐπιβαρῆσαί τινα ὑμῶν 1 Paul speaks of the apostles as if they were a heavy weight or pack (See note at [2:7](../02/07.md)). Alternative translation, “so that none of you would have to financially support us” or “so that we would not impose on anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 9 tw00 grammar-connect-logic-goal πρὸς τὸ μὴ 1 This phrase introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why the apostles worked so much. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 2 9 ezqn figs-possession τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Again, the phrase **the gospel of God** is used to indicate that the apostles’ message is of divine origin (See your translation at [2:2](../02/02.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 2 10 re18 figs-metaphor ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες καὶ ὁ Θεός 1 The apostles are appealing to the Thessalonian church and God to validate their gospel message and personal motives (See also [2:5](../02/05.md)). They speak as if they are summoning both the church and God as a witness to testify on their behalf before a judge. If your readers would not understand what this phrase means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “You are our witnesses, as well as God himself” or “As well as God, you could personally testify” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 10 h52a figs-ellipsis ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες καὶ ὁ Θεός 1 In this phrase, Paul is leaving out some of 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: “As well as God, you could personally testify” (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 Paul uses a repetitive series of proofs of the apostles’ godly behavior in [2:10–12](../02/10.md). This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” This is a list of the evidence for which the Thessalonian church and God are evoked as witnesses. Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone has done right. Alternate translation: “just how faithfully and justly and innocently we conducted ourselves toward you believers in God” or “how we acted reverently, and fairly, and blamelessly while visiting the faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH 2 10 ufdv figs-yousingular ὑμεῖς…ὑμῖν 1 holy, and righteous, and blameless The pronouns **You** and **you** are plural and refer to all the believers in God at Thessalonica. Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “You all … among all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1TH 2 11 oug6 καθάπερ οἴδατε ὡς ἕνα ἕκαστον ὑμῶν 1 Again, Paul places **just as you know** in a position that gives it special emphasis (See also [2:2,5](../02/02.md)). It is another way of saying “you {are} witnesses” (See [2:10](../02/10.md)). Paul is appealing to the Thessalonian church’s own experience of the apostles’ godly behavior to prove their gospel message comes from God (See [2:9](../02/09.md)). Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “just as you each and every one of you are well aware” 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 point of Paul’s comparison is that the apostles are like fathers who model and instruct in proper behavior for their **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. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. 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 παρακαλοῦντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ παραμυθούμενοι, καὶ μαρτυρόμενοι…ὑμᾶς 1 exhorting you and encouraging and testifying for you Paul uses a repetitive series of verb forms to show how the apostles have instructed the Thessalonian church like caring fathers would teach their children. These words are meant to instill a sense of urgency. Alternate translation: “encouraging and building you up and acting as your witness” or “instructing you through appeals, encouragement, and our own personal example”
1TH 2 12 clhg παρακαλοῦντες…μαρτυρόμενοι 1 These verbal forms also describe the apostles’ fatherly behavior toward the Thessalonian church. These forms can be expressed in a number of ways: (1) result. Alternate translation: “with the result that we kept exhorting … testifying” (2) means. Alternate translation: “by exhorting … testifying” (3) manner. Alternate translation: “how we kept exhorting … testifying”
1TH 2 12 afop grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 This phrase is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for the apostles’ appeals. He wants the Thessalonian church to live **worthy of God**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “that you must honor God by how you live” or “so that you would live how God desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 2 12 go6b figs-possession εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 Paul is using the possessive form **of God** to describe how God’s people should live. Use a natural way in your language to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “to live in a way that honors God” or “to live in a way that God honors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 2 12 udek figs-metaphor εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν 1 Here, **to walk** is a metaphor that means “to live.” If your readers would not understand what it means **to walk** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “to habitually live” or “for you to continue to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 12 v9ph figs-distinguish τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς 1 This phrase gives us further information about God and describes what he is doing through the apostles’ teachings. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “he is the one who continues to summon you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 2 12 b0by figs-parallelism τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς 1 Here, **the one 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 vbd2 figs-hendiadys εἰς τὴν ἑαυτοῦ βασιλείαν καὶ δόξαν 1 This phrase, **into {his} own kingdom and glory**, expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **glory** describes what the **kingdom** is like. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Alternate translation: “into his own glorious kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH 2 13 au3b grammar-connect-logic-result καὶ διὰ τοῦτο καὶ ἡμεῖς εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ ἀδιαλείπτως 1 General Information: The phrase **And because of this** indicates that what follows are the reasons why the apostles are thankful for the Thessalonian church. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, as in the UST, to make this explicit. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 2 13 zja7 figs-hyperbole καὶ ἡμεῖς εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ ἀδιαλείπτως 1 This phrase uses exaggeration to emphasize the apostles’ gratitude (See also [1:2](../01/02.md)). Here, **constantly** does not mean “every moment.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows intense gratitude. Alternate translation: “We ourselves habitually thank” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 2 13 ruy0 ἡμεῖς 1 Here Paul uses the word **we** to emphasize how thankful the apostles are. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “we personally” or “we ourselves”
1TH 2 13 ei3j figs-distinguish ὅτι παραλαβόντες λόγον ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐδέξασθε 1 General Information: This clause explains why the apostles are thankful. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. See UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 2 13 i39s figs-events ὅτι παραλαβόντες λόγον ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐδέξασθε 1 General Information: Paul is stressing that it is **{the} word of God** that the apostles reported. This is why he first mentions that the Thessalonians **received {the} word of God** before mentioning that they **heard** it. If this is confusing in your language, you can make the order of events clear. Alternate translation: “that when we told you God’s message, you heard it, and then you accepted it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])
1TH 2 13 dr6q grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 Here, **that** marks the reasons in [2:13–14](../02/13.md) for why the apostles are thankful for the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language to express the reason why people should do things. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 2 13 zj5f grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ καθὼς ἀληθῶς ἐστὶν 1 not as the word of man Paul uses this contrasting clause to strongly negate the idea that the apostles’ message is of human origin. Use a natural way in your language for introducing an emphatic contrast. Alternate translation: “but in fact what it really is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 2 13 f6ta figs-metonymy λόγον ἀνθρώπων…λόγον Θεοῦ 1 Paul uses the phrase **{the} word** to represent a message that is made up of words. Here, **{the} word of man** refers to a message of human origin. In contrast, **{the} word of God** refers to the same message, called “the gospel of God” in [2:8–9](../02/08.md). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “a human message … God’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
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 might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and God is energizing you faithful ones with this message” or “and God is activating this message among you who trust in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH 2 13 z89g writing-pronouns ὃς 1 which is also working in you who believe Here, the word translated **which** could refer to **God** or **the word**. Alternate translation: “and God” or “and God’s word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1TH 2 13 x7oi figs-yousingular ἐν ὑμῖν 1 Here, the pronoun **you** is plural and refers to all the believers in God at Thessalonica (See [2:10](../02/10.md)). Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “among all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
1TH 2 14 mh8n writing-background 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 xopt grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 **For** indicates that what follows is the proof of how God’s message is working among the Thessalonian church. Alternate translation: “Because” or “In fact” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 2 14 cj05 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH 2 14 ij9j μιμηταὶ ἐγενήθητε…τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν 1 Here, **imitators** is a noun that can be translated with a verb (See [1:6](../01/06.md)). Use a natural way in your language to express this idea. Alternate translation: “mimicked the churches” or “imitated the churches” or “copied the behavior of the churches”
1TH 2 14 g0t5 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ 1 Here, Paul speaks of the churches of God **in Christ Jesus** as though they were occupying space inside Jesus. This metaphor expresses the idea that believers are spiritually united to God and Jesus (See also [1:1](../01/01.md)). Here, it also highlights the communion that Thessalonian believers **in Christ Jesus** have with Judean believers **in Christ Jesus** through the Holy Trinity. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation, “who are united to Jesus Christ” or “who share life with Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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-merism τῶν καὶ τὸν Κύριον ἀποκτεινάντων Ἰησοῦν, καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων 1 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. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or use plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
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 can make the order of events clear. 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 ihh7 grammar-connect-logic-result ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων; καὶ Θεῷ μὴ ἀρεσκόντων, καὶ πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων 1 Here, **and** indicates that the following phrase is the result of Jews’ persecution. 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. To emphasize God’s response toward the Jews’ persecution, you could begin a new sentence with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “have persecuted us and are enemies of all people. This is why God is continually displeased” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 2 15 tfc4 figs-parallelism καὶ Θεῷ μὴ ἀρεσκόντων, καὶ πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων, 1 These two phrases mean similar things. These phrases are meant to express how the Jewish persecution of Christians is the same thing as opposing God himself. If it would be clearer in your language, you could combine the phrases into one clarifying idea. Alternate translation: “and they make themselves enemies of God by how hostile they are against the Jewish and Gentile churches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 2 15 g6q1 figs-possession πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων, 1 Paul is using the possessive form of **hostile** to describe how the persecutors of the Christian Church are characterized by a hostile attitude. Alternate translation: “characterized by being opposed to all people types” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 2 15 dmxm figs-ellipsis ἐναντίων 1 A word is left out here in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, the word **being** is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “are opposed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 2 15 u6ko figs-synecdoche πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις 1 Paul speaks about **all men** to refer to “all people types” or “the whole human race.” Here, **all men** refers to two parts of humanity represented by Jews (See [2:14](../02/14.md)) and Gentiles (See [2:16](../02/16.md)). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or use plain language. Alternate translation: “to all people types” or “to all the nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1TH 2 15 ywwr figs-hyperbole πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις 1 Here, **to all men** is an exaggeration that Paul uses to express his emotions about the hostile Jews. Paul does not mean that the Jews are hostile to every individual human being. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows this emphasis. Alternate translation: “toward all of humanity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 2 15 vfyv figs-gendernotations πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις 1 Although the term **men** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both **men** and women. Alternate translation: “to all humans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH 2 16 u012 figs-distinguish κωλυόντων ἡμᾶς τοῖς ἔθνεσιν λαλῆσαι, ἵνα σωθῶσιν 1 This clause gives further information for why the Gentiles are “not pleasing to God and {are} hostile to all men” (See [2:15](../02/15.md)). If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 2 16 o0vb figs-genericnoun τοῖς ἔθνεσιν 1 Here, **Gentiles** refers to all the non-Christian nations in general, not one group of people. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase. Alternate translation: “among the non-Jews” or “to all the nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1TH 2 16 r5fi grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα σωθῶσιν 1 This purpose clause gives the reason why the Jews are trying to prevent the apostles from preaching the gospel to the Gentiles. Here, **to speak** expresses the way the Gentiles **might be saved.** This clause could refer to: (1) the Jews purposely trying to keep the Gentiles from salvation. Alternate translation: “to hinder the Gentiles from being saved” (2) how the speaking is for the purpose of saving the Gentiles. Alternate translation: “in order that the Gentiles can be saved” or “for the purpose of saving the nations” The clause could also refer to both ideas. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 2 16 n2ue figs-metaphor εἰς τὸ ἀναπληρῶσαι αὐτῶν τὰς ἁμαρτίας πάντοτε 1 to always fill up their own sins Paul speaks of the Jews’ sins as if they **fill up** a container. He means that these Jews sin so much and so extremely that they can never escape God’s **wrath**. If your readers would not understand what it means to **to always fill up** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “causing them to always reach the limit of their sinfulness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 2 16 z5fr grammar-connect-logic-result εἰς τὸ ἀναπληρῶσαι αὐτῶν τὰς ἁμαρτίας πάντοτε 1 This result clause explains what will happen to the Jews for **forbidding** the apostles **to speak to the Gentiles**. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “as a result, God will no longer forgive their many sins” (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 Paul is using the past tense in order to refer to something that will happen in the future. Paul is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If the use of the past tense here is confusing in your language, you could use the future tense. This phrase could refer to: (1) final judgment. Alternate translation: “In fact, final wrath will overtake them” (See also [5:9](../05/09.md)) (2) certain judgment. Alternate translation: “Certainly, their punishment has finally arrived” (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 Paul uses **But** to indicate that what follows is important. Here, **But** could refer to: (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 uwuq figs-abstractnouns ἔφθασεν δὲ ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς ἡ ὀργὴ 1 wrath has come upon them in the end If your language does not use the abstract noun **wrath**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 2 17 edb1 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἡμεῖς δέ, ἀδελφοί 1 brothers The phrase **But we, brothers** expresses that this is a contrasting phrase that switches the attention back to the apostles’ relationship with the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 2 17 m5sf figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 Although the term **brothers** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
1TH 2 17 yhhy figs-explicit ἀπορφανισθέντες ἀφ’ ὑμῶν 1 Since the Greek word that ULT translates as **having been separated from you** can also mean “having been orphaned from you,” Paul may be revisiting the idea where the apostles affectionately compare themselves to “little children” in [2:7](../02/07.md). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “since we have been apart from you, we feel like orphans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 2 17 lmpu figs-idiom πρὸς καιρὸν ὥρας 1 Here, **for {the} time of an hour** is an idiom that indicates a short time span. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. 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, **face** represents the person or physical presence, and **heart** represents the apostles’ concerns, feelings, and affections. Though the apostles were not physically present in Thessalonica, they continued to care about and show concern for their relationship with the church there. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or use plain language. Alternate translation: “by distance, not in feeling” or “in person, not in affection” or “in presence, not in concern” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH 2 17 yxzu figs-parallelism τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν ἐν πολλῇ ἐπιθυμίᾳ 1 to see your faces Here, **to see your face, in much desire** means the same thing as **by face, not in heart**. Paul says the same thing twice in slightly different ways to show how much the apostles desire to visit the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language to express this idea. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 2 17 jgi2 figs-abstractnouns ἐν πολλῇ ἐπιθυμίᾳ 1 to see your faces If your language does not use the abstract noun **desire**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. It can also be translated as an active phrase. Alternate translation: “for which we long passionately” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 2 17 ot1s figs-idiom τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν 1 to see your faces The phrase **to see your face** is an idiom meaning **to visit**. Here, it expresses the apostles’ strong desire to personally visit and share spiritual intimacy with the Thessalonian church. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “to visit you” or “to spend quality time with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 2 18 zlny grammar-connect-words-phrases διότι 1 to see your faces Here, **For** indicates that what follows is background information for why Paul had not yet visited. Alternate translation: “Indeed,” or “Certainly,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 2 18 pnw3 figs-go ἐλθεῖν 1 to see your faces Your language may say “go” rather than **come** in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “to go” or “to travel” (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 In this phrase, Paul is leaving out some of 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: “I Paul personally tried to come twice” or “Indeed, I, Paul tried to go two times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 2 18 uqg6 figs-rpronouns ἐγὼ μὲν Παῦλος 1 to see your faces Here Paul uses the pronoun **I**, and he uses**indeed** to emphasize that he personally tried to visit the Thessalonian church. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH 2 18 yj0w figs-idiom καὶ ἅπαξ καὶ δίς 1 to see your faces Here, the phrase **both once and twice** means repeatedly. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “twice” or “many times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 2 18 crv7 grammar-connect-logic-contrast καὶ 3 to see your faces What follows the word **but** here is in contrast to what was expected, that Paul would visit the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “however” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 2 18 uuae figs-explicit ἐνέκοψεν ἡμᾶς 1 to see your faces Since the Greek word that ULT translates as **hindered** often means “cut off” or “beat in,” Paul may be stressing the violent nature of Satan’s obstruction. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “powerfully prevented us” or “violently obstructed us” or “cut off our route” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 2 19 j7j5 figs-rquestion 0 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 here to emphasize why the apostles want to visit the Thessalonian church. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1TH 2 19 mj9n figs-personification ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως 1 our hope … Is it not even you Here, **hope** **joy** and **crown** are spoken of as if they were the people in the Thessalonian church. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because who makes us hopeful? Who causes us to rejoice? Who gives us reason to boast victoriously?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH 2 19 ulj7 figs-ellipsis τίς γὰρ ἡμῶν ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως? ἢ οὐχὶ καὶ ὑμεῖς 1 our hope … Is it not even you Some words are left out here in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, **{is it}** is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 2 19 jfak figs-personification ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως 1 our hope … Is it not even you Here, **hope**, **joy**, and **crown of boasting** are spoken of as if these concepts were the Thessalonian church. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because who makes us hopeful? Who causes us to rejoice? Who gives us reason to boast victoriously?”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
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 for having competed well. The proof of the apostles’ success will ultimately be displayed at the Second Coming of Christ if the Thessalonian church remains faithful to God (See [4:13–5:11](../04/13/.md)). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or use plain language. Alternate translation: “reward for victory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH 2 19 uvb4 figs-possession στέφανος καυχήσεως 1 crown of boasting Paul is using this possessive form to describe either: (1) the product of boasting. Alternate translation: “crown that produces boasting” (2) the means of boasting. Alternate translation: “crown through which we boast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
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 use 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 19 mksc figs-idiom ἐν τῇ αὐτοῦ παρουσίᾳ 1 crown of boasting Here, **his coming** is a well-known idiom in 1–2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ (See [3:13](../03/13.md)) or the “Day of the Lord” (See [5:2](../05/02.md)). Use a natural way in your language to emphasize this idea. Alternate translation: “at his Second Coming” or “when he arrives again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 2 20 l3m0 figs-parallelism ὑμεῖς γάρ ἐστε ἡ δόξα ἡμῶν, καὶ ἡ χαρά 1 crown of boasting This verse means the same thing as “our hope or joy or crown of boasting” in [2:19](../02/19.md). Paul says the same thing twice in slightly different ways to emphasize that he is genuinely pleased with the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 2 20 d8dz figs-rpronouns ὑμεῖς 1 crown of boasting Paul uses the word **you** to emphasize how the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness to God brings honor and joy to the apostles. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
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 this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because of you, God will honor us and make us rejoice” or “Certainly, we will become glorified and rejoice because of you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH 3 intro j379 0 # 1 Thessalonians 3 General Notes<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>## “We” and “You”<br><br>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 apostles are in agreement with the letter.<br><br>## Special Concepts in this Chapter<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>Paul 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 of 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 comes again with all his holy ones or “saints” (See [3:13](../03/13.md)).
1TH 3 1 fqe3 grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ μηκέτι στέγοντες, ηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι ἐν Ἀθήναις μόνοι, 1 enduring it no longer This is a result clause. Paul is explaining why he sent Timothy to Thessalonica in [3:2](../03/02.md). Alternate translation: “Because we could not restrain ourselves any longer, we thought it proper to stay behind in Athens alone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 3 1 zvgz grammar-connect-words-phrases διὸ 1 enduring it no longer Here, **Therefore** indicates a return to the topic of a visit from the apostles (See [2:17–18](../02/17/.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 3 1 amxf figs-hyperbole διὸ μηκέτι στέγοντες 1 enduring it no longer This phrase uses extreme exaggeration to express the apostles’ deep desire to visit the Thessalonian church (See [2:17](../02/17.md)). The word translated **enduring** is related to the idea of keeping water out of a ship or trying to contain or holding something back. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that communicates anxious longing. Alternate translation: “Thus, since we could not bear to wait any longer” or “Therefore, because we could not ignore these emotions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 3 1 n47x figs-explicit ηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι ἐν Ἀθήναις μόνοι 1 we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone Here, **we** and **alone** refer to Paul and Silvanus (and perhaps Timothy), since in [3:2](../03/02.md) it says, “we sent Timothy.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Silas and I thought it was good idea to remain alone in Athens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 3 2 q1f7 grammar-connect-logic-contrast καὶ 1 our brother and a servant What follows the word **and** here is in contrast to Paul and Silvanus staying behind at Athens. Instead, they sent Timothy. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “even though this was true,” or “yet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 3 2 vsoo figs-exclusive ἐπέμψαμεν…ἡμῶν 1 our brother and a servant When Paul says **we** and **our**, he is exclusively speaking of himself and Silvanus. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 3 2 d8yy figs-distinguish τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν, καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 our brother and a servant This phrase gives us further information about Timothy. It is meant to clarify that he is authorized by the apostles and God himself. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. 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-distinguish]])
1TH 3 2 yyio figs-metaphor τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν, καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 our brother and a servant Here, the metaphors **our brother** and **servant** refer to **Timothy** as a fellow apostle (See [2:6](../02/06.md)). If your readers would not understand what **brother** or **servant** mean in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “he assists us and ministers for God in the preaching of the gospel about Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 3 2 lkvo figs-possession καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 our brother and a servant Here, **servant of God** could refer to: (1) a servant in general. Alternate translation: “and a minister of God” or “and assistant to God” (2) office of deacon. Alternate translation: “and a deacon of God” or “who also serves God as a deacon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 3 2 dsnc ἐν 1 our brother and a servant The preposition **in** could refer to: (1) Timothy’s association with the gospel. Alternate translation: “associated with” or “partnering in” (2) the cause of the gospel. Alternate translation: “for the cause of” or “for the sake of” (3) the means of the gospel. Alternate translation: “through” or “by means of”
1TH 3 2 pqif figs-possession τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 our brother and a servant Paul is most likely using the possessive form to refer to **the gospel** that is “about” **Christ**. If this is not clear in your language, you could replace **of** with “about.” Alternate translation: “about Christ” or “concerning 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. Paul is stating the purpose for why he and Silvanus sent Timothy. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you would be confirmed and consoled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 3 3 u7vo figs-abstractnouns τὸ μηδένα σαίνεσθαι ἐν ταῖς θλίψεσιν ταύταις 1 no one be disturbed If your language does not use the abstract noun **afflictions**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “so that when you are distressed, it would not make anyone waver” (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 is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for sending Timothy. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that no one would waver” or “for the purpose of keeping anyone from being deceived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 3 3 v8q7 figs-nominaladj τὸ μηδένα σαίνεσθαι 1 no one be disturbed Paul is using the adjective **no one** as a noun in order to describe the Thessalonian church. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “so that no person wavers” or “in order that none of you are deceived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 3 3 t0vs figs-rpronouns αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε 1 no one be disturbed Paul uses the word **yourselves** to emphasize what the apostles had previously told them about **afflictions**. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “In fact, you know for yourselves” or “Certainly, you are well aware of the fact” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH 3 3 cdaa grammar-collectivenouns εἰς τοῦτο 1 no one be disturbed Here, **this** refers to **afflictions**. However, in this sentence the meaning is more like a condition or state of “being afflicted” regularly or continually. The pronoun is changed to be singular to agree with this unstated idea. If you readers would not understand this shift, you could change **this** to a plural pronoun or make this unstated idea explicit. Alternate translation: “for these afflictions” or “for this affliction” “for a life characterized by 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 that it is God who **appointed** the apostles for **afflictions**. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God appointed us” or “God destined us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 3 3 gla7 figs-exclusive κείμεθα 1 we are appointed Here, **we** refers exclusively to the apostles. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (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 Paul is giving background information about his previous visit. Paul reminds the Thessalonian church that what he predicted about the apostles’ sufferings has come true, so they should not be tempted to doubt the apostles’ authority or teaching (See [3:5,7](../03/05.md)). Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. 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 wo6q figs-exclusive ἦμεν 1 to suffer affliction Here, **we** is exclusive of the apostles. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “we apostles were” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 3 4 w95u grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 to suffer affliction Here, **For** indicates that what follows explains and emphasizes what the Thessalonian already know about the apostles’ afflictions. Alternate translation: “Certainly,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 3 4 wuco figs-quotations προελέγομεν ὑμῖν ὅτι μέλλομεν θλίβεσθαι 1 to suffer affliction Here, **that** could either express emphasis or be a quotation marker of what the apostles said. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as 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 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 that their prophetic words came true. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “and this is precisely what happened”
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 Here Paul summarizes the story of Timothy’s visit but leaves 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 anymore, I sent Timothy to learn if you still trust in God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
1TH 3 5 o9ep figs-parallelism κἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων, ἔπεμψα 1 I also no longer enduring it Paul repeats the same phrase **no longer enduring {it}** found in [3:1](../03/01.md). Here, “I sent” parallels “we sent” in [3:1–2](../03/01.md). This expresses that Paul represents the apostles who sent Timothy to Thessalonica. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this parallelism. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 3 5 st3d figs-hyperbole κἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων 1 I also no longer enduring it This phrase is an exaggeration that Paul uses to express deep concern. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows deep 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. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. 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. Paul is stating the purpose for why he **sent** Timothy. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that I could learn if you remained faithful” or “in order to discern whether 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 Paul uses the phrase **the tempter** as a title to identify Satan (See Matthew 4:3). The phrase means “one who tempts.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase. Alternate translation: “Satan, the one who tempts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 3 5 ua7i figs-hypo μή πως ἐπείρασεν ὑμᾶς ὁ πειράζων, καὶ 1 our labor Paul is using a hypothetical situation to help his readers recognize how powerful satanic temptation can be. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “because if Satan tempted you, I wanted to find out, and then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
1TH 3 5 gnow grammar-connect-logic-result καὶ εἰς κενὸν γένηται ὁ κόπος ἡμῶν 1 our labor This phrase could be a result clause. Paul is stating what would be the result if the Thessalonian church let Satan tempt them to stop trusting God. Use a natural way in your language for introducing 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 jnzb figs-hyperbole εἰς κενὸν 1 our labor Here, **in vain** is an exaggeration that Paul uses to express how sad the apostles would have been if the Thessalonian church had not remained faithful to God. Paul does not really think the apostles’ **labor** is worthless. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows deep disappointment. Alternate translation: “worthless” or “purposeless” or “profitless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 3 6 esxw grammar-connect-time-background 0 Connecting Statement: In [3:6](../03/06.md) Paul describes Timothy’s current report about the Thessalonian church. Paul provides this background information to help his readers understand how comforted he is (See [3:7](../03/07.md)).Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (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: The phrase **But just now** brings Paul’s narrative into the present time. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “But Timothy recently returned to us from visiting you” or “But now, Timothy is 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. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 3 6 tu8d figs-abstractnouns τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν 1 of your faith If your language does not use the abstract nouns **faith** and **love**, you can express the idea behind them in another way. Alternate translation: “that you remain faithful to God and love him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 3 6 fu8h figs-hendiadys τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν 1 of your faith This phrase could express a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **faith** could describe **love**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. 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 If your language does not use the abstract noun **memories**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “and how you always remember us fondly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 3 7 dpij grammar-connect-logic-result διὰ τοῦτο παρεκλήθημεν, ἀδελφοί, ἐφ’ ὑμῖν 1 brothers This phrase is a result clause. Paul is stating the result of the Timothy’s good news in [3:6](../03/06.md). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a result clause. Alternate translation: “Fellow believers in Christ, as a result of Timothy’s good news about you, God consoled us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 3 7 csz7 figs-hendiadys ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν 1 in all our distress and affliction This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **distress** describes the **affliction**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Here this phrase emphasizes how much and how intensely the apostles were persecuted. Alternate translation: “in all our abusive affliction” or “in all our violent suffering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH 3 7 e96u figs-abstractnouns ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν 1 in all our distress and affliction If your language does not use the abstract nouns **distress** and **affliction**, you can express them in another way. Here, it could refer to: (1) the time of distress and affliction. Alternate translation: “during all our abuse and affliction” or “each time we violently suffered” (2) the place or way of distress and affliction. Alternate translation: “in every place the tempter violently afflicted us” or “in every way we suffered abuse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 3 8 utk3 grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι νῦν ζῶμεν, ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 if you stand firm in the Lord 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: “Since you are remaining faithful to the Lord Jesus, we are now refreshed!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 3 8 y1vb figs-hyperbole ὅτι νῦν ζῶμεν 1 we live Here, **For now we live** is an exaggeration that Paul uses to show how thankful he is that the Thessalonians **stand firm** in the Christian faith (See [3:7](../03/07.md)). Paul is not trying to say that he was dead. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows thankfulness. Alternate translation (replace the comma): “O how we are now refreshed!” or “O how we now feel alive!” or “Certainly now we thrive!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 3 8 x4zn figs-idiom ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 if you stand firm in the Lord Here, the term **stand firm** is an idiom meaning “remain faithful.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “when you remain faithful to the Lord” or “if you continue unwavering in your relationship with the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 3 8 zbyo grammar-connect-condition-fact ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 if you stand firm in the Lord Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since you are remaining faithful to the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1TH 3 8 hk91 figs-metaphor ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 if you stand firm in the Lord Paul speaks of the Thessalonian church as though they were occupying space inside the Lord Jesus. Here, this metaphor, **in {the} Lord**, could express these ideas: (1) devotion to Jesus. Alternate translation: “you are really devoted to the Lord Jesus” (2) relationship with Jesus. Alternate translation: “you are truly standing firm in your relationship with the Lord Jesus” (3) union with Jesus. Alternate translation: “all of you are firmly united to the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 3 8 e3pe figs-rpronouns ὑμεῖς 1 if you stand firm in the Lord Paul uses the word **yourselves** to emphasize his joy for the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternative translation: “indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
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, Paul is using a rhetorical question that continues to the end of [3:10](../03/10.md) in order to emphasize the apostles’ thankful joy for the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness to God. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. 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 With the phrase **give back**, Paul speaks of the apostles as if they owe God a debt for the sake of the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness. Paul means that the apostles cannot adequately express how thankful they are. If your readers would not understand what it means to **give back** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because, how could we possibly show how grateful we are to God for you” or “Indeed, what kind of thanksgiving for you could we give to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 3 9 j6pj grammar-connect-logic-result ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν δι’ ὑμᾶς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν 1 before our God 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. 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 u00t figs-doublet ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν 1 before our God Here, **joy** and **rejoice** mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how much joy the apostles have because of how faithful the Thessalonian church has been towards God. Alternate translation: “for how much we greatly rejoice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH 3 9 p5ka figs-idiom χαίρομεν…ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν 1 before our God Here, **before our God** is an idiom for being in the personal presence of God. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “we rejoice in the presence of our God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 3 10 k71n figs-hyperbole νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας, ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ δεόμενοι 1 earnestly This emphatic phrase is an exaggeration that Paul uses to show how much and often the apostles pray for the Thessalonian church. Paul does not mean to say he never does anything else except pray. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that expresses this emphasis. Alternate translation: “we never stop intensely pleading” or “we continually and fervently pray” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 3 10 eb26 figs-idiom εἰς τὸ ἰδεῖν ὑμῶν τὸ πρόσωπον 1 to see your face Here, the phrase **to see your face** is an idiom meaning “visit.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. 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 Paul refers to **your face** to mean the whole Thessalonian church. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or use plain language. 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 your language does not use the abstract noun **faith**, you can express the idea behind it in another way (See also [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 translate-blessing δὲ…κατευθύναι 1 General Information: Here the verb forms indicate that this is a blessing or prayer that continues through [3:13](../03/13.md). Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing or prayer in your language. Alternate translation: “Now we pray that … would guide” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
1TH 3 11 f3wh figs-hendiadys ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν 1 our God and Father … our Lord 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 (See also [1:3](../01/03.md)). Alternate translation: “God our Father” or “our Father God” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys)
1TH 3 11 mc2m figs-rpronouns αὐτὸς 1 may our God and Father … direct Paul uses the word **himself** to distinguish **our God and Father** from **our Lord Jesus**. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this distinction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
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 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)). Your language may require you to mark these forms. (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 Paul speaks about God as if he were a pilot or captain of a ship. Paul means that he wants God to allow the apostles to visit the Thessalonian church again. If your readers would not understand what **direct our way to you** 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. Alternate translation: “may … quickly bring us to you” or “may … direct our voyage so that we can visit you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 3 12 f4ma figs-doublet ὑμᾶς δὲ ὁ Κύριος πλεονάσαι καὶ περισσεύσαι 1 may the Lord make you increase and abound in love Here, **increase** and **abound** mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how much the apostles want the Thessalonian church to keep increasing in their love for all people. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “May the Lord Jesus make you completely excel” or “O that the Lord Jesus would cause you to fully thrive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH 3 12 o80n figs-metaphor τῇ ἀγάπῃ 1 may the Lord make you increase and abound in love Paul speaks of **love** as something that can be quantified or measured. He means that he hopes the Thessalonian church will keep loving people well. If your readers would not understand what **in love** means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “in the way you love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 3 12 ofl2 figs-merism εἰς ἀλλήλους, καὶ εἰς πάντας 1 may the Lord make you increase and abound in love Paul could be speaking, using these phrases in order to include the whole human race. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or use plain language. Alternate translation: “toward each and every person” or “toward the whole human race” or “toward Christians and non-Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1TH 3 12 gyy3 figs-nominaladj εἰς πάντας 1 may the Lord make you increase and abound in love Paul could be using the adjective **all** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. It could refer to: (1) the whole human race. Alternate translation: “toward all humanity” (2) all Christians. Alternate translation: “for all your fellow believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 3 12 dm6c καθάπερ καὶ ἡμεῖς εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 may the Lord make you increase and abound in love Here, **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)). Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “in the same way that 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 your language does not use the abstract nouns **hearts** and **holiness**, you can express the ideas behind them in another way. Alternate translation: “so that how you love one another strengthens you to become resolved to live blamelessly, as is appropriate for those who belong to the Lord Jesus” (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 Paul speaks of the people of the Thessalonian church as if they have one heart that is like a building that can be established or supported. He means that he wants God to increase their willpower or affections so that they would remain faithful to God. If your readers would not understand what this phrase 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. 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 phrase is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why he prays that God will increase the Thessalonian church’s love for all people. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that the Lord will establish your affections for him” or “in order that the Lord will strengthen your willpower” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 3 13 jev8 figs-doublet ἀμέμπτους ἐν ἁγιωσύνῃ 1 at the coming of our Lord Jesus Here, **blameless** and **holiness** mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize total sanctification. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases. This phrase could refer to: (1) a condition of holiness. Alternate translation: “blameless in a condition of holiness” (2) how to become holy. Alternate translation: “blameless through holiness” (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 phrase is an idiom for being in the personal presence of God (See [3:9](../03/09.md)). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “in the presence of our Father God” (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 Zechariah 14:5 (See also 2 Thessalonians 1:7,10; Jude 14). Here it is implied that these **saints** are all those who are **blameless in holiness** and who have already died (See [4:14](../04/14.md)). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the time the Lord Jesus arrives along with all his holy people who have already died” or “when the Lord Jesus returns a second time with all those reposed people 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, **at the coming of the Lord Jesus** is a well-known idiom in 1–2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ (See [2:19; 4:15](../02/19.md)) or the “Day of the **Lord**” [5:2](../05/02.md)). Use a natural way in your language to emphasize this idea. 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 4 intro b1z5 0 # 1 Thessalonians 4 General Notes<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>## “We” and “You”<br><br>In this letter, the words **we** and **our** refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Throughout the letter, **we** and **our** are used to convey that all three apostles are in agreement with the letter.<br><br>## Special Concepts in this Chapter<br><br>### Christian love<br><br>The apostles address the topic of Christian love that the Thessalonian church had previously asked about. The apostles encouraged the church that they were already loving well, and they should continue to grow in this practice. The apostles also link “brotherly love” to living in harmony with each other and minding their own business, 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 and the Day of the Lord<br><br>All Christians believe that Jesus will return to earth to judge all people and to rule forever. As the Nicene Creed (381 A.D.) 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. However, there are various ways that Christians understand the “coming of the Lord” as explained in [4:13–5:11](../04/13.md), and the “day of the Lord” in [5:2](../05/02.md). Some believe they are one and the same event, but others believe them to be two separate events. Your translation should state clearly only what is clear in these verses without promoting any particular interpretation.
1TH 4 1 vtas grammar-connect-words-phrases λοιπὸν οὖν 1 brothers Here, **So finally** could refer to: (1) a summary of the apostles’ teachings. Alternate translation: “So, in summary,” (2) the remaining things to address. “So then, here is what remains for us to talk about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 4 1 u2lw figs-doublet ἐρωτῶμεν ὑμᾶς καὶ παρακαλοῦμεν 1 we beg and exhort you These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how seriously the apostles want the Thessalonian church to follow their teachings. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “we are urging and appealing to you” or “we strongly urge you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH 4 1 foeh figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ 1 we beg and exhort you Paul speaks as if the apostles are occupying space inside of **{the} Lord Jesus**. Here, the metaphor expresses the idea that the apostles represent Jesus himself like ambassadors who possess a king’s authority. If your readers would not understand what **in {the} Lord** 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. Alternate translation: “with our authority from the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 1 p4db figs-metaphor τὸ πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν 1 it is necessary for you to walk Here, **to walk** is a metaphor that means “to live” or “to obey” (See [2:12](../02/12.md)). If your readers would not understand what it means **to walk** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “about how you must live” or “about how you are obligated to obey” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 1 ckii figs-hendiadys τὸ πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν καὶ ἀρέσκειν Θεῷ (καθὼς καὶ περιπατεῖτε) 1 it is necessary for you to walk Here, **to walk and to please** expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **please** describes how the Thessalonian church should **walk**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. 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 q937 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα περισσεύητε μᾶλλον 1 it is necessary for you to walk This phrase is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which apostles are begging and exhorting the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language for introducing 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 0 through the Lord Jesus Paul is providing this background information about the apostles’ teachings during their previous visit to help readers understand what happens next. Use a natural way in your language for introducing background information. (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 that the Thessalonian church should do what the apostles previously taught them (See [4:1](../04/01.md)), because these teachings are actually commands from **the Lord Jesus** himself. Use a natural way in your language to express a result clause. Alternate translation: “The reason we beg and exhort you is because you realize 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 grammar-connect-words-phrases γὰρ 1 through the Lord Jesus Here, **For** indicates that what follows is something else important that the Thessalonian church should pay attention to. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “In fact” or “Certainly” (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 Paul speaks of the **commands** that the apostles gave to the Thessalonian church as though **Jesus** personally told them to the apostles. Paul means that **Jesus** made the apostles his messengers, not that **Jesus** is a messenger of the apostles. If your readers would not understand what **through the Lord Jesus** 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. Alternate translation: “through a message from the Lord Jesus” or “by order of the Lord Jesus himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 3 ycsw figs-abstractnouns τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὁ ἁγιασμὸς ὑμῶν, 1 for you to keep from sexual immorality If your language does not use the abstract nouns **will** and **sanctification**, you can express the ideas behind them in another way. 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 lit4 grammar-connect-words-phrases τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν 1 for you to keep from sexual immorality Here, **For this is** indicates that this is the beginning of a section about the content of the commands from the Lord Jesus in [4:2](../04/02.md). Use a natural way in your language to indicate the beginning of new topic. Alternate translation: “Now, this is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 4 3 vnp0 grammar-collectivenouns τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 for you to keep from sexual immorality Here, **this** is a singular pronoun that emphasizes what **is {the} will of God**. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “Certainly, this very thing is God’s will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1TH 4 3 mw4j τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὁ ἁγιασμὸς ὑμῶν 1 For this is the will of God, your sanctification Here begins a list spanning through [4:3–8](../04/03.md) that explains what **sanctification** means in this context. Use a natural way in your language to indicate the beginning of a topic.
1TH 4 3 lgac figs-distinguish ἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τῆς πορνείας 1 for you to keep from sexual immorality This phrase gives us further information about what is meant by **sanctification**. Paul is defining the **sanctification** God wants for his people by forbidding **sexually immorality**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 4 3 lhxi figs-imperative ἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς 1 for you to keep from sexual immorality The following list of verb forms in [4:3–6](../04/03.md) could be translated as commands (See [4:2](../04/02.md)). Here, the verb forms are likely meant to express a strong suggestion or appeal. Use a form in your language that would be used in this type of situation. Alternate translation: “you yourselves must refrain” or “you should withhold yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH 4 4 u98k figs-distinguish εἰδέναι ἕκαστον ὑμῶν τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ 1 to know to possess his own vessel Here Paul gives more instructions about the **sanctification** God wants for his people, by telling the Thessalonian church that every husband needs to treat his wife’s body and his own body **in sanctification and honor**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these verses clearer. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 4 4 vhbp figs-euphemism εἰδέναι ἕκαστον ὑμῶν τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ, 1 to know to possess his own vessel Here, **to know to possess** refers to sexual intimacy. This is a polite way of referring to something private. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a different polite way of referring to this or you could state this plainly. Alternate translation: “God desires that you treat your wives’ bodies like they belong to God and to honor them” or “each of you men must use your own body for God’s holy and honorable purposes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1TH 4 4 fk6n figs-nominaladj ἕκαστον 1 to know to possess his own vessel Paul is using the adjective **each** as a noun in order to describe a group of men. Here it specifically is used to emphasize that every husband or man must obey this teaching. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “each and every man” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 4 4 f4ux figs-metaphor τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι 1 to know to possess his own vessel Here Paul speaks of a person’s body as if it were a container. Here, **to possess {his} own vessel** is a metaphor that compares sexual self-control to a proper use of a container. If your readers would not understand what this phrase means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. It could refer to: (1) a wife’s body. Alternate translation: “to use his wife’s body” or “to properly care for his own wife” (2) a husband’s own body. Alternate translation: “to control his own body” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 4 arkf figs-possession τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος 1 to know to possess his own vessel Paul is using the possessive form **{his} own** to express ownership. Use a natural way in your language to express ownership. Alternate translation: “the wife that belongs to you” or “your very own wife” or “the body that belongs to you”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 4 4 ihqe figs-hendiadys ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ 1 to know to possess his own vessel This phrase could express a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **honor** tells how a husband or man must live in **sanctification**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Alternate translation: “by honorably setting it apart for God’s purposes” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH 4 5 utvd figs-abstractnouns μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας 1 in the passion of lust If your language does not use the abstract noun phrase **in {the} passion of lust**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “not passionately lusting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 4 5 y9g2 grammar-connect-logic-contrast μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας 1 in the passion of lust Here, **not in {the} passion of lust** contrasts with the previous phrase “in holiness and honor” (See: [4:4](../04/04.md)). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “not passionately lusting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 4 5 vjej figs-possession πάθει ἐπιθυμίας 1 in the passion of lust Paul is using the possessive phrase **of lust** to describe **passion**. This genitive phrase could refer to: 1) passion characterized by lust. Alternate translation: “lustful passion” 2) the source of the passion. Alternate translation: “passion that comes from lust” (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 phrase gives us further information about the those who live **in {the} passion of lust**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “like the nations who remain ignorant of God act” or “exactly like all the people who have no relationship with God” (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** refers to all the non-Christian nations in general, not one group of people. If this would be misunderstood in your language, use a more natural phrase (See your translation at [2:16](../02/16.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
1TH 4 5 w03g figs-distinguish τὰ μὴ εἰδότα τὸν Θεόν 1 in the passion of lust Here, **the ones not knowing God** is meant to give further information about the **Gentiles**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who have no relationship with God” or “who remain ignorant of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 4 6 wmb6 figs-hendiadys ὑπερβαίνειν καὶ πλεονεκτεῖν 1 transgress and wrong This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with **and**. The word **exploit** describes **transgress** . If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Alternate translation: “exploits by transgressing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
1TH 4 6 ho6h figs-metaphor ὑπερβαίνειν καὶ πλεονεκτεῖν 1 transgress and wrong Here, **transgress and exploit** speaks about adultery, by comparing it to a person who unlawfully enters someone’s property and claims it for their own. If your readers would not understand what it means to **transgress and exploit** 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, “must trespass and defraud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 6 ckez figs-metaphor ἐν τῷ πράγματι τὸν ἀδελφὸν αὐτοῦ 1 the Lord is an avenger Here, **in this matter** could be speaking of adultery as if someone is intruding in another person’s business matters. If your readers would not understand what **in this matter** 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. Alternate translation: “the marital matters of his fellow believer in Christ” or “the marriage relationship of another believer in Christ” 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 for those who live “in the passion of lust” (See [4:5](../04/05.md)). Use a natural way in your language to express result. This could refer to: 1) all the matters spoken of in [4:3–6](../04/03.md). Alternate translation: “Certainly, the Lord Jesus will avenge all these things” 2) the sexually immoral people. Alternate translation: “This is because the Lord Jesus will punish all those people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 4 6 d1ip writing-background καθὼς καὶ προείπαμεν ὑμῖν καὶ διεμαρτυράμεθα 1 we also forewarned you and testified Paul provides this background information about what the apostles said in an earlier visit (See in [2:10–12](../02/10.md)). Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “This will happen just as we already told you and solemnly testified to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
1TH 4 6 ix4p figs-doublet καθὼς καὶ προείπαμεν ὑμῖν καὶ διεμαρτυράμεθα 1 we also forewarned you and testified These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize what the apostles had already told the Thessalonian church during a previous visit. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “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 If your language does not use the abstract nouns **uncleanness** and **sanctification**, you can express the ideas behind them in other ways. Alternate translation: “We must not live impurely or act unholy, because God did not call us as his people for this purpose” or “God called us, so we must purify and set ourselves apart like those who belong to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 4 7 v3np figs-litotes οὐ γὰρ ἐκάλεσεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ 1 God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness Paul uses 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. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “Certainly God summons us to live purely and act holy” or “Indeed, God calls us to be pure and holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
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, to all Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “us believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 4 7 qli0 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ 1 God did not call us What follows the word **but** is in contrast to **uncleanness**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 4 8 mn5y grammar-connect-words-phrases τοιγαροῦν 1 the one rejecting this The emphatic connecting word **Therefore** is meant to mark the end of this section prohibiting sexual immorality. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “So then” or “As you can be absolutely certain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 4 8 gzz8 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ὁ ἀθετῶν…ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν, τὸν διδόντα 1 rejecting this rejects not man, but God Here God’s constant giving of the **Holy Spirit** is contrasted with the person who constantly **rejects** the apostolic teaching. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. 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 9 uxn8 figs-explicit περὶ δὲ τῆς φιλαδελφίας 1 brotherly love This phrase implies that the apostles are answering a specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian church. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Now, related to your question about how to love fellow believers in Christ” or “Now, about your question referring to Christian relationships” or “Now, about your question related to Christian friendships” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 9 rpmn figs-abstractnouns τῆς φιλαδελφίας 1 brotherly love If your language does not use the abstract noun phrase **brotherly love**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “how to affectionately care for fellow believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
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 ἔχετε γράφειν ὑμῖν 1 brotherly love Here, **no need** is an exaggeration that Paul uses to show how successfully the Thessalonian church is practicing Christian love. Paul knows that they still have things to learn about loving fellow believers in Christ. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. Alternate translation: “we feel no need to write to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 4 9 fyqe figs-ellipsis οὐ χρείαν 1 brotherly love A word is left out here in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, **{for us}** is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 4 9 ctiq αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε, εἰς τὸ ἀγαπᾶν ἀλλήλους 1 brotherly love This clause could refer to: (1) the content of God’s teaching. Alternate translation: “because it is God himself who teaches you: love each other” (2) the manner of God’s teaching. Alternate translation: “indeed, it is God who teaches you how to love each other” (3) the purpose of God’s teaching. Alternate translation: “the reason why God teaches you is so that you would love each other” Use a natural way in your language for expressing this idea.
1TH 4 9 j7z0 figs-metaphor αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε 1 brotherly love Paul speaks of the Thessalonian church as though God himself were physically present as their teacher. Paul means that the Thessalonian church already has been taught **to love one another** through the words of Jesus (See John 13:34; 15:12, 17) by the apostles. If your readers would not understand what it means to be **taught by God** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “because you have learned well what God teaches,” or “since this is what God teaches you to do,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 9 zroq figs-rpronouns αὐτοὶ 1 brotherly love Paul uses the word **yourselves** to emphasize that the Thessalonian church is doing what God teaches. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “personally” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
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 Paul provides this background information to show another aspect of how the Thessalonian church “became an example” to the churches in Macedonia and Achaia (See [1:7–8](../01/07.md)). Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Certainly, you habitually show 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 Here, **For indeed** indicates that what follows in an example of how the Thessalonian church shows Christian love. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 4 10 hg7a figs-explicit ποιεῖτε αὐτὸ 1 you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia What is implied here is that **this** refers back to the phrase “to love” in [4:9](../04/09.md). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 10 gxfa figs-litany παρακαλοῦμεν δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί, 1 brothers Speaking of what the apostles **exhort** the Thessalonian church to do, Paul uses a repetitive series of five verb forms that continues into [4:11](../04/11.md). This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone is urged to do. Alternate translation: “Now, fellow believers in Christ, we are urging you” or “But, fellow Christians, we strongly encourage you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
1TH 4 10 u3fl grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 abound Here, **But** indicates that what follows are numerous exhortations. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “However” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 4 11 h2df figs-metonymy καὶ φιλοτιμεῖσθαι, ἡσυχάζειν καὶ πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια, καὶ ἐργάζεσθαι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσὶν ὑμῶν 1 to strive Paul is describing peaceful communal living by using this combination of ideas. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or use plain language. 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-metonymy]])
1TH 4 11 d2fg καὶ φιλοτιμεῖσθαι, ἡσυχάζειν 1 to strive These phrases continue the apostles’ exhortations. Here, the phrases translated **and to strive to live quietly** could refer to: (1) phrases that complement each other. Alternate translation: “and to aspire to live quietly” (2) phrases that express separate ideas. Alternate translation: “and seek to lovingly honor others, to live quietly,” Use a natural way in your language to emphasize this.
1TH 4 11 j4c7 figs-explicit πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια 1 to live quietly Here, **to perform your own {things}** implies that the Thessalonian church should tend to their own concerns. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “to tend to your own business” or “to focus on your own tasks” (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 Here, **to work with your own hands** is an idiom meaning “earn what you need to live.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “to work hard to earn what you need” or “to labor to pay for your expenses” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
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 about how to live in Christian community (See [4:1,2](../04/01.md) for the same wording). Here, **just as we commanded** also expresses that what the apostles teach is the same as being “taught by God” (See [4:9](../04/09.md)). If this would not be understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation as a new sentence: “This is what we already commanded you to do” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 4 12 wj25 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα 1 you may walk properly Here, **so that** could introduce a purpose clause. Paul could be stating the purpose for the apostles’ exhortation in [4:10](../04/10.md). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 4 12 oo9l grammar-connect-logic-result ἵνα περιπατῆτε 1 you may walk properly Here, **so that you may walk** could be 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: “as a result you now live” or “then you will live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 4 12 hp6g figs-metaphor περιπατῆτε εὐσχημόνως 1 you may walk properly Here, **walk** is a metaphor that means “to live” or “behave.” If your readers would not understand what it means **to walk** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “you would live appropriately” or “you would live nobly” or “you would behave modestly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 12 k59r figs-metaphor πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω 1 before those outside Paul speaks of these people as if they were physically located outside of an area. He means that they are not part of the Christian community. If your readers would not understand what “before those outside” 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. Alternate translation: “in the presence of non-Christians” or “in front of those who do not trust in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 12 nait grammar-connect-logic-result καὶ μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχητε 1 before those outside This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for the apostles’ exhortation in [4:10](../04/10.md). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “and so that you would not need anything” or “and then you could 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: Here, **Now** is a connecting word that signals the beginning of an extended section in [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-litotes οὐ θέλομεν δὲ ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν 1 General Information: Paul uses 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. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “We want you to know for certain” or “Now we desire to clarify” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1TH 4 13 qt5b figs-explicit περὶ 1 you may not grieve Here, **concerning** implies that the apostles are answering another specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian church (See [4:9](../04/09.md)). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. 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: Here, **the ones sleeping** is a euphemism for death that continues through [5:10](../05/10.md). In this specific context, it refers to those human souls who are awaiting the reunion of their bodies at the Second Coming of Christ (See [4:16–17](../04/16.md)). You could either use a similar euphemism for death in your language or say this in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “those who are already dead” or “those who have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1TH 4 13 ocjp grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα μὴ λυπῆσθε 1 brothers Here, **so that you may not grieve** is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why he does not want the Thessalonian church to remain ignorant about the destiny of their loved ones **who are asleep**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you would not sorrow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 4 13 r9f8 figs-nominaladj καθὼς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ 1 so that you may not grieve just as also the rest Paul is using the adjective phrase **the rest** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “like the rest of people” or “in the same way as the rest of humanity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 4 13 f9eq figs-explicit οἱ μὴ ἔχοντες ἐλπίδα 1 so that you may not grieve just as also the rest Here Paul assumes that his readers will know that **hope** refers to salvation at the final resurrection (See [1:3; 2:19; 4:16; 5:8](../01/03.md)). Previously **hope** was associated with the Second Coming of Christ in [2:19](../02/19.md). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “who possess no confidence of life after death” or “who possess no assurance of life after death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 13 puvg figs-abstractnouns οἱ μὴ ἔχοντες ἐλπίδα 1 so that you may not grieve just as also the rest If your language does not use the abstract noun **hope**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. Alternate translation: “who are not confident of life after death” “who are not sure about life after death” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 4 14 j09o grammar-connect-condition-fact εἰ γὰρ πιστεύομεν ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη 1 if we believe Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he actually means 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 what the apostles are saying is not certain, then you could translate their words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “As we certainly believe that Jesus died and resurrected” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
1TH 4 14 hmw4 figs-explicit πιστεύομεν ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη 1 if we believe Here it is assumed that the Thessalonian church knows the apostolic teaching that **Jesus died and rose again**. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “we apostles trust―as you already know―that Jesus died and rose again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 14 ybz6 figs-exclusive πιστεύομεν 1 if we believe Although **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 [4:11](../04/11.md) and subsequent uses (See “we say” in [4:15](../04/15.md)) are clearly referring to the apostles. Here, it mostly likely is a reference to their authoritative teaching. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 4 14 kmk2 grammar-connect-logic-result οὕτως…ὁ Θεὸς 1 rose again This phrase could refer to: (1) result. Alternate translation: “then God” (2) manner. Alternate translation: “this is the way God” or “this is how God” (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 Paul is using the possessive form. Here, **through Jesus** could refer to: (1) being united to Jesus’ resurrection power **through** death. Alternate translation: “God will bring back with Jesus those who are united to him in death” (2) those who God will also bring back again **through** Jesus. Alternate translation: “it is through Jesus that God will also bring back the dead people who are with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 4 14 tjqj figs-explicit αὐτῷ 1 rose again Here Paul implies that **him** refers to **Jesus**. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
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 that what follows is something else important that the Thessalonian church should pay attention to (See also [1:8](../01/08.md) for **{the} word of {the} Lord**). Alternate translation: “Certainly, what we now say to you is the Lord Jesus’ message” (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 The phrase **{the} word of {the} Lord** refers to “the whole message of the Lord’s gospel.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or use plain language. Here, **word** could refer to: (1) the authority of the message. Alternate translation: “because the Lord Jesus authorized our message” (2) the means of the message. Alternate translation: “with a message from the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1TH 4 15 gbe1 grammar-connect-words-phrases Κυρίου, ὅτι ἡμεῖς 1 by the word of the Lord Here, **that** indicates that the rest of the verse is the content of **{the} word of {the} Lord**. You could indicate this by changing the punctuation or some other natural way in your language. Alternate translation: “of the Lord: we” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 4 15 fdwk figs-exclusive λέγομεν…ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες 1 by the word of the Lord When Paul says **we say**, he is speaking of himself, Silvanus, and Timothy, so **we** would be exclusive. However, when Paul says **we who are alive**, since he seems to be referring to all Christians, **we, the ones being alive** would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “we apostles say … all of us believers in Christ who are still alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 4 15 hdlr figs-distinguish οἱ περιλειπόμενοι 1 by the word of the Lord This phrase gives us further information about **we, the ones being alive**. It is not making a distinction between **the ones being left behind** and **we, the ones being alive**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “and survive” or “and remain here” (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, **coming of the Lord** 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). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “until the Lord Jesus returns” or “for the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 4 15 xd2y figs-doublenegatives οὐ μὴ φθάσωμεν τοὺς κοιμηθέντας 1 by the word of the Lord Here, the phrase translated **certainly not** is a strong prohibition meaning “never.” If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement as in the UST. Alternate translation: “will never precede those who are dead” or “are not permitted to come before those who have already died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TH 4 16 ah7p grammar-connect-words-phrases ὅτι 1 the Lord himself … will descend Here, **For** indicates that following events are related to the Second Coming. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this. Alternately translation: “Certainly,” or “Indeed,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
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 In this verse, Paul is describing events that happen at the same time **the Lord will descend from heaven**. He 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. You can also make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “Certainly, the Lord Jesus himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, and 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 Paul uses the word **himself** to emphasize that the Lord Jesus will come back in person. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus will come back personally” or “the very person, the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH 4 16 breq figs-possession σάλπιγγι Θεοῦ 1 of the archangel Paul is using the possessive form to describe **a trumpet** that is related to God. Here, **trumpet of God** could refer to: (1) a trumpet that God commands to be blown. Alternate translation: “a trumpet that God orders to be blown” (2) a trumpet that belongs to God. Alternate translation: “God’s trumpet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
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 contrast with the second verb **rise**. After the **Lord** Jesus comes down from **heaven**, the **dead** Christians will resurrect from the earth. Paul makes two opposite statements, in similar ways, to emphasis the dramatic nature of the Lord’s Second Coming. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “will come down from heaven, but the first to resurrect from the earth will be the dead people who are united to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 4 16 k7sg grammar-connect-time-sequential καὶ 2 the Lord himself … will descend The word **and** indicates that the event the story will now relate came after the event it has just described. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “and then after that,” or “and afterward,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
1TH 4 16 dr89 figs-explicit οἱ νεκροὶ 1 the dead in Christ will rise first Paul assumes that the Thessalonian church knows that **the dead** are the same as “those who are asleep” in [4:13–15](../04/13.md). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. See how you translated “fallen asleep” in [4:13–15](../04/13.md) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 16 xrxu figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ 1 the dead in Christ will rise first Here Paul speaks about **the dead** as though they were occupying space inside **Christ**. This metaphor expresses the idea that believers are spiritually united to **Christ** (See also [2:14](../02/14.md)). Here, it also highlights the communion that living Thessalonian believers **in Christ** have with the believers **in Christ** who have died. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation: “who are united to Jesus Christ” or “who share life with Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 4 17 iy00 grammar-connect-time-sequential ἔπειτα 1 we who are alive Here, **Then** indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event it has just described. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could show this relationship by using a fuller phrase. Alternate translation: “After that,” or “Afterward,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
1TH 4 17 l5l1 figs-exclusive ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες 1 we who are alive Though **we, the ones living** 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, so **we** would be inclusive. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “all of us believers in Christ who remain alive” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 4 17 otiq writing-pronouns ἅμα σὺν αὐτοῖς 1 we who are alive Here, Paul refers to “the dead in Christ” (See [4:16](../04/16.md)) as **them**. If this is confusing in your language, you can make the reference explicit. Alternate translation: “together with the dead in Christ (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1TH 4 17 aj1n grammar-connect-time-simultaneous ἅμα σὺν αὐτοῖς 1 we who are alive Here, **together with them** could refer to: (1) a simultaneous event. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “with them at the same time” (2) association with the “dead in Christ.” Alternate translation: “along with the dead in Christ” (3) both event and association. Alternate translation: “at the same time together with the dead in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
1TH 4 17 m3gb figs-explicit ἁρπαγησόμεθα ἐν νεφέλαις εἰς ἀπάντησιν τοῦ Κυρίου εἰς ἀέρα 1 with them Here it is assumed that Paul is referring to the words of the angels at Jesus’ Ascension in [Acts 1:9–11] (acts/01/09.md), as a fulfillment of the prophecy in [Daniel 7:13–14](../dan/07/13.md). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could provide a footnote or reference. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 4 17 o7lj grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς ἀπάντησιν 1 with them Here, **to meet** is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why living believers **will be caught up together** with “the dead in Christ.” Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order to encounter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 4 17 ukh1 writing-symlanguage ἐν νεφέλαις εἰς ἀπάντησιν τοῦ Κυρίου εἰς ἀέρα 1 with them Here, **clouds** and **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). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could indicate that explicitly. Alternate translation: “to spiritually encounter the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-symlanguage]])
1TH 4 17 ti69 writing-endofstory καὶ οὕτως 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 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**. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “and then” or “as a result” (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. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
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. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “So then, keep encouraging” or “Because of this, you must comfort” (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 is an imperative, but it communicates an appeal rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates an appeal. Alternate translation: “you should encourage” or “please continue to comfort (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 The pronoun **one another** refers to the Thessalonian church. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “each fellow member of your church” or “your fellow Thessalonian believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1TH 4 18 xsus figs-synecdoche ἐν τοῖς λόγοις τούτοις 1 will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air Here, **with these words** could refer to “we will always be with the Lord” in [4:17](../04/17.md) or to all that has been said in [4:13–17](../04/13.md). Alternate translation: “by reminding each other of our message” or “with these promises” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
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>## “We” and “You”<br><br>In this letter, the words **we** and **our** refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Throughout the letter, **we** and **our** are used to convey that all three apostles are in agreement with the letter.<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 and 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 to 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 to 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>#### 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>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](../05/12.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 τῶν χρόνων καὶ τῶν καιρῶν 1 General Information: Here, **Now concerning** signals a change in subject (See also [4:9](../04/09.md)). This phrase implies that the apostles are answering a specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian church about the timing of “the coming of the Lord” and how the church should prepare for it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Now, about your question related to the exact timing of the Lord’s return” (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 a specific point in time or a time period. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. This phrase could refer to: (1) a specific point in time. Alternate translation: “the appointed time when Jesus returns” or “the fixed time when Jesus returns” (See [Acts 1:7](acts/01/07.md)) 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 caue figs-ellipsis οὐ χρείαν ἔχετε ὑμῖν γράφεσθαι 1 General Information: Here words are left out in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, **{for us}** is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 5 2 yvg3 figs-simile 0 perfectly well This verse begins an extended list of contrasting similes that continues through [5:8](../05/08.md). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use equivalent comparisons or express these meanings in a non-figurative way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TH 5 2 dqgk figs-rpronouns αὐτοὶ γὰρ ἀκριβῶς οἴδατε 1 perfectly well The words **For**, **yourselves**, and **perfectly** emphasize how clearly the Thessalonian church should understand when and how the Lord’s Second Coming will happen. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “In fact, it is certain that you recognize accurately” or “You are certainly well aware of this fact” or “Indeed, you know precisely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1TH 5 2 mcq9 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 perfectly well Here, **For** begins a reason clause that explains why the Thessalonian church has “no need that anything be written” to them about the timing and manner of the Lord’s Second Coming (See [5:1](../05/01.md)). Alternate translation: “In fact,” 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 Here, **{the} day of {the} Lord** is an idiom that refers to the Old Testament concept of the time of God’s final judgment. The context of this passage makes it clear that **{the} day of {the} Lord** is synonymous with “the coming of the Lord” Jesus in [4:15](../04/15.md). (See also [Acts 2:20](../act/02/20.md); [1 Corinthians 5:5](../1co/05/05.md); [2 Thessalonians 2:2](../2th/02/02.md); [2 Peter 3:10](../2pe/03/10.md)). Use a natural way in your language to emphasize this idea. Alternate translation; “the time when the Lord Jesus returns again to earth” or “the time when the Lord Jesus will finally judge” (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 The point of this comparison is that, just like a thief at night comes unexpectedly, the way Jesus will return is unexpected and the timing of his return is unknown. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “is going to come as unexpectedly as a robber at night” or “is going to come so surprisingly–like when a thief breaks in at night” or “is going to happen like this–all of a sudden” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TH 5 3 p1wi figs-hypo ὅταν λέγωσιν, εἰρήνη καὶ ἀσφάλεια 1 When they may say Paul is using a hypothetical situation to express the suddenness of the “the day of the Lord.” Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. 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 Here what follows the word **then** is in contrast to the **Peace and safety** these people expected to last. Instead, **sudden destruction comes** on them. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. (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 Here, **sudden destruction** parallels the idea of terror that accompanies a sudden attack by “a thief in the night” (See [5:2](../05/02.md)). If it would be clearer in your language, you could make this idea explicit. Alternate translation: “then sudden calamity strikes” or “then immediate destruction looms over them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 5 3 sde2 figs-parallelism αἰφνίδιος αὐτοῖς ἐφίσταται ὄλεθρος, ὥσπερ ἡ ὠδὶν τῇ ἐν γαστρὶ ἐχούσῃ; καὶ οὐ μὴ ἐκφύγωσιν 1 like birth pains to the one having in the womb Here, **sudden** describes the unexpected timing of **birth pains** , and **certainly not escape** describes the nature of **destruction**. Paul says similar things with these phrases to show that God’s final judgment will be a total surprise and complete ruin for unbelievers. Use a natural way in your language to emphasize these ideas. (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 The point of this comparison is that, just like a pregnant woman suddenly experiences labor pains, God’s final judgment will come suddenly and be inescapable. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “just as suddenly as labor pains seize a pregnant woman–these people can never escape God’s destruction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1TH 5 3 iwc2 figs-idiom τῇ ἐν γαστρὶ ἐχούσῃ 1 like birth pains to the one having in the womb Here, **having in the womb** is an idiom meaning “pregnant.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “do for a woman in late pregnancy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 5 3 undo figs-doublenegatives οὐ μὴ ἐκφύγωσιν 1 like birth pains to the one having in the womb Here, **certainly not** is a strong prohibition meaning “never” (See [4:15](../04/15.md)). If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “they will never escape” or “there is no way to possibly escape” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1TH 5 4 sk6v grammar-connect-logic-contrast ὑμεῖς δέ 1 you, brothers Here what follows the words **But you** is in contrast to the “sudden destruction” of the people in [5:3](../05/03.md). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Certainly you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 5 4 b6lv figs-metaphor οὐκ ἐστὲ ἐν σκότει 1 are not in darkness Paul speaks of these people as if they actually live in place without light. He means that they are unaware or unprepared for the Lord’s return because they are living sinfully. If your readers would not understand what it means to be **in darkness** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “are not unprepared” or “are not living sinfully” (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. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “causing you to be like people such as those surprised by a robber. You are ready for the time when the Lord Jesus will return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 5 4 otz2 figs-metaphor ἡ ἡμέρα 1 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day Here, Paul speaks about the idiom “the **day** of the Lord” in [5:2](../05/02.md), by contrasting **the day** with **darkness**. He means that because the Thessalonian church is not unaware of “the **day** of the Lord,” they will not be unprepared, like people who live **in darkness**. If your readers would not understand what **the day** 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, “the day of the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 4 ywez figs-metaphor ἵνα ἡ ἡμέρα ὑμᾶς ὡς κλέπτας καταλάβῃ 1 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day Paul speaks of “the **day** of the Lord” as if it were a thief who surprises a person. He means that “the **day** of the Lord” will come suddenly for those who are unprepared (See “sudden destruction” in [5:3](../05/03.md)). If your readers would not understand what this phrase 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: “making you unprepared, like when a robber breaks in at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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 basically the same thing as **sons of the day**. Also, **of the night** means basically the same thing as **of the darkness**. The repetition is used to emphasize how **light** characterizes **day** and how **darkness** characterizes **night**. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “Certainly, all of you are ready for Christ’s Second Coming. None of us are unprepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
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 Paul speaks of the Thessalonian church as if the **light** and **day** were their physical parents. He means that the Thessalonian church members are God’s spiritual children who are characterized by spiritual readiness. If your readers would not understand what it means to be **sons of the light and sons of the day** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “This is because all of you who belong to God are ready for Christ’s coming” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 5 ilv4 grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day Here, **For** begins a reason clause that explains why the Thessalonian church will escape God’s judgment on “the **day** of the Lord” (See [5:2](../05/02.md)). Alternate translation: “Because in fact” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 5 5 cxo9 figs-nominaladj πάντες…ὑμεῖς…ἐστε 1 For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day Paul is using the adjective **all** as a noun in order to describe the whole Thessalonian church. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “you Thessalonians are all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 5 5 d6fm figs-metaphor οὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους 1 We are not of the night nor of the darkness Again, Paul speaks of these people as if they actually live in a place without light. He means that they are unaware or unprepared for the Lord’s return because they are living sinfully (See [5:4](../05/04.md)). If your readers would not understand what it means to be **of the night** or **of the darkness** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “We are not unprepared like those at night or those who live in the darkness, ” or “We are not characterized by being spiritually ignorant” or “We do not live like those who are characterized by sinful activities” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 5 kq0x figs-exclusive ἐσμὲν 1 We are not of the night nor of the darkness In [5:5–10](../05/05.md), **We** is inclusive of all Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “We believers in Christ are” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 5 5 f4uw figs-possession νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους 1 We are not of the night nor of the darkness Paul is using the possessive form to describe people who are characterized by spiritual ignorance or who live sinfully. This means that they will not be prepared at “**the day** of the Lord.” If this is not clear in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “characterized by being spiritually unprepared and living sinfully” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 5 6 paqf grammar-connect-logic-result ἄρα οὖν 1 we might keep watch and be sober Here, **so then** emphatically introduces a result clause. Use a natural way in your language to introduce a result clause. Alternate translation: “therefore” 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 Paul speaks about the people “of the night” and “of the darkness” are if they are sleeping. He means that they are unaware or unprepared for the Lord’s return because they are living sinfully (See notes for “darkness” at [5:4–5](../05/04.md)). If your readers would not understand what it means to **sleep** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “we must not be unprepared like non-Christians” or “let us not be like the rest of humanity, who are not aware that Jesus is coming back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 6 on3d figs-imperative μὴ καθεύδωμεν…γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν 1 we might keep watch and be sober Here, the verb forms **sleep**, **keep watch**, and **be sober** could also refer to: (1) commands. Alternate translation: “we must not sleep … we must keep watch and be sober” (2) appeals. Alternate translation: “let us not sleep … let us keep watch and let us be sober” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH 5 6 x0zh figs-nominaladj οἱ λοιποί 1 we might keep watch and be sober Paul is using the adjective **the rest** as a noun in order to describe those who are unprepared for Christ’s return. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “like others who are not ready for the Lord Jesus to return” or “like the rest of humanity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 5 6 q33e grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 we might not sleep Here, what follows the word **but** is in contrast to **the rest** who **sleep**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation (starting a new sentence): “On the contrary,” or “Instead,” or “Rather,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 5 6 sdww figs-metaphor γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν 1 we might not sleep Here, Paul speaks of Christians as if they are watch guards. He means that they should be aware and be prepared for the Lord’s return by living as God’s people should live. If your readers would not understand what it means to **keep watch** or **be sober** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “instead, we must stay spiritually alert and prepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 6 osxu figs-hendiadys γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν 1 we might not sleep These verbs express a similar idea by using two words connected with **and**. The verb **be sober** tells how Christians should **keep watch**. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use **and**. Alternate translation: “we should remain calmly alert” or “let us remain soberly awake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
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 These two phrases convey similar ideas by repeating the same verb forms twice. Paul says the same thing twice, in different ways, to show that **sleeping** and **getting drunk** are states of being that make people unaware or unprepared. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you could condense each phrase. Alternate translation: “Certainly, people sleep at night, and people get drunk at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 5 7 oyjo grammar-connect-logic-result γὰρ 1 For those who are sleeping, sleep at night Here, **For** begins a reason clause that explains why the Thessalonian church should “not sleep” or be unprepared for the Lord’s return (See [5:6](../05/06.md)). Alternate translation: “Because in fact,” or “Certainly,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
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), Paul speaks as if these people are actually sleeping, or it is night time. He means that these people are spiritually unprepared or unaware or even sinful (See also notes at [5:2,4](../05/02.md)). If your readers would not understand what **sleep** and **night** mean in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Those who are sleeping are unaware” or “Certainly those who are asleep are unprepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 7 exa8 figs-metaphor οἱ μεθυσκόμενοι, νυκτὸς μεθύουσιν 1 those who are getting drunk, get drunk at night Paul speaks as if these people are actually drunk, or it is night time. He means that these people are spiritually unprepared or unaware or sinful. If your readers would not understand what **getting drunk** or **night** mean in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “those who are drunk are unprepared” or “those who are drunk are unaware” or “those who drink too much alcohol tend to drink at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 8 wh3g grammar-connect-logic-contrast δὲ 1 we, being of the day What follows the word **But** here is in contrast to “getting drunk” at “night” in [5:7](../05/07.md). Instead, Christians are characterized by the activities of **the day** and staying **sober** (See [5:5–6](../05/05.md)). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “However” or “Instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 5 8 iv63 figs-imperative ἡμεῖς…νήφωμεν 1 we, being of the day Here, **should stay sober** could refer to: (1) a command. Alternate translation: “we … must stay sober” (2) an appeal. Alternate translation: “let us … stay sober” (See your translation at [5:6](../05/06.md)). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH 5 8 jqqo figs-metaphor ἡμεῖς δὲ ἡμέρας ὄντες 1 we, being of the day Paul speaks of Christians as if they are actually a part of the day time. He means that they are characterized by spiritual readiness for the Lord’s return. If your readers would not understand what it means to be **of the day** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Now, because we are ready for Christ’s coming, we” or “Since we are characterized by being ready, we” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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 Paul speaks of Christians as if they are soldiers. He means that just as a soldier must equip himself with armor in order to be ready to fight, so Christians must prepare themselves for the Second Coming of Christ with the spiritual protection of **faith**, **love**, and **hope** (See also [Ephesians 6:10–18,23](../eph/06/10.md)). If your readers would not understand what these phrases mean in this context, you could use equivalent metaphors from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 9 h5y2 figs-abstractnouns ὅτι οὐκ ἔθετο ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς εἰς ὀργὴν 1 whether we might be awake or asleep Here, **wrath** refers to God’s future and final Judgment (See your translation of **wrath** at [1:10](../01/10/.md), [2:16](../02/16/.md)). (See also [What is the “second coming” of Jesus?](../front/intro)). If your language does not use the abstract noun **wrath**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. “Certainly, God did not destine that he would punish us” or “Indeed, God did not determine that he would judge us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 5 9 lrx6 grammar-connect-logic-result ὅτι 1 whether we might be awake or asleep Here, **For** begins a reason clause that explains why the Thessalonian church should have “the hope of salvation” (See [5:8](../05/08.md)). Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 5 8 l89q figs-possession πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης…σωτηρίας 1 having put on the breastplate of faith and of love Paul uses the possessive form to describe things that are characterized by **faith** and **hope** and **love**. You could turn these phrases into similes if it would be clearer in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 5 9 erz5 grammar-connect-logic-goal εἰς…εἰς 1 whether we might be awake or asleep Here, **to … to** introduces two purpose clauses. Paul is stating the purpose or goal for which God **appointed** the two types of people described in [5:3–8](../05/03.md)). Use a natural way in your language for introducing purpose clauses. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of … in order to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 5 9 qmo5 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 whether we might be awake or asleep What follows the word **but** here is in contrast to **wrath**. Here Paul emphasizes that God’s true people will not experience his final punishment. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but actually” or “but instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 5 9 qfcf figs-possession εἰς περιποίησιν σωτηρίας 1 whether we might be awake or asleep Here, the phrase translated **to obtain salvation** is a possessive form that Paul uses to indicate that **salvation** is something that belongs to God’s people. If this is not clear in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “for the possessing of salvation” or “for the acquiring of salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
1TH 5 10 arhm figs-distinguish τοῦ ἀποθανόντος περὶ ἡμῶν 1 whether we might be awake or asleep Here, **the one having died for us** gives us further information about what “salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ” is (See [5:9](../05/09.md)). Paul means that God gives the guarantee that Christians will “obtain salvation,” because Jesus **died for us**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “who died on our behalf” or “who died for our sake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 5 10 dzq0 grammar-connect-logic-goal ἵνα…ἅμα σὺν αὐτῷ ζήσωμεν 1 whether we might be awake or asleep This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating why Jesus **died for us**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that … we could live together with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
1TH 5 10 w59c figs-metaphor εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν 1 whether we might be awake or asleep Paul speaks of these people as if they were physically **awake or asleep**. He means that they are “alive or dead” (See [4:14–17](../04/14.md)). If your readers would not understand what it means to be **awake or asleep** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “whether we are living or even if we are dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 11 r921 grammar-connect-words-phrases διὸ 1 build up one the other Here, **Therefore** indicates the conclusion of this section about timing of “the day of the Lord,” and connects to the manner of Christ’s return in [4:14–18](../04/14.md) by again using the same phrase, **comfort one another**. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 5 11 o85i grammar-connect-logic-result διὸ παρακαλεῖτε 1 build up one the other **Therefore** begins a result clause. Paul explains how the Thessalonian church should respond to the fact that Jesus died so that Christians can “obtain salvation” (See [5:9](../05/09.md)). Alternate translation: “This is why you should encourage” or “As a result, you must comfort” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 5 11 m2c9 figs-doublet διὸ παρακαλεῖτε ἀλλήλους, καὶ οἰκοδομεῖτε εἷς τὸν ἕνα 1 build up one the other These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how much Paul wants the Thessalonian church to encourage and support each other. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you can combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “As a result, continue to be supportive of what each person needs” or “This is why you must supportively console each other with this message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1TH 5 11 hepx figs-imperative παρακαλεῖτε…οἰκοδομεῖτε 1 build up one the other These verbs are imperatives but could communicate an appeal rather than a command. You could use a form in your language that communicates an urgent request or appeal. Alternate translation: “we apostles urge you to comfort … build up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH 5 11 fx2f figs-idiom οἰκοδομεῖτε 1 build up one the other Paul speaks of the Thessalonian church as if they were a building that can be constructed. He means that they should mutually support one another in the Christian life. If your readers would not understand what it means to **build up** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “keep supporting” or “continue to confirm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 11 kdae figs-idiom εἷς τὸν ἕνα 1 build up one the other Here, the term **one the one** is an idiom meaning “each and every one” or “each one.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “each one” or “one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 5 11 sfv4 καθὼς καὶ ποιεῖτε 1 build up one the other Here Paul uses the emphatic phrase **just as also you are doing** to encourage the Thessalonian church to continue their practice of mutually supporting each other. Use a natural way in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “exactly as you have been doing”
1TH 5 12 pd47 grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 General Information: Here, **Now** indicates that what follows is the final section of instructions from the apostles. Alternate translation: “Lastly” or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
1TH 5 12 fqh3 figs-distinguish τοὺς κοπιῶντας ἐν ὑμῖν, καὶ προϊσταμένους ὑμῶν ἐν Κυρίῳ, καὶ νουθετοῦντας ὑμᾶς 1 leading you in the Lord This clause expresses different functions for the same group of leaders. It is not making a distinction between **the ones laboring among you** and **leading you** and **admonishing you**. If this is not understood in your language, you could make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “your leaders who are working among you and guiding you in the Lord and training you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
1TH 5 12 f4jv figs-metaphor ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 leading you in the Lord Paul speaks as if the leaders of the church at Thessalonica were occupying space inside of **{the} Lord**. Here, the metaphor expresses the idea that these men represent Jesus himself in their leadership role in the Thessalonian church (See also [4:1](../04/01.md). If your readers would not understand what **in {the} Lord** 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. Alternate translation: “with authority from the Lord Jesus” or “as spokespersons for the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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: “and because of their work on your behalf, we also ask you to lovingly show them the utmost consideration” or “and 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 p6m4 figs-metaphor ἐν ἀγάπῃ 1 to regard them highly in love because of their work Paul speaks as if the Thessalonian church is occupying space inside of **love**. He is describing how they should show honor to their leaders. If your readers would not understand what **in love** 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. Here, **in love** could refer to: (1) the means of love. Alternate translation: “by loving them” (2) the basis for love. Alternate translation: “on the basis of your love for them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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 17 final appeals in [5:13–26](../05/13.md) that the apostles give the Thessalonian church. **Be at peace** is an imperative, but here it could be an urgent request rather than a command. Use a natural way in your language to communicate an appeal or urgent request. Alternate translation: “We urge you to continue to live peacefully with your leaders” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH 5 14 lajk figs-litany 0 to regard them highly in love because of their work Paul uses a repetitive series of imperative sentences in [5:14–22](../05/14) to urge the Thessalonian church to show practical love to one another. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone should do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
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 14 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: “Finally, 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 Here the idiom **brothers** could refer to: (1) the whole Thessalonian church including the leaders. Alternate translation: “our fellow believers in Christ” (2) the leaders of the Thessalonian church. Alternate translation: “fellow leaders of Christ’s church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 5 14 g34k figs-nominaladj πρὸς πάντας 1 to regard them highly in love because of their work Paul is using the adjective **all** as a noun in order to describe the Thessalonian church. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “toward all your fellow believers in Christ” or “with the whole Thessalonian church” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 5 15 vlp7 figs-idiom ὁρᾶτε 1 to regard them highly in love because of their work Here, **See that** is an idiom used to command attention. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “Be certain that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1TH 5 15 dqs8 figs-metaphor κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ τινι ἀποδῷ 1 to regard them highly in love because of their work Paul speaks of **evil** as if it were goods or money that could be exchanged. He means that if a someone treats you badly, you should not respond in the same way. If your readers would not understand what it means to **pay back evil for evil** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “treats anyone wrongly because they treated you wrongly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 15 oz10 grammar-connect-logic-contrast ἀλλὰ 1 to regard them highly in love because of their work Here what follows the word **but** is in contrast to repaying **evil for evil**. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “and instead,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
1TH 5 15 mc2z figs-hyperbole πάντοτε 1 to regard them highly in love because of their work Here, **always** could be using exaggeration to express emphasis. Paul means that the Thessalonian church should make it a habit to **pursue what is good**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that expresses this emphasis. Alternate translation: “make every effort to” or “constantly” or “habitually” (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 to emphasize groups of people. In this context, the phrase could refer to: (1) the Thessalonian church and all believers in Christ. Alternate translation (remove preceding comma): “for your church at Thessalonica and for all believers in Christ” (2) the Thessalonian church and the whole human race (See how you translated this phrase in [3:12](../03/12.md)). Alternate translation (remove preceding comma): “for everyone” or “for each and every person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
1TH 5 15 i0jy figs-nominaladj πάντας 1 to regard them highly in love because of their work Paul could be using the adjective **all** as a noun in order to describe a group of people. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Here it could refer to: (1) all Christians. Alternate translation: “all your fellow believers in Christ” (2) the whole human race. Alternate translation: “all humanity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 5 16 chw9 figs-hyperbole πάντοτε 1 Rejoice always Here, **always** could be using exaggeration to express emphasis. Paul could mean that the Thessalonian church should make it a habit to **rejoice**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that expresses this emphasis. Alternate translation: “constantly” or “habitually” (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 exaggeration to express emphasis. Paul could mean that the Thessalonian church should make it a habit to **Pray**. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that expresses this emphasis. Alternate translation: “Continue to pray” or “Keep praying regularly” or “Retain a prayerful state of mind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
1TH 5 18 bt5q figs-nominaladj ἐν παντὶ 1 In everything Paul is using the adjective **everything** as a noun in order to describe a situation or time. Your language may use adjectives in the same way. If not, you could translate this with a noun phrase. Here, **In everything** could refer to: (1) a situation or circumstance. Alternate translation: “In every circumstance” or “No matter what happens” (2) time. Alternate translation: “At every time” or “At every moment” (3) both a situation and time. Alternate translation: “In every circumstance and moment” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 5 18 x2jg figs-infostructure ἐν παντὶ εὐχαριστεῖτε; 1 In everything 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 all the time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
1TH 5 18 q7gn grammar-connect-logic-result ἐν παντὶ εὐχαριστεῖτε; τοῦτο γὰρ θέλημα Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 for this is the will of God Here, **for** begins a reason clause. Paul is telling the Thessalonian church the reason why they should “rejoice,” “pray,” and **give thanks** in [5:16–18](../05/16.md)). 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: “Give thanks in everything, because all these things are what God desires for those who are united to Christ Jesus” or “Because this is God’s will for you who are united to Christ Jesus, you must give thanks in everything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 5 18 l3sk grammar-collectivenouns τοῦτο γὰρ θέλημα Θεοῦ 1 for this is the will of God Here, **this** is a singular pronoun that could refer to: (1) all the commands in [5:14–18](../05/14.md) Alternate translation: “because all these things are what God desires” (2) **give thanks**. Alternate translation: “for in fact, this is God’s will” or “for certainly, this thing is God’s will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
1TH 5 18 yu36 figs-ellipsis τοῦτο 1 for this is the will of God A word is left out here in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, **{is}** is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “this is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 5 18 sw8b figs-abstractnouns θέλημα Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 for this is the will of God If your language does not use the abstract noun phrase **{the} will of God in Christ Jesus for you**, you can express the idea it in another way. Alternate translation: “how God desires people to live who are united to Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
1TH 5 18 mbz1 figs-metaphor ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 for this is the will of God Here, Paul speaks of **{the} will of God** as though it were occupying space inside **Christ Jesus**. This metaphor means that the way God desires his people to live is inseparable from being united to **Christ Jesus** (See also [2:14](../02/14.md)). If this might be misunderstood in your language, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation, “for those of you who are united to Jesus Christ” or “for all of you who share life with Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 19 j1ei figs-metaphor τὸ Πνεῦμα μὴ σβέννυτε 1 Do not quench the Spirit Paul speaks of **the** Holy **Spirit** as if he is fire that can be extinguished. Paul means that the Thessalonian church must not hinder the work of the Holy **Spirit**, especially by despising prophecies (See [5:20](../05/20.md)). If your readers would not understand what it means to **quench** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Do not extinguish the Spirit” or “Do not reject the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 19 sv8r figs-litotes μὴ σβέννυτε 1 Do not quench the Spirit Paul uses 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. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “Continue to kindle” or “Be fervent in” or “Keep working along with” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1TH 5 20 iv1n figs-litotes μὴ ἐξουθενεῖτε 1 Do not despise prophecies Paul uses 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. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “Readily accept” or “Cherish” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
1TH 5 20 rrza figs-parallelism προφητείας μὴ ἐξουθενεῖτε 1 Do not despise prophecies The two phrases in [5:19–20](../05/19.md) could refer to the same thing. Paul could be saying the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to correct how the Thessalonian church viewed prophecy. He means that the Holy Spirit is the source of true prophecy (See [2 Peter 1:21](2pet/01/21.md)), so they should not “quench the Spirit” by rejecting all prophecies. You could use a natural way in your language to emphasize this. Alternate translation: “Do not continue to despise prophetic messages from the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
1TH 5 21 ihzh figs-metaphor πάντα δοκιμάζετε; τὸ καλὸν κατέχετε 1 Test all things This could mean: (1) Paul is beginning a general list of things that the Thessalonians should **Test** and **Hold fast** if they are **good**. (2) Paul is continuing to refer to the prophesies in the previous verse, and he wants the Thessalonians to **Test** those and **Hold fast** to the prophesies that are truly from God.
1TH 5 21 wx69 figs-metaphor πάντα δοκιμάζετε 1 Test all things Paul speaks as if the Thessalonians could make **all {things}** pass a test. This could mean: (1) they should examine everything they hear and do to make sure it conforms to what honors God. Alternate translation: “Carefully examine everything you hear and do” (2) they should examine and approve prophecies to determine whether or not they are genuinely from the Holy Spirit (See [2:4](../02/04.md) for a similar context)). Alternate translation: “examine and approve all prophecies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 21 sjh0 figs-nominaladj πάντα 1 Test all things Here, **all {things}** is an adjectival phrase. Depending on whether you decided this is a new list or a continuation of verse 20, this could mean: (1) Alternate translation: “everything you hear and do” (2) Alternate translation: “all prophesies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
1TH 5 21 n1jv figs-metaphor τὸ καλὸν κατέχετε 1 Test all things Paul speaks of **good** things as if they were objects that someone could hold tightly in his hands. He means that the Thessalonian church should only believe and practice things that prove to be from the Holy Spirit. If your readers would not understand what it means to **hold fast to what {is} good** in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Keep only the valid things” or “Retain what is from the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1TH 5 21 jska figs-ellipsis τὸ καλὸν 1 Test all things A word is left out here in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, **{is}** is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “what is good” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 5 22 z9k0 figs-personification παντὸς εἴδους πονηροῦ 1 Test all things Here, **evil** is spoken of as though it were a person who could be seen. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “anything clearly wicked” or “all that is obviously evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
1TH 5 23 mqi7 translate-blessing αὐτὸς δὲ ὁ Θεὸς τῆς εἰρήνης ἁγιάσαι 1 may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly Here, the verb forms indicate that this is a blessing or prayer (See also [3:11–13](../03/11.md)). Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing or prayer in your language. Alternate translation: “Now we pray that God himself, who gives peace, would sanctify” (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 These two clauses mean the same thing. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to show how much he wants God to preserve the Thessalonian church as his people. If saying the same thing twice might be confusing for your readers, you could combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “may … fully preserve you as his people to the end, and may every part of you be protected” or “may … completely preserve each and every one of you” (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 Here Paul uses the possessive form **the God of peace**, which is a title for God found in the New Testament (See Romans 15:33; 16:20; Philippians 4:9; Hebrews 13:20). If this is not clear in your language, you could make it explicit. In this context, **the God of peace** could refer to: (1) who God is. Alternate translation: “the God who is characterized by peace” (2) what God does. Alternate translation: “the God who gives peace” (3) Both. (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 Paul uses the word **himself** to emphasize the urgency of the apostles’ prayer or blessing by drawing attention to **God**, who is the only one who can sanctify and keep the Christian person blameless. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. (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 If it would be more natural in your language, you could say **be kept** with an active form, and you could emphasize who did the action. Alternate translation: “may God keep you completely blameless” or “may God make your whole life sinless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
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 Paul speaks, using these three aspects of the human person in order to represent the whole human being. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or use plain language. Alternate translation: “your whole being” or “your whole life” (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, **coming of the Lord** is a well-known idiom in 1–2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ (See [4:15](../04/15.md)) or the “Day of the **Lord**” in [5:2](../05/02.md). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “when our Lord Jesus Christ comes back to earth again” or “at the arrival of our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
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** expresses the result of God’s faithfulness. If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Because God is faithful, he will also preserve you sanctified” or “Since God is trustworthy, he will also completely sanctify you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
1TH 5 24 vx20 figs-explicit πιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς 1 Faithful is he who calls you Here it is implied that **he** refers to “the God of peace” in [5:23](../05/23.md). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Faithful is God who calls you” or “The God who continues to summon you is faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1TH 5 24 lg3b figs-ellipsis πιστὸς ὁ 1 Faithful is he who calls you A word is left out here in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, **{s*}* is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 5 24 c3jg writing-pronouns ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς, ὃς καὶ ποιήσει 1 who will also do it The pronouns **he** and **who** refer to “the God of peace” in [5:23](../05/23.md). Use a natural way in your language to make this explicit. Alternate translation: “is God who calls you, so he will also do it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
1TH 5 24 pa1g figs-ellipsis πιστὸς ὁ 1 who will also do it A word is left out here in the original that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. Since English needs it, **{is}** is added in brackets. Do what is natural in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
1TH 5 25 b7w3 figs-imperative προσεύχεσθε καὶ περὶ ἡμῶν 1 brothers Here, **pray** is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request or appeal rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request or appeal. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clearer. Alternate translation: “we ask you to pray” or “please pray for us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
1TH 5 25 tbhj figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 brothers Here, **us** refers exclusively to the apostles. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “us apostles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1TH 5 26 j46q figs-imperative ἀσπάσασθε 1 brothers Here, **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 translate-symaction ἐν φιλήματι ἁγίῳ 1 brothers This action was an expression of Christian affection in this culture. It showed the unity of those who belong to Christ. If there is a gesture with similar meaning in your culture, you could consider using it here in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])
1TH 5 27 xn0n writing-oathformula ἐνορκίζω ὑμᾶς τὸν Κύριον, ἀναγνωσθῆναι τὴν ἐπιστολὴν 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. Use a natural way in your language to express an oath. Alternate translation: “You must make a vow to the Lord that you will read this letter” or “I put you under oath to the Lord that this letter must be read” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformula]])
1TH 5 27 n5cn figs-explicit ἀναγνωσθῆναι τὴν ἐπιστολὴν 1 I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read It is assumed that this letter would be read out loud by someone in the local church. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “to have this letter read aloud” (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 it would be more natural in your language, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “to make sure you read this letter out loud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1TH 5 27 mtvd 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” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
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 and greeting formula. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing that could be used as a greeting 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 If your language does not use the abstract noun **grace**, you can express the idea behind it in another way. 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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