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21THfrontintrojp2y0# Introduction to 1 Thessalonians<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of 1 Thessalonians<br><br>1. Greeting (1:1)<br>1. Prayer of thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Christians (1:2-10)<br>1. Pauls ministry in Thessalonica (2:1-16)<br>1. Pauls concerns for their spiritual growth<br> - Like a mother (2:7)<br> - Like a father (2:11)<br>1. Paul sends Timothy to the Thessalonians and Timothy reports back to Paul (3:1-13)<br>1. Practical instructions<br> - Live to please God (4:1-12)<br> - Comfort regarding those who have died (4:12-18)<br> - Christs return is a motive for godly living (5:1-11)<br>1. Closing blessings, thanks, and prayers (5:12-28)<br><br>### Who wrote 1 Thessalonians?<br><br>Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians. Paul was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth. Of all Pauls letters that are in the Bible, many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter Paul wrote.<br><br>### What is the Book of 1 Thessalonians about?<br><br>Paul wrote this letter to the believers in the city of Thessalonica. He wrote it after the Jews in the city forced him to leave. In this letter he said he considered his visit to them a success, even though he was forced to leave.<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 “Pauls First Letter to the Church in Thessalonica,” or “The First Letter to the Christians in Thessalonica.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What is the “second coming” of Jesus?<br><br>Paul wrote much in this letter about Jesus eventual return to Earth. When Jesus returns, he will judge all mankind. He will also rule over creation, and there will be peace everywhere.<br><br>### What happens to those who die before the return of Christ?<br><br>Paul made clear that those who die before Christs return will come back to life and be with Jesus. They will not remain dead forever. Paul wrote this to encourage the Thessalonians. For some of them worried that those who died would miss the great day when Jesus returns.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What did Paul mean by expressions like “in Christ” and “in the Lord.”?<br><br>Paul meant to express the idea of a very a close union with Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 1 Thessalonians?<br><br>For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br>* “May grace and peace be to you” (1:1). Some older versions read: “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”<br>* “Instead, we were as gentle among you as a mother comforting her own children.” (2:7) Other modern versions and older versions read, “Instead, we were like babies among you, as when a mother comforts her own children.”<br>* “Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God” (3:2). Some other versions read: “Timothy, our brother and servant of God.”<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
31TH1introy8c50# 1 Thessalonians 01 General Notes<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><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Hardship<br><br>Other people persecuted the Christians in Thessalonica. But the Christians there handled it well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
41TH11dp370General Information:Paul identifies himself as the writer of the letter and greets the church at Thessalonica.
51TH11ms5efigs-explicitΠαῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος; τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ1Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the churchThe UST makes clear that it was Paul who wrote this letter. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
61TH11luw5figs-metonymyχάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη1Grace and peace to youThe terms **Grace** and **peace** are metonyms for the person who acts toward people in a kindly and peaceful manner. Alternate translation: “May God be kind to you and give you peace” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
71TH11nn67figs-youὑμῖν1to youThe word **you** refers to the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
81TH12y98wfigs-exclusive0General Information:In this letter the words **we** and **us** refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted.(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
91TH12x3u1figs-you0General Information:The word **you** is plural and refers to the believers at the church of Thessalonica. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
101TH12xud4εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ πάντοτε1We always give thanks to GodHere, **always** suggests that when Paul prays to God, he consistently presents the Thessalonians to God in his prayers.
111TH12r3ydμνείαν ποιούμενοι ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν ἡμῶν, ἀδιαλείπτως1continually making mention of you in our prayers“and we continually pray for you”
121TH13bl7lτοῦ ἔργου τῆς πίστεως1work of faithacts done because of trust in God
131TH14xky40Connecting Statement:Paul continues to give thanks for the believers at Thessalonica and praises them for their faith in God.
141TH14erb6ἀδελφοὶ1brothersHere this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.
151TH15ude4οὐκ…ἐν λόγῳ μόνον1not in word only“not only in what we said”
161TH15h675ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ1but also in power, and in the Holy SpiritThis could mean: (1) the **Holy Spirit** gave Paul and his companions the ability to preach the gospel powerfully or (2) the **Holy Spirit** made the preaching of the gospel have a powerful effect among the Thessalonian believers or (3) the **Holy Spirit** demonstrated the truth of the gospel preaching by means of miracles, signs, and wonders.
171TH15t1w3figs-abstractnounsπληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ1in much assuranceThe abstract noun **assurance** can be translated as a verb. Alternate translation: “God made you sure that it was true” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
181TH15e889οἷοι1what kind of men“how we conducted ourselves when”
191TH16cs49ὑμεῖς μιμηταὶ…ἐγενήθητε1you became imitatorsTo “imitate” means to act like or to copy the behavior of another.
201TH16cl6rδεξάμενοι τὸν λόγον1having received the word“having welcomed the message” or “having accepted what we had to say”
211TH16q4gmἐν θλίψει πολλῇ1in much hardship“during a time of great suffering” or “in much persecution”
221TH17ml7utranslate-namesἐν τῇ Ἀχαΐᾳ1in AchaiaThis is an ancient district in what is present-day Greece. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
231TH18qyk6figs-metonymyὁ λόγος τοῦ Κυρίου1the word of the LordHere, **word** is a metonym for “message.” Alternate translation: “the Lords teachings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
241TH18sht4figs-metaphorἐξήχηται1has been sounded outHere Paul speaks of the Christian witness produced by the Thessalonian believers as if it were a bell that was rung or a musical instrument that was being played. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
251TH19rd2bαὐτοὶ…ἀπαγγέλλουσιν1they themselves reportPaul is referring to the churches that already existed in the surrounding regions, who have heard about the Thessalonian believers.
261TH19amc1figs-rpronounsαὐτοὶ1themselvesHere, **themselves** is used to emphasize those people who had heard about the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
271TH19v145figs-metonymyὁποίαν εἴσοδον ἔσχομεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς1what kind of reception we had with youThe abstract noun **reception** can be expressed as the verb “receive” or “welcome.” Alternate translation: “how warmly you received us” or “how warmly you welcomed us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
281TH19u1umfigs-metaphorἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ1you turned to God from the idols to serve the living and true GodHere, **turned to … from** is a metaphor that means to start being loyal to one person and stop being loyal to someone else. Alternate translation: “you stopped worshiping idols and started serving the living and true God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
291TH110dg6aguidelines-sonofgodprinciplesτὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ1his SonThis is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
301TH110pmi8ὃν ἤγειρεν1whom he raised“whom God caused to live again”
311TH110wba8ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν1from the dead“so that he was no longer dead.” This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To come back from among them speaks of becoming alive again.
321TH110pt1sfigs-exclusiveτὸν ῥυόμενον ἡμᾶς1the one rescuing usHere, **us** includes Paul and the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
331TH2introkt5l0# 1 Thessalonians 02 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Christian witness<br><br>Paul values his “Christian witness” as evidence that the gospel is true. Paul says that being godly or holy bears witness to the non-Christian. Paul defends his character, so that his witness is not affected. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/testimony]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/godly]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]])
341TH21pt750Connecting Statement:Paul defines the believers service and reward.
351TH21gpr4figs-rpronounsαὐτοὶ…οἴδατε1you yourselves knowThe words **you** and **yourselves** refer to the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
361TH21tdl3ἀδελφοί1brothersHere this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.
371TH21g6qqfigs-exclusiveτὴν εἴσοδον ἡμῶν1our comingThe word **our** refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy but not the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
381TH21w584figs-doublenegativesοὐ κενὴ γέγονεν1has not been in vainThis can be expressed in a positive manner. Alternate translation: “was very worthwhile” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
391TH22x6ezπροπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες1having previously suffered and been shamefully treated“having been mistreated and insulted”
401TH22v4dgἐν πολλῷ ἀγῶνι1in much struggle“while struggling under great opposition”
411TH23t7tyοὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ1was not from error, nor from impurity, nor from deceit“was truthful, pure, and honest”
421TH24is1aδεδοκιμάσμεθα ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ, πιστευθῆναι1we have been approved by God to be entrustedPaul was tested and proven trustworthy by God.
431TH24qqj2figs-explicitλαλοῦμεν1we speakPaul is referring to preaching the gospel message. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
441TH24k1m9figs-metonymyτῷ δοκιμάζοντι τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν1the one who examines our heartsThe word **hearts** is a metonym for a persons desires and thoughts. Alternate translation: “who knows our desires and thoughts” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
451TH25xcy60General Information:Paul tells the Thessalonian believers that his conduct was not based in flattery, greed, or self glory.
461TH25i8crοὔτε…ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας ἐγενήθημεν1we did not come … in words of flattery“we never spoke to you … with false praise”
471TH27ag1lfigs-simileὡς ἐὰν τροφὸς θάλπῃ τὰ ἑαυτῆς τέκνα1as if a mother might comfort her own childrenJust as a **mother** would gently **comfort** her **children**, so Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy spoke gently to the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
481TH28r8b4οὕτως ὁμειρόμενοι ὑμῶν1Having affection for you in this manner“Because of our great affection for you”
491TH28g73fὁμειρόμενοι ὑμῶν1having affection for you“loving you”
501TH28q86vfigs-metaphorεὐδοκοῦμεν μεταδοῦναι ὑμῖν, οὐ μόνον τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἀλλὰ καὶ τὰς ἑαυτῶν ψυχάς1we were pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own soulsPaul speaks of the gospel message and his soul and the souls of those with him as if they were physical objects that one could share with others. Alternate translation: “We were pleased not only to tell you the gospel of God but also to spend time with you and to help you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
511TH28p4e4ἀγαπητοὶ ἡμῖν ἐγενήθητε1you had become beloved to us“we cared for you deeply”
521TH29j9luἀδελφοί1brothersHere this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.
531TH29tc98figs-doubletτὸν κόπον ἡμῶν καὶ τὸν μόχθον1our labor and toilThe words **labor** and **toil** mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how hard they worked. Alternate translation: “how hard we worked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
541TH29b16fνυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι, πρὸς τὸ μὴ ἐπιβαρῆσαί τινα ὑμῶν1night and day working, in order not to be a burden to any of you“working hard to make our own living so you would not need to support us”
551TH210il3eὁσίως, καὶ δικαίως, καὶ ἀμέμπτως1holy, and righteous, and blamelessPaul uses three words that describe their good behavior toward the Thessalonian believers.
561TH211i58mfigs-metaphorὡς πατὴρ τέκνα ἑαυτοῦ1as a father his own childrenPaul compares how he encouraged the Thessalonians to a **father** gently teaching his **children** how to behave. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
571TH212m91efigs-doubletπαρακαλοῦντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ παραμυθούμενοι, καὶ μαρτυρόμενοι…ὑμᾶς1exhorting you and encouraging and testifying to youThe words **exhorting,** **encouraging**, and ** testifying** are used together to express how passionately Pauls group encouraged the Thessalonians. Alternate translation: “We were strongly encouraging you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
581TH212n8drfigs-hendiadysεἰς τὴν ἑαυτοῦ βασιλείαν καὶ δόξαν1into his own kingdom and gloryThe word **glory** describes the word **kingdom**. Alternate translation: “into his own glorious kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
591TH212qmc3figs-metaphorεἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ1for you to walk worthily of GodHere, **walk** is a metaphor for “live.” Alternate translation: “for you to live in such a way that people will think well of God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
601TH213au3b0General Information:Paul continues to use “we” to refer to himself and his traveling companions and “you” to the Thessalonian believers.
611TH213z53wκαὶ ἡμεῖς εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ ἀδιαλείπτως1we also thank God constantlyPaul often thanks God for their acceptance of the gospel message he shared with them.
621TH213zj5ffigs-synecdocheοὐ λόγον ἀνθρώπων1not as the word of manHere, **word of man** is a synecdoche for “a message that comes simply from a man.” Alternate translation: “not as if it was a message that a man made up” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
631TH213rpb1figs-metonymyλόγον Θεοῦ1the word of GodHere, **word** is a metonym for “message.” Alternate translation: “the message that comes from God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
641TH213ci1efigs-personificationὃς καὶ ἐνεργεῖται ἐν ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν1which is also working in you who believePaul speaks of Gods gospel message as if it were a person who was doing work. Alternate translation: “which those of you who believe are listening to and beginning to obey” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
651TH214s2mpἀδελφοί1brothersHere this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.
661TH214mh8nμιμηταὶ ἐγενήθητε…τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν1became imitators of the churchesThe Thessalonian believers endured persecutions similar to the Judean believers. “became like the churches”
671TH214cxm3ὑπὸ τῶν ἰδίων συμφυλετῶν1from your own countrymen“from other Thessalonians”
681TH216rw7eκωλυόντων ἡμᾶς…λαλῆσαι1forbidding us to speak“trying to make us stop speaking”
691TH216n2uefigs-metaphorεἰς τὸ ἀναπληρῶσαι αὐτῶν τὰς ἁμαρτίας πάντοτε1to always fill up their own sinsPaul speaks as though someone can **fill** a container with **their own sins** as with liquid. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
701TH216fq9mἔφθασεν…ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς ἡ ὀργὴ εἰς τέλος1wrath has come upon them in the endThis refers to God finally judging and punishing people for their sins.
711TH217edb1ἀδελφοί1brothersThis means fellow Christians, including both men and women.
721TH217vr7vfigs-metonymyπροσώπῳ οὐ καρδίᾳ1by face, not in heartHere, **heart** represents thoughts and emotions. Though Paul and those traveling with him were not present physically in Thessalonica, they continued to care and think about the believers there. Alternate translation: “in person, but we continued to think about you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
731TH217t5d5figs-synecdocheτὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν1to see your facesHere, **your faces** means the entire person. Alternate translation: “to see you” or “to be with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
741TH219j7j5figs-rquestionτίς γὰρ ἡμῶν ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως? ἢ οὐχὶ καὶ ὑμεῖς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ, ἐν τῇ αὐτοῦ παρουσίᾳ?1For 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 questions to emphasize the reasons he wants to come see the Thessalonian believers. Alternate translation: “For you are our confidence for the future, and joy, and crown of pride in front of our Lord Jesus at his coming.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
751TH219mj9nfigs-metonymyἡμῶν ἐλπὶς…ἢ οὐχὶ καὶ ὑμεῖς1our hope … Is it not even youBy **hope** Paul means the assurance he has that God will reward him for his work. The Thessalonian Christians are the reason for his hope. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
761TH219ty78figs-metonymyἢ χαρὰ1or joyThe Thessalonians are the reason for his joy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
771TH219e7tlfigs-metonymyστέφανος καυχήσεως1crown of boastingHere, **crown** refers to a laurel wreath awarded to victorious athletes. The expression **crown of boasting** means a reward for victory, or having done well. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
781TH3introj3790# 1 Thessalonians 03 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Standing<br><br>In this chapter, Paul uses “stand firm” to illustrate being steadfast. This is a common way to describe being steadfast or faithful. Paul uses “be shaken” as the opposite of being steadfast. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]])
791TH31nal10Connecting Statement:Paul tells the believers he has sent Timothy to strengthen their faith.
801TH31fqe3μηκέτι στέγοντες1enduring it no longer“when we could no longer endure worrying about you”
811TH31t3vtηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι ἐν Ἀθήναις μόνοι1we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone“we thought only Silvanus and me should stay behind in Athens”
821TH31qhj4ηὐδοκήσαμεν1we thought it good“we thought it was proper” or “we decided it was reasonable”
831TH31laf9translate-namesἈθήναις1AthensThis is a city in the Achaia province, which is now modern-day Greece. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
841TH32d8yyτὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν, καὶ διάκονον1our brother and a servantThese two expressions both describe Timothy.
851TH33y74mfigs-idiomμηδένα σαίνεσθαι1no one be disturbedTo be “disturbed” is an idiom for being afraid. Alternate translation: “no one would be frightened away from trusting in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
861TH33rkx9figs-explicitκείμεθα1we are appointedPaul assumes that everyone knows that it was God who appointed them. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “God appointed us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
871TH34nm1lθλίβεσθαι1to suffer affliction“to be mistreated by others”
881TH35st3dfigs-idiomκἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων1I also no longer enduring itPaul was describing his own emotions by using an idiom. Alternate translation: “when I could no longer wait patiently” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
891TH35zn36figs-explicitἔπεμψα1sentIt is implied that Paul **sent** Timothy. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “I sent Timothy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
901TH35g92sὁ κόπος ἡμῶν1our labor“our hard work among you” or “our teaching among you”
911TH35ne5xεἰς κενὸν1in vain“useless”
921TH36r4pa0Connecting Statement:Paul tells his readers about Timothys report after he returned from visiting them.
931TH36gci4figs-exclusiveπρὸς ἡμᾶς1to usThe word **us** refers to Paul and Silvanus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
941TH36tu8dfigs-explicitτὴν πίστιν…ὑμῶν1of your faithIt is understood that this refers to faith in Christ. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “of your faith in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
951TH36e6kxἔχετε μνείαν…ἀγαθὴν πάντοτε1you always have good memoriesWhen they think of Paul, they always have good thoughts about him.
961TH36tx4hἐπιποθοῦντες ἡμᾶς ἰδεῖν1longing to see us“desiring to see us”
971TH37mqy5ἀδελφοί1brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow Christians.
981TH37k54jfigs-explicitδιὰ τῆς ὑμῶν πίστεως1because of your faithThis refers to **faith** in Christ. This can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “because of your faith in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
991TH37csz7figs-doubletἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν1in all our distress and afflictionThe word **affliction** explains why they are in **distress**. Alternate translation: “in all our distress caused by our afflictions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1001TH38x5xtfigs-idiomζῶμεν1we liveThis is an idiom that expresses living a satisfied life. Alternate translation: “we are very encouraged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1011TH38x4znfigs-idiomἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ1if you stand firm in the LordTo **stand firm** is an idiom meaning to continue being faithful. Alternate translation: “if you continue to trust in the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
1021TH39pzq7figs-rquestionτίνα γὰρ εὐχαριστίαν δυνάμεθα τῷ Θεῷ ἀνταποδοῦναι περὶ ὑμῶν, ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν δι’ ὑμᾶς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν1For what thanks are we able to give to God concerning you, for all the joy in which we rejoice before our God because of you,This is the beginning of a rhetorical question that continues to the end of the next verse. It can be expressed as a statement, but it will be necessary to change the question mark to a period at the end of verse 10. Alternate translation: “We cannot thank God enough for what he has done for you! We greatly rejoice over you when we pray to our God,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
1031TH39p5kafigs-metaphorἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν1before our GodPaul speaks as if he and his companions were physically in Gods presence. He is probably referring to the activity of praying. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1041TH310k71nὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ1earnestly“fervently”
1051TH310eb26figs-synecdocheεἰς τὸ ἰδεῖν ὑμῶν τὸ πρόσωπον1to see your faceThe word **face** refers to their whole person. Alternate translation: “to visit you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
1061TH311tet90General Information:In these verses, the word “our” does not always refer to the same group of people. Please see the translation notes for specifics.
1071TH311bql9figs-exclusiveὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν…ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν1our God and Father … our LordPaul uses **our** to include the Thessalonian believers with his ministry team. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1081TH311mc2mὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν…κατευθύναι1may our God and Father … direct“we pray that our God and Father … will direct”
1091TH311um1cfigs-metaphorκατευθύναι τὴν ὁδὸν ἡμῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς1may … direct our way to youPaul speaks as if he wants God to show him and his companions the route to take to visit the Thessalonian Christians. He means that he wants God to make it possible for them to do so. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1101TH311efl5figs-exclusiveτὴν ὁδὸν ἡμῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς1our way to youThe word **our** refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy but not the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1111TH311mp6sfigs-rpronounsαὐτὸς…Πατὴρ1Father himselfHere, **himself** refers back to “Father” for emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
1121TH312f5z3figs-metaphorὑμᾶς…ὁ Κύριος πλεονάσαι καὶ περισσεύσαι τῇ ἀγάπῃ1may the Lord make you increase and abound in lovePaul speaks of **love** as an object that one could obtain more of. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1131TH313ly21figs-metonymyεἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας, ἀμέμπτους1to strengthen your hearts, blamelessHere, **heart** is a metonym for ones beliefs and convictions. Alternate translation: “to strengthen you, so that you will be” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1141TH313xsd3ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ1at the coming of our Lord Jesus“when Jesus comes back to earth”
1151TH313jlc5μετὰ πάντων τῶν ἁγίων αὐτοῦ1with all his saints“with all those who belong to him”
1161TH4introb1z50# 1 Thessalonians 04 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts 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 must also be aware of cultural taboos. These are topics considered improper to discuss.<br><br>### Dying before the return of Christ<br><br>In the early church, people apparently wondered what would happen if a believer died before Christ returned. They may have worried whether those dying before Christ returned would be part of the kingdom of God. Paul answers that concern.<br><br>### “Caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air”<br><br>This passage refers to a time when Jesus calls to himself those who have believed in him. Scholars differ on whether or not this refers to Christs final glorious return. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])
1171TH41wk39ἀδελφοί1brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow Christians.
1181TH41u2lwfigs-doubletἐρωτῶμεν ὑμᾶς καὶ παρακαλοῦμεν1we beg and exhort youPaul uses **beg** and **exhort** to emphasize how strongly they encourage the believers. Alternate translation: “we strongly encourage you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1191TH41iij6figs-activepassiveπαρελάβετε παρ’ ἡμῶν1you received from usThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we taught you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
1201TH41p4dbfigs-metaphorδεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν1it is necessary for you to walkHere, **walk** is an expression for the way one is to live. Alternate translation: “you ought to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1211TH42vg16figs-metaphorδιὰ τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ1through the Lord JesusPaul speaks of his instructions as if they were given by **Jesus** himself. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1221TH43mw4jἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τῆς πορνείας1for you to keep from sexual immorality“for you to stay away from sexually immoral acts”
1231TH44f4uxεἰδέναι…τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι1to know how to possess his own vesselThis could mean: (1) “know how to live with his own wife” or (2) “know how to control his own body”
1241TH45x2t7ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας1in the passion of lust“with wrongful sexual desire”
1251TH46a9stfigs-doubletὑπερβαίνειν καὶ πλεονεκτεῖν1transgress and wrongThis is a doublet stating the same idea in two ways to reinforce the concept. Alternate translation: “do wrong things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
1261TH46q7bffigs-explicitἔκδικος Κύριος1the Lord is an avengerThis can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the Lord will punish the one who transgressed and will defend the one who was wronged” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1271TH46d1ipκαὶ προείπαμεν ὑμῖν καὶ διεμαρτυράμεθα1we also forewarned you and testified“we also told you beforehand and strongly warned against”
1281TH47v3npfigs-doublenegativesοὐ…ἐκάλεσεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ1God did not call us to uncleanness, but to holinessThis can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “God called us to cleanness and holiness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
1291TH47q4tjfigs-exclusiveοὐ…ἐκάλεσεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς1God did not call usThe word **us** refers to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1301TH48mn5yὁ ἀθετῶν1the one rejecting this“whoever disregards this teaching” or “whoever ignores this teaching”
1311TH48su51ἀθετῶν, οὐκ ἄνθρωπον ἀθετεῖ, ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν1rejecting this rejects not man, but GodPaul stresses that this teaching is not from **man**, but from **God**.
1321TH49uxn8τῆς φιλαδελφίας1brotherly love“love for fellow believers”
1331TH410dec9ποιεῖτε αὐτὸ εἰς πάντας τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς, τοὺς ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ1you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia“you show love to all the believers throughout Macedonia”
1341TH410jcg3ἀδελφοὺς1brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow Christians.
1351TH411d2fgφιλοτιμεῖσθαι1to strive“to try”
1361TH411j4c7figs-metaphorἡσυχάζειν1to live quietlyPaul uses the word **quietly** as a metaphor to describe living at peace in ones community and not causing strife. Alternate translation: “live in a calm and orderly way” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1371TH411jmt9figs-explicitπράσσειν τὰ ἴδια1to perform your own things“to do your own work” or “to take care of the things that your are responsible to do.” This may also imply that we should not gossip and interfere in other peoples concerns. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1381TH411bz8sfigs-metaphorἐργάζεσθαι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσὶν ὑμῶν1to work with your own handsThis is a metaphor for living a productive life. Alternate translation: “to work at your own jobs to earn what you need to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1391TH412hp6gfigs-metaphorπεριπατῆτε εὐσχημόνως1you may walk properlyHere, **walk** is a metaphor for “live” or “behave.” Alternate translation: “you may behave properly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1401TH412yl36εὐσχημόνως1properlyin a way that shows respect to others and earns their respect
1411TH412k59rfigs-metaphorπρὸς τοὺς ἔξω1before those outsidePaul speaks of those who do not believer in Christ as if they are outside of a place away from the believers. Alternate translation: “in the sight of those who do not believe in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1421TH413j68e0General Information:Paul talks about believers who have died, who are still alive, and those who will be alive when Christ returns.
1431TH413d9g4οὐ θέλομεν…ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν1we do not want you to be uninformedThis can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “we want you to be informed” or “we want you to know”
1441TH413wt7lἀδελφοί1brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow Christians.
1451TH413zqz6figs-euphemismτῶν κοιμωμένων1those who have fallen asleepHere to be **asleep** is a euphemism for being dead. Alternate translation: “those who have died” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1461TH413r9f8ἵνα μὴ λυπῆσθε, καθὼς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ1so that you may not grieve just as also the rest“because we do not want you grieve like the rest”
1471TH413qt5bμὴ λυπῆσθε1you may not grieveto mourn, be sad about something
1481TH413rl73figs-explicitκαθὼς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ, οἱ μὴ ἔχοντες ἐλπίδα1just as also the rest who have no hope“like people who do not confidence in the future promise.” It can be stated clearly what those people do not have confidence about. Alternate translation: “like the people who are not sure that they will rise from the dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1491TH414ybz6figs-exclusiveεἰ…πιστεύομεν1if we believeHere, **we** refers to Paul and his audience. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1501TH414kmk2ἀνέστη1rose again“rose to live again”
1511TH414bi9wfigs-euphemismτοὺς κοιμηθέντας1those who have fallen asleepHere, **fallen asleep** is a polite way to refer to having died. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1521TH415ni3mfigs-metonymyἐν λόγῳ Κυρίου1by the word of the LordHere, **word** is a metonym for “message.” Alternate translation: “by means of understanding the teachings of the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
1531TH415b786εἰς τὴν παρουσίαν τοῦ Κυρίου1at the coming of the Lord“when the Lord returns”
1541TH416ah7pαὐτὸς ὁ Κύριος…καταβήσεται1the Lord himself … will descend“the Lord himself … will come down”
1551TH416z9kaἀρχαγγέλου1of the archangel“of the chief angel”
1561TH416dr89figs-explicitοἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον1the dead in Christ will rise firstThe **dead in Christ** are those believers who have passed away. Alternate translation: “those who believe in Jesus Christ, but who have already died, will rise first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
1571TH417l5l1figs-exclusiveἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες1we who are aliveHere, **we** refers to all believers who have not died. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1581TH417wvi8σὺν αὐτοῖς1with themThe word **them** refers to the dead believers who were made alive again.
1591TH417se1yἁρπαγησόμεθα ἐν νεφέλαις εἰς ἀπάντησιν τοῦ Κυρίου εἰς ἀέρα1will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air“will be pulled up … to meet the Lord Jesus in the sky”
1601TH5introay3d0# 1 Thessalonians 05 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul concludes his letter in a way that was typical of letters in the ancient Near East.<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Day of the Lord<br><br>The exact time of the coming day of the Lord will be a surprise to the world. This is what the simile “like a thief in the night” means. Because of this, Christians are to live prepared for the coming of the Lord. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])<br><br>### Quench the Spirit<br><br>This means to ignore or work against the Holy Spirits guidance and work.
1611TH51i2vmfigs-exclusive0General Information:In this chapter the words “we” and “us” refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1621TH51cauefigs-you0General Information:The word **you** is plural and refers to the believers at the church of Thessalonica. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
1631TH51z1s60Connecting Statement:Paul continues talking about the day Jesus will come back.
1641TH51h84mτῶν χρόνων καὶ τῶν καιρῶν1the times and the seasonsThis refers to the events preceding the Lord Jesus return.
1651TH51uq3nἀδελφοί1brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow Christians.
1661TH52mcq9ἀκριβῶς1perfectly well“very well” or “accurately”
1671TH52tmj3figs-simileὡς κλέπτης ἐν νυκτὶ οὕτως1in this manner—like a thief in the nightJust as one does not know which night a **thief** may come, we do not know when the day of the Lord will come. Alternate translation: “unexpectedly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1681TH53p1wiὅταν λέγωσιν1When they may say“When the people may say”
1691TH53ne9nτότε αἰφνίδιος…ὄλεθρος1then sudden destruction“then unexpected destruction”
1701TH53f1xrfigs-simileὥσπερ ἡ ὠδὶν τῇ ἐν γαστρὶ ἐχούσῃ1like having birth pains in the wombJust as a pregnant womans **birth pains** come suddenly and do not stop until the birth is complete, the destruction will come, and people will not escape. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1711TH54rr9jὑμεῖς…ἀδελφοί1you, brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow Christians.
1721TH54b6lvfigs-metaphorοὐκ ἐστὲ ἐν σκότει1are not in darknessPaul speaks of evil and ignorance about God as if they were **darkness**. Alternate translation: “you are not unknowing, like people who live in the dark” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1731TH54elp9figs-simileἵνα ἡ ἡμέρα ὑμᾶς ὡς κλέπτας καταλάβῃ1so that the day might overtake you like a thiefThe **day** when the Lord comes should not be a surprise to believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
1741TH55zp3zfigs-metaphorπάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς υἱοὶ φωτός ἐστε, καὶ υἱοὶ ἡμέρας1For you are all sons of the light and sons of the dayPaul speaks of the truth as if it were **light** and **day**. Alternate translation: “For you know the truth, like people who live in the light, like people during the day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1751TH55d6fmfigs-metaphorοὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους1We are not sons of the night nor the darknessPaul speaks of evil and ignorance about God as if they were **darkness**. Alternate translation: “We are not unknowing, like people who live in the darkness, like people at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1761TH56us6sfigs-metaphorμὴ καθεύδωμεν ὡς οἱ λοιποί1we might not sleep as the rest doPaul speaks of spiritual unawareness as if it were sleep. Alternate translation: “let us not be like others who are not aware that Jesus is coming back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1771TH56gu51figs-exclusiveμὴ καθεύδωμεν1we might not sleepThe word **we** refers to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1781TH56d2ajfigs-metaphorγρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν1we might keep watch and be soberPaul describes spiritual awareness as the opposite of sleep and drunkenness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1791TH57s253figs-metaphorοἱ γὰρ καθεύδοντες, νυκτὸς καθεύδουσιν1For those who are sleeping, sleep at nightJust as when people **sleep** and do not know what is happening, so the people of this world do not know that Christ will return. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1801TH57exa8figs-metaphorοἱ μεθυσκόμενοι, νυκτὸς μεθύουσιν1those who are getting drunk, get drunk at nightPaul is stating that it is at night when people become **drunk**, so when people are unaware of Christs return they do not live a self-controlled life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1811TH58zj9rfigs-exclusive0General Information:In verses 8-10 the word “we” refers to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
1821TH58wh3gfigs-metaphorἡμεῖς…ἡμέρας ὄντες1we, being of the dayPaul speaks of knowing the truth about God as belonging to the **day**. Alternate translation: “we, knowing the truth” or “we, having received the light of truth” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1831TH58i8j1figs-metaphorνήφωμεν1might stay soberPaul compares being **sober** to exercising self-control. Alternate translation: “should exercise self-control” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1841TH58ev6ifigs-metaphorἐνδυσάμενοι θώρακα πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης1having put on the breastplate of faith and of loveAs a soldier would **put on** a **breastplate** to protect his body, a believer who lives by **faith** and **love** will find protection. Alternate translation: “protect ourselves with faith and love” or “protect ourselves by trusting Christ and loving him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1851TH58fk6rfigs-metaphorπερικεφαλαίαν, ἐλπίδα σωτηρίας1the helmet—the hope of salvationAs a **helmet** protects a soldiers head, assurance of **salvation** protects the believer. Alternate translation: “protect ourselves by being certain that Christ will save us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1861TH510w59cfigs-euphemismεἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν1whether we might be awake or asleepThese are polite ways of saying alive or dead. Alternate translation: “whether we are alive or dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
1871TH511r921figs-metaphorοἰκοδομεῖτε εἷς τὸν ἕνα1build up one the otherHere, **build up** is a metaphor that means “encourage.” Alternate translation: “encourage each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
1881TH512pd470General Information:Paul begins to give his final instructions to the church in Thessalonica.
1891TH512rka4ἀδελφοί1brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow believers.
1901TH512ksp2εἰδέναι τοὺς κοπιῶντας1to acknowledge those who are laboring“to esteem and appreciate those who are involved in leading”
1911TH512fqh3προϊσταμένους ὑμῶν ἐν Κυρίῳ1leading you in the LordThis refers to people God appointed to serve as leaders of the local group of believers.
1921TH513c966ἡγεῖσθαι αὐτοὺς ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ, διὰ τὸ ἔργον αὐτῶν1to regard them highly in love because of their workPaul exhorts the believers to **love** and esteem their church leaders.
1931TH516chw9πάντοτε χαίρετε1Rejoice alwaysPaul is exhorting the believers to maintain a spiritual attitude of rejoicing in all things.
1941TH517l63iἀδιαλείπτως προσεύχεσθε1Pray without ceasingPaul is exhorting the believers to be vigilant in prayer.
1951TH518z9ggἐν παντὶ εὐχαριστεῖτε1In everything give thanksPaul is exhorting the believers to express thankfulness in all things.
1961TH518bt5qἐν παντὶ1In everythingIn all circumstances
1971TH518l3skτοῦτο γὰρ θέλημα Θεοῦ1for this is the will of GodPaul is referring to the behavior he just mentioned as being Gods **will** for the believers.
1981TH519j1eiτὸ Πνεῦμα μὴ σβέννυτε1Do not quench the Spirit“Do not stop the Holy Spirit from working among you”
1991TH520iv1nπροφητείας μὴ ἐξουθενεῖτε1Do not despise prophecies“Do not have contempt for prophecies” or “Do not hate anything the Holy Spirit tells someone”
2001TH521wx69πάντα δοκιμάζετε1Test all things“Make sure that all messages that seem to come from God truly come from him”
2011TH521r12rfigs-metaphorτὸ καλὸν κατέχετε1Hold fast to what is goodPaul speaks of messages from the Holy Spirit as if they were objects that one could grasp in his hands. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2021TH523gu2cἁγιάσαι ὑμᾶς ὁλοτελεῖς1may … sanctify you completelyThis refers to God making a person sinless and perfect in his sight.
2031TH523s36kfigs-activepassiveὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα, ἀμέμπτως…τηρηθείη1may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelesslyHere, **spirit, and soul, and body** represent the whole person. If your language does not have three words for these parts you can state it as “your whole life” or “you.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “may God make your whole life without sin” or “may God keep you completely blameless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2041TH524mq2uπιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς1Faithful is he who calls you“He is faithful who calls you” or “God who calls you is faithful”
2051TH524c3jgὃς καὶ ποιήσει1who will also do it“and he will be helping you”
2061TH525q8ki0General Information:Paul gives his closing statements.
2071TH526qa1cἀδελφοὺς1brothersHere, **brothers** means fellow Christians.
2081TH527n5cnfigs-activepassiveἐνορκίζω ὑμᾶς τὸν Κύριον, ἀναγνωσθῆναι τὴν ἐπιστολὴν1I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter readThis can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I urge you, as if the Lord were speaking to you, to have people read this letter” or “With the authority of the Lord I direct you to read this letter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])