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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>1 Thessalonians 2:4 Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/1/52_1Th_02_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Thessalonians 2:4 - Paul's Ministry" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts." /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/1_thessalonians/">1 Thessalonians</a> > <a href="/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Chapter 2</a> > Verse 4</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad4.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm" title="1 Thessalonians 2:3">◄</a> 1 Thessalonians 2:4 <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm" title="1 Thessalonians 2:5">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New International Version</a> On the contrary, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please people but God, who tests our hearts. <a href="/nlt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts. <a href="/esv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. <a href="/bsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/blb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, the One examining our hearts. <a href="/kjv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">King James Bible</a> But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. <a href="/nkjv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts. <a href="/nasb_/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not intending to please people, but to please God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/nasb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts. <a href="/nasb77/1_thessalonians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/lsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who examines our hearts. <a href="/amp/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel [that tells the good news of salvation through faith in Christ], so we speak, not as [if we were trying] to please people [to gain power and popularity], but to please God who examines our hearts [expecting our best]. <a href="/csb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Instead, just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please people, but rather God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/hcsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> Instead, just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please men, but rather God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/asv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> but even as we have been approved of God to be intrusted with the gospel, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God who proveth our hearts. <a href="/cev/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> God was pleased to trust us with his message. We didn't speak to please people, but to please God who knows our motives. <a href="/erv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> but even as we have been approved of God to be intrusted with the gospel, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God which proveth our hearts. <a href="/gwt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Rather, we are always spreading the Good News. God trusts us to do this because we passed his test. We don't try to please people but God, who tests our motives. <a href="/gnt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> Instead, we always speak as God wants us to, because he has judged us worthy to be entrusted with the Good News. We do not try to please people, but to please God, who tests our motives. <a href="/isv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> Rather, because we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, we speak as we do, not trying to please people but God, who tests our motives. <a href="/msb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/net/1_thessalonians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we declare it, not to please people but God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/nheb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> But even as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News, so we speak; not as pleasing people, but God, who tests our hearts. <a href="/wbt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But as we were allowed by God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, who trieth our hearts. <a href="/wey/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But as God tested and approved us before entrusting us with His Good News, so in what we say we are seeking not to please men but to please God, who tests and approves our motives. <a href="/web/1_thessalonians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> But even as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News, so we speak—not as pleasing men, but God, who tests our hearts. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> but as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the good news, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who is proving our hearts, <a href="/blb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, the One examining our hearts. <a href="/ylt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> but as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the good news, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who is proving our hearts, <a href="/slt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> But as we have been tried by God to be entrusted with the good news, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, trying our hearts:<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But as we were approved by God that the gospel should be committed to us: even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who proveth our hearts. <a href="/cpdv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But, just as we have been tested by God, so that the Gospel would be entrusted to us, so also did we speak, not so as to please men, but rather to please God, who tests our hearts. <a href="/nabre/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> But as we were judged worthy by God to be entrusted with the gospel, that is how we speak, not as trying to please human beings, but rather God, who judges our hearts. <a href="/nrsvce/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> but just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the message of the gospel, even so we speak, not to please mortals, but to please God who tests our hearts.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But just as we have been examined by God to be entrusted with his gospel, even so we speak, not to please men, but to please God who searches our hearts. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But as when we were tested by God to be entrusted with his Gospel, so we speak, not as if we would please the children of men, but God who tests our hearts.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> but as God had judged us worthy to be intrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who tries our hearts. <a href="/godbey/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> but as we were approved of God that the gospel should be intrusted unto us, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God who is proving our hearts, <a href="/haweis/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> but as we have been approved of God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who trieth our hearts. <a href="/mace/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> we preach the gospel just as God thought fit to intrust it with us, not being studious to please men, but God, who approves our sincerity. <a href="/wey/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> But as God tested and approved us before entrusting us with His Good News, so in what we say we are seeking not to please men but to please God, who tests and approves our motives. <a href="/worrell/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> but even as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the Gospel, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, Who proveth our hearts. <a href="/worsley/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> but as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who trieth our hearts. <a href="/parallel/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/sgDUoqNjFio?start=126" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Paul's Ministry</a> …3For our appeal does not arise from deceit or ulterior motives or trickery. 4<a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">Instead,</a> <a href="/greek/3779.htm" title="3779: houtōs (Adv) -- Thus, so, in this manner. Or (referring to what precedes or follows)."></a> <a href="/greek/2980.htm" title="2980: laloumen (V-PIA-1P) -- A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words.">we speak</a> <a href="/greek/2531.htm" title="2531: kathōs (Adv) -- According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that.">as</a> <a href="/greek/1381.htm" title="1381: dedokimasmetha (V-RIM/P-1P) -- From dokimos; to test; by implication, to approve.">those approved</a> <a href="/greek/5259.htm" title="5259: hypo (Prep) -- A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when).">by</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God</a> <a href="/greek/4100.htm" title="4100: pisteuthēnai (V-ANP) -- From pistis; to have faith, i.e. Credit; by implication, to entrust.">to be entrusted with</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">the</a> <a href="/greek/2098.htm" title="2098: euangelion (N-ANS) -- From the same as euaggelizo; a good message, i.e. The gospel.">gospel,</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouch (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not.">not</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner.">in order to</a> <a href="/greek/700.htm" title="700: areskontes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To please, with the idea of willing service rendered to others; hence almost: I serve. Probably from airo; to be agreeable.">please</a> <a href="/greek/444.htm" title="444: anthrōpois (N-DMP) -- A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being.">men</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">but</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theō (N-DMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God,</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tō (Art-DMS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">who</a> <a href="/greek/1381.htm" title="1381: dokimazonti (V-PPA-DMS) -- From dokimos; to test; by implication, to approve.">examines</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmōn (PPro-G1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">our</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tas (Art-AFP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/2588.htm" title="2588: kardias (N-AFP) -- Prolonged from a primary kar; the heart, i.e. the thoughts or feelings; also the middle.">hearts.</a> 5As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a> Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. <a href="/1_corinthians/4-3.htm">1 Corinthians 4:3-4</a> I care very little, however, if I am judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. / My conscience is clear, but that does not vindicate me. It is the Lord who judges me. <a href="/acts/5-29.htm">Acts 5:29</a> But Peter and the other apostles replied, “We must obey God rather than men. <a href="/2_corinthians/5-9.htm">2 Corinthians 5:9-10</a> So we aspire to please Him, whether we are at home in this body or away from it. / For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad. <a href="/romans/8-27.htm">Romans 8:27</a> And He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-33.htm">1 Corinthians 10:33</a> as I also try to please everyone in all I do. For I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, that they may be saved. <a href="/2_corinthians/2-17.htm">2 Corinthians 2:17</a> For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God. <a href="/ephesians/6-6.htm">Ephesians 6:6</a> And do this not only to please them while they are watching, but as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. <a href="/colossians/3-22.htm">Colossians 3:22-23</a> Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord. / Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, as for the Lord and not for men, <a href="/1_peter/4-11.htm">1 Peter 4:11</a> If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. <a href="/proverbs/16-2.htm">Proverbs 16:2</a> All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed out by the LORD. <a href="/jeremiah/17-10.htm">Jeremiah 17:10</a> I, the LORD, search the heart; I examine the mind to reward a man according to his way, by what his deeds deserve. <a href="/psalms/139-23.htm">Psalm 139:23-24</a> Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. / See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the way everlasting. <a href="/proverbs/21-2.htm">Proverbs 21:2</a> All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart. <a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">1 Samuel 16:7</a> But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which tries our hearts.as we.<a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">1 Corinthians 7:25</a> Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.<a href="/ephesians/3-8.htm">Ephesians 3:8</a> Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;<a href="/1_timothy/1-11.htm">1 Timothy 1:11-13</a> According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust… to be.<a href="/luke/12-42.htm">Luke 12:42</a> And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?<a href="/luke/16-11.htm">Luke 16:11</a> If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?<a href="/1_corinthians/4-1.htm">1 Corinthians 4:1,2</a> Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God… not.<a href="/1_corinthians/2-4.htm">1 Corinthians 2:4,5</a> And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: … <a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">2 Corinthians 4:2</a> But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.<a href="/2_corinthians/5-11.htm">2 Corinthians 5:11,16</a> Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences… but God.<a href="/numbers/27-16.htm">Numbers 27:16</a> Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation,<a href="/1_kings/8-39.htm">1 Kings 8:39</a> Then hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and do, and give to every man according to his ways, whose heart thou knowest; (for thou, even thou only, knowest the hearts of all the children of men;)<a href="/1_chronicles/29-17.htm">1 Chronicles 29:17</a> I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/12-4.htm">Allowed</a> <a href="/colossians/1-10.htm">Approval</a> <a href="/philippians/2-22.htm">Approved</a> <a href="/galatians/1-11.htm">Approves</a> <a href="/colossians/1-25.htm">Entrusted</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-19.htm">Entrusting</a> <a href="/colossians/1-5.htm">Glad</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">Good</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">Gospel</a> <a href="/colossians/4-8.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/galatians/2-7.htm">Intrusted</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm">Motives</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">News</a> <a href="/colossians/3-22.htm">Please</a> <a href="/colossians/3-20.htm">Pleasing</a> <a href="/romans/10-17.htm">Proves</a> <a href="/philippians/1-10.htm">Proving</a> <a href="/colossians/3-1.htm">Seeking</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-2.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-21.htm">Tested</a> <a href="/luke/4-13.htm">Tests</a> <a href="/colossians/1-9.htm">Tidings</a> <a href="/daniel/1-14.htm">Trieth</a> <a href="/philippians/3-4.htm">Trust</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/revelation/9-5.htm">Allowed</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-15.htm">Approval</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-10.htm">Approved</a> <a href="/romans/14-22.htm">Approves</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-11.htm">Entrusted</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-23.htm">Entrusting</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-9.htm">Glad</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-8.htm">Good</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-8.htm">Gospel</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-13.htm">Hearts</a> <a href="/titus/1-3.htm">Intrusted</a> <a href="/james/2-4.htm">Motives</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-8.htm">News</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-15.htm">Please</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-12.htm">Pleasing</a> <a href="/hebrews/11-6.htm">Proves</a> <a href="/hebrews/3-9.htm">Proving</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm">Seeking</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-16.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-5.htm">Tested</a> <a href="/james/1-2.htm">Tests</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-9.htm">Tidings</a> <a href="/job/23-10.htm">Trieth</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/3-4.htm">Trust</a><div class="vheading2">1 Thessalonians 2</div>1. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-1.htm">In what manner the gospel was brought and preached to the Thessalonians.</a> 18. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-18.htm">A reason is rendered both why Paul was so long absent from them, and also so desirous to see them.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/1_thessalonians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/1_thessalonians/2.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Instead, we speak as those approved by God This phrase emphasizes the divine approval and authority behind Paul's message. In the context of 1 Thessalonians, Paul defends his ministry against accusations of deceit or impure motives. The term "approved by God" suggests a process of testing and validation, akin to refining metals (<a href="/proverbs/17-3.htm">Proverbs 17:3</a>). This approval is not self-proclaimed but recognized by God, aligning with the biblical theme that true ministry is divinely sanctioned (<a href="/2_timothy/2-15.htm">2 Timothy 2:15</a>). The apostles' authority is rooted in their calling and commissioning by Christ (<a href="/acts/9-15.htm">Acts 9:15</a>).to be entrusted with the gospel The gospel, or "good news," is the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Being "entrusted" implies a stewardship responsibility, as seen in the parable of the talents (<a href="/matthew/25-14.htm">Matthew 25:14-30</a>). Paul and his companions are depicted as faithful stewards (<a href="/1_corinthians/4.htm">1 Corinthians 4:1-2</a>), highlighting the sacred duty to preserve and proclaim the gospel accurately. This trust underscores the seriousness of their mission, reflecting the Great Commission (<a href="/matthew/28-19.htm">Matthew 28:19-20</a>).not in order to please men Paul contrasts his motives with those of false teachers who seek human approval (<a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a>). The cultural context of the Greco-Roman world often involved orators and philosophers who sought popularity and financial gain. Paul distinguishes his ministry by prioritizing divine approval over human accolades, echoing Jesus' teaching on serving two masters (<a href="/matthew/6-24.htm">Matthew 6:24</a>).but God, who examines our hearts This phrase underscores God's omniscience and the sincerity required in ministry. The heart, in biblical terms, represents the center of one's being, including thoughts, intentions, and emotions (<a href="/jeremiah/17-10.htm">Jeremiah 17:10</a>). God's examination is thorough and discerning, ensuring that motives align with His will. This divine scrutiny is a recurring theme, reminding believers of the importance of integrity and transparency before God (<a href="/hebrews/4-12.htm">Hebrews 4:12-13</a>).<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul.htm">Paul</a> - The apostle who wrote the letter to the Thessalonians, emphasizing his role as a messenger approved by God. 2. <a href="/topical/t/thessalonica.htm">Thessalonica</a> - A city in Macedonia where Paul established a church and to whom this letter is addressed. 3. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> - The ultimate judge who examines the hearts of individuals, ensuring their motives align with His will. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_gospel.htm">The Gospel</a> - The message of salvation through Jesus Christ, which Paul and his companions were entrusted to share. 5. <a href="/topical/t/the_thessalonian_church.htm">The Thessalonian Church</a> - The recipients of the letter, who were being encouraged to remain steadfast in their faith.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/d/divine_approval_over_human_approval.htm">Divine Approval Over Human Approval</a> As Christians, our primary goal should be to seek God's approval rather than the approval of people. This requires a heart aligned with God's will and a commitment to His truth. <a href="/topical/e/entrusted_with_the_gospel.htm">Entrusted with the Gospel</a> Believers are entrusted with the precious message of the gospel. This responsibility calls for integrity, faithfulness, and a focus on God's mission. <a href="/topical/g/god_examines_our_hearts.htm">God Examines Our Hearts</a> God is the ultimate judge of our motives and intentions. We must regularly examine our own hearts to ensure they are pure and aligned with God's purposes. <a href="/topical/c/courage_in_proclaiming_the_gospel.htm">Courage in Proclaiming the Gospel</a> Sharing the gospel may not always be popular or well-received, but we are called to be bold and courageous, prioritizing God's message over societal acceptance. <a href="/topical/l/living_for_god's_glory.htm">Living for God's Glory</a> Our lives should reflect a desire to glorify God in all we do, understanding that He sees beyond our actions to the intentions behind them.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_1_thessalonians_2.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 1 Thessalonians 2</a> <a href="/q/who_is_considered_a_bible_scholar.htm">Who is considered a Bible scholar?</a> <a href="/q/why_does_christianity_prioritize_faith.htm">Why does Christianity demand faith when critical thinking and evidence are more reliable ways of knowing truth?</a> <a href="/q/who_or_what_is_the_antichrist.htm">Who or what is the Antichrist?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_fighting.htm">What does the Bible say about extreme fighting?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) Were allowed.--Rather, have been, and in <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm" title="For our exhortation was not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:">1Thessalonians 2:3</a> is, not "was." St. Paul is arguing from his habitual practice. "But we speak after the manner of men who remember that God Himself has tried them, and has been satisfied to entrust the gospel to them, making it our business to please, not men, but God who thus tries our hearts" (<a href="/context/1_corinthians/4-1.htm" title="Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.">1Corinthians 4:1-2</a>). The word translated "allowed" implies examining and approving (as in <a href="/luke/14-19.htm" title="And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray you have me excused.">Luke 14:19</a>; <a href="/1_timothy/3-10.htm" title="And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.">1Timothy 3:10</a>; <a href="/1_peter/1-7.htm" title="That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire, might be found to praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:">1Peter 1:7</a>; <a href="/1_john/4-1.htm" title="Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.">1John 4:1</a>), and is repeated emphatically (trans lated "trieth"): "being examined and approved by God, we study to please Him who constantly examines and approves us, not to court those to whom we are sent." St. Paul expresses here, as elsewhere, a total disregard of men's opinions about him (<a href="/1_corinthians/4-3.htm" title="But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yes, I judge not my own self.">1Corinthians 4:3</a>; <a href="/galatians/1-10.htm" title="For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.">Galatians 1:10</a>). . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 4. - But; in contrast. As; according as. We were allowed. The old English for "approved." Of God. The word rendered "allowed" signifies tried, tested as gold is tested in the fire, and hence also the result of that trial, "approved." As we were esteemed worthy to be put in trust with the gospel; entrusted with its publication. Even so; in this condition of approval and trust. We speak, not as pleasing men, but God, that trieth. The same verb that is rendered "allowed" in the first part of the verse; hence "proverb," or "approveth." Our hearts. Not a general statement, "God who is the Discerner of the heart;" but "our hearts," namely, of us, the publishers of the gospel - Paul and Silas and Timothy; thus appealing to God, as the infallible Judge of their sincerity. <a href="/commentaries/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Instead, ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. we speak λαλοῦμεν (laloumen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2980.htm">Strong's 2980: </a> A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words. as καθὼς (kathōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_2531.htm">Strong's 2531: </a> According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that. those approved δεδοκιμάσμεθα (dedokimasmetha) Verb - Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1381.htm">Strong's 1381: </a> From dokimos; to test; by implication, to approve. by ὑπὸ (hypo) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5259.htm">Strong's 5259: </a> A primary preposition; under, i.e. of place, or with verbs; of place (underneath) or where (below) or time (when). God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. to be entrusted with πιστευθῆναι (pisteuthēnai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Passive <a href="/greek/strongs_4100.htm">Strong's 4100: </a> From pistis; to have faith, i.e. Credit; by implication, to entrust. the τὸ (to) Article - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. gospel, εὐαγγέλιον (euangelion) Noun - Accusative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2098.htm">Strong's 2098: </a> From the same as euaggelizo; a good message, i.e. The gospel. not οὐχ (ouch) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3756.htm">Strong's 3756: </a> No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. in order to ὡς (hōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5613.htm">Strong's 5613: </a> Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner. please ἀρέσκοντες (areskontes) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_700.htm">Strong's 700: </a> To please, with the idea of willing service rendered to others; hence almost: I serve. Probably from airo; to be agreeable. men ἀνθρώποις (anthrōpois) Noun - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_444.htm">Strong's 444: </a> A man, one of the human race. From aner and ops; man-faced, i.e. A human being. but ἀλλὰ (alla) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. God, Θεῷ (Theō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. who τῷ (tō) Article - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. examines δοκιμάζοντι (dokimazonti) Verb - Present Participle Active - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1381.htm">Strong's 1381: </a> From dokimos; to test; by implication, to approve. our ἡμῶν (hēmōn) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. hearts. καρδίας (kardias) Noun - Accusative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2588.htm">Strong's 2588: </a> Prolonged from a primary kar; the heart, i.e. the thoughts or feelings; also the middle. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">NT Letters: 1 Thessalonians 2:4 But even as we have been approved (1 Thess. 1 Thes. 1Th iTh i Th)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Thessalonians 2:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Thessalonians 2:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Thessalonians 2:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Thessalonians 2:5" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>