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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 2:5 As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/2/52_1Th_02_05.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="1 Thessalonians 2:5 - Paul's Ministry" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness!" /><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/2-5.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/2-5.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 5</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="/ad5.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/2-4.htm" title="1 Thessalonians 2:4">◄</a> 1 Thessalonians 2:5 <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm" title="1 Thessalonians 2:6">►</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> You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed—God is our witness. <a href="/nlt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New Living Translation</a> Never once did we try to win you with flattery, as you well know. And God is our witness that we were not pretending to be your friends just to get your money! <a href="/esv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">English Standard Version</a> For we never came with words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness. <a href="/bsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness! <a href="/blb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For never at any time were we with word of flattery, just as you know, nor with a pretext for greed--God is witness-- <a href="/kjv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">King James Bible</a> For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: <a href="/nkjv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New King James Version</a> For neither at any time did we use flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak for covetousness—God is witness. <a href="/nasb_/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is our witness— <a href="/nasb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">NASB 1995</a> For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed— God is witness— <a href="/nasb77/1_thessalonians/2.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For we never came with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness— <a href="/lsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For we never came with a flattering word, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed—God is witness— <a href="/amp/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Amplified Bible</a> For as you well know, we never came with words of flattery nor with a pretext for greed—God is our witness— <a href="/csb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For we never used flattering speech, as you know, or had greedy motives —God is our witness — <a href="/hcsb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For we never used flattering speech, as you know, or had greedy motives—God is our witness— <a href="/asv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">American Standard Version</a> For neither at any time were we found using words of flattery, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness, God is witness; <a href="/cev/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> You also know we didn't try to flatter anyone. God himself knows what we did wasn't a cover-up for greed. <a href="/erv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">English Revised Version</a> For neither at any time were we found using words of flattery, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness, God is witness; <a href="/gwt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> As you know, we never used flattery or schemes to make money. God is our witness! <a href="/gnt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Good News Translation</a> You know very well that we did not come to you with flattering talk, nor did we use words to cover up greed--God is our witness! <a href="/isv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">International Standard Version</a> As you know, we did not come with flattering words or with a scheme to make money. God is our witness! <a href="/msb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> As you know, we never used words of flattery or any pretext for greed. God is our witness! <a href="/net/1_thessalonians/2.htm">NET Bible</a> For we never appeared with flattering speech, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed--God is our witness-- <a href="/nheb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For neither were we at any time found using words of flattery, as you know, nor with a pretext for greed (God is witness), <a href="/wbt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: <a href="/wey/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For, as you are well aware, we have never used the language of flattery nor have we found pretexts for enriching ourselves--God is our witness; <a href="/web/1_thessalonians/2.htm">World English Bible</a> For neither were we at any time found using words of flattery, as you know, nor a cloak of covetousness (God is witness), <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for at no time did we come with speech of flattery (as you have known), nor in a pretext for covetousness (God [is] witness), <a href="/blb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For never at any time were we with word of flattery, just as you know, nor with a pretext for greed--God is witness-- <a href="/ylt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for at no time did we come with speech of flattery, (as ye have known,) nor in a pretext for covetousness, (God is witness!) <a href="/slt/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For neither once in word were we flatterers, as ye know, neither in a pretext of covetousness; God the witness:<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For neither have we used, at any time, the speech of flattery, as you know; nor taken an occasion of covetousness, God is witness: <a href="/cpdv/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> And neither did we, at any time, become flattering in speech, as you know, nor did we seek an opportunity for avarice, as God is witness. <a href="/nabre/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New American Bible</a> Nor, indeed, did we ever appear with flattering speech, as you know, or with a pretext for greed—God is witness— <a href="/nrsvce/1_thessalonians/2.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> As you know and as God is our witness, we never came with words of flattery or with a pretext for greed;<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> And we have never used flattering words, as you know, to conceal greed; God is witness: <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For neither do we ever employ enticing speech as you know, neither an occasion for greed, God is witness,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For neither nattering words did we at any time use, as you know, nor a pretext for covetousness; God is witness: <a href="/godbey/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For at that time we were not in word of flattery, as you know, nor in a pretext of covetousness, God is our witness; <a href="/haweis/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For neither at any time used we insinuating language, as ye know, nor a pretext for covetousness; God is witness: <a href="/mace/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Mace New Testament</a> our address to you was without any flattery, as you yourselves can witness, and God is witness that we had no avarice to disguise. <a href="/wey/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For, as you are well aware, we have never used the language of flattery nor have we found pretexts for enriching ourselves--God is our witness; <a href="/worrell/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For neither, at any time, did we use a word of flattery, as ye know, nor a semblance of covetousness, God is witness; <a href="/worsley/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For neither at any time used we flattering speech, as ye know, nor covetous pretence, God is witness: <a href="/parallel/1_thessalonians/2-5.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=138" 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> …4Instead, 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. 5<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></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/1492.htm" title="1492: oidate (V-RIA-2P) -- To know, remember, appreciate. ">you know,</a> <a href="/greek/3777.htm" title="3777: oute (Conj) -- And not, neither, nor. From ou and te; not too, i.e. Neither or nor; by analogy, not even."></a> <a href="/greek/4218.htm" title="4218: pote (Prtcl) -- At one time or other, at some time, formerly. From the base of pou and te; indefinite adverb, at some time, ever."></a> <a href="/greek/1096.htm" title="1096: egenēthēmen (V-AIP-1P) -- A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude.">we never used</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logō (N-DMS) -- From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression.">words</a> <a href="/greek/2850.htm" title="2850: kolakeias (N-GFS) -- Flattery, with a view to advantage or gain. From a derivative of kolax; flattery.">of flattery</a> <a href="/greek/3777.htm" title="3777: oute (Conj) -- And not, neither, nor. From ou and te; not too, i.e. Neither or nor; by analogy, not even.">or</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/4392.htm" title="4392: prophasei (N-DFS) -- A pretext, an excuse. From a compound of pro and phaino; an outward showing, i.e. Pretext.">any pretext</a> <a href="/greek/4124.htm" title="4124: pleonexias (N-GFS) -- Covetousness, avarice, aggression, desire for advantage. From pleonektes; avarice, i.e. fraudulency, extortion.">for greed.</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theos (N-NMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God is</a> <a href="/greek/3144.htm" title="3144: martys (N-NMS) -- A witness (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case); by analogy, a martyr.">our witness!</a> 6Nor did we seek praise from you or from anyone else, although as apostles of Christ we had authority to demand it.…<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="/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="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">2 Corinthians 4:2</a> Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God. <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="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">2 Corinthians 11:9-10</a> And when I was with you and in need, I was not a burden to anyone; for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied my needs. I have refrained from being a burden to you in any way, and I will continue to do so. / As surely as the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be silenced in the regions of Achaia. <a href="/1_corinthians/9-12.htm">1 Corinthians 9:12</a> If others have this right to your support, shouldn’t we have it all the more? But we did not exercise this right. Instead, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ. <a href="/1_corinthians/2-1.htm">1 Corinthians 2:1-5</a> When I came to you, brothers, I did not come with eloquence or wisdom as I proclaimed to you the testimony about God. / For I resolved to know nothing while I was with you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. / I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling. ... <a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">2 Corinthians 12:14-16</a> See, I am ready to come to you a third time, and I will not be a burden, because I am not seeking your possessions, but you. For children should not have to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. / And for the sake of your souls, I will most gladly spend my money and myself. If I love you more, will you love me less? / Be that as it may, I was not a burden to you; but crafty as I am, I caught you by trickery. <a href="/philippians/1-15.htm">Philippians 1:15-18</a> It is true that some preach Christ out of envy and rivalry, but others out of goodwill. / The latter do so in love, knowing that I am appointed for the defense of the gospel. / The former, however, preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can add to the distress of my chains. ... <a href="/1_timothy/6-5.htm">1 Timothy 6:5</a> and constant friction between men of depraved mind who are devoid of the truth. These men regard godliness as a means of gain. <a href="/2_peter/2-3.htm">2 Peter 2:3</a> In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep. <a href="/micah/3-11.htm">Micah 3:11</a> Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets practice divination for money. Yet they lean upon the LORD, saying, “Is not the LORD among us? No disaster can come upon us.” <a href="/isaiah/56-11.htm">Isaiah 56:11</a> Like ravenous dogs, they are never satisfied. They are shepherds with no discernment; they all turn to their own way, each one seeking his own gain: <a href="/jeremiah/6-13.htm">Jeremiah 6:13</a> “For from the least of them to the greatest, all are greedy for gain; from prophet to priest, all practice deceit. <a href="/ezekiel/13-19.htm">Ezekiel 13:19</a> You have profaned Me among My people for handfuls of barley and scraps of bread. By lying to My people who would listen, you have killed those who should not have died and spared those who should not have lived. <a href="/jeremiah/8-10.htm">Jeremiah 8:10</a> Therefore I will give their wives to other men and their fields to new owners. For from the least of them to the greatest, all are greedy for gain; from prophet to priest, all practice deceit.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>For neither at any time used we flattering words, as you know, nor a cloak of covetousness; God is witness:used.<a href="/job/17-5.htm">Job 17:5</a> He that speaketh flattery to his friends, even the eyes of his children shall fail.<a href="/job/32-21.htm">Job 32:21,22</a> Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, neither let me give flattering titles unto man… <a href="/psalms/12-2.htm">Psalm 12:2,3</a> They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak… a cloke.<a href="/isaiah/56-11.htm">Isaiah 56:11</a> Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.<a href="/jeremiah/6-13.htm">Jeremiah 6:13</a> For from the least of them even unto the greatest of them every one is given to covetousness; and from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.<a href="/jeremiah/8-10.htm">Jeremiah 8:10</a> Therefore will I give their wives unto others, and their fields to them that shall inherit them: for every one from the least even unto the greatest is given to covetousness, from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely.God.<a href="/romans/1-9.htm">Romans 1:9</a> For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;<a href="/romans/9-1.htm">Romans 9:1</a> I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,<a href="/galatians/1-20.htm">Galatians 1:20</a> Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/galatians/4-21.htm">Aware</a> <a href="/acts/12-8.htm">Cloak</a> <a href="/john/15-22.htm">Cloke</a> <a href="/philippians/2-17.htm">Common</a> <a href="/colossians/3-5.htm">Covetousness</a> <a href="/galatians/4-9.htm">Desiring</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-1.htm">Discourse</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">Enriching</a> <a href="/romans/16-18.htm">Flattering</a> <a href="/daniel/11-34.htm">Flattery</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-1.htm">Found</a> <a href="/colossians/4-6.htm">Language</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-5.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/philippians/1-18.htm">Pretext</a> <a href="/proverbs/18-1.htm">Pretexts</a> <a href="/galatians/2-4.htm">Secretly</a> <a href="/colossians/4-6.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/colossians/4-5.htm">Time</a> <a href="/colossians/3-5.htm">Use</a> <a href="/colossians/3-7.htm">Used</a> <a href="/colossians/2-22.htm">Using</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm">Witness</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/1-5.htm">Words</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_timothy/1-15.htm">Aware</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-13.htm">Cloak</a> <a href="/2_timothy/4-13.htm">Cloke</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-20.htm">Common</a> <a href="/hebrews/13-5.htm">Covetousness</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/3-6.htm">Desiring</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-6.htm">Discourse</a> <a href="/psalms/65-9.htm">Enriching</a> <a href="/jude/1-16.htm">Flattering</a> <a href="/job/17-5.htm">Flattery</a> <a href="/2_thessalonians/2-12.htm">Found</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-4.htm">Language</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/1_peter/2-16.htm">Pretext</a> <a href="/job/33-10.htm">Pretexts</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-6.htm">Secretly</a> <a href="/1_timothy/3-13.htm">Speech</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-17.htm">Time</a> <a href="/1_timothy/1-8.htm">Use</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-11.htm">Used</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-23.htm">Using</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-10.htm">Witness</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-18.htm">Words</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>As you know, Paul begins this section by appealing to the Thessalonians' personal knowledge of his conduct. This phrase emphasizes the transparency and integrity of Paul's ministry. The Thessalonians were firsthand witnesses to Paul's behavior, which underscores the authenticity of his message and actions. This appeal to personal knowledge is a common rhetorical device in Paul's letters, reinforcing the trustworthiness of his testimony.we never used words of flattery Flattery involves insincere praise, often used to manipulate or gain favor. In the Greco-Roman world, itinerant philosophers and speakers were known for using flattery to win over audiences and gain followers. Paul contrasts his approach with these practices, highlighting his commitment to truth and sincerity. This aligns with <a href="/proverbs/26-28.htm">Proverbs 26:28</a>, which warns against the dangers of flattery, and reflects the biblical call to speak truthfully (<a href="/ephesians/4-15.htm">Ephesians 4:15</a>).or any pretext for greed. Paul denies using his ministry as a cover for personal gain. In the ancient world, some religious leaders exploited their positions for financial benefit. Paul distinguishes himself from such individuals, emphasizing his selflessness and dedication to the gospel. This echoes Jesus' teaching in <a href="/matthew/6-24.htm">Matthew 6:24</a> about serving God rather than money, and Paul's own example of working to support himself (<a href="/acts/18-3.htm">Acts 18:3</a>).God is our witness! Paul invokes God as a witness to his integrity, underscoring the seriousness of his claim. This appeal to divine witness is a solemn affirmation, reflecting the biblical understanding that God knows the heart (<a href="/1_samuel/16-7.htm">1 Samuel 16:7</a>). It also serves as a reminder of the ultimate accountability to God, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture (<a href="/romans/14-12.htm">Romans 14:12</a>). This invocation reinforces the sincerity and truthfulness of Paul's ministry.<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 sincerity and integrity in ministry. 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/t/thessalonian_church.htm">Thessalonian Church</a> The recipients of the letter, a group of believers who were being encouraged and instructed by Paul. 4. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The ultimate witness to Paul's motives and actions, underscoring the divine accountability in his ministry. 5. <a href="/topical/g/greed_and_flattery.htm">Greed and Flattery</a> Concepts Paul explicitly denies using, highlighting the purity of his intentions in spreading the Gospel.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/i/integrity_in_ministry.htm">Integrity in Ministry</a> Paul’s example teaches us the importance of maintaining integrity and sincerity in our service to God and others. <a href="/topical/a/avoiding_flattery.htm">Avoiding Flattery</a> Flattery can be a tool for manipulation. As Christians, we should speak truthfully and avoid using words to gain favor or manipulate others. <a href="/topical/g/guarding_against_greed.htm">Guarding Against Greed</a> Greed can corrupt our motives and actions. We must be vigilant in ensuring our desires align with God’s will, not material gain. <a href="/topical/d/divine_accountability.htm">Divine Accountability</a> Recognizing that God is our witness should encourage us to live transparently and authentically, knowing that our true motives are seen by Him. <a href="/topical/w/witness_to_the_world.htm">Witness to the World</a> Our conduct should reflect the Gospel we preach, serving as a testimony to others of the transformative power of Christ.<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/how_is_suffering_god's_righteous_judgment.htm">In 2 Thessalonians 1:5, how can suffering be seen as a demonstration of God's righteous judgment?</a> <a href="/q/why_hasn't_the_'day_of_the_lord'_come.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:2 - If Paul expected the 'Day of the Lord' imminently, why hasn't it occurred after nearly two thousand years?</a> <a href="/q/1_thess._5_3__sudden_ruin_vs._peace.htm">1 Thessalonians 5:3 - How do we reconcile sudden destruction coming on unbelievers with historical evidence of prolonged periods of peace?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_busybodies.htm">What does the Bible say about busybodies?</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>(5) At any time.--Not only during the stay at Thessalonica, but neither at Thessalonica nor elsewhere, as the next verse shows. But as the Thessalonians can only be appealed to as evidence for their own experience, the writers therefore call God Himself to witness. At the same time, the absence of flattering words was a thing of which human witnesses could judge; the freedom from covetous designs was known to God alone.Cloke of covetousness--i.e., some specious pretext, under cover of which we might gain a worldly advantage; so (though the Greek word is different) <a href="/1_peter/2-16.htm" title="As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.">1Peter 2:16</a>, "a cloke of maliciousness."<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/1_thessalonians/2.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 5. - For; confirming the statement that the preachers of the gospel did not seek to please men, but God. Neither at any time used we flattering words; endeavoring to gain you by flattery and praise; we did not pander to your feelings; we did not soften the demands of the gospel. As ye know, nor a cloak - or pretext - of covetousness. We did not use the gospel as a pretext to mask our real motive, which was covetousness, pretending to seek your spiritual good, whereas in reality we sought our own advantage. Paul could with perfect confidence appeal to his converts, and say, "I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel" (<a href="/acts/20-33.htm">Acts 20:33</a>). He was free from all sinister motives. "He did not use words such as flattery uses, or pretexts such as covetousness" (Jowett). God is witness. Paul appeals to the Thessalonians themselves that he had not used flattering words; so now he appeals to God that the motive of his conduct was not covetousness. Men can judge the external conduct, they can hear the flattering words; but God only can know the motive of action - he only can discern the covetousness. <a href="/commentaries/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>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. you know, οἴδατε (oidate) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1492.htm">Strong's 1492: </a> To know, remember, appreciate. we never used ἐγενήθημεν (egenēthēmen) Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1096.htm">Strong's 1096: </a> A prolongation and middle voice form of a primary verb; to cause to be, i.e. to become, used with great latitude. words λόγῳ (logō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3056.htm">Strong's 3056: </a> From lego; something said; by implication, a topic, also reasoning or motive; by extension, a computation; specially, the Divine Expression. of flattery κολακείας (kolakeias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2850.htm">Strong's 2850: </a> Flattery, with a view to advantage or gain. From a derivative of kolax; flattery. [or] οὔτε (oute) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3777.htm">Strong's 3777: </a> And not, neither, nor. From ou and te; not too, i.e. Neither or nor; by analogy, not even. [any] pretext προφάσει (prophasei) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4392.htm">Strong's 4392: </a> A pretext, an excuse. From a compound of pro and phaino; an outward showing, i.e. Pretext. for greed. πλεονεξίας (pleonexias) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4124.htm">Strong's 4124: </a> Covetousness, avarice, aggression, desire for advantage. From pleonektes; avarice, i.e. fraudulency, extortion. God [is] Θεὸς (Theos) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. [our] witness! μάρτυς (martys) Noun - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3144.htm">Strong's 3144: </a> A witness (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case); by analogy, a 'martyr'. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:5 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-5.htm">NT Letters: 1 Thessalonians 2:5 For neither were we at any time (1 Thess. 1 Thes. 1Th iTh i Th)</a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="1 Thessalonians 2:4"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="1 Thessalonians 2:4" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-6.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="1 Thessalonians 2:6"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="1 Thessalonians 2:6" /></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>