For our exhortation does not come from error or impurity, nor was it in deceit. Truth to Learn All ministries should be performed honestly and for God. Behind the Words “Exhortation” is translated from paraklēsis, which is derived from parakaleō, meaning “to call near” or “to call alongside.” It...
1 Thessalonians 2:2 – God-Given Courage
But also, we had suffered previously and were spitefully treated at Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the gospel of God in much opposition. Truth to Learn Serving God faithfully means you will encounter opposition. Behind the Words The words “we...
1 Thessalonians 2:1 – Opposition Will Come
For you yourselves know, brothers, that our coming to you was not in vain. Truth to Learn An effective Christian ministry will encounter opposition. Behind the Words “Know” is translated from the Greek verb eidō, which literally means “to see,” but as in English, it carries the meaning of...
1 Thessalonians 1:10 – He’s Coming!
and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus the one delivering us from the coming wrath. Truth to Learn Jesus Christ is coming back very soon. Behind the Words “Wait” is translated from the Greek verb anamenō, which is made up...
1 Thessalonians 1:9 – Turn From Idols
For they themselves declare about us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, Truth to Learn We need to turn from idols and give all our devotion to God. Behind the Words “Declare”...
1 Thessalonians 1:8 – Demonstrating Our Faith
For the word of the Lord has sounded forth from you, not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith toward God has gone out, so that we have no need to say anything. Truth to Learn Demonstrating our faith in everyday words and actions is...
1 Thessalonians 1:7 – Christian Models
so that you became examples to all in Macedonia and Achaia who believe. Truth to Learn Every Christian should be an example of Christ Himself. Behind the Words “So that” is translated from the Greek word hōste, which is made up of hōs, meaning “as” and te, which is...
1 Thessalonians 1:6 – Affliction and Joy
And you became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Spirit, Truth to Learn Committed Christian living will result in affliction – and joy. Behind the Words “Imitators” is translated from mimētēs, from which we get our...
1 Thessalonians 1:5 – Holy Spirit Enlightenment
For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance, even as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. Truth to Learn The Holy Spirit enables us to understand the...
1 Thessalonians 1:4 – Chosen and Loved
knowing, beloved brethren, your election by God. Truth to Learn All Christians are chosen by and loved by God. Behind the Words The word “knowing” is from the Greek verb oida, which means “to see with perception,” that is, “to be aware of.” It is expressed here as a...
1 Thessalonians 1:3 – Hang In There!
Constantly remembering your work of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ in the presence of our God and Father, Truth to Learn The Christian life requires hard work and patience. Behind the Words “Constantly” is translated from adialeiptōs, made up of a,...
1 Thessalonians 1:2 – Prayer Warriors
We give thanks to God always for all of you, making mention of you in our prayers, Truth to Learn Our ministry should be focused on what God will do for others. Behind the Words The words “We give thanks” are translated from the Greek verb eucharisteō, which is...
1 Thessalonians 1:1 – Grace and Peace
Paul and Silvanus, and Timothy, To the church of the Thessalonians in God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace to you and peace. Truth to Learn All Christians can know peace in the midst of attack. Behind the Words “Church” is translated from the Greek word ekklēsia,...
1 Thessalonians – Introduction
Introduction The City of Thessalonica The city of Thessalonica (today it is called Salonica or Thessaloniki) is located on the coast of Macedonia (northern Greece). The city was originally built beside a large natural harbor (called the Thermaic Gulf) on the Aegean Sea. At the time it was given the...
Ephesians 6:24 – Eternal Joy
Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen. Truth to Learn God’s grace and His love are unfading and eternal. Behind the Words “Grace” is translated from the Greek word charis. This is from the verb chairō, meaning “to rejoice.” It specifically refers...
Ephesians 6:23 – Peace, Love, and Faith
Peace to the brothers, and love with faith, from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Truth to Learn You can experience peace and the love of God through faith. Behind the Words The word translated “peace” is eirēnē. It can refer to an absence of war and...
Ephesians 6:22 – A Personal Comforter
whom I sent to you for this very purpose, that you might know our affairs, and that he might comfort your hearts. Truth to Learn The church needs people of comfort and encouragement. Behind the Words “I have sent” is translated from the Greek verb pempō, which means “to...
Ephesians 6:21 – The Beloved Waiter
But that you also might know the things concerning me and what I am doing, Tychicus, the beloved brother and faithful minister in the Lord, will make all things known to you; Truth to Learn God gives recognition to those who serve humbly. Behind the Words The words “that...
Ephesians 6:20 – Proclaim It Boldly!
for which I am an ambassador in a chain; that in it I might speak boldly, as I ought to speak. Truth to Learn We need to boldly proclaim the Gospel message. Behind the Words Presbeuō is the Greek word translated “ambassador.” It literally means “to be an old...
Ephesians 6:19 – Pray for Paul?
and for me, that utterance may be given to me, in the opening of my mouth with boldness to make known the mystery of the gospel, Truth to Learn All of us need prayers, especially regarding our ministries. Behind the Words The Greek word translated “utterance” is logos, which...
Ephesians 6:18 – Perpetual Persistent Prayer
Through all prayer and supplication praying at all times in the Spirit, and in this, being watchful with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints— Truth to Learn Prayer is important in spiritual battles and at every other time. Behind the Words “Praying” is from the Greek verb...
Ephesians 6:17 – The Sword, The Word
And receive the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; Truth to Learn Christians have a sword to use in our spiritual battle. Behind the Words “Receive” is translated from the Greek verb dechomai, meaning “to deliberately and readily accept what...
Ephesians 6:16 – Keep the Faith!
In addition to all, taking the shield of the faith in which you will be able to extinguish all the fiery darts of the wicked one. Truth to Learn We need faith to protect us from some of Satan’s attacks. Behind the Words The words “in addition to all”...