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1 Thessalonians

1 Thessalonians front

1 Thessalonians front:intro

Introduction to 1 Thessalonians

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 1 Thessalonians
  1. Greeting (1:1)
  2. Prayer of thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Christians (1:2-10)
  3. Paul's ministry in Thessalonica (2:1-16)
  4. Paul's concerns for their spiritual growth
    • Like a mother (2:7)
    • Like a father (2:11)
  5. Paul sends Timothy to the Thessalonians and Timothy reports back to Paul (3:1-13)
  6. Practical instructions
    • Live to please God (4:1-12)
    • Comfort regarding those who have died (4:12-18)
    • Christ's return is a motive for godly living (5:1-11)
  7. Closing blessings, thanks, and prayers (5:12-28)
Who wrote 1 Thessalonians?

Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians. Paul 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.

Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth. Of all Paul's letters that are in the Bible, many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter Paul wrote.

What is the Book of 1 Thessalonians about?

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.

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.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "1 Thessalonians" or "First Thessalonians." They may instead prefer to choose a clearer title, such as "Paul's First Letter to the Church in Thessalonica," or "The First Letter to the Christians in Thessalonica." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What is the "second coming" of Jesus?

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.

What happens to those who die before the return of Christ?

Paul made clear that those who die before Christ's 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.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What did Paul mean by expressions like "in Christ" and "in the Lord."?

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.

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 1 Thessalonians?

The following are the most significant textual issues in 1 Thessalonians:

  • "May grace and peace be to you." (1:1) The ULB, UDB, and most other modern versions read this way. Some older versions read: "Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ."
  • "Instead, we were as gentle among you as a mother comforting her own children." (2:7) The ULB, UDB, and many other modern versions read this way. Other modern versions read, "Instead, we were like babies among you, as when a mother comforts her own children."
  • "Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God." (3:2) The ULB, UDB, and many other modern versions read this way. Some other versions read: "Timothy, our brother and servant of God."

(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-textvariants/01.md]])

1 Thessalonians 1

1 Thessalonians 1:intro-0

1 Thessalonians 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

1:1-3 forms a formal introduction to this letter. It was a common type of introduction for a letter in the ancient Near East.

Special concepts in this chapter
# Tribulation

The Christians in Thessalonica were experiencing great persecution, but they handled it well. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

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1 Thessalonians 1:1

General Information:

Paul identifies himself as the writer of the letter and greets the church at Thessalonica.

Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy to the church

The UDB makes clear that it was Paul who wrote this letter. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

May grace and peace be to you

The terms "grace" and "peace" are metonyms for the person who acts toward people in a kindly and peaceful manner. AT: "May God be kind to you and give you peace" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

peace be to you

The word "you" refers to the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 1:2-3

General Information:

In this letter the words "we" and "us" refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Also, the word "you" is plural and refers to the believers at the church of Thessalonica. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

We always give thanks to God

Here "always" suggests that when Paul prays to God, he consistently presents the Thessalonians to God in his prayers.

we mention you in our prayers

"we pray for you"

work of faith

acts done because of trust in God

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 1:4-5

Connecting Statement:

Paul continues to give thanks for the believers at Thessalonica and praises them for their faith in God.

Brothers

Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.

we know

The word "we" refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy but not the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

not in word only

Not only through the activity of preaching God's message. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

but also in power, in the Holy Spirit

Possible meanings are 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.

what kind of men

"how we conducted ourselves when"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 1:6-7

You became imitators

To "imitate" means to act like or to copy the behavior of another.

received the word

"Word" here is a metonym for "message." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]]) AT: "welcomed the teaching" or "accepted the teaching"

in much hardship

"during a time of great suffering" or "in much persecution"

Achaia

This is an ancient district in what is present-day Greece. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 1:8-10

the word of the Lord

"Word" here is a metonym for "message." AT: "the Lord's teachings" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

has rung out

Here 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: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Achaia

This is an ancient district in what is now present-day Greece. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

For they themselves ... They tell ... They report

Paul is referring to the churches that already existed in the surrounding regions, who have heard about the Thessalonian believers.

they themselves

Here "themselves" is used to emphasize those people who had heard about the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rpronouns/01.md]])

what kind of coming we had among you

Here "coming" stands for the enthusiastic welcome experienced by Paul and his companions. AT: "how warmly you welcomed us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

They tell how you turned to God

"Turned to God" here is an idiom for "changed direction toward." AT: "They tell how you changed direction toward God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

his Son

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples/01.md]])

whom he raised

"Raised" here is an idiom for "caused to live again" AT: "whom God caused to live again" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

from the dead

From among all those who have died. This expression describes all dead people together in the underworld. To come back from among them speaks of becoming alive again.

who frees us

Here Paul includes the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2

1 Thessalonians 2:intro-0

1 Thessalonians 02 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Christian witness

Paul values his "Christian witness" as evidence for the truth of the gospel. The godliness or holiness of a Christian is said to bear witness to the non-Christian. Paul defends himself against attacks against his character, so that his witness is not tainted. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/witness.md]], [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/godly.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/holy.md]])

# Christian living

Under the law of Moses, people were required to offer sacrifices of animals or grain in the temple. Since physical sacrifices are no longer required, Christians are required to live their lives as a type of sacrifice to God. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/lawofmoses.md]])

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1 Thessalonians 2:1-2

Connecting Statement:

Paul defines the believers' service and reward.

you yourselves

The words "you" and "yourselves" refer to the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rpronouns/01.md]])

brothers

Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.

our coming

The word "our" refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy but not the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

was not useless

This can be expressed in a positive manner. AT: "was very worthwhile" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

previously suffered and were shamefully treated

"were mistreated and insulted"

in much struggling

"while struggling under great opposition"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2:3-4

was not from error, nor from impurity, nor from deceit

"was truthful, pure, and honest"

approved by God to be trusted

Paul was tested and proven trustworthy by God.

We speak

Paul is referring to preaching the gospel message. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

who examines our hearts

The word "hearts" is a metonym for a person's desires and thoughts. AT: "who knows our desires and thoughts" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonomy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2:5-6

General Information:

Paul tells the Thessalonian believers that his conduct was not based in flattery, greed, or self glory.

we never used words of flattery

"we never spoke to you with false praise"

nor as an excuse to cover up greed

The words "we use words" are understood from the previous phrase. Here "cover up" is a metaphor for keeping people from knowing something. AT: "nor did we use words to cover up greed" or "and we did not use words to hide an evil desire for your money" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-ellipsis/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

could have claimed privileges

"could have insisted you give us money"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2:7-9

as a mother comforting her own children

Just as a mother gently comforts her children, so Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy spoke gently to the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

In this way we had affection for you

"This is how we demonstrated our affection for you"

we had affection for you

"we loved you"

We were pleased to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own lives

Paul speaks of the gospel message and his life and the lives of those with him as if they were a physical object that one could share with others. AT: "We were pleased not only to tell you the gospel of God but also to spend time with you and to help you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

you had become very dear to us

"we cared for you deeply"

brothers

Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.

our labor and toil

The words "labor" and "toil" mean basically the same thing. Paul uses them to emphasize how hard they worked. AT: "how hard we worked" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

Night and day we were working so that we might not weigh down any of you

"We worked hard to make our own living so you would not need to support us"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2:10-12

holy, righteous, and blameless

Paul uses three words that describe their good behavior toward the Thessalonian believers.

as a father deals with his own children

Paul compares how he encouraged the Thessalonians to a father gently teaching his children how to behave. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

We were begging you and encouraging and urging you

The words "begging," "encouraging," and "urging" are used together to express how passionately Paul's group encouraged the Thessalonians. AT: "We were strongly encouraging you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

into his own kingdom and glory

The word "glory" describes the word "kingdom." AT: "into his own glorious kingdom" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-hendiadys/01.md]])

walk in a manner

"Walk" here is an idiom for "live." AT: "live in a manner" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2:13

General Information:

Paul continues to use "we" to refer to himself and his traveling companions and "you" to the Thessalonian believers.

we also thank God constantly

Paul often thanks God for their acceptance of the gospel message he shared with them.

not as the word of man

"Word of man" here is a synecdoche for "a message that comes simply from a man." AT: "(it is) not a message that is made up by a man" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

you received it as it truly is, the word of God

"Word" here is a metonym for "message." AT: "you received it as it truth is, the message that comes from God" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

It is this word that is also at work among you who believe

Paul speaks of God's gospel message as if it were a person who was doing work. "Word" is a metonym for "message." AT: "It is this set of God's instructions that enables those of you who believe to work well together" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-personification/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2:14-16

brothers

Here this means fellow Christians, including both men and women.

became imitators of the churches

The Thessalonian believers endured persecutions similar to the Judean believers. "became like the churches"

from your own countrymen

"from other Thessalonians"

They forbid us to speak

"They try to make us stop speaking"

they always fill up their own sins

Paul speaks as though someone can fill a container with their own sins as with liquid. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

Wrath must come on them in the end

This refers to God finally judging and punishing people for their sins.

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 2:17-20

brothers

This means fellow Christians, including both men and women.

in person not in heart

Here "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. AT: "in person, but we continued to think about you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

to see your face

Here "your face" means the entire person. AT: "to see you" or "to be with you"(See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

I, Paul, wished to come to you once and again

"I, Paul, tried to come to you more than once"

For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of pride in front of our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you just as much as others?

Paul uses questions to emphasize the reasons he wants to come see the Thessalonian believers. AT: "For you, as much as the other believers, are our confidence for the future, and joy, and crown of pride in front of our Lord Jesus at his coming." (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

our hope ... Is it not you

By "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: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

or joy

The Thessalonians are the reason for his joy. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

crown of pride

Here "crown" refers to a laurel wreath awarded to victorious athletes. The expression "crown of pride" means a reward for victory, or having done well. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 3

1 Thessalonians 3:intro-0

1 Thessalonians 03 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Standing

In this chapter, standing is used as a way to illustrate steadfastness. This is a common way to describe steadfastness or faithfulness. The opposite of steadfastness is described as "shaking" in this chapter. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/faithful.md]])

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1 Thessalonians 3:1-3

Connecting Statement:

Paul tells the believers he has sent Timothy to strengthen their faith.

we could no longer bear it

"we could no longer endure worrying about you"

good to be left behind at Athens alone

"good for Silvanus and me to stay behind in Athens"

good

"proper" or "reasonable"

Athens

This is a city in the Achaia province, which is now modern-day Greece. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/translate-names/01.md]])

our brother and fellow worker

These two expressions both describe Timothy.

no one would be shaken

To be "shaken" is an idiom for being afraid. AT: "no one would be frightened away from trusting in Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

we have been appointed

Paul assumes that everyone knows that it was God who appointed them. This can be made explicit. AT: "God has appointed us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 3:4-5

Truly

This word marks that there is more to the truth than what has just been said. AT: "Moreover"

to suffer affliction

"to be mistreated by others"

I could no longer stand it

Paul was describing his own emotions by using an idiom. AT: "I could not longer wait patiently" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

I sent

It is implied that Paul sent Timothy. This can be made explicit. AT: "I sent Timothy" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

our labor

"our hard work among you" or "our teaching among you"

in vain

"useless"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 3:6-7

Connecting Statement:

Paul tells his readers about Timothy's report after he returned from visiting them.

came to us

The word "us" refers to Paul and Silvanus. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

the good news of your faith

It is understood that this refers to faith in Christ. This can be made explicit. AT: "a good report of your faith" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

you always have good memories

When they think of Paul, they always have good thoughts about him.

you long to see us

"you desire to see us"

brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow Christians.

because of your faith

This refers to faith in Christ. This can be made explicit. AT: "because of your faith in Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

in all our distress and affliction

The word "affliction" explains why they are in "distress." AT: "in all our distress caused by our afflictions" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 3:8-10

we live

This is an idiom that expresses living a satisfied life. AT: "we are very encouraged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

if you stand firm in the Lord

To "stand firm" is an idiom meaning to continue being faithful. AT: "if you continue to trust in the Lord" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-idiom/01.md]])

For what thanks can we give to God for you, for all the joy that we have before our God over you?

This rhetorical question can be expressed as a statement. AT: "We cannot thank God enough for what he has done for you! We greatly rejoice over you when we pray to our God!" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rquestion/01.md]])

before our God

Paul speaks as if he and his companions were physically in God's presence. He is probably referring to the activity of praying. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

very hard

"fervently"

see your face

The word "face" refers to their whole person. AT: "visit you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-synecdoche/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 3:11-13

General Information:

In these verses, the word "our" does not always refer to the same group of people. Please see the translation notes for specifics.

May our God ... our Lord Jesus

Paul includes the Thessalonian believers with his ministry team. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

May our God

"We pray that our God"

direct our way to you

Paul 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: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

direct our way to you

The word "our" refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy but not the Thessalonian believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]])

Father himself

Here "himself" refers back to "Father" for emphasis. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-rpronouns/01.md]])

increase and abound in love

Paul speaks of love as an object that one could obtain more of. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

strengthen your hearts

Paul refers to the "heart" as the center of one's beliefs and convictions. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

at the coming of our Lord Jesus

"when Jesus comes back to earth"

with all his holy ones

"with all those who belong to him"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 4

1 Thessalonians 4:intro-0

1 Thessalonians 04 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter
# Sexual immorality

Different cultures have different standards of sexual morality. These different cultural standards may present difficulties in translation. Translators must also be aware of cultural taboos, topics that are considered improper to talk about.

# Dying before the return of Christ

In the early church, people wondered what would happen if a person died before the return of Christ. They may have worried whether those dying before the return of Christ would get to partake of the kingdom of God.

# "Caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air"

Many scholars believe this passage refers to an event known as the "rapture." This is a time when Jesus calls to himself those who believe in him. For those who hold this viewpoint, the timing of this event is the matter of much speculation. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/believe.md]])

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1 Thessalonians 4:1-2

brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow Christians.

we encourage and exhort you

Paul uses "encourage" and "exhort" to emphasize how strongly they encourage the believers. AT: "we strongly encourage you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

you received instructions from us

This can be stated in active form. AT: "we taught you" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

you must walk

Here "walk" is an expression for the way one is to live. AT: "you ought to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

through the Lord Jesus

Paul speaks of his instructions as if they were given by Jesus himself. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 4:3-6

you avoid sexual immorality

"you stay away from sexually immoral acts"

know how to possess his own vessel

Possible meanings are 1) "know how to live with his own wife" or 2) "know how to control his own body"

in the passion of lust

"with wrongful sexual desire"

no man

Here "man" refers to a man or a woman. "no one" or "no person" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-gendernotations/01.md]])

transgress and wrong

This is a doublet stating the same idea in two ways to reinforce the concept. AT: "do wrong things" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublet/01.md]])

the Lord is an avenger

This can be made explicit. AT: "the Lord will punish the one who transgressed and will defend the one who was wronged" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

forewarned you and testified

"told you beforehand and strongly warned against"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 4:7-8

God did not call us to uncleanness, but to holiness

This can be stated in positive form. AT: "God called us to cleanness and holiness" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-doublenegatives/01.md]])

God did not call us

The word "us" refers to all believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

he who rejects this

"whoever disregards this teaching" or "whoever ignores this teaching"

rejects not people, but God

Paul stresses that this teaching is not from man, but from God.

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12

brotherly love

"love for fellow believers"

you do this for all the brothers who are in all Macedonia

"you show love to the believers throughout Macedonia"

brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow Christians.

to aspire

"to try to"

live quietly

Paul uses the word "quietly" as a metaphor to describe living at peace in one's community and not causing strife. AT: "live in a calm and orderly way" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

take care of your own responsibilities

"do your own work" or "take care of the things that your are responsible to do." This may also imply that we should not gossip and interfere in other people's concerns. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

work with your hands

This is a metaphor for living a productive life. AT: "work at your own jobs to earn what you need to live" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

walk properly

This metaphor describes how believers should relate to those in their communities. AT: "behave in a respectful and worthy manner" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

before outsiders

Paul speaks of those who do not believer in Christ as if they are outside of a place away from the believers. AT: "in the sight of those who do not believe in Christ" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 4:13-15

General Information:

Paul talks about believers who have died, who are still alive, and those who will be alive when Christ returns.

We do not want you to be uninformed

This can be stated in positive form. AT: "We want you to be informed" or "We want you to know"

brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow Christians.

those who sleep

Here "sleep" is a euphemism for those who are dead. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

so that you do not grieve like the rest

"because we do not want you grieve like the rest"

grieve

"mourn"

like the rest who do not have confidence in the future promise.

"like people who do not confidence in the future promise." It can be stated clearly what those people do not have confidence. AT: "like people who do not have the confident assurance that they will rise from the dead" or "like people who do not have the certain expectation of rising from the dead"

if we believe

Here "we" refers to Paul and his audience. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

rose again

"rose to live again"

those who have fallen asleep in him

Here "fallen asleep" is a polite way to refer to having died. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

by the word of the Lord

"Word" here is a metonym for "message." AT: "by means of understanding the teachings of the Lord" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metonymy/01.md]])

at the coming of the Lord

"when the Lord returns"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18

the Lord himself will descend

"the Lord himself will come down"

the archangel

"the chief angel"

the dead in Christ will rise first

The "dead in Christ" are those believers who have passed away. AT: "those who believe in Jesus Christ, but who have already died, will rise first" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-explicit/01.md]])

we who are alive

Here "we" refers to all believers who have not died. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

with them

The word "them" refers to the dead believers who were made alive again.

caught up in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air

"meet the Lord Jesus in the sky"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5

1 Thessalonians 5:intro-0

1 Thessalonians 05 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The end of this chapter forms a conclusion typical of a letter in the ancient Near East.

Special concepts in this chapter
# Day of the Lord

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 be prepared for the coming of the Lord. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_tw/src/master/bible/kt/dayofthelord.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

# Quench the Spirit

This means to ignore the Holy Spirit's guidance and to ignore the work he is trying to do through a person.

Links:

<< |

1 Thessalonians 5:1-3

Connecting Statement:

Paul continues talking about the day Jesus will come back.

General Information:

In this chapter the words "we" and "us" refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Also, the word "you" is plural and refers to the believers at the church of Thessalonica. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-exclusive/01.md]] and [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-you/01.md]])

the times and seasons

This refers to the events preceding the Lord Jesus' return.

brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow Christians.

perfectly well

"very well" or "accurately"

like a thief in the night

Just as one does not know which night a thief may come, we do not know when the day of the Lord will come. AT: "unexpectedly" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

When they say

"When the people say"

then sudden destruction

"then unexpected destruction"

like birth pains in a pregnant woman

Just as a pregnant woman's birth pains come suddenly and do not stop until the birth is complete, the destruction will come, and people will not escape. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5:4-7

you, brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow Christians.

are not in darkness

Paul speaks of evil and ignorance about God as if they were darkness. AT: "you are not unknowing, like people who live in the dark" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

so that the day would overtake you like a thief

The day when the Lord comes should not be a surprise to believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-simile/01.md]])

For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day

Paul speaks of the truth as if it were light and day. AT: "For you know the truth, like people who live in the light, like people during the day" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

We are not sons of the night or the darkness

Paul speaks of evil and ignorance about God as if they were darkness. AT: We are not unknowing, like people who live in the darkness, like people at night" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let us not sleep as the rest do

Paul speaks of spiritual unawareness as if it were sleep. AT: "let us not be like others who are not aware that Jesus is coming back" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

let us

The word "us" refers to all believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

keep watch and be sober

Paul describes spiritual awareness as the opposite of sleep and drunkenness. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

For those who sleep do so at night

Just 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: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

those who get drunk do so at night

Paul is stating that it is at night when people become drunk, so when people are unaware of Christ's return they do not live a self-controlled life. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5:8-11

General Information:

In verses 8-10 the word "we" refers to all believers. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-inclusive/01.md]])

we belong to the day

Paul speaks of knowing the truth about God as belonging to the day. AT: "we know the truth" or "we have received the light of truth" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

we must stay sober

Paul compares being sober to exercising self-control. AT: "let us exercise self-control" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

put on faith and love as a breastplate

As a soldier would put on a breastplate to protect his body, a believer who lives by faith and love will find protection. AT: "protect ourselves with faith and love" or "protect ourselves by trusting Christ and loving him" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

the hope of salvation for our helmet

As a helmet protects a soldier's head, assurance of salvation protects the believer. AT: "protect ourselves by being certain that Christ will save us" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

whether we are awake or asleep

These are polite ways of saying alive or dead. AT: "whether we are alive or dead" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-euphemism/01.md]])

build each other up

Here "build" is a metaphor that means encourage. AT: "encourage each other" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5:12-14

General Information:

Paul begins to give his final instructions to the church in Thessalonica.

brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow believers.

to acknowledge those who labor

"to esteem and appreciate those who are involved in leading"

who are over you in the Lord

This refers to people God appointed to serve as leaders of the local group of believers.

regard them highly in love because of their work

Paul exhorts the believers to love and esteem their church leaders.

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5:15-18

Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks

Paul is exhorting the believers to maintain a spiritual attitude of rejoicing in all things, being vigilant in prayer, and expressing thankfulness in all things.

In everything

In all circumstances

For this is the will of God

Paul is referring to the behavior he just mentioned as being God's will for the believers.

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5:19-22

Do not quench the Spirit

"Do not stop the Holy Spirit from working among you"

Do not despise prophecies

"Do not have contempt for prophecies" or "Do not hate anything the Holy Spirit tells someone"

Test all things

"Make sure that all messages that seem to come from God truly come from him"

Hold on to what is good

Paul speaks of messages from the Holy Spirit as if they were objects that one could grasp in his hands. (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-metaphor/01.md]])

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5:23-24

make you completely holy

This refers to God making a person sinless and perfect in his sight.

May your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved without blame

Here "spirit, 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. AT: "May God make your whole life without sin" or "May God keep you completely blameless" (See: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

Faithful is he who calls you

"He is faithful who calls you"

the one who will also do it

"he will be helping you"

translationWords

1 Thessalonians 5:25-28

General Information:

Paul gives his closing statements.

brothers

Here "brothers" means fellow Christians.

I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read

This can be stated in active form. AT: "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: [[https://git.door43.org/Door43/en_ta/src/master/translate/figs-activepassive/01.md]])

translationWords