1 Thessalonians 1:5
Verse
Context
Greetings to the Thessalonians
4Brothers who are beloved by God, we know that He has chosen you,5because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with great conviction—just as you know we lived among you for your sake.6And you became imitators of us and of the Lord when you welcomed the message with the joy of the Holy Spirit, in spite of your great suffering.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For our Gospel - That is, the glad tidings of salvation by Jesus Christ, and of your being elected to enjoy all the privileges to which the Jews were called, without being obliged to submit to circumcision, or fulfill the rites and ceremonies of the Mosaic law. Came not unto you in word only - It was not by simple teaching or mere reasoning that the doctrines which we preached recommended themselves to you, we did not insist on your using this or the other religious institution; we insisted on a change of heart and life, and we held out the energy which was able to effect it. But also in power - Εν δυναμει· With miraculous manifestations, to your eyes and to your hearts, which induced you to acknowledge that this Gospel was the power of God unto salvation. And in the Holy Ghost - By his influence upon your hearts, in changing and renewing them; and by the testimony which ye received from him, that you were accepted through the Beloved, and become the adopted children of God. And in much assurance - Εν πληροφοριᾳ πολλῃ. The Holy Spirit which was given you left no doubt on your mind, either with respect to the general truth of the doctrine, or the safety of your own state. Ye had the fullest assurance that the Gospel was true, and the fullest assurance that ye had received the remission of sins through that Gospel; the Spirit himself bearing witness with your spirit, that you are the sons and daughters of God Almighty. What manner of men we were - How we preached, and how we lived; our doctrines and our practices ever corresponding. And for your sakes we sustained difficulties, endured hardships, and were incessant in our labors.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
our gospel--namely, the Gospel which we preached. came--Greek, "was made," namely, by God, its Author and Sender. God's having made our preaching among you to be attended with such "power," is the proof that you are "elect of God" (Th1 1:4). in power--in the efficacy of the Holy Spirit clothing us with power (see end of verse; Act 1:8; Act 4:33; Act 6:5, Act 6:8) in preaching the Gospel, and making it in you the power of God unto salvation (Rom 1:16). As "power" produces faith; so "the Holy Ghost," love; and "much assurance" (Col 2:2, full persuasion), hope (Heb 6:11), resting on faith (Heb 10:22). So faith, love, and hope (Th1 1:3). as ye know--answering to the "knowing," that is, as WE know (Th1 1:4) your character as the elect of God, so YE know ours as preachers. for your sake--The purpose herein indicated is not so much that of the apostles, as that of God. "You know what God enabled us to be . . . how mighty in preaching the word . . . for your sakes . . . thereby proving that He had chosen (Th1 1:4) you for His own" [ALFORD]. I think, from Th1 2:10-12, that, in "what manner of men we were among you," besides the power in preaching, there is included also Paul's and his fellow missionaries' whole conduct which confirmed their preaching; and in this sense, the "for your sake" will mean "in order to win you." This, though not the sole, yet would be a strong, motive to holy circumspection, namely, so as to win those without (Col 4:5; compare Co1 9:19-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For our Gospel came not unto you,.... The apostle calls the Gospel "our Gospel", not because he and his fellow ministers were the authors of it; for in this respect it is solely of God, being the produce of his wisdom and grace, and by the revelation of Jesus Christ, hence he calls it the Gospel of God in Th1 2:2 nor because they were the subject of it, for they preached not themselves, but a crucified Christ, and him only, though it was a stumblingblock to some, and foolishness to others; but because it was committed to their trust, and they were the preachers of it, and agreed in the ministration of it; and it is opposed to, and is distinct from, that which was preached by the false teachers; and here intends not barely the Gospel itself, but chiefly their preaching of it: and this came unto them being sent of God, for wherever the Gospel comes, it comes with a mission and commission from God; and being brought unto them by the apostles, who were bringers and publishers of the good tidings of good things, it came unthought of, unsought and unasked for by them; and that not only externally, which to have is a great blessing, but internally, , "into you"; it came not barely into their ears vocally, and into their heads notionally; but into their hearts, and worked effectually there; it was mixed with faith, and was profitable; it became the ingrafted word, and dwelt richly in them: for it came to them not in word only; it did come in word, it could not come without words, there is no interpreting of Scripture, no preaching of the Gospel, nor hearing of it without words, without articulate sounds; but not only with these, nor with wisdom of words, with enticing words of man's wisdom, with words which man's wisdom teacheth; as also not in the mere notion and letter of the Gospel, which when it comes in that manner is a dead letter, and the savour of death unto death: but in power; not merely preached in a powerful way, or attended with miraculous operations, though doubtless both were true; for the apostle was a powerful preacher, and his ministry was confirmed by signs and wonders and mighty deeds; but from neither of these could he conclude the election of these people: but the preaching of the Gospel was accompanied with the powerful efficacy of the grace of God, working by it upon them; so that it became the power of God unto salvation to them; it came to them in the demonstration of the Spirit of God, and of power, quickening them who were dead in trespasses, and sin, enlightening their dark understandings, unstopping their deaf ears, softening their hard hearts, and delivering them from the slavery of sin and Satan; from whence it clearly appeared that they were the chosen of God, and precious: and in the Holy Ghost; the Gospel was not only preached under the influence, and by the assistance of the Holy Spirit, and attended with his extraordinary gifts for the confirmation of it, which it might be, and be no proof of the election of these persons to eternal life; but it came by the power of the Holy Spirit to their souls, working and implanting his graces in them, as faith, hope, and love, and every other; and he himself was received along with it, as a spirit of illumination and conviction, of regeneration, conversion, and sanctification, and of faith and adoption; all which gave full evidence of their election: and in much assurance; not on the preacher's side, as if the Gospel was preached by him with great assurance, boldness, and confidence; or with great strength of evidence, giving clear and full proof of what was delivered sufficient to ascertain it, and persuade anyone to the belief of it; or with "much fulness", as some render the words, that is, of the Gospel of Christ, and of the gifts of the Spirit, and to a multitude of persons; all which might be, and yet be no proof of the choice of these persons in Christ to eternal salvation; but the Gospel preached to them was blessed to produce in them much assurance, or a large assurance, if not a full one, of the grace of faith in Christ, and of hope of eternal life by him, and of understanding of the doctrines of the Gospel, and of interest in the blessings of grace held forth in them; and this being a fruit, was an evidence of electing grace: as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. The apostle appeals to themselves for the truth of what he had said; who must have observed, and could not but remember, with what meanness they appeared, with what fear and trembling, with what plainness and simplicity, without the enticing words of man's wisdom; what a contemptible figure they made, how they wrought with their own hands, and endured reproach and persecution for their sakes, that they might obtain salvation by Christ with eternal glory; and had nothing to recommend them to them, to win upon them, and engage their attention, and strike their affection; or persuade them to receive their persons, and believe their doctrines; wherefore the effects their ministry had upon them were not owing to the charms of words, the force of language, and power of oratory; or to any external thing in them, or done by them; but must be ascribed to the Spirit of God, and to the power and efficacy of his grace.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5 God called the Thessalonians through the proclamation of the Good News (2 Thes 2:13-14). The Holy Spirit convinced the hearers that the message was true (1 Cor 2:4-5; 1 Pet 1:12).
1 Thessalonians 1:5
Greetings to the Thessalonians
4Brothers who are beloved by God, we know that He has chosen you,5because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power, in the Holy Spirit, and with great conviction—just as you know we lived among you for your sake.6And you became imitators of us and of the Lord when you welcomed the message with the joy of the Holy Spirit, in spite of your great suffering.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Pdf Book) Apostolic Foundations
By Art Katz5.9K00:00EbooksApostolic FoundationsEternal PerspectiveMAT 5:11ACT 13:2ROM 10:142CO 4:16EPH 3:10COL 3:11TH 1:51TI 6:12HEB 11:1REV 20:6Art Katz emphasizes the critical importance of the term 'apostolic' in the church, arguing that its loss threatens the very foundation of faith. He calls for a restoration of apostolic principles, which are rooted in a deep understanding of God's character and purpose, and highlights the necessity of humility, suffering, and a focus on eternity in the life of believers. Katz illustrates that true apostolic living requires a radical commitment to God's glory over personal ambition, and that the church must confront the principalities and powers of darkness with a clear, powerful message of repentance and the coming judgment. Ultimately, he urges the church to embody the essence of Christ's humility and sacrifice, becoming a living testimony of God's eternal purpose.
Testimony - Part 7
By Jackie Pullinger3.7K09:53True MinistryTestimonyUnconditional LoveMAT 25:40MRK 12:31LUK 6:35JHN 15:13ROM 5:82CO 5:14GAL 6:2PHP 2:41TH 1:51JN 3:16Jackie Pullinger shares her testimony of faith and sacrifice, illustrating the profound impact of unconditional love and service to others, particularly the needy. She recounts her experience of selling her beloved oboe to help a girl in trouble, emphasizing that true ministry is not about expecting gratitude or change but about reflecting the love of Jesus, who gave His life for us without conditions. Pullinger's encounter with a gang leader highlights the importance of living out the gospel through actions and genuine care, rather than mere words. Ultimately, she stresses that the essence of ministry lies in sharing our lives and love with others, just as Christ did for us.
Nor-01 a True Apostle
By Art Katz2.9K44:08ApostleGEN 1:2JHN 1:1EPH 2:191TH 1:31TH 1:5HEB 3:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of relationships and how God brings people together at the right time. He mentions how everyone in the room has been prepared by the Lord in different places. The speaker then encourages the audience to go back to their own people and share the gospel with power and conviction. He highlights that being Gentiles should not be a threat to the Jewish people, as they are part of a heavenly kingdom. The speaker also mentions that God chose the Jewish people not because they were the greatest, but because they were the least, and he emphasizes the power of the gospel message despite its foolishness to the natural mind.
(Early Anabaptism) Theology Versus Anabaptist Reality
By Denny Kenaston1.8K1:19:30AnabaptismMAT 4:17MRK 1:15LUK 24:47JHN 7:14ACT 2:38ACT 3:191TH 1:5In this sermon, the preacher encourages the audience to come and do business with God. He prays for the conviction of the Holy Spirit to touch the hearts of those wrestling with pride. The preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning to serve the living God. He shares the example of early followers of Jesus who called people to repent and join them, even in the face of persecution. The preacher highlights the power of God's transformative work in the lives of believers and the urgency of spreading the gospel message.
Pilgrims Problems No. 12 the Great Tribulation
By Willie Mullan1.2K1:00:19The Great TribulationMAT 24:3EPH 2:19EPH 2:211TH 1:51TH 1:9REV 5:9In this sermon, the preacher discusses the opening of the fourth seal in the book of Revelation. The fourth seal reveals a pale horse, symbolizing death, and hell follows with it. The preacher emphasizes the significance of this event, stating that it will bring distress and devastation to a fourth part of the earth. The sermon also mentions the scene in heaven where the Lamb takes the book and the prayers of the saints are represented by the elders.
(Clip) Many Have Authority but No Power
By Shane Idleman1.1K08:11MAT 10:8MRK 16:17ACT 1:81CO 2:4EPH 6:101TH 1:52TI 1:7HEB 4:12JAS 4:71JN 4:4The main key to evangelizing and witnessing is being filled with the Holy Spirit. The lack of seeing healing, deliverance, and people coming to Christ is often due to having authority but lacking power. Power is conditional and comes from drawing closer to God, separating from worldly influences, and pursuing holiness. Believers need to engage in fasting, prayer, and meditating on the Word of God to operate in the power of the Spirit for miracles, healing, and deliverance.
Fren-16 Fondements Apostoliques - Caractère Sacr
By Art Katz1.1K1:13:20CharacterMAT 6:33JHN 14:91CO 7:291CO 16:131TH 1:5HEB 10:25HEB 13:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of godly character as the foundation of the church and our power in ministry. He encourages believers to subscribe to a high standard of holiness and righteousness, following the example of Paul in his dedication to the gospel. The speaker also highlights the need to be aware of the influence of the world and the importance of community in breaking its power over us. He concludes by urging believers to live with a sense of urgency, recognizing that the time is short and we should prioritize our devotion to the Lord.
(Where Is the Church Going) 3. the Ministry of the Holy Spirit
By Miki Hardy8751:15:24Holy SpiritACT 2:371TH 1:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of relying on the grace of the Lord rather than our own strength. He encourages the audience to make a decision to follow Jesus Christ and be delivered from sin. The preacher highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in warning and guiding believers. He emphasizes that victory over sin and bondage comes through the preaching of the cross and the ministry of the anointing of the Holy Spirit. The sermon emphasizes the need for a humble and broken life that understands the dealings of God in order to receive the anointing.
Prayer Meeting
By Gary Witherall86257:53Prayer MeetingROM 8:262CO 10:41TH 1:51TH 5:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by sharing his experience of feeling challenged by his audience to say something interesting. He then mentions his preaching journal and a sticker for the Logos Hope Power Up, suggesting that prayer should be offered for it. The speaker offers a prayer of gratitude and emphasizes the importance of salvation and the presence of the Holy Spirit. He discusses the four elements of Paul's Gospel: the Word of God, the power of God, the Spirit of God, and deep conviction. The speaker encourages the next generation to boldly share the message of the Gospel, but cautions against simply memorizing Bible verses and approaching Muslims without understanding their perspective. He shares an anecdote about a doctor from Northern Ireland who was challenged by a mosque leader. The speaker concludes by expressing his belief in the power of storytelling and the need for effective communication in sharing the Gospel. He also mentions the organization OM and its potential for great works.
Letters to 7 Churches 07 Sardis-a Cold Heart
By James Booker78139:371CO 2:4GAL 5:161TH 1:5REV 3:1In this sermon, the preacher compares the church of Sardis to an army and encourages the congregation to join the army of the Lord. The sermon is divided into five points: the supreme commander of the army, the sad condition of the army, the solemn command given to the army, the separated company in the midst of the army, and the satisfied conquerors who have conquered in the army. The preacher emphasizes the importance of starting, continuing, and ending with Christ as the supreme commander. The church of Sardis is criticized for its lack of commendation, except for a few faithful individuals. The sermon also references Ephesians chapter 4, highlighting the need for believers to awake from spiritual sleep and receive light from Christ.
The 1904 Welsh Revival: Lessons of Hope (Part 2)
By Tim Williams66642:13MAT 6:33MAT 7:201TH 1:51TH 1:9In this sermon, the preacher describes a prayer meeting attended by hardworking coal miners. These men gathered before their work to seek God's blessing and to commit to honest and proper execution of their tasks. The impact of their prayers was profound, as old debts were paid, jails emptied, and the community experienced positive change. The preacher emphasizes the simplicity of salvation through belief in Jesus Christ and shares a testimony of a convert who realized that salvation comes through faith, not through personal effort or anguish in prayer.
Rebuilding Relationships
By George Verwer61845:321TH 1:51TH 3:91TH 3:121TH 4:31TH 4:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of aiming for high goals and principles in the body of Christ. He highlights the need for love and sanctification among believers, as well as the responsibility to address those who have gone astray. The speaker also emphasizes that the gospel should not just be preached in words, but also demonstrated through power and life. He encourages believers to prioritize their own walk with God and their relationships with one another. The sermon references verses from 1 Thessalonians and highlights the example of Paul and his team's gentle and affectionate approach in sharing the gospel.
The Cross
By David Wilkerson58454:46CrossEXO 14:211TH 1:5HEB 6:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of God's right hand in destroying the works of the devil. He refers to the manifestation of the Son of God to destroy the devil's works and the future binding and imprisonment of the devil. The preacher then shifts to the story of the Israelites crossing the Red Sea in Exodus 14, highlighting the victory of the cross in this chapter. He invites the congregation to experience freedom from the hold of the devil by trusting in Jesus' power to overcome the enemy.
What on Earth Is God Doing
By Peter Conlan54000:00ISA 43:14ISA 43:18MAT 6:33ACT 2:171TH 1:5In the video, the speaker discusses the importance of not becoming stagnant in our faith and ministry. He emphasizes the need to trust in God's work in the younger generation and not hold too tightly to leadership. The speaker also encourages making a new commitment to God and being open to what He wants to do in the present time. He references Isaiah 43:14-18, where God speaks as the Redeemer and urges His people to forget the past and perceive the new things He is doing.
Jesus Christ Will Reveal These Things to You
By Ignatius of Antioch0PSA 116:12ROM 8:17GAL 2:201TH 1:51JN 4:19Ignatius of Antioch passionately expresses his desire to live a life fully surrendered to Christ, acknowledging that it is no longer he who lives, but Christ who lives in him. He urges his audience to believe in his love for Jesus, who sacrificed Himself for their sake. Ignatius humbly asks for prayers to attain his goal in the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that his words are inspired by God's will. He acknowledges the potential for suffering or rejection, highlighting the challenges of living a life devoted to Christ.
Agent and Instrument
By D.L. Moody0The Holy SpiritPower of the GospelEZK 37:5JHN 6:63JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:112CO 3:6GAL 5:25EPH 2:11TH 1:51PE 3:18D.L. Moody emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the proclamation of the Gospel, asserting that without the Spirit's power, preaching is ineffective. He illustrates that human eloquence is meaningless without the Spirit, comparing it to preaching to dry bones without the breath of life. Moody points out that just as Christ was raised by the Spirit, so too can our dead souls be quickened by the same divine power. He urges believers to rely solely on the Holy Spirit for the transformation of lives, rather than depending on human efforts or ministers. Ultimately, honoring the Spirit is essential for witnessing true spiritual revival.
Puts the People Under Conviction
By Seth Rees0LUK 19:10JHN 16:8ACT 2:37ROM 8:161CO 2:11CO 2:41TH 1:5HEB 11:1Seth Rees preaches about the importance of genuine conviction for sin as a precursor to true Scriptural conversions, emphasizing the need for deep repentance and consecration. He warns against superficial revivals and false teachings that lead to a shallow faith, stressing the significance of the Holy Ghost convicting souls and guiding them towards complete victory. Rees highlights the power of true faith as the channel through which believers receive blessings from God, urging against relying on human methods and emphasizing the necessity of yielding to the conviction of the Holy Spirit.
This Is That (Acts Ii. 16-18)
By Seth Rees0LUK 24:49ACT 1:8ACT 2:171CO 2:41TH 1:5Seth Rees preaches about the importance of receiving the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the power and transformation that comes with the baptism of the Holy Ghost. He highlights the need for reckless and free expression in preaching, urging believers to prophesy in various ways as led by God. Rees stresses the significance of preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ with the Holy Ghost's anointing, calling for a return to Pentecostal preaching that leads to genuine conversions and revival.
Signs and Wonders
By G.W. North0God's CommunicationSigns And WondersMAT 4:24MRK 16:17LUK 4:18JHN 20:30ACT 2:22ROM 1:20ROM 5:81CO 2:41TH 1:5HEB 2:4G.W. North emphasizes the significance of signs and wonders as God's way of communicating with humanity, especially those who are spiritually uneducated. He explains that while miracles can be powerful indicators of God's presence, they must be tested against the truth of the gospel to ensure they are genuine. North highlights that signs and wonders are not merely for spectacle but serve to lead people towards understanding God's grace and love. He asserts that all mankind is accountable to God for their knowledge of Him, regardless of their cultural or religious background. Ultimately, the ministry of Jesus, accompanied by signs and wonders, aims to bring salvation and deeper understanding of God's power to all people.
The Qualities of a Successful Ministry
By Daniel Steele0PSA 23:5PSA 51:10JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ACT 11:24ROM 8:161CO 2:4EPH 5:181TH 1:51JN 2:27Daniel Steele preaches on the importance of the fullness of the Holy Spirit in the ministry, emphasizing the need for character, creed, and experience. He highlights Barnabas as an example of a successful evangelist, attributing his effectiveness to being a good man, full of faith, and of the Holy Ghost. Steele stresses the essential role of character in the Christian ministry, stating that purity of character is indispensable for success. He also underscores the significance of benevolent affections and transparent generosity in ministry, pointing out that a kind heart is crucial in winning souls to Christ.
Finney as an Evangelist
By Frank Grenville Beardsley0PRO 11:30MAT 9:37ACT 8:5ROM 10:141CO 3:61TH 1:52TI 4:5JAS 5:16Frank Grenville Beardsley discusses the impact of evangelists like WHITEFIELD, the Wesleys, Dwight L. Moody, and B. Fay Mills in preparing the way for the modern evangelistic campaigns. He highlights the techniques and innovations introduced by these evangelists, such as union evangelistic campaigns, singing evangelists, and organized committees for effective revival planning. Beardsley contrasts the methods of Charles G. Finney, emphasizing Finney's focus on personal responsibility, the need for immediate repentance, and the effectiveness of preaching to convert souls. He explores Finney's teachings on human nature, sin, and the role of the Holy Spirit in bringing sinners to repentance.
The Double Portion Blessing
By John Hames02KI 2:9MAT 16:24JHN 16:7ACT 1:8GAL 5:241TH 1:5HEB 13:13John Hames preaches on the story of Elisha seeking a double portion of Elijah's spirit, drawing parallels to believers seeking the fullness of the Holy Spirit for holiness. The conditions for receiving this blessing include recognizing the need for it, meeting the conditional promises of God, renouncing all to follow Christ, ignoring negative influences, bearing reproach for Christ, crucifying the self-life, and displaying the Spirit's presence to others.
Tornadoes, 1882-1884
By Martin Knapp0PSA 126:5PRO 11:30ISA 55:11MAT 9:37MRK 16:15ACT 1:8ROM 1:161CO 3:62CO 2:141TH 1:5Martin Knapp, as an evangelist, experienced great victories in his own state, with remarkable conversions and powerful displays of God's work. From Republic to Marseilles, many souls were reached, including a drunkard transformed by the Spirit and a blacksmith and his wife saved through prayer. In Wauseon, over 150 conversions occurred, demonstrating the faith plan's effectiveness. At Findlay, a genuine revival led to over 530 conversions, showcasing the Holy Ghost's power in transforming lives. Martin Knapp's midsummer revival in Marysville resulted in over 400 conversions, proving that God's work can flourish even in unexpected seasons.
In Word, or in Power
By A.W. Tozer0TransformationPower of the GospelJHN 3:3ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:19EPH 2:8COL 3:11TH 1:52PE 1:41JN 3:9REV 3:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of experiencing the gospel not just in words but in transformative power, highlighting that true faith results in a radical change, making one a new creation in Christ. He warns against a superficial acceptance of the gospel that leads to a life unchanged at its core, where individuals may appear religious but remain spiritually dead. Tozer illustrates that many engage in a 'game' of religion, lacking the genuine power of the Holy Spirit that brings about true transformation. He stresses that the gospel's message is both a gift and a call to moral change, urging believers to seek a deeper, more authentic relationship with God that shifts their motives from self to divine purpose. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a revival of understanding that true faith must lead to a profound inner change, reflecting the life of Christ within us.
Experimental Preaching
By J.C. Philpot01CO 2:42CO 4:7EPH 3:161TH 1:52TI 1:7J.C. Philpot emphasizes the necessity of a ministry filled with the power of God, rather than relying on human wisdom or eloquence. He distinguishes between the ministration of 'the letter' and 'the Spirit,' highlighting the life-giving power of the latter. Philpot stresses the importance of ministers being rooted in their own experience of God's grace and power before they can effectively minister to others. He warns against the dangers of departing from 'experimental truth' and falling into a form of preaching that lacks the genuine power and freshness of the Spirit.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For our Gospel - That is, the glad tidings of salvation by Jesus Christ, and of your being elected to enjoy all the privileges to which the Jews were called, without being obliged to submit to circumcision, or fulfill the rites and ceremonies of the Mosaic law. Came not unto you in word only - It was not by simple teaching or mere reasoning that the doctrines which we preached recommended themselves to you, we did not insist on your using this or the other religious institution; we insisted on a change of heart and life, and we held out the energy which was able to effect it. But also in power - Εν δυναμει· With miraculous manifestations, to your eyes and to your hearts, which induced you to acknowledge that this Gospel was the power of God unto salvation. And in the Holy Ghost - By his influence upon your hearts, in changing and renewing them; and by the testimony which ye received from him, that you were accepted through the Beloved, and become the adopted children of God. And in much assurance - Εν πληροφοριᾳ πολλῃ. The Holy Spirit which was given you left no doubt on your mind, either with respect to the general truth of the doctrine, or the safety of your own state. Ye had the fullest assurance that the Gospel was true, and the fullest assurance that ye had received the remission of sins through that Gospel; the Spirit himself bearing witness with your spirit, that you are the sons and daughters of God Almighty. What manner of men we were - How we preached, and how we lived; our doctrines and our practices ever corresponding. And for your sakes we sustained difficulties, endured hardships, and were incessant in our labors.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
our gospel--namely, the Gospel which we preached. came--Greek, "was made," namely, by God, its Author and Sender. God's having made our preaching among you to be attended with such "power," is the proof that you are "elect of God" (Th1 1:4). in power--in the efficacy of the Holy Spirit clothing us with power (see end of verse; Act 1:8; Act 4:33; Act 6:5, Act 6:8) in preaching the Gospel, and making it in you the power of God unto salvation (Rom 1:16). As "power" produces faith; so "the Holy Ghost," love; and "much assurance" (Col 2:2, full persuasion), hope (Heb 6:11), resting on faith (Heb 10:22). So faith, love, and hope (Th1 1:3). as ye know--answering to the "knowing," that is, as WE know (Th1 1:4) your character as the elect of God, so YE know ours as preachers. for your sake--The purpose herein indicated is not so much that of the apostles, as that of God. "You know what God enabled us to be . . . how mighty in preaching the word . . . for your sakes . . . thereby proving that He had chosen (Th1 1:4) you for His own" [ALFORD]. I think, from Th1 2:10-12, that, in "what manner of men we were among you," besides the power in preaching, there is included also Paul's and his fellow missionaries' whole conduct which confirmed their preaching; and in this sense, the "for your sake" will mean "in order to win you." This, though not the sole, yet would be a strong, motive to holy circumspection, namely, so as to win those without (Col 4:5; compare Co1 9:19-23).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For our Gospel came not unto you,.... The apostle calls the Gospel "our Gospel", not because he and his fellow ministers were the authors of it; for in this respect it is solely of God, being the produce of his wisdom and grace, and by the revelation of Jesus Christ, hence he calls it the Gospel of God in Th1 2:2 nor because they were the subject of it, for they preached not themselves, but a crucified Christ, and him only, though it was a stumblingblock to some, and foolishness to others; but because it was committed to their trust, and they were the preachers of it, and agreed in the ministration of it; and it is opposed to, and is distinct from, that which was preached by the false teachers; and here intends not barely the Gospel itself, but chiefly their preaching of it: and this came unto them being sent of God, for wherever the Gospel comes, it comes with a mission and commission from God; and being brought unto them by the apostles, who were bringers and publishers of the good tidings of good things, it came unthought of, unsought and unasked for by them; and that not only externally, which to have is a great blessing, but internally, , "into you"; it came not barely into their ears vocally, and into their heads notionally; but into their hearts, and worked effectually there; it was mixed with faith, and was profitable; it became the ingrafted word, and dwelt richly in them: for it came to them not in word only; it did come in word, it could not come without words, there is no interpreting of Scripture, no preaching of the Gospel, nor hearing of it without words, without articulate sounds; but not only with these, nor with wisdom of words, with enticing words of man's wisdom, with words which man's wisdom teacheth; as also not in the mere notion and letter of the Gospel, which when it comes in that manner is a dead letter, and the savour of death unto death: but in power; not merely preached in a powerful way, or attended with miraculous operations, though doubtless both were true; for the apostle was a powerful preacher, and his ministry was confirmed by signs and wonders and mighty deeds; but from neither of these could he conclude the election of these people: but the preaching of the Gospel was accompanied with the powerful efficacy of the grace of God, working by it upon them; so that it became the power of God unto salvation to them; it came to them in the demonstration of the Spirit of God, and of power, quickening them who were dead in trespasses, and sin, enlightening their dark understandings, unstopping their deaf ears, softening their hard hearts, and delivering them from the slavery of sin and Satan; from whence it clearly appeared that they were the chosen of God, and precious: and in the Holy Ghost; the Gospel was not only preached under the influence, and by the assistance of the Holy Spirit, and attended with his extraordinary gifts for the confirmation of it, which it might be, and be no proof of the election of these persons to eternal life; but it came by the power of the Holy Spirit to their souls, working and implanting his graces in them, as faith, hope, and love, and every other; and he himself was received along with it, as a spirit of illumination and conviction, of regeneration, conversion, and sanctification, and of faith and adoption; all which gave full evidence of their election: and in much assurance; not on the preacher's side, as if the Gospel was preached by him with great assurance, boldness, and confidence; or with great strength of evidence, giving clear and full proof of what was delivered sufficient to ascertain it, and persuade anyone to the belief of it; or with "much fulness", as some render the words, that is, of the Gospel of Christ, and of the gifts of the Spirit, and to a multitude of persons; all which might be, and yet be no proof of the choice of these persons in Christ to eternal salvation; but the Gospel preached to them was blessed to produce in them much assurance, or a large assurance, if not a full one, of the grace of faith in Christ, and of hope of eternal life by him, and of understanding of the doctrines of the Gospel, and of interest in the blessings of grace held forth in them; and this being a fruit, was an evidence of electing grace: as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. The apostle appeals to themselves for the truth of what he had said; who must have observed, and could not but remember, with what meanness they appeared, with what fear and trembling, with what plainness and simplicity, without the enticing words of man's wisdom; what a contemptible figure they made, how they wrought with their own hands, and endured reproach and persecution for their sakes, that they might obtain salvation by Christ with eternal glory; and had nothing to recommend them to them, to win upon them, and engage their attention, and strike their affection; or persuade them to receive their persons, and believe their doctrines; wherefore the effects their ministry had upon them were not owing to the charms of words, the force of language, and power of oratory; or to any external thing in them, or done by them; but must be ascribed to the Spirit of God, and to the power and efficacy of his grace.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:5 God called the Thessalonians through the proclamation of the Good News (2 Thes 2:13-14). The Holy Spirit convinced the hearers that the message was true (1 Cor 2:4-5; 1 Pet 1:12).