en_tn/en_tn_53-1TH.tsv

1	Book	Chapter	Verse	ID	SupportReference	OrigQuote	Occurrence	GLQuote	OccurrenceNote
2	1TH	front	intro	jp2y			0		Introduction to 1 Thessalonians Part 1: General Introduction Outline of the Book of 1 Thessalonians In this letter, the apostle Paul, along with Silvanus and Timothy, encourages and makes appeals to the Thessalonian Church (See: rc://en/tw/bible/names/thessalonica.md). Paul is the spokesman for all of them, using “we” to refer to the group, but in certain places Paul speaks for himself using “I” (See 2:18; 3:5; 5:27). The background story for the apostles’ activity in Thessalonica can be found in Acts 17:1-10. Apostolic memories of the Thessalonian Church (1:1-10) Greeting (1:1) Thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Christians (1:2-4) Examples of Thessalonian suffering (1:6-10) Apostolic authority (2:1-16) Persecution of the Church (2:1-13) Opposition to the Church (2:14-16) Timothy’s visit to Thessalonica (3:1-13) Reason for the visit (3:1-5) Report about the visit (3:6-13) Apostolic teachings (4:1-18) Holiness (4:1-8) Christian love (4:9-12) Manner of the Second Coming of Christ (4:13-18) Final teachings (5:1-28) Timing of the Second Coming of Christ (5:1-10) Final appeals and teachings (5:11-28) Who wrote 1 Thessalonians? Paul wrote 1 Thessalonians, with the agreement of Silvanus and Timothy. Paul was 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. Silvanus is also mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:19; 2 Thessalonians 1:1; 1 Peter 5:12. “Silas,” the name used in the book of Acts, is a contracted form of Silvanus and considered to be the same person. Timothy was leader of the church at Ephesus (see 1 Timothy 1:1-4). Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth with these two men. The mention of all three men in 1:1 indicates they were in Thessalonica together at some point. Many scholars think 1 Thessalonians was the first letter that Paul wrote. What is the Book of 1 Thessalonians about? Paul wrote this letter to the church in the city of Thessalonica, after the Jews in the city forced him to leave. Ancient Thessalonica was located on the southeast coast of ancient Macedonia, and is now called Thessaloniki, located in northeast Greece. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background). Paul wrote it. In this letter Paul said he considered his visit to them a success, even though he was forced to leave (See Acts 17:1-10). 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 Church in Thessalonica.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]]) Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts Trinity In this letter, the doctrine of the Holy Trinity finds solid support. The terms: God, Father, Son, Lord, Jesus, and Holy Spirit appear numerous times. (See: rc://en/tw/bible/kt/god.md) The Gospel In this letter, Paul frequently refers to the apostles’ ministry of the gospel and uses different phrases to communicate the concept of God’s good news about Jesus Christ. (See: rc://en/tw/bible/kt/goodnews.md) Prayer Paul reassures the Thessalonians that his group of apostles frequently prays for them (See 1:2. He also gives instructions about prayer (See 5:2, and asks the Thessalonians to pray for them (See 5:25). (See: rc://en/tw/bible/kt/pray.md) Faith and Faithfulness Through the letter the Thessalonians are commended for their faithfulness to God. They are reminded to trust God and remain faithful to Gospel living. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/faithful.md]])(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/faith.md]]) Apostolic authority Much of this letter is a defense of the apostles authority, based on their teaching and living. The term “apostles” is used in 2:6 to reinforce that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are sent by God. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/apostle.md]]) Second Coming of Christ 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. The Fate of reposed Christians Paul made clear that those who 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 Christians who died would miss the great “day of the Lord” when Jesus returns. Idolatry The Greek and Roman cultural background in Thessalonica meant that many members of the church were former pagans who practiced some sort of idolatry (See 1:9(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/image.md]]). Suffering Much of this letter addresses both the sufferings of the apostles and the Thessalonian Church for faithfulness to the gospel. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/afflict.md]])(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/persecute.md]])(See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/other/suffer.md]]) Sanctification The concept of holiness is prevalent in this letter. Chapter four discusses how a Christian should practice a holy life. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/sanctify.md]]) Part 3: Important Translation Issues What did Paul mean by expressions like “in Christ” and “in Christ Jesus” and “in the Lord Jesus Christ” and “in God the Father” and “in the Holy Spirit”? Paul meant to express the idea of a union between God and Christians that includes all three persons of the Trinity. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about these kind of expressions. What did Paul mean by expressions like “his coming” and “the coming of the Lord Jesus” and “the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ”? Paul used “coming” in a specific way in relation to Jesus Christ to refer to the time when he will come again to earth, this time displaying his glory and power and gathering his people to himself. Depending on the nuances of your language, you may need to translate this with a special concept or word. What did Paul mean by expressions like “the word of God” or “the word of the Lord”? Throughout this letter, Paul uses these well-known phrases or abbreviations to refer to the Gospel message. What did Paul mean by expressions like “brothers”? Throughout this letter, “brothers” is a metaphor that that refers to all believers, including females. (See 1:4; 2:1, 9, 14, 17; 3:7; 4:1, 6, 10, 13; 5:1, 4, 12, 14, 26, 27) “We” and “you” In this letter, the words “we”, “us” and “our” refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. In addition, “we”, “us” and “our” are used to convey that all three apostles are in agreement with the letter. Major textual issues in the text of the book of First Thessalonians When ancient manuscripts of the Bible differ, ULT puts the reading that scholars consider to be the most accurate in its text, but it puts other possibly accurate readings in footnotes. The introductions to each chapter will discuss places where the ancient manuscripts differ in significant ways, and notes will address those places again where they occur in the book. If a translation of the Bible already exists in your region, consider using the readings found in that version. If not, we recommend that you follow the readings in the ULT text. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants) “Grace and peace to you” (See 1:1). Some other manuscripts read: “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.” “but we became little children in the midst of you, as if a mother might comfort her own children” (See 2:7). Some other manuscripts read, “Instead, we were as gentle among you as a mother comforting her own children.” “Timothy, our brother and a servant of God” (See 3:2). Some other manuscripts read: “Timothy, our brother and fellow worker for God.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
3	1TH	1	intro	y8c5			0		1 Thessalonians 1 General Notes Outline of 1 Thessalonians 1 Greeting (1:1) Prayer of thanksgiving for the Thessalonian Church (1:2-10) Memory of the Thessalonians (1:2-5) apostolic prayers (1:2) work of the Thessalonians (1:2-3) God’s election of the Thessalonians (1:4-5) Thessalonians’ example (1:6-10) reception of the apostles’ teaching (1:6) examples to Macedonia and Achaia (1:7-10) example of suffering (1:7) preaching of the gospel (1:8) turned away from idolatry to God (1:9) waiting for the Second Coming of Christ (1:10) Structure and formatting Verse 1 formally introduces this letter. Letters in the ancient Near East commonly had introductions of this type. Verses 2-4 give a general thanksgiving and encouragement to the Thessalonian Church. Special concepts in this chapter Trinity God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit are mentioned numerous times in this chapter. They are described in their identity, activity, and the union that the Christian has in them. Hardship Like the apostles before them, the Thessalonian church endured persecution for the sake of the gospel. The way that they responded with faith to the gospel message even in affliction and then preached that gospel to others made them examples to the churches throughout the regions of Macedonia and Achaia. Faithfulness Paul mentions the faithfulness of the Thessalonian church throughout this chapter. See, for example, “work of faith” in 1:3, “example to all those who believe” in 1:7, and “faith toward God” in 1:8.
4	1TH	1	1	ms5e	figs-ellipsis	Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος; τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ	1	Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church	Here, some words are omitted that a sentence would need in order to be complete in many languages. Alternate translation: “We are Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, writing to the church” (See rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis)
5	1TH	1	1	zivb	figs-explicit	Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος	1	Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church	Paul is understood to be the author of this letter. Silvanus and Timothy are with him as he writes and are in agreement with what he writes. If that might not be understood in your language, you could include this information in your translation. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, together with Silvanus and Timothy, write” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
6	1TH	1	1	r7n0	translate-names	Σιλουανὸς	1	Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church	The name Silvanus is a longer form of the name Silas, the form of the name used for this same man in the book of Acts. You could choose to use the shorter form here, as well, or you could choose to use the longer form here and include a footnote explaining that they are forms of the same name. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
7	1TH	1	1	z7wu	figs-metaphor	ἐν Θεῷ Πατρὶ καὶ Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστῷ	1	Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church	Here, Paul speaks figuratively of the believers as though they were occupying space inside of God and Jesus. This metaphor expresses the idea that believers are spiritually united to God and Jesus. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you can express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation: “united to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” or “sharing life with God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
8	1TH	1	1	vlb3	guidelines-sonofgodprinciples	Θεῷ Πατρὶ καὶ Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστῷ	1		When God is called Father (See 1:3) it is meant to highlight his relationship to Jesus as “Son” (See 1:10). Here, the Old Testament title for God, Lord, is applied to Jesus, equating him with God. Be sure to accurately translate these titles in your translation. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
9	1TH	1	1	luw5	translate-blessing	χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη	1	Grace and peace to you	This phrase is a common biblical blessing formula and greeting (See Rom. 1:7; 1 Cor. 1:3; 2 Cor. 1:2; Gal. 1:3; Eph. 1:2; Phil. 1:2; Col. 1:2; 2 Th. 1:2; Philem. 1:3; 1 Pet. 1:2; 2 Pet. 1:2; Rev. 1:4). Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing that could be used as a greeting in your language. Alternate translation: “May God give you his grace and peace” or “I pray that God shows you favor and keeps you safe” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
10	1TH	1	1	qx70	figs-abstractnouns	χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη	1	Grace and peace to you	The words grace and peace are abstract nouns. Your language may have a particular way of expressing these concepts, such as with verbs or description words. If so, you can use them in your translation. Alternate translation: “We pray that God will treat you kindly and give you peaceful relationships.” Also see the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
11	1TH	1	1	nn67	figs-you	ὑμῖν	1	to you	Throughout this letter, the word you is plural and refers to the church of Thessalonica, unless otherwise noted. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you)
12	1TH	1	2	of3g	figs-infostructure	εὐχαριστοῦμεν…ποιούμενοι	1		In this verse, Paul describes the apostles’ prayers for the Thessalonians in two clauses. The first clause is specific, that they give thanks to God, and the second is general, that they make mention of them. If it would be clearer in your language you can reverse the order of the clauses. See the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
13	1TH	1	2	o7cp	figs-hyperbole	πάντοτε…μνείαν ποιούμενοι ἐπὶ τῶν προσευχῶν ἡμῶν, ἀδιαλείπτως	1		Here, the words always and continually are exaggerations that figuratively express the intensity and frequency of the prayers offered up to God by Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy for the Thessalonians. If your language would not use exaggeration in this way, use plain language and express the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We regularly give thanks to God for all of you, very often making mention of you in our prayers” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole)
14	1TH	1	3	ecw0	figs-idiom	μνημονεύοντες	1		The main verb of this sentence is “we give thanks” (See 1:2). The phrase remembering…before our God and Father is an idiom that also means to thank God in prayer. The apostles are remembering these things about the Thessalonians and thanking God for them. If it would be helpful for your readers, you could move the phrase before our God and Father to follow remembering. Alternate translation: “offering thanks for…to our God and Father” or “gratefully mentioning to our God and Father” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom)
15	1TH	1	3	w769	figs-possession	τοῦ ἔργου τῆς πίστεως, καὶ τοῦ κόπου τῆς ἀγάπης, καὶ τῆς ὑπομονῆς τῆς ἐλπίδος	1		Paul uses three pairs of words in a possessive relationship here. The most likely meaning of this possessive relationship is that the second word of each pair is the motivation for the first word of the pair. Alternate translation: “work motivated by faith and labor because of love and endurance based on future promises” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession)
16	1TH	1	3	kr8q	figs-possession	τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ	1		The words hope in our Lord Jesus Christ is a possessive form. The relationship between our Lord Jesus Christ and hope could be: (1) Jesus is the object of hope. Alternate translation: “that our Lord Jesus Christ will do what he has promised” (2) Jesus is the source of hope. Alternate translation: “that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession)
17	1TH	1	3	tvrg	figs-hendiadys	τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν	1		Here, our God and Father refers to the one divine person who is both God and Father. This phrase is a hendiadys, since Father further describes God. Alternate translation: “God our Father” or “our Father God” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys)
18	1TH	1	3	v01e	figs-exclusive	ἡμῶν	1		Here, our refers to Paul, Silvanus, Timothy, and the Thessalonian church. All believers are the spiritual children of God the Father through Jesus. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive)
19	1TH	1	4	psc4	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	εἰδότες	1		Here, knowing continues the simultaneous description of how the writers of this letter “give thanks” (See UST). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
20	1TH	1	4	qx5o	figs-nominaladj	ἀδελφοὶ ἠγαπημένοι ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		This phrase acts as nominal adjective that describes the Thessalonian Church in relational terms. They are spiritual siblings in their relationship with the writers of the letter, and beloved children in their relationship with God the Father (See 1:3). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
21	1TH	1	4	erb6	figs-metaphor	ἀδελφοὶ	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, brothers is a metaphor meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ.” If your readers would not understand what brothers means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
22	1TH	1	4	egkq	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοὶ	1		Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
23	1TH	1	4	kiz3		ἠγαπημένοι	1		The word translated loved indicates a past relationship with continuing results (literally, “has been and/or continues to be loved”). If your language has this verbal distinction, you could emphasize the past and present nuances in your translation. Alternate translation: “who have always been loved” or “who are continually loved”
24	1TH	1	4	j08t	figs-activepassive	ἠγαπημένοι ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		If it is clearer in your language, this passive form loved could be changed to an active form. Alternate translation: “whom God has always loved” (see UST)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
25	1TH	1	4	t70n	grammar-connect-logic-result	τὴν ἐκλογὴν ὑμῶν	1		This phrase your election is the direct objective of knowing and the beginning of a result clause. The reason why the writers of this letter know that the Thessalonians have been chosen as God’s people is found in the following verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
26	1TH	1	4	ohtl	figs-abstractnouns	τὴν ἐκλογὴν ὑμῶν,	1		Here, your election is an abstract noun phrase. If this is unclear in your language, you could change this abstract noun to a verb form. Alternate translation: “that he chose you to belong to him,” or “that he ordained you to be his children,” or starting a new sentence, “God selected you to be his people.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
27	1TH	1	5	jxfs	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὅτι	1		Here, because is the marker of a result clause. The writers of this letter are certain of the “election” and identity of the Thessalonian Church as God’s people 1:4, because they received the gospel message in all the ways described in verse 5. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
28	1TH	1	5	ude4	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐγενήθη εἰς ὑμᾶς ἐν λόγῳ μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ, καὶ πληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ	1	not in word only	The writers of this letter use a contrasting clause to emphasis the multi-faceted effect of the gospel. Alternate translation: “our gospel preaching did not come to you as only a simple message, but even accompanied with power and the Holy Spirit and full assurance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
29	1TH	1	5	sm4j	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐγενήθη εἰς ὑμᾶς ἐν λόγῳ μόνον, ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ, καὶ πληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ	1	not in word only	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this extended phrase to a simultaneous clause, framed in a positive way. Alternate translation: “our gospel message was completely validated: by our words, by a display of power, by the Holy Spirit, by your own full assurance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
30	1TH	1	5	h675		ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐν δυνάμει, καὶ ἐν Πνεύματι Ἁγίῳ	1	but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit	This refers to: (1) the Holy Spirit gave the apostles the ability to preach the gospel powerfully. See UST (2) the Holy Spirit caused the preaching of the gospel to have a powerful effect among the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “but also empowered by the Holy Spirit” (3) the Holy Spirit demonstrated the truth of the gospel preaching through displays of power. Alternate translation: “but also with powerful signs from the Holy Spirit”
31	1TH	1	5	t1w3	figs-abstractnouns	πληροφορίᾳ πολλῇ	1	in much assurance	Here, assurance is an abstract noun. If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun assurance in another way. Alternate translation: “the Holy Spirit gave you full confidence” or “the Holy Spirit fully convinced you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
32	1TH	1	5	wdr7		καθὼς οἴδατε οἷοι	1		The phrase just as you know what kind of men is used by writers of this letter to validate the gospel message, by the example of their own conduct amongst the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “you even experienced it for yourself” or “you are well aware how we behaved”
33	1TH	1	6	cs49	figs-abstractnouns	καὶ ὑμεῖς μιμηταὶ ἡμῶν ἐγενήθητε καὶ τοῦ Κυρίου	1	you became imitators	If your language would not use a noun for the idea behind imitators, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “And all of you mimicked us and the Lord” or “And all of you copied us and the Lord” or “And all of you behaved like us and the Lord” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
34	1TH	1	6	kgjr		ὑμεῖς	1	you became imitators	The word translated you is in a position that gives it special emphasis as a new topic. Use a natural way in your language to show that Paul is now going to talk about the Thessalonians. Alternate translation: “on your part, you” or “you yourselves”
35	1TH	1	6	b607	figs-explicit	τοῦ Κυρίου	1		Lord here refers to Jesus, as in 1:3. Throughout this letter, whenever Paul uses the title Lord it refers to Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you can include the name here. See the UST. (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
36	1TH	1	6	w222	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1		If it is natural in your language, you may want to indicate a contrast between this phrase and the one before it. Alternate translation: “In spite of that, you had joy from the Holy Spirit” or “even so, the Holy Spirit caused you to be joyful” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast)
37	1TH	1	6	c2hl	figs-metonymy	τὸν λόγον	1		Here, the word figuratively represents a message that is made up of words. It refers to the same message called “our gospel” in 1:5. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “the gospel message” or “God’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
38	1TH	1	6	wura	figs-abstractnouns	ἐν θλίψει πολλῇ	1		If your language would not use an abstract noun for the idea behind hardship, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “while you were deeply distressed” or “as people made you suffer” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
39	1TH	1	6	r7o6	figs-abstractnouns	μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1		If your language would not use an abstract noun for the idea behind joy, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “you rejoiced because of the Holy Spirit” or “but remaining joyful because of the Holy Spirit” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
40	1TH	1	6	ohen	figs-possession	μετὰ χαρᾶς Πνεύματος Ἁγίου	1		Paul is using the possessive form to describe a relationship between the Holy Spirit and joy. This relationship could be: (1) the Holy Spirit is the source of joy. Alternate translation: “with joy from the Holy Spirit” or “as the Holy Spirit caused you to rejoice” (2) joy is the response to having the Holy Spirit. Alternate translation: “with the joy of those who belong to the Holy Spirit” or “with joy because you belong to the Holy Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
41	1TH	1	7	lwbm	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὥστε	1		As a result indicates that what was spoken about in verse 6 caused the results of verse 7. Use a natural way in your language to introduce verse 7 as the result of verse 6. Alternate translation: “Therefore” or “Because of that” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result)
42	1TH	1	7	et1h	figs-abstractnouns	γενέσθαι ὑμᾶς τύπους πᾶσιν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν ἐν τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ καὶ ἐν τῇ Ἀχαΐᾳ	1		If your language would not use an abstract noun for the idea behind example, you could translate this with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia wanted to imitate you” or “all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia started to copy how you live” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
43	1TH	1	7	j1oz	figs-explicit	τοῖς πιστεύουσιν	1		The word believers here and throughout the letter refers to people who believe or trust in Jesus. If it would be helpful to your readers, you can include that information here. Alternate translation: “those who believe in Jesus” or “those who trust Jesus” or “those who remain faithful to Jesus” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
44	1TH	1	7	xetp		ἐν τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ καὶ ἐν τῇ Ἀχαΐᾳ	1		The phrases in Macedonia and in Achaia mean that the believers lived in any part of those provinces. Alternate translation: “throughout Macedonia and Achaia” or “throughout the regions of Macedonia and Achaia” or “across all of Macedonia and Achaia”
45	1TH	1	8	da73	figs-infostructure	ἀφ’ ὑμῶν γὰρ ἐξήχηται ὁ λόγος τοῦ Κυρίου	1		By putting For from you at the beginning of the sentence, Paul is emphasizing that it was the Thessalonians who have spread the word of God throughout the area. Use a natural way in your language to emphasize this. Alternate translation: “Indeed, it was from you that people heard the word of the Lord” or “Yes, you were the ones who proclaimed the word of the Lord” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure)
46	1TH	1	8	smjv	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ἀφ’ ὑμῶν γὰρ	1		This verse connects to verse 7 as an explanation of how the Thessalonian Church became an example of faithfulness to God throughout Macedonia and Achaia and beyond. Use a word or phrase that introduces an explanation in your language. Alternate translation: “Certainly, from you” or “Indeed from all of you” or “Because from you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
47	1TH	1	8	qyk6	figs-metonymy	ὁ λόγος τοῦ Κυρίου	1	the word of the Lord	The phrase the word of the Lord figuratively refers to “the whole message of the Lord’s gospel.” Alternate translation: “the gospel message about the Lord Jesus Christ” or “the Lord’s gospel message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
48	1TH	1	8	sht4	figs-metaphor	ἐξήχηται	1	has been sounded out	Here, has been sounded out uses a metaphor of a ringing bell or resounding instrument that can be heard from far away to describe how clearly and far the news of the Thessalonians’ faithfulness to God has spread throughout the world. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use an equivalent metaphor or plain language. Alternate translation: “has shone forth” or “has spread far and wide” or “has been heard” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)
49	1TH	1	8	esk9	figs-synecdoche	ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν ἡ πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν	1		Here, faith stands for the way that the Thessalonian church lived in faithful obedience to God. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use an expanded phrase. Alternate translation: “news of the way that you trust in God” or “the report about your faithfulness toward God” or “your faithful example before God” (See rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche)
50	1TH	1	8	lxc3	figs-metaphor	ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν ἡ πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἐξελήλυθεν	1		Here, your faith toward God has gone out is a metaphor that pictures faith as something that can travel. This metaphor has the same meaning as the previous one about the sound of a bell going out. It means that the news of the Thessalonians’ faithfulness to God has spread very far. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use an equivalent metaphor or plain language. Alternate translation: “people have heard about your faith toward God in every place” or “news of your trust in God has been heard in every place” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor)
51	1TH	1	8	wtg5	figs-hyperbole	ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ	1		The phrase into every place is a hyperbole. If this might be misunderstood in your language, use plain language. Alternate translation: “all over the inhabited world” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole)
52	1TH	1	8	z9eu	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὥστε μὴ χρείαν ἔχειν ἡμᾶς λαλεῖν τι	1		Therefore marks what follows as the result of what came before. Because the gospel message and faithful model of the Thessalonian Church was so effective, the writers of this letter have no need to add anything to it. Use a natural way in your language to show this result relationship. Alternate translation: “This is why we have no reason to say anything more” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result)
53	1TH	1	9	nsws	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γὰρ	1		Here, For is used to emphasize and explain why the writers of this letter do not need to say anything 1:8. Alternate translation: “Because” or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
54	1TH	1	9	rd2b	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ γὰρ περὶ ἡμῶν ἀπαγγέλλουσιν	1	they themselves report	The writers of the letter use the pronoun themselves to emphasize at least two things: (1) These are the same people who heard about the Thessalonians’ gospel message and way of life. (2) The way the writers of this letter know that the Thessalonians’ gospel message and way of life has spread “into every place” is from the report. Alternate translation: “Those people who heard about the Thessalonian Church tell” or “These same people proclaim” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
55	1TH	1	9	vq7j		ἀπαγγέλλουσιν	1		Alternate translation: “these same people are sending out the message” or “they themselves are proclaiming”
56	1TH	1	9	v145	figs-abstractnouns	ὁποίαν εἴσοδον ἔσχομεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς	1	what kind of reception we had with you	If your language does not use a noun for the idea behind the abstract noun reception, you can express that idea with a verb or in another way. Alternate translation: “how readily you received us” or “how enthusiastically you welcomed us” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns)
57	1TH	1	9	xeff	figs-explicit	ὁποίαν εἴσοδον ἔσχομεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς	1	what kind of reception we had with you	Paul implies that the kind of reception they had from the Thessalonians was a good one. If that would not be understood by your readers, you could indicate it explicitly. Alternate translation: “what a good reception we had with you” or “how gladly you welcomed us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
58	1TH	1	9	dkv4	figs-idiom	πῶς ἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν	1	you turned to God from the idols to serve the living and true God	Here, the phrase how you turned is an idiom that simply refers to the fact that they turned, not to the manner of how they turned. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use plain language. Alternate translation: “that you turned” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
59	1TH	1	9	wpbm	figs-doublet	ἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ	1	you turned to God from the idols to serve the living and true God	If it would be more natural in your language, you can combine the two phrases to God and to serve the living and true God into one phrase. Alternate translation: “you turned from serving the idols to serve the living and true God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
60	1TH	1	9	u1um	figs-metaphor	ἐπεστρέψατε πρὸς τὸν Θεὸν ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων	1	you turned to God from the idols to serve the living and true God	Paul speaks figuratively of the Thessalonian believers as if they had been facing toward their idols and then turned around to face toward God. He means that they no longer worship idols but now they worship God. If this metaphor might be misunderstood in your language, use an equivalent metaphor from your culture or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “you started worshipping God and left the idols behind” or “you abandoned the idols so that you could worship God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
61	1TH	1	9	fa47	grammar-connect-logic-goal	δουλεύειν	1		Here, to serve introduces a purpose clause. The reason why these people stopped worshipping idols was in order to serve God. Use a natural method of introducing a purpose clause in your language. Alternate translation: “in order to begin serving” or “for the purpose of serving” or “so that you could serve” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal)
62	1TH	1	9	gv76	figs-parallelism	ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ	1		This phrase expresses parallelism, by contrasting the deadness and falseness of idols with the living and real God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
63	1TH	1	9	ou5h	figs-explicit	ἀπὸ τῶν εἰδώλων, δουλεύειν Θεῷ ζῶντι καὶ ἀληθινῷ	1		By using the terms living and true to describe God, Paul is implying that these terms do not apply to the idols or to the gods that those idols represent. The idols themselves are made of materials that are not alive. The gods that they represent are living beings, but they are not true gods because people do not owe them obedience or worship as they do to the God who created them. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could include this information in the text or a footnote. Alternate translation: “from worshipping the non-living statues of false gods in order to serve the real God who is alive” or “from the dead idols in order to serve the God who lives and deserves our worship” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
64	1TH	1	10	wkt5	grammar-connect-logic-goal	καὶ ἀναμένειν τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν	1		The phrase and to wait adds a second purpose for which the Thessalonian believers stopped worshipping idols. Use a natural method for connecting this as another purpose clause in your language. Alternate translation: “and also to wait expectantly for the second coming of his Son from heaven” (See the Introduction to 1 Thessalonians, Part 2 for a discussion of the Second Coming of Christ.) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
65	1TH	1	10	og49	guidelines-sonofgodprinciples	τὸν Υἱὸν αὐτοῦ	1		Son is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God the Father. Alternate translation: “God’s only Son” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples)
66	1TH	1	10	wil8		ἐκ τῶν οὐρανῶν	1		Here, the phrase translated from the heavens expresses the spiritual place where God is and where Jesus is currently located. It is the place from where he will return to the physical location of Earth. Make sure that your translation means this and not merely “the sky.” Alternate translation: “from the place where God is” or “from God’s realm”
67	1TH	1	10	pmi8	writing-pronouns	ὃν ἤγειρεν ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν, Ἰησοῦν,	1	whom he raised	Here, whom is a reference to Son, who is the same person as Jesus. Also, he and his refer back to God in 1:9. So, it is God who raised Jesus from the dead. You can make the subject God explicit in your translation if the use of the pronoun is unclear in your language. Alternate translation: “Jesus, whom God raised from the dead” or “whom God resurrected from the dead. This is Jesus” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns)
68	1TH	1	10	ffro	figs-idiom	ἐκ τῶν νεκρῶν	1		Here, the phrase translated the dead is plural and a common biblical concept that refers to “dead people.” It means that Jesus physically died and was buried. If your language has a word or phrase for the place that dead people go, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “from the place where dead people are” or “from death” or “from the place where corpses are” or “from the grave” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom)
69	1TH	1	10	dbcl	figs-distinguish	Ἰησοῦν, τὸν ῥυόμενον ἡμᾶς	1		The clause the one rescuing us is functioning as an adjective that describes Jesus in his role as rescuer. It makes this action of rescuing to be a characteristic of Jesus or even a title: “the rescuer.” Translate this in a way that makes this a description of Jesus. Alternate translation: “Jesus, our rescuer” or “Jesus, who rescues us” or “Jesus, the one who is going to rescue us” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish)
70	1TH	1	10	yh5s	figs-explicit	τὸν ῥυόμενον	1		Here, rescuing does not mean being taken away from God’s wrath after experiencing it. Instead, it means being taken away from any danger of experiencing God’s wrath. Alternate translation: “the one saving us” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit)
71	1TH	1	10	pt1s	figs-exclusive	ἡμᾶς	1	the one rescuing us	This is an inclusive use of us, including Paul, Silvanus, Timothy, and the Thessalonians–and by extension—all Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “all of us Christians” or “we who trust in Christ” or “all of us believers in Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
72	1TH	1	10	g3zz	figs-abstractnouns	ἐκ τῆς ὀργῆς τῆς ἐρχομένης	1		Here, wrath is an abstract noun referring to the destined coming God’s future and final Judgment. If it is clearer in your language, you could translate this as a verb form. Alternate translation: “from the future time when God punishes those who do not trust in him” or “when God will certainly punish those who worship idols” or “from God’s impending judgment” (See: What is the “second coming” of Jesus?)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
73	1TH	1	10	cx5g	figs-metaphor	τῆς ὀργῆς τῆς ἐρχομένης	1		Paul speaks figuratively of wrath as though it were something that could travel and is coming to where people are. He means by this that in the future, an event will happen when God will act wrathfully against people who have sinned and who have not trusted in Jesus to forgive their sins. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could express this plainly. Alternate translation: “God’s judgment that will happen” or “when God will punish people for sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
74	1TH	2	intro	kt5l			0		1 Thessalonians 2 General Notes Outline of 1 Thessalonians 2 Apostolic Suffering (2:1-13) Apostolic preaching (2:1-6) Apostolic conduct (2:7-9) Apostolic witness (2:10-3) Persecution of the Church (2:14-16) Thessalonian persecution (2:14a) Jewish persecution (2:14b-16) Paul’s Desire to Visit (2:17-20) Structure and formatting The first part of this chapter is a defense of their apostleship and sufferings. They second part is a recounting of the Thessalonian church’s sufferings. Lastly, the Apostle Paul makes known his deep desire to visit the Thessalonian church. “We” and “you” In this letter, the words we and our refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Throughout the letter, we and our is used to convey that all three apostles are in agreement with the letter. Special concepts in this chapter Apostolic Witness Here, Paul defends how he, Silvanus, and Timothy are God’s apostles. By their preaching, conduct and witness, they prove to be authorized messengers of Christ. (See: [[rc://en/tw/bible/kt/apostle.md]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/testimony]]) The Gospel of God The foundation of the apostolic witness is that they were “entrusted with the gospel” (see 2:4.The apostles’ authority makes them: “bold to speak” (See 2:2), “impart” (See 2:8), “preach” (See 2:9), and thank God that the Thessalonian church “received the word of God” (See 2:13). The Second Coming of Christ In this chapter is the first mention of the Second Coming of Christ in its two facets. First, Paul mentions that the persecutors of Christ’s Church will be judged by using the phrase “wrath has come upon them” in 2:16. Next, Paul speaks of the “hope” and “joy” and “glory” for those who will “be saved” (See 2:16) “in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming” (See 2:19-20).
75	1TH	2	1	ii5j	grammar-connect-words-phrases	αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε, ἀδελφοί	1		Here, For you yourselves know, brothers functions as a chapter transition into the next topic of the apostles’ suffering. You could emphasize this if it would be clearer in your language. Alternate translation: “Certainly, you are fully aware” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
76	1TH	2	1	gpr4	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ…οἴδατε	1	you yourselves know	The words you and yourselves refer to the Thessalonian church. Paul uses this emphasis to express how well the Thessalonians understand the benefit of the apostles previous visit. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “you fully realize” or “you personally understand” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
77	1TH	2	1	tdl3	figs-metaphor	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, brothers is a metaphor meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See 1:4). If your readers would not understand what brothers means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
78	1TH	2	1	r14z	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
79	1TH	2	1	nwlt	figs-abstractnouns	τὴν εἴσοδον ἡμῶν τὴν πρὸς ὑμᾶς	1		This is an abstract noun phrase that refers to the apostles’ previous visit (See “reception” in 1:9). If your language does not use abstract noun phrases for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun phrase with a verb form. Alternate translation: “when we visited you” or “when you received us” or “when you welcomed us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
80	1TH	2	1	g6qq	figs-exclusive	τὴν εἴσοδον ἡμῶν τὴν…ὅτι	1	our coming	Here our is exclusive, referring to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy–but not the Thessalonian Church (See 1:9). Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “when we apostles came” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
81	1TH	2	1	w584	figs-litotes	οὐ κενὴ γέγονεν	1	has not been in vain	Here, not … in vain a figure of speech that expresses a strong positive meaning by using a negative word together with a word that is the opposite of the intended meaning. There are two main options to indicate the double negative: (1) express negatively. Alternate translation: “has not been useless” or “has not been without a purpose” or “has not been worthless” (2) express positively. Alternate translation: “has proved quite beneficial” or “has definitely been worthwhile” or “has been very useful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
82	1TH	2	2	h9s8	grammar-connect-logic-contrast		0		This verse provides background information about what happened when Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy were in the city of Philippi (See Acts 16-17:1-10; 1:6). Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
83	1TH	2	2	w0qu	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες, καθὼς οἴδατε, ἐν Φιλίπποις ἐπαρρησιασάμεθα ἐν τῷ Θεῷ ἡμῶν	1		But begins a contrasting clause emphasizing that the coming of Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy was not in vain 2:1. The verb translated we were bold is an emphatic contrast to the normal response one would expect from suffering. Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are able to respond this way because their boldness comes from God. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “However … God made us confident in how powerful he is” or “Instead … God encouraged us” or (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
84	1TH	2	2	clqq	figs-infostructure	ἀλλὰ προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες, καθὼς οἴδατε, ἐν Φιλίπποις	1		Here, just as you know is meant to emphasize how well the Thessalonian church understands the apostles’ suffering. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “But, as you are well aware that we already suffered and were badly insulted at Philippi” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
85	1TH	2	2	fac4	figs-doublet	προπαθόντες καὶ ὑβρισθέντες	1		These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize that how badly the apostles suffered. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “despite the fact that we had earlier suffered violently” or “since we already suffered being shamefully abused” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
86	1TH	2	2	daei	figs-possession	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		This possessive phrase the gospel of God expresses how gospel relates to God. It can refer to three main ideas: (1) possession. Alternate translation: “God’s gospel” (2) source. Alternate translation: “the gospel from God” (3) association. “the gospel about God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
87	1TH	2	2	v4dg	figs-abstractnouns	ἐν πολλῷ ἀγῶνι	1	in much struggle	Here, in much struggle can also refer to a spiritual contest or game. If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun in much struggle in another way. Alternate translation: “although we struggled hard” or “despite how much we agonized” or “during the time we contested” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
88	1TH	2	3	hl9c	figs-litany	ἡ γὰρ παράκλησις ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ	1		Paul uses a repetitive series of sentences reasons describing why Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy had boldness to speak. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” This list of reasons also defends how their message was “the gospel of God” (See 2:2). Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone has done right. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
89	1TH	2	3	xg1c	figs-abstractnouns	ἡ γὰρ παράκλησις ἡμῶν οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ	1		If your language does not use an abstract nouns for these ideas, you could express the ideas behind exhortation, error, impurity, and deceit in another way. Alternate translation: “Certainly, when we appealed to you: we did not try to lead you astray, we did not speak impurely, we did not try to deceive you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
90	1TH	2	3	t7ty	figs-doublenegatives	οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, οὐδὲ ἐν δόλῳ	1	was not from error, nor from impurity, nor in deceit	This list of double negative phrases highlights the sincere motive and true content of the exhortation Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy shared with the Thessalonian church. If these double negative phrases would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate them as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “was from honest, pure, sincere motives” or “was made properly, purely, and sincerely” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
91	1TH	2	4	is1a	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ καθὼς	1	we have been approved by God to be entrusted	Here, but just as is meant to contrast the negative items in 2:3, and reinforce that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy are authorized to preach the gospel. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “it is actually true that” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
92	1TH	2	4	lfv7	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἀλλὰ καθὼς δεδοκιμάσμεθα ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ, πιστευθῆναι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον	1		Here, to be entrusted expresses the result of been examined. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “certainly, God trusts us to proclaim the gospel because he tested and approved us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
93	1TH	2	4	ue4y	figs-explicit	δεδοκιμάσμεθα ὑπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ, πιστευθῆναι τὸ εὐαγγέλιον	1		The combination of these two verbs examined and entrusted are meant to emphasize how the apostles are authorized to preach the gospel. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God has verified that we can be trusted to proclaim his good news” or “we have passed God’s test as faithful preachers of the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
94	1TH	2	4	m8sq	grammar-connect-logic-result	οὕτως λαλοῦμεν	1		Here, so we speak expresses the result of been examined. The reason why the apostles have confidence and authority to speak the gospel is because God tested and approved them. This could refer to: (1) reason for speaking. Alternate translation: “this is why we keep talking about it” (2) manner of speaking. Alternate translation: “so this is how we speak” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
95	1TH	2	4	qqj2	figs-explicit	λαλοῦμεν	1	we speak	Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “we apostles keep speaking the gospel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
96	1TH	2	4	b0yy	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	οὐχ ὡς ἀνθρώποις ἀρέσκοντες, ἀλλὰ Θεῷ	1		Here, the word but contrasts men and God. Paul is indicating that God and men are different people. Paul is also expressing the idea that the apostles’ motive for speaking the gospel is to please God, not … men. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “not to flatter people, but please God” or “to satisfy God, not people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
97	1TH	2	4	bq9a	figs-metonymy	τὰς καρδίας ἡμῶν	1		The phrase our hearts is a metonym for the apostles’ motives, affections, or deepest thoughts. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “what we love” or “what we ponder” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
98	1TH	2	5	xk2o	grammar-connect-words-phrases	οὔτε γάρ ποτε ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας ἐγενήθημεν	1		Here, the phrase For we did not come at that time marks a transition where the apostles defend their motives by describing their previous godly conduct. Alternate translation: “Because previously when we came, it was not to flatter you” or “Certainly we never came in order to flatter you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
99	1TH	2	5	u28j	figs-litany	οὔτε…ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας…οὔτε ἐν προφάσει πλεονεξίας	1		Here, Paul uses a series of negative examples in 2:5-6 to describe behavior that is not fitting for Christ’s apostles. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” You can use a form in your language to list things that someone should not do. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
100	1TH	2	5	hqih	figs-infostructure	οὔτε γάρ ποτε ἐν λόγῳ κολακίας ἐγενήθημεν,	1		Paul places just as you know in a position that gives it special emphasis (See also 2:2). If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “As you are well aware, we did not previously come to flatter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
101	1TH	2	5	q2yh	figs-metaphor	ἐν προφάσει πλεονεξίας	1		Here, pretext figuratively expresses the idea of people with greedy motives by comparing them to people wearing a mask or a disguise to cover up their evil intent. If the concept of a masking or disguising would not communicate a covering of true motives, you could you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “disguising greedy intent” or “trying to hide greed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
102	1TH	2	5	qqia	figs-ellipsis	(Θεὸς μάρτυς)	1		In the phrase God {is} witness, Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “God is our witness!”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
103	1TH	2	5	lfym	figs-metaphor	(Θεὸς μάρτυς)	1		The apostles are appealing to God to validate their gospel message and personal motives. They figuratively speak as if they are summoning God as a witness to testify on their behalf before a judge. If your readers would not understand what God {is} witness means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “We swear to/by God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
104	1TH	2	6	j6c4	figs-synecdoche	οὔτε ζητοῦντες ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δόξαν, οὔτε ἀφ’ ὑμῶν, οὔτε ἀπ’ ἄλλων	1		Here, Paul refers figuratively to men to speak of any individual person. He also refers to from you or from others as another way of saying “all people.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “We were not looking for praise from any human being–not you or anyone else–” or “We were not hoping for any human honors” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
105	1TH	2	6	afcc	figs-abstractnouns	ἐξ ἀνθρώπων δόξαν	1		If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun glory in another way. Alternate translation: “for humans to honor us” or “to have people praise us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
106	1TH	2	7	u7y2	figs-hypo	δυνάμενοι ἐν βάρει εἶναι, ὡς Χριστοῦ ἀπόστολοι	1		With the phrase being able to be a burden, Paul uses a hypothetical condition to draw attention to the divine authority of the apostles of Christ. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. This phrase could refer to: (1) authority of the apostles. “as Christ’s apostles we have authority to force obedience” (2) rights of the apostles. Alternate translation: “as Christ’s apostles, we could have burdened you by demanding financial support” (3) authority and rights of the apostles. Alternate translation: “as Christ’s apostles, we have the power to demand support and submission” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
107	1TH	2	7	a75z	figs-metaphor	δυνάμενοι ἐν βάρει εἶναι	1		Paul speaks figuratively of the apostles as if they were a heavy weight or pack. He means that if they wanted to, they could impose their apostolic authority in a way that could seem oppressive to the Thessalonian church. If your readers would not understand what burden means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation, “Although we could impose our authority” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
108	1TH	2	7	bslq	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ	1		Here, but signals that the rest of the verse will contrast the idea of burden. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “However” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
109	1TH	2	7	y3bi	figs-metaphor	ἐγενήθημεν νήπιοι ἐν μέσῳ ὑμῶν	1		Here, became little children in the midst of you is a metaphor indicating how gently the apostles treated the Thessalonian Church. You could translate this with an active form, using a simile. Alternate translation: “we acted as mild as infants when we visited you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
110	1TH	2	7	bnp2	figs-idiom	ἐν μέσῳ ὑμῶν	1		Paul uses the idiom in the midst of you that means “spending time” or “visiting”. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “while visiting you” or “while spending time with you” or “when we were with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
111	1TH	2	7	ag1l	figs-simile	ὡς ἐὰν τροφὸς θάλπῃ τὰ ἑαυτῆς τέκνα	1	as if a mother might comfort her own children	The point of this comparison is that in the same way a mother would gently comfort her children, so the apostles gently and affectionately nurtured the Thessalonian Church (See 2:8). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “we affectionately cared for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
112	1TH	2	8	r8b4	figs-abstractnouns	οὕτως ὁμειρόμενοι ὑμῶν	1	Having affection for you in this manner	If your language does not use an abstract noun phrase for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun phrase having affection in another way. Alternate translation: “Because we desire you so much” or “Since we yearn for you like this” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
113	1TH	2	8	q86v	figs-metaphor	τὰς ἑαυτῶν ψυχάς	1	we were pleased to impart to you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls	Paul uses our own souls to speak figuratively of the apostles’ bodies or their life. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “our own selves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
114	1TH	2	9	v837	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γάρ	1		Here, the connecting word For emphasizes that what follows is something else important that the Thessalonian church should pay attention to. Alternate translation: “Certainly” or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
115	1TH	2	9	exw6	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1		Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
116	1TH	2	9	tc98	figs-doublet	τὸν κόπον ἡμῶν καὶ τὸν μόχθον	1	our labor and toil	Here, labor and toil mean basically the same thing. The repetition emphasizes how hard the apostles worked. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases or make them active. Alternate translation: “our toilsome labor” or “how hard we worked” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
117	1TH	2	9	ilj2	figs-distinguish	νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι	1		This phrase further explains our labor and toil. If this is not understood in your language, you can make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “although working night and day” or “despite the fact that we kept working night and day” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
118	1TH	2	9	ylkl	figs-idiom	νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας	1		Here, night and day working is an idiom for excessive labor. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “we stayed busy working” or “we never stopped working” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
119	1TH	2	9	kedf	figs-idiom	πρὸς τὸ μὴ ἐπιβαρῆσαί τινα ὑμῶν	1		Paul speaks figuratively of the apostles as if they were a heavy weight or pack (See note at 2:7). Alternative translation, “so that none of you would have to financially support us” or “so that we would not impose on anyone” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
120	1TH	2	9	tw00	grammar-connect-logic-goal	πρὸς τὸ μὴ	1		This introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why the apostles worked so much. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: See the UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
121	1TH	2	9	ezqn	figs-possession	τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		Again, the phrase the gospel of God is used to indicate that the apostles’ message is of Divine origin (See your translation at 2:2). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
122	1TH	2	10	re18	figs-metaphor	ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες καὶ ὁ Θεός	1		The apostles are appealing to the Thessalonian church and God to validate their gospel message and personal motives (See also 2:5). They figuratively speak as if they are summoning both the church and God as a witness to testify on their behalf before a judge. If your readers would not understand what this phrase means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “You are our witnesses, as well as God himself” or “As well as God, you can personally testified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
123	1TH	2	10	h52a	figs-ellipsis	ὑμεῖς μάρτυρες καὶ ὁ Θεός	1		In this phrase, Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “As well as God, you can personally testified” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
124	1TH	2	10	il3e	figs-litany	ὡς ὁσίως, καὶ δικαίως, καὶ ἀμέμπτως, ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν ἐγενήθημεν	1	holy, and righteous, and blameless	Paul uses a repetitive series of proofs of the apostles’ godly behavior in 2:10-12. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” This is a list of the evidence for which the Thessalonian Church and God are evoked as witnesses. Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone has done right. Alternate translation: “just how faithful, and just, and innocent we conducted ourselves toward you believers in God” or “how we acted reverently, and fairly, and blamelessly while visiting the faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
125	1TH	2	10	ufdv	figs-yousingular	ὑμεῖς…ὑμῖν	1	holy, and righteous, and blameless	The pronouns You and you are plural and refer to all the believers in God at Thessalonica. Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “You all … among all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
126	1TH	2	11	oug6		καθάπερ οἴδατε ὡς ἕνα ἕκαστον ὑμῶν	1		Again, Paul places just as you know in a position that gives it special emphasis (See also 2:2,5). It is another way of saying “you {are} witnesses” (See 2:10. Paul is appealing to the Thessalonian church’s own experience of the apostles’ godly behavior, to prove their gospel message comes from God (See 2:9). Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “just as you each and every one of you are well aware” or “just as each one of you experienced for yourself”
127	1TH	2	11	i58m	figs-simile	ὡς πατὴρ τέκνα ἑαυτοῦ	1	as a father his own children	The point of Paul’s comparison is that the apostles are like fathers who model and instruct in proper behavior for their children. They see themselves as spiritual fathers to the Thessalonian Church, so they nurture them in the Christian faith like a father would care for the overall well-being of his own children. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent comparison or express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “like a father nurtures his own children” or “just as a father cares for his own children” or “like a father trains his own children” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
128	1TH	2	12	m91e	figs-litany	παρακαλοῦντες ὑμᾶς, καὶ παραμυθούμενοι, καὶ μαρτυρόμενοι…ὑμᾶς	1	exhorting you and encouraging and testifying for you	Paul uses a repetitive series of verb forms to show how the apostles have instructed the Thessalonian church like caring fathers would. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” These words are meant to instill a sense of urgency. Use a form in your language that someone would use to inspire people to live godly. Alternate translation: “encouraging and cheering you up and acting as your witness” or “We kept instructing you through appeals, encouragement, and our own personal example” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
129	1TH	2	12	clhg		παρακαλοῦντες…μαρτυρόμενοι	1		These verbal forms also describe the apostles’ fatherly behavior toward the Thessalonian Church. These forms can be expressed in a number of ways: (1) result. Alternate translation: “with the result that we kept exhorting … testifying” (2) means. Alternate translation: “by exhorting … testifying” (3) manner. Alternate translation: “how we kept exhorting … testifying”
130	1TH	2	12	afop	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		This phrase is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for the apostles’ appeals. He wants the Thessalonian church to live worthily of God. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “that you must honor God by how you live” or “so that you would live how God desires” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
131	1TH	2	12	go6b	figs-possession	εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν ὑμᾶς ἀξίως τοῦ Θεοῦ	1		Paul use of the possessive phrase of God could refer to: (1) God giving honor. Alternate translation: “to live in a way that God considers worthy” or “to live in a way that God honors” (2) God’s people as recipients of honor. “to live in a way that shows you are worthy of being God’s people” (3) God as recipient of honor. Alternate translation: “to live in a way that honors God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
132	1TH	2	12	udek	figs-metaphor	εἰς τὸ περιπατεῖν	1		Here, to walk is a metaphor that means “to live.” If your readers would not understand what it means to walk in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “to habitually live” or “for you to continue to live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
133	1TH	2	12	v9ph	figs-distinguish	τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς	1		This phrase gives us further information about God, and describes what he is doing through the apostles’ teachings. If this is not understood in your language, you can make the relationship between these phrases clearer. Alternate translation: “he is the one who continues to summon you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
134	1TH	2	12	b0by	figs-parallelism	τοῦ καλοῦντος ὑμᾶς	1		Here, who is calling you is a parallelism that equates the apostles’ exhorting, encouraging, and testifying with God’s calling. See also 2:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
135	1TH	2	12	vbd2	figs-hendiadys	εἰς τὴν ἑαυτοῦ βασιλείαν καὶ δόξαν	1		This phrase into his own kingdom and glory expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word glory describes what the kingdom is like. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use and. Alternate translation: “into his own glorious kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
136	1TH	2	13	au3b	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ διὰ τοῦτο καὶ ἡμεῖς εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ ἀδιαλείπτως	1	General Information:	This phrase And because of this indicates that what follows are the reasons why the apostles are thankful for the Thessalonian Church. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases to make this explicit. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
137	1TH	2	13	zja7	figs-hyperbole	καὶ ἡμεῖς εὐχαριστοῦμεν τῷ Θεῷ ἀδιαλείπτως	1		This phrase uses exaggeration to emphasize the apostles’ gratitude (See also 1:2). Here, constantly does not mean “every moment.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows intense gratitude. Alternate translation: “We ourselves habitually thank” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
138	1TH	2	13	ruy0		ἡμεῖς	1		Here, Paul uses the word we to emphasize how thankful the apostles are. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “we personally” or “we ourselves”
139	1TH	2	13	ei3j	figs-distinguish	ὅτι παραλαβόντες λόγον ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐδέξασθε	1	General Information:	This clause explains why the apostles are thankful. If this is not understood in your language, you can make the relationship between these phrases more clear. See UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
140	1TH	2	13	i39s	figs-events	ὅτι παραλαβόντες λόγον ἀκοῆς παρ’ ἡμῶν τοῦ Θεοῦ, ἐδέξασθε	1	General Information:	Paul is stressing that it is the word of God that the apostles reported. This is why he first mentions that the Thessalonians received the word of God, before mentioning that they heard it. If this is confusing in your language, you could make the order of events clear. Alternate translation: “that when we told you God’s message, you heard it, and then accepted it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])
141	1TH	2	13	dr6q	figs-litany	ὅτι	1		Here, that marks a repetitive series of reasons in 2:13-14 that explain why the apostles are thankful for the Thessalonian church. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone has done right. See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
142	1TH	2	13	zj5f	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ καθὼς ἀληθῶς ἐστὶν	1	not as the word of man	Paul uses this contrasting clause to strongly negate the idea that the apostles’ message is of human origin. Use a natural way in your language for introducing an emphatic contrast. Alternate translation: “but in fact what it really is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
143	1TH	2	13	f6ta	figs-metonymy	λόγον ἀνθρώπων…λόγον Θεοῦ	1		Paul uses the phrase the word figuratively to represent a message that is made up of words. Here, the word of man refers to a message of human origin. In contrast, the word of God refers to the same message called “the gospel of God” in 2:8-9. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression. Alternate translation: “a human message … God’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
144	1TH	2	13	ci1e	figs-personification	ὃς καὶ ἐνεργεῖται ἐν ὑμῖν τοῖς πιστεύουσιν	1	which is also working in you who believe	The apostles refer to God’s gospel message figuratively as if it were a person or tool doing work. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “and God is energizing you faithful ones with this message” or “and God is activating this message among you who trust in him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
145	1TH	2	13	z89g	writing-pronouns	ὃς	1	which is also working in you who believe	Here, the pronoun which could refer to God or the word. Alternate translation: “and God” or “and God’s word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
146	1TH	2	13	x7oi	figs-yousingular	ἐν ὑμῖν	1		Here, the pronoun you is plural and refers to all the believers in God at Thessalonica (See 2:10). Your language may require you to mark this form. Alternate translation: “among all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-yousingular]])
147	1TH	2	14	mh8n	writing-background		0	became imitators of the churches	Verses 14-16 provide background information about how the Thessalonian Church suffered persecutions similar to the Judean Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
148	1TH	2	14	xopt	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γὰρ	1		For indicates that what follows is the proof of how God’s message is working among the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “Because” or “In fact” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
149	1TH	2	14	cj05	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
150	1TH	2	14	ij9j		μιμηταὶ ἐγενήθητε…τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν	1		Here, imitators is a noun that can be translated with a verb (See 1:6). Use a natural way in your language to express this idea. Alternate translation: “mimicked the churches” or “imitated the churches” or “copied the behavior of the churches”
151	1TH	2	14	g0t5	figs-metaphor	ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ	1		Here, Paul speaks figuratively of the churches of God … in Christ Jesus as though they were occupying space inside Jesus. This metaphor expresses the idea that believers are spiritually united to God and Jesus (See also 1:1. Here, it also highlights the communion that Thessalonian believers in Christ Jesus have with Judean believers in Christ Jesus through the Holy Trinity. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you can express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation, “who are united to Jesus Christ” or “who share life with Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
152	1TH	2	15	a6xd	writing-background	τῶν καὶ τὸν Κύριον ἀποκτεινάντων Ἰησοῦν, καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων	1		This is the specific content of the background information about the Jewish persecution of Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
153	1TH	2	15	pgzz	figs-merism	τῶν καὶ τὸν Κύριον ἀποκτεινάντων Ἰησοῦν, καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων	1		The whole history of the persecution of God’s people is summarized in three parts: the killing of Old Testament prophets, the crucifixion of the Lord Jesus, and persecution of the apostles. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
154	1TH	2	15	ucaz	figs-events	τῶν καὶ τὸν Κύριον ἀποκτεινάντων Ἰησοῦν, καὶ τοὺς προφήτας, καὶ ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων	1		This list of those persecuted by the Jews is not chronological, but emphasizes the order of importance and intensity of persecution. If this is confusing in your language, you could make the order of events clear. Alternate translation: “who have killed the prophets, then the Lord Jesus, and finally persecuted us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-events]])
155	1TH	2	15	ihh7	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἡμᾶς ἐκδιωξάντων; καὶ Θεῷ μὴ ἀρεσκόντων, καὶ πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων	1		Here, and indicates that the following phrase is the result of Jews’ persecution. If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes.To emphasize God’s response toward the Jews’ persecution, you could begin a new sentence with God as the subject. Alternate translation: “have persecuted us and are enemies of all people. This is why God is continually displeased” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
156	1TH	2	15	tfc4	figs-parallelism	καὶ Θεῷ μὴ ἀρεσκόντων, καὶ πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων,	1		These two phrases mean similar things. These phrases are meant to express how the Jewish persecution of Christians is the same thing as opposing God himself. If it would be clearer in your language, you can combine the phrases into one clarifying idea. Alternate translation: “and they make themselves enemies of God by how hostile they are against the Jewish and Gentile churches” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
157	1TH	2	15	g6q1	figs-possession	πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις ἐναντίων,	1		Paul is using the possessive form of hostile to describe how the persecutors of the Christian Church are characterized by a hostile attitude. Alternate translation: “characterized by being opposed to all people types” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
158	1TH	2	15	dmxm	figs-ellipsis	ἐναντίων	1		Paul leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “are opposed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
159	1TH	2	15	pg9u	figs-synecdoche	πᾶσιν ἀνθρώποις	1		Paul refers figuratively to all men to mean “all people types” or “the whole human race.” Here, all men refers to two parts of humanity represented by Jews and Gentiles. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “to all people types” or “to all the nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
160	1TH	2	16	r5fi	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα σωθῶσιν	1		This purpose clause gives the reason why the Jews are trying to prevent the apostles from preaching the gospel to the Gentiles. Here, to speak expresses the way the Gentiles might be saved. This clause could refer to: (1) the Jews purposely trying to keep the Gentiles from salvation. Alternate translation: “to hinder the Gentiles from being saved” (2) how the speaking is for the purpose of saving the Gentiles. Alternate translation: “in order that the Gentiles can be saved” or “for the purpose of saving the nations” The clause could also refer to both ideas. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
161	1TH	2	16	n2ue	figs-metaphor	εἰς τὸ ἀναπληρῶσαι αὐτῶν τὰς ἁμαρτίας πάντοτε	1	to always fill up their own sins	Paul speaks figuratively of the Jews’ sins as if they fill a container. He means that these Jews sin so much and so extremely that they can never escape God’s wrath. If your readers would not understand what it means to to always fill up in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “causing them to always reach the limit of their sinfulness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
162	1TH	2	16	z5fr	grammar-connect-logic-result	εἰς τὸ ἀναπληρῶσαι	1		This result clause explains what will happen to the Jews for forbidding the apostles to speak to the Gentiles. Use a natural way in your language to indicate result. Alternate translation: “as a result, God will no longer forgive their many sins” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
163	1TH	2	16	jzjj	figs-pastforfuture	ἔφθασεν δὲ ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς ἡ ὀργὴ εἰς τέλος.	1		Paul is figuratively using the past tense in order to refer to something that will happen in the future. Paul is doing this to show that the event will certainly happen. If the use of the past tense here is confusing in your language, you could use the future tense. This phrase could refer to: (1) final judgment. Alternate translation: “In fact, final wrath will overtake them” (See also 5:9 (2) certain judgment. Alternate translation: “Certainly, their punishment has finally arrived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture]])
164	1TH	2	16	fq9m	grammar-connect-words-phrases	δὲ	1	wrath has come upon them in the end	Paul uses But to indicate that what follows is important. Here, But could refer to: (1) certainty. Alternate translation: “Certainly” or “In fact” (2) contrast. Alternate translation: “However” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
165	1TH	2	16	uwuq	figs-abstractnouns	ἔφθασεν δὲ ἐπ’ αὐτοὺς ἡ ὀργὴ	1	wrath has come upon them in the end	If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun the wrath in another way. Alternate translation: See UST. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
166	1TH	2	17	edb1	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἡμεῖς δέ, ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	The phrase But we, brothers expresses that this is a contrasting phrase that switches the attention back to the apostles’ relationship with the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
167	1TH	2	17	m5sf	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1		Although the term brothers is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both males and females. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
168	1TH	2	17	yhhy	figs-explicit	ἀπορφανισθέντες ἀφ’ ὑμῶν	1		Since the Greek word that ULT translates as having been separated from you can also mean “having been orphaned from you,” Paul may be revisiting the idea where the apostles affectionately compare themselves to “little children” in 2:7. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “since we have been apart from you we feel like orphans” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
169	1TH	2	17	lmpu	figs-idiom	πρὸς καιρὸν ὥρας	1		Here, for the time of an hour is an idiom that indicates a short time span. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “for short time” or “for a little while” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
170	1TH	2	17	vr7v	figs-metonymy	προσώπῳ οὐ καρδίᾳ	1	by face, not in heart	Here, heart represents the apostles’ concerns, feelings, and affections. Here, face represents the “person” or “physical presence”. Though the apostles were not physically present in Thessalonica, they continued to care about and show concern for their relationship with the church there. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “by distance, not in feeling” or “in person, not in affection” or “in presence, not in concern” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
171	1TH	2	17	yxzu	figs-parallelism	τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν ἐν πολλῇ ἐπιθυμίᾳ	1	to see your faces	Here, to see your faces, in much desire means the same thing as by face, not in heart. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to show that how much the apostles desire to visit the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language to express this idea. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
172	1TH	2	17	jgi2	figs-abstractnouns	τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν ἐν πολλῇ ἐπιθυμίᾳ.	1	to see your faces	If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun desire in another way. It can also be translated as an active phrase. Alternate translation: “deeply desiring to see you in person” or “passionately longing to see your faces” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
173	1TH	2	17	ot1s	figs-idiom	τὸ πρόσωπον ὑμῶν ἰδεῖν	1	to see your faces	The phrase to see your faces is an idiom meaning to visit. Here, it expresses the apostles’ strong desire to personally visit and share spiritual intimacy with the Thessalonian church. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “to visit you” or “to spend quality time with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
174	1TH	2	18	zlny	grammar-connect-words-phrases	διότι	1	to see your faces	Here, For indicates that what follows is background information for why Paul had not yet visited. Alternate translation: “Indeed” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
175	1TH	2	18	pnw3	figs-go	ἐλθεῖν	1	to see your faces	Your language may say “go” rather than come in contexts such as this. Use whichever is more natural. Alternate translation: “to go” or “to travel” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
176	1TH	2	18	n0jl	figs-ellipsis	ἐγὼ μὲν Παῦλος, καὶ ἅπαξ καὶ δίς	1	to see your faces	In this phrase, Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “I Paul personally tried to come twice” or “Indeed, I, Paul tried to go two times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
177	1TH	2	18	uqg6	figs-rpronouns	ἐγὼ μὲν Παῦλος	1	to see your faces	Here, Paul uses the pronoun I and indeed to emphasize that he personally tried to visit the Thessalonian church. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
178	1TH	2	18	yj0w	figs-idiom	καὶ ἅπαξ καὶ δίς	1	to see your faces	Here, the phrase both once and twice means repeatedly. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “twice” or “many times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
179	1TH	2	18	crv7	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	καὶ	1	to see your faces	What follows the word but here is in contrast to what was expected, that Paul would visit the Thessalonian Church. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but Satan stopped us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
180	1TH	2	18	uuae	figs-explicit	καὶ ἐνέκοψεν	1	to see your faces	Since the Greek word that ULT translates as hindered often means “cut off” or “beat in,” Paul may be stressing the violent nature of Satan’s obstruction. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say this explicitly. Alternate translation: “powerfully prevented us” or “violently obstructed us” or “cut off our route” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
181	1TH	2	19	j7j5	figs-rquestion		0	For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of boasting? Is it not even you before our Lord Jesus at his coming?	Paul uses these rhetorical questions here to emphasize why the apostles want to visit the Thessalonian church. If you would not use rhetorical questions for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: See UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
182	1TH	2	19	mj9n	figs-personification	ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	our hope … Is it not even you	Here, hope joy and crown are spoken of figuratively as if they were the people in the Thessalonian church. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because who makes us hopeful? Who causes us to rejoice? Who gives us reason to boast victoriously?” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
183	1TH	2	19	ulj7	figs-ellipsis	τίς γὰρ ἡμῶν ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως? ἢ οὐχὶ καὶ	1	our hope … Is it not even you	Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “Indeed, what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting? Or is it not it you too”
184	1TH	2	19	jfak	figs-personification	ἐλπὶς ἢ χαρὰ ἢ στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	our hope … Is it not even you	Here, hope, joy, and crown of boasting are spoken of figuratively as if these concepts are the Thessalonian church. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because who makes us hopeful? Who causes us to rejoice? Who gives us reason to boast victoriously?”(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
185	1TH	2	19	e7tl	figs-metonymy	στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	crown of boasting	Here, crown refers figuratively to a laurel wreath awarded to victorious athletes. The expression crown of boasting means a reward for victory, or having competed well. The proof the apostles’ success will ultimately be displayed at the Second Coming of Christ, if the Thessalonian Church remains faithful to God (See 4:13-5:11). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “reward for victory” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
186	1TH	2	19	uvb4	figs-possession	στέφανος καυχήσεως	1	crown of boasting	Paul is using this possessive form to describe either: (1) product of boasting. Alternate translation: “crown that produces boasting” (2) means of boasting. Alternate translation: “crown through which we boast” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
187	1TH	2	19	h7gh	figs-metonymy	ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ	1	crown of boasting	Here, before refers to location or sphere, used as a substitute for “in front of” or “in the presence of.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “in the presence of our Lord Jesus” or “in front of our Lord Jesus” or “in the sight of our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
188	1TH	2	19	mksc	figs-idiom	ἐν τῇ αὐτοῦ παρουσίᾳ	1	crown of boasting	Here, his coming is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ (See 3:13) or the “Day of the Lord” (See 5:2). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “at his Second Coming” or “when he arrives again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
189	1TH	2	20	l3m0	figs-parallelism	ὑμεῖς γάρ ἐστε ἡ δόξα ἡμῶν, καὶ ἡ χαρά	1	crown of boasting	This verse means the same thing as “our hope or joy or crown of boasting” in 2:19. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize that he is genuinely pleased with the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
190	1TH	2	20	d8dz	figs-rpronouns	ὑμεῖς	1	crown of boasting	Paul uses the word you to emphasize how the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness to God brings honor and joy to the apostles. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
191	1TH	2	20	nlbd	figs-personification	ὑμεῖς γάρ ἐστε ἡ δόξα ἡμῶν, καὶ ἡ χαρά	1	crown of boasting	Here, the Thessalonian church is figuratively compared to the abstract concepts of glory and joy. If this might be confusing for your readers, you could express this meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because of you, God will honor us and make us rejoice” or “Certainly, we will become glorified and rejoice because of you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
192	1TH	3	intro	j379			0		1 Thessalonians 3 General Notes Outline of 1 Thessalonians 3 Timothy’s Visit (3:1-5) Apostolic concern (3:1-2) Apostolic encouragement (3:3-5) Timothy’s Report (3:6-13) Good news (3:6-10) Apostolic prayer (3:11-13) Structure and formatting The first part of this chapter recounts Timothy’s visit to Thessalonica. The second part tells about his report to Paul and Silvanus at Athens. Lastly, the apostles offer a prayer on behalf of the Thessalonian Church. “We” and “you” In this letter, the words we and our refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Throughout the letter, we and our is used to convey that all three apostles are in agreement with the letter. Special concepts in this chapter Metaphor In this chapter, the Apostle Paul uses the phrase “stand firm” in 3:8 as a metaphor of faithfulness to the Gospel, and “be shaken” in 3:3) as the opposite of being faithful. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faithful]]) Use a building metaphor, the apostles pray that God will “strengthen the “hearts” of the Thessalonian Church “blameless” (See 3:13. The enemy of God’s people, “Satan” (See 2:18) is here called “the tempter” (See 3:5). Hyperbole Paul uses emotional and extreme language when speaking of his memory of the Thessalonian church. “Enduring it no longer,” the apostles and especially Paul (See 3:1,5), feel compelled to find out about the spiritual condition of the church. The intensity and duration the apostles’ prayers is described as “night and day pleading earnestly” (See 3:10). The Second Coming of Christ Here, the apostles pray that the Thessalonian Church will be preserved holy when Christ comes again with all his holy ones, or “saints” (See 3:13.
193	1TH	3	1	fqe3	grammar-connect-logic-result	διὸ μηκέτι στέγοντες, ηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι ἐν Ἀθήναις μόνοι,	1	enduring it no longer	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “We thought it proper to stay behind in Athens alone, because we could not restrain ourselves any longer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
194	1TH	3	1	zvgz	grammar-connect-words-phrases	διὸ	1	enduring it no longer	Here, Therefore indicates a return to the topic of a visit from the apostles (See 2:17-18). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
195	1TH	3	1	amxf	figs-hyperbole	διὸ μηκέτι στέγοντες	1	enduring it no longer	This phrase uses extreme exaggeration to express the apostles’ deep desire to visit the Thessalonian church (See 2:17). The word translated enduring can also convey the concept of keeping water out of a ship or trying to contain or holding something back. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that communicates anxious longing. Alternate translation: “Thus, since we could not bear to wait any longer” or “Therefore, because we could not ignore these emotions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
196	1TH	3	1	n47x	figs-explicit	ηὐδοκήσαμεν καταλειφθῆναι ἐν Ἀθήναις μόνοι	1	we thought it good to be left behind at Athens alone	The assumed knowledge is that we and alone refer to Paul and Silvanus (and perhaps Timothy), since in 3:2 it says “we sent Timothy.” If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “Silas and I thought it was good idea to remain alone in Athens” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
197	1TH	3	2	q1f7	grammar-connect-words-phrases	καὶ	1	our brother and a servant	Here, and indicates that what follows is the result of the apostles’ desire to visit the Thessalonian church. You can make this clear in your translation with more explicit connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “Even though this was true” or “So” or “This is why” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
198	1TH	3	2	vsoo	figs-exclusive	ἐπέμψαμεν…ἡμῶν	1	our brother and a servant	When Paul says we and our, he is exclusively speaking of himself and Silvanus. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
199	1TH	3	2	d8yy	figs-distinguish	τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν, καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	This phrase gives us further information about Timothy. It is meant to clarify that he is authorized by the apostles and God himself. If this is not understood in your language, you can make the relationship between these phrases more clear. Alternate translation: “and we sent Timothy who is our fellow worker and an authorized servant of God” or “and we sent Timothy. He is our assistant and God’s authorized servant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
200	1TH	3	2	yyio	figs-metaphor	τὸν ἀδελφὸν ἡμῶν, καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	Here, the metaphors our brother and servant refer to Timothy as a fellow apostle. If your readers would not understand what brother or servant mean in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “he assists us and ministers for God in the preaching of the gospel about Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
201	1TH	3	2	lkvo	figs-possession	καὶ διάκονον τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	Here, servant of God likely refer to these ideas: (1) a servant in general. Alternate translation: “and a minister of God” or “and assistant to God” (2) office of deacon. Alternate translation: “and a deacon of God” or “who also serves God as a deacon” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
202	1TH	3	2	dsnc		ἐν	1	our brother and a servant	This preposition in could convey a few different nuances of meaning: (1) Association. Alternate translation: “associated with” or “partnering in” (2) Cause. Alternate translation: “for the cause of” or “for the sake of” (3) Instrument. Alternate translation: “through” or “by means of”
203	1TH	3	2	pqif	figs-possession	τοῦ Χριστοῦ	1	our brother and a servant	Paul is most likely using the possessive form to refer to the gospel that is “about” Christ. If this is not clear in your language, you could replace of with “about.” Alternate translation: “about Christ” or concerning Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
204	1TH	3	2	x4vx	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμᾶς καὶ παρακαλέσαι	1	our brother and a servant	This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why he and Silvanus sent Timothy. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you would be confirmed and consoled” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
205	1TH	3	3	u7vo	figs-abstractnouns	τὸ μηδένα σαίνεσθαι ἐν ταῖς θλίψεσιν ταύταις	1	no one be disturbed	If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun afflictions in another way. Alternate translation: “so that being distressed would not make anyone waver” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
206	1TH	3	3	o4w8	grammar-connect-logic-goal	τὸ μηδένα σαίνεσθαι	1	no one be disturbed	This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for sending Timothy. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “in order that no one would waver” or “for the purpose of keeping anyone from being deceived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
207	1TH	3	3	v8q7	grammar-collectivenouns	μηδένα σαίνεσθαι	1	no one be disturbed	The word no one is singular noun that refers to a group of people. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “no person wavers” or “none of you are deceived” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
208	1TH	3	3	t0vs	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε	1	no one be disturbed	Paul uses the word yourselves to emphasize what the apostles had previously told them about afflictions. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “In fact, you know for yourselves” or “Certainly, you are well aware of the fact” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
209	1TH	3	3	cdaa	grammar-collectivenouns	εἰς τοῦτο	1	no one be disturbed	The word this is a singular pronoun that equates afflictions with a condition or state of being. If your language does not use singular pronouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “for this very thing” or “for this purpose” or “for this destiny” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
210	1TH	3	3	rkx9	figs-explicit	κείμεθα	1	we are appointed	Paul assumes that the Thessalonian church knows that it is God who appointed the apostles for afflictions. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “God appointed us” or “God destined us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
211	1TH	3	3	gla7	figs-exclusive	κείμεθα	1	we are appointed	Here, we refers exclusively to the apostles. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: See UST (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
212	1TH	3	4	nm1l	writing-background	καὶ γὰρ ὅτε πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἦμεν, προελέγομεν ὑμῖν ὅτι μέλλομεν θλίβεσθαι, καθὼς καὶ ἐγένετο καὶ οἴδατε.	1	to suffer affliction	Paul is giving background information about his previous visit. He encourages the Thessalonian church that he sent Timothy to remind them of what he had already told them about apostolic sufferings. Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. Alternate translation: “Indeed, the last time we visited you, we kept telling you before it happened, ‘We are destined to be afflicted.’ You are well aware that it happened exactly as we told you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
213	1TH	3	4	wo6q	figs-exclusive	ἦμεν	1	to suffer affliction	Here, we is exclusive of the apostles. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “we apostles were” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
214	1TH	3	4	w95u	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γὰρ	1	to suffer affliction	Here, For indicates that what follows explains and emphasizes what the Thessalonian already know about the apostles’ afflictions. Alternate translation: “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
215	1TH	3	4	wuco	figs-quotations	προελέγομεν ὑμῖν ὅτι μέλλομεν θλίβεσθαι	1	to suffer affliction	Here, that could either express emphasis or be a quotation marker of what the apostles said. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this as a direct quotation. Alternate translation: “we kept telling you ahead of time, ‘We are destined to endure distress.’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-quotations]])
216	1TH	3	4	a5y6		καὶ ἐγένετο	1	to suffer affliction	Here, and it happened is meant to emphasize Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy’s apostolic credentials by verifying that their prophetic words came true.
217	1TH	3	5	tj4e	writing-participants	διὰ τοῦτο κἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων, ἔπεμψα εἰς τὸ γνῶναι τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν	1	I also no longer enduring it	Here, Paul summarizes the story of Timothy’s visit, but leaves out mention of Timothy as redundant information. If it is clearer in your language, you could include mention of Timothy. Alternate translation: “Again, since I could not wait anymore, I sent Timothy to learn if you still trust in God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-participants]])
218	1TH	3	5	o9ep	figs-parallelism	κἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων, ἔπεμψα	1	I also no longer enduring it	Paul repeats the same phrase no longer enduring it found in 3:1. Here, I … sent parallels “we … sent” in 3:1-2. This expresses that Paul represents the apostles who sent Timothy to Thessalonica. Use a natural way in language to indicate this parallelism. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
219	1TH	3	5	st3d	figs-hyperbole	κἀγὼ μηκέτι στέγων	1	I also no longer enduring it	This phrase is an exaggeration that Paul uses to express deep concern. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows deep concern. See your translation at 3:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
220	1TH	3	5	zn36	figs-explicit	ἔπεμψα	1	sent	Here, it is implied that Paul sent Timothy. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “I, Paul, sent Timothy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
221	1TH	3	5	judq	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ γνῶναι τὴν πίστιν ὑμῶν	1	sent	This is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why he sent Timothy. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that I could learn if you remained faithful” or “in order to discern if you still trust God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
222	1TH	3	5	nopp	figs-idiom	ὁ πειράζων	1	our labor	Here Paul uses the phrase the tempter as a title to identify Satan (See Matthew 4:3). The phrase means “one who tempts.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use a phrase. Alternate translation: “Satan, the one who tempts”
223	1TH	3	5	ua7i	figs-hypo	μή πως ἐπείρασεν ὑμᾶς ὁ πειράζων, καὶ	1	our labor	Paul is using a hypothetical situation to help his readers recognize how powerful satanic temptation can be. Use the natural form in your language for expressing a hypothetical situation. Alternate translation: “because if Satan tempted you, I wanted to find out, then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
224	1TH	3	5	gnow	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ εἰς κενὸν γένηται ὁ κόπος ἡμῶν	1	our labor	This phrase could be a result clause. Paul is stating what would be the result if the Thessalonian church let Satan tempt them to stop trusting God. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a result clause. Alternate translation: “then how hard we worked would have been worthless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
225	1TH	3	5	g92s	figs-synecdoche	καὶ εἰς κενὸν γένηται ὁ κόπος ἡμῶν	1	our labor	Paul refers figuratively to labor to mean what spiritual or physical labor produces. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “then our hard labor would have yielded no profit” or “then our toiling would be for nothing” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
226	1TH	3	5	jnzb	figs-hyperbole	εἰς κενὸν	1	our labor	Here, in vain is an exaggeration that Paul uses to express how sad the apostles would be if the Thessalonian Church did not remain faithful to God. Paul does not really think the apostles’ labor is worthless. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows deep disappointment. Alternate translation: “worthless” or “purposeless” or “profitless” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
227	1TH	3	6	esxw	grammar-connect-time-background		0	Connecting Statement:	In 3:6 Paul describes Timothy’s current report about the Thessalonian church. Paul provides this background information to help his readers understand how comforted he is (See 3:7).Use the natural form in your language for expressing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
228	1TH	3	6	r4pa	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ἄρτι δὲ ἐλθόντος Τιμοθέου πρὸς ἡμᾶς ἀφ’ ὑμῶν	1	Connecting Statement:	The phrase But just now brings Paul’s narrative into the present time. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “But recently Timothy returned to us from visiting you” or “But now Timothy is back to us from his visit with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
229	1TH	3	6	gci4	figs-exclusive	πρὸς ἡμᾶς	1	to us	This is an exclusive use of us, referring to Paul and Silvanus. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: See UST (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
230	1TH	3	6	x9u8	figs-litany	τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν, καὶ ὅτι ἔχετε μνείαν ἡμῶν ἀγαθὴν πάντοτε, ἐπιποθοῦντες ἡμᾶς ἰδεῖν, καθάπερ καὶ ἡμεῖς ὑμᾶς	1	to us	Paul uses a short list in 3:6 to describe the feelings the Thessalonian church has toward the apostles. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things that someone has done right. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
231	1TH	3	6	tu8d	figs-abstractnouns	τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν	1	of your faith	If your language does not use abstract nouns for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract nouns faith and love in another way. Alternate translation: “that you remain faithful to God and love him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
232	1TH	3	6	fu8h	figs-hendiadys	τὴν πίστιν καὶ τὴν ἀγάπην ὑμῶν	1	of your faith	This phrase could express a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word faith could describe love. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use and. Alternate translation: “your faithful love” or “your faithful love toward God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
233	1TH	3	6	tf95	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ ὅτι ἔχετε μνείαν ἡμῶν ἀγαθὴν πάντοτε, ἐπιποθοῦντες ἡμᾶς ἰδεῖν	1	you always have good memories	This phrase could indicate a result clause. If it would be clearer in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “and you constantly desire to visit with us, because you always remember us fondly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
234	1TH	3	6	e6kx	figs-abstractnouns	καὶ ὅτι ἔχετε μνείαν ἡμῶν ἀγαθὴν πάντοτε	1	you always have good memories	If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun memories in another way. Alternate translation: “and how you always remember us fondly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
235	1TH	3	7	dpij	grammar-connect-logic-result	διὰ τοῦτο παρεκλήθημεν, ἀδελφοί, ἐφ’ ὑμῖν	1	brothers	This phrase is a result clause. Paul is stating the result of the Timothy’s good news in [3:6])../03/06.md). Use a natural way in your language for introducing a result clause. Alternate translation: “Fellow believers in Christ, as a result of Timothy’s good news about you, God consoled us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
236	1TH	3	7	csz7	figs-hendiadys	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν	1	in all our distress and affliction	This phrase expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word distress describes the affliction. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use and. Here, this phrase emphasizes how much and how intensely the apostles were persecuted. Alternate translation: “in all our abusive affliction” or “in all our violent suffering” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
237	1TH	3	7	e96u	figs-abstractnouns	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ ἀνάγκῃ καὶ θλίψει ἡμῶν	1	in all our distress and affliction	If your language does not use an abstract noun phrase for these ideas, you could express the ideas behind this abstract noun phrase in another way. Here, it could refer to: (1) time of distress and affliction. Alternate translation: “during all our abuse and affliction” or “each time we violently suffered” (2) place or way of distress and affliction. Alternate translation: “in every place the tempter violently afflicted us” or “in every way we suffered abuse” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
238	1TH	3	8	utk3	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὅτι νῦν ζῶμεν, ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Since you are remaining faithful to the Lord Jesus, we are now refreshed!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
239	1TH	3	7	k54j	figs-abstractnouns	διὰ τῆς ὑμῶν πίστεως	1	because of your faith	If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun faith in another way. Alternate translation: “because you remain faithful to God” or “through your faithfulness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
240	1TH	3	8	y1vb	figs-hyperbole	ὅτι νῦν ζῶμεν	1	we live	Here, For now we live is an exaggeration that Paul uses to show how thankful he is that the Thessalonians stand firm in the Christian faith (See 3:7). Paul is not trying to say that he was dead. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that shows thankfulness. Alternate translation (replace the comma): “O how we are now refreshed!” or “O how we now feel alive!” or “Certainly now we thrive!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
241	1TH	3	8	x4zn	figs-idiom	ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	Here, the term stand firm is an idiom meaning “remain faithful.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “when you remain faithful to the Lord” or “if you continue unwavering in your relationship with the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
242	1TH	3	8	zbyo	grammar-connect-condition-fact	ἐὰν ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “since you are remaining faithful to the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
243	1TH	3	8	hk91	figs-metaphor	ὑμεῖς στήκετε ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	Paul speaks figuratively of the Thessalonian church as though they were occupying space inside the Lord Jesus. Here, this metaphor could express these ideas: (1) devotion to Jesus. Alternate translation: “you are really devoted to the Lord Jesus” (2) relationship with Jesus. Alternate translation: “you are truly standing firm in your relationship with the Lord Jesus” (3) union with Jesus. Alternate translation: “all of you are firmly united to the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
244	1TH	3	8	e3pe	figs-rpronouns	ὑμεῖς	1	if you stand firm in the Lord	Paul uses the word yourselves to emphasize his joy for the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternative translation: “indeed you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
245	1TH	3	9	pzq7	figs-rquestion	τίνα γὰρ εὐχαριστίαν δυνάμεθα τῷ Θεῷ ἀνταποδοῦναι περὶ ὑμῶν, ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν δι’ ὑμᾶς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν.	1	For what thanks are we able to give back to God concerning you, for all the joy in which we rejoice before our God because of you,	Paul is using a rhetorical question that continues to the end of 3:10 in order to emphasize the apostles’ thankful joy for the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness to God. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement or an exclamation and communicate the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “We could not possibly thank God enough for what he has done for you! When we pray to our God, we greatly rejoice because of you!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
246	1TH	3	9	pdc5	figs-metaphor	τίνα γὰρ εὐχαριστίαν δυνάμεθα τῷ Θεῷ ἀνταποδοῦναι περὶ ὑμῶν	1	before our God	With the phrase give back, Paul speaks figuratively of the apostles as if they owe God a debt for the sake of the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness. Paul means that the apostles cannot express how thankful they are. If your readers would not understand what it means to give back in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “Because, how could we possibly show how grateful we are to God for you” or “Indeed, what kind of thanksgiving could we give in exchange for you to repay our debt to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
247	1TH	3	9	j6pj	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν δι’ ὑμᾶς, ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν	1	before our God	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Since this is a rhetorical question, you could change it to a statement, and begin a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Because of you, we greatly rejoice when we pray to God!” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
248	1TH	3	9	u00t	figs-doublet	ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ χαρᾷ ᾗ χαίρομεν	1	before our God	These words mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how much joy the apostles have because of the Thessalonian church’s faithfulness to God. Alternate translation: “for how much we greatly rejoice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
249	1TH	3	9	p5ka	figs-idiom	χαίρομεν…ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν	1	before our God	Here, before our God is an idiom for being in the personal presence of God. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “we rejoice in the presence of our God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
250	1TH	3	10	k71n	figs-hyperbole	νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας, ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ δεόμενοι	1	earnestly	This emphatic phrase is an exaggeration that Paul uses to show how much and often the apostles pray for the Thessalonian church. Paul does not mean to say he never does anything else except pray. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language that expresses this emphasis. Alternate translation: “we never stop intensely pleading” or “we continually and fervently praying” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
251	1TH	3	10	eb26	figs-idiom	εἰς τὸ ἰδεῖν ὑμῶν τὸ πρόσωπον	1	to see your face	Here, the phrase to see your face is an idiom meaning “visit.” If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “to visit you” or “to spend time with you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
252	1TH	3	10	s0xz	figs-synecdoche	ὑμῶν τὸ πρόσωπον	1	to see your face	Paul refers figuratively to your face to mean the whole Thessalonian church. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your culture or plain language. Alternate translation: “all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
253	1TH	3	10	e5fh	figs-abstractnouns	καὶ καταρτίσαι τὰ ὑστερήματα τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν	1	to see your face	If your language does not use an abstract noun phrase for this idea, you could express the idea behind the abstract noun faith in another way (See also 2:17). Alternate translation: “and to provide support so that you remain faithful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
254	1TH	3	11	tet9	grammar-connect-words-phrases	δὲ…κατευθύναι	1	General Information:	Here, But…may…direct indicate that this verse is the beginning of a prayer that continues through 3:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
255	1TH	3	11	mc2m	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸς	1	may our God and Father … direct	Paul uses the word himself to distinguish our God and Father from our Lord Jesus. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this distinction. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
256	1TH	3	11	f3wh	figs-hendiadys	ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν	1	our God and Father … our Lord	Here, our God and Father refers to the one divine person who is both God and Father. This phrase is a hendiadys, since Father further describes God (See also 1:3). Alternate translation: “God our Father” or “our Father God” (See: rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys)
257	1TH	3	11	bql9	figs-exclusive	ἡμῶν…ἡμῶν…ἡμῶν	1	our God and Father … our Lord	It is possible that these first two uses of our are inclusive of the the whole Christian Church. Yet, the third use of our exclusively refers to the apostles. So, it is most likely that our refers exclusively to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy in this whole verse (see also 1:9, 2:1, 3:9). Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
258	1TH	3	11	um1c	figs-metaphor	κατευθύναι τὴν ὁδὸν ἡμῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς.	1	may … direct our way to you	Paul speaks figuratively about God as if he was a pilot or captain of a ship. Paul means that he wants God to allow the apostles to visit the Thessalonian church again. If your readers would not understand what may … direct our way to you means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “O that … would quickly bring us to you!” or “to direct our voyage so that we can visit you” or (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
259	1TH	3	12	o80n	figs-metaphor	τῇ ἀγάπῃ	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	Paul speaks figuratively of love as something that can be quantified or measured. He means that he hopes the Thessalonian church will keep loving people well. If your readers would not understand what in love means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternate translation: “lovingly increase and abound” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
260	1TH	3	12	f4ma	figs-doublet	πλεονάσαι καὶ περισσεύσαι	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	These two words mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how much the apostles want the Thessalonian church to keep increasing in their love for all people. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “completely excel” or “fully thrive” or (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
261	1TH	3	12	ofl2	figs-merism	εἰς ἀλλήλους, καὶ εἰς πάντας	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	Paul speaks figuratively, using these phrases in order to include the whole human race. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “toward each and every person” or “toward the whole human race” or “toward Christians and non-Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
262	1TH	3	12	dm6c		καθάπερ καὶ ἡμεῖς εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	may the Lord make you increase and abound in love	Here, just as we also toward you is an emphatic phrase meant to reinforce the deep love the apostles have for the Thessalonian church (also in 3:6). Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “in the same way we love you”
263	1TH	3	13	ms8t	figs-abstractnouns	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας, ἀμέμπτους ἐν ἁγιωσύνῃ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	If your language does not use abstract nouns for these ideas, you could express the ideas behind these abstract noun phrases in another way. Alternate translation: “so that the Lord establishes you with innocent affections that are appropriate for those who belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
264	1TH	3	13	ly21	figs-metaphor	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας	1	to strengthen your hearts, blameless	Paul speaks figuratively of the Thessalonian church as if they have one heart that is like a building that can be established or supported. He means that he wants God to increase their willpower or affections so that they would remain faithful to God. If your readers would not understand what this phrase means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “to establish your affections” or “to strengthen your will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
265	1TH	3	13	taws	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς τὸ στηρίξαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας	1	to strengthen your hearts, blameless	This phrase is a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for why he prays that God will increase the Thessalonian church’s love for all people. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that the Lord will establish your affections for him” or “in order that the Lord will strengthen your willpower” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
266	1TH	3	13	jev8	figs-doublet	ἀμέμπτους ἐν ἁγιωσύνῃ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize total sanctification. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. This phrase could refer to: (1) condition of holiness. Alternate translation: “blameless in a condition of holiness” (2) means of holiness. Alternate translation: “blameless through holiness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
267	1TH	3	13	p12j	figs-idiom	ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ Θεοῦ καὶ Πατρὸς ἡμῶν	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	This phrase an idiom for being in the personal presence of God (See 3:9). If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “in the presence of our Father God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
268	1TH	3	13	vnsi	figs-explicit	ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ, μετὰ πάντων τῶν ἁγίων αὐτοῦ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	This is a reference to the Zechariah 14:5 (See also 2 Thessalonians 1:7,10; Jude 14). The implication is that these saints are all those who are blameless in holiness who have already died (See 4:14). If it would be helpful to your readers, you could say that explicitly. Alternate translation: “at the time the Lord Jesus arrives along with all his holy people who have already died” or “when the Lord Jesus returns a second time with all those reposed people who belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
269	1TH	3	13	ytqg	figs-idiom	ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	Here, the word translated coming is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ (See 2:19 or the “Day of the Lord” 5:2. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “in the presence of our Lord Jesus at his Second Coming” or “in the sight of our Lord Jesus when he arrives again” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
270	1TH	3	13	py9f	translate-textvariants	ἀμήν	1	at the coming of our Lord Jesus	Many ancient manuscripts omit this word. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
271	1TH	4	intro	b1z5			0		1 Thessalonians 4 General Notes Outline of 1 Thessalonians 4 Apostolic Teachings on Holiness (4:1-8) Apostolic Teachings on Christian Love (4:9-12) Reminder (4:9-10) Keep Busy (4:11-12) Apostolic Teachings on the Manner of the Second Coming of Christ (4:13-18) “We” and “you” In this letter, the words we and our refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Throughout the letter, we and our is used to convey that all three apostles are in agreement with the letter. Special concepts in this chapter Christian love The apostles address this topic of Christian love that the Thessalonian Church had previously asked about. The apostles encouraged the church that they were already loving well, and to continue to grow in this practice. The apostles also link “brotherly love” to living in harmony with each other and minding their own businesss, so that they would be a good example to non-Christians (See 4:11-12). Dying before the Second Coming of Christ The Thessalonian Church was concerned about what would happen if a believer died before Christ returned. They were anxious to know whether or not those who died before Christ returned would be part of the Kingdom of God. Paul addresses that concern in 4:13-5:11. The manner of the Second Coming of Christ In 4:13-18, the apostles teach about the events related to the Second Coming of Christ (called “the day of the Lord” in 5:2. This is so that the Thessalonians can “comfort one another with these words” (See 4:18). Important translation issues in this chapter Sexual immorality Different cultures have different standards of sexual morality. These different cultural standards may make translating this passage difficult. Translators will have to consider the most appropriate way to communicate these sensitive issues. The Second Coming of Christ Historically, there has been one teaching on the Second Coming of Christ. As the Nicene Creed of 381 states: “I await the resurrection of the dead and the life of the age to come.” Christ came once as Incarnate God and will return once as Resurrected Judge. This is what 4:13-5:11 unequivocally refers to. Here, “the coming of the Lord” and the “day of the Lord” 5:2 are the same event, as is clear from the context. One confusion stems from the fact that novel and heterodox interpretations have become popularized. Prior to the mid-1800’s there was no other view in any denomination of the Church. Another confusion comes from the reliance on modern chapter headings that often confuse readers about when and where subject matter changes. The original text of 1 Thessalonians had no chapter or verse markings, so it would have been more obvious to an ancient reader that chapter four and five are talking about the same event.
272	1TH	4	1	vtas	grammar-connect-words-phrases	λοιπὸν οὖν	1	brothers	Here, So finally could refer to: (1) summary of the apostles teachings. Alternate translation: “So, in summary,” or (2) remaining things to address. “So then, here is what remains to talk about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
273	1TH	4	1	u2lw	figs-doublet	ἐρωτῶμεν ὑμᾶς καὶ παρακαλοῦμεν	1	we beg and exhort you	These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how seriously the apostles want the Thessalonian church to follow their teachings. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “we are urging and appealing to you” or “we are strongly urging to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
274	1TH	4	1	foeh	figs-idiom	ἐν Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ	1	we beg and exhort you	Paul speaks figuratively as if the apostles are occupying space inside of the Lord Jesus. Here, the metaphor expresses the idea that the apostles represent Jesus himself like ambassadors who possess a king’s authority. If your readers would not understand what in the Lord means in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “with our authority from the Lord Jesus” or “as spokespersons for the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
275	1TH	4	1	p4db	figs-metaphor	τὸ πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν	1	it is necessary for you to walk	Here, to walk is a metaphor that means “to live” or “to obey” (See 2:12). If your readers would not understand what it means to walk in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “about how you must live” or “about how you are obligated to obey” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
276	1TH	4	1	ckii	figs-hendiadys	τὸ πῶς δεῖ ὑμᾶς περιπατεῖν καὶ ἀρέσκειν Θεῷ (καθὼς καὶ περιπατεῖτε)	1	it is necessary for you to walk	Here, to walk and to please expresses a single idea by using two words connected with and. The word please describes how the Thessalonian church should walk. If it would be more natural in your language, you could express this meaning with an equivalent phrase that does not use and. Alternate translation: “about how you must live to please God (exactly as you live now)” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
277	1TH	4	1	q937	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα περισσεύητε μᾶλλον	1	it is necessary for you to walk	This phrase could introduce a purpose clause. Paul could be stating the purpose for which apostles are begging and exhorting the Thessalonian church. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you can excel more and more” or “in order that you thrive even more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
278	1TH	4	2	oyu3	grammar-connect-time-background		0	through the Lord Jesus	Paul is providing this background information about the apostles’ teachings during their previous visit to help readers understand what happens next. Use a natural way in your language for introducing background information. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-background]])
279	1TH	4	2	dg4p	grammar-connect-logic-result	οἴδατε γὰρ τίνας παραγγελίας ἐδώκαμεν ὑμῖν διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ	1	through the Lord Jesus	This verse expresses that the Thessalonian church should do what the apostles previously taught them (See 4:1), because these teachings are are actually commands from the Lord Jesus himself. Use a natural way in your language to express a result clause. Alternate translation: “Because you recognize that the Lord Jesus commanded you through what we taught” or “Since you are aware that when we gave commands it was actually the Lord Jesus who taught you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
280	1TH	4	2	ebjm	grammar-connect-words-phrases	γὰρ	1	through the Lord Jesus	Here, For indicates that what follows is something else important that the Thessalonian church should pay attention to. Use a natural way in your language to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “In fact” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
281	1TH	4	2	vg16	figs-metaphor	διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ	1	through the Lord Jesus	Paul speaks figuratively of the commands that the apostles gave to the Thessalonian church as though Jesus personally spoke them to the apostles. Paul means that Jesus made the apostles his messengers, not that Jesus is a messenger of the apostles. If your readers would not understand what through the Lord Jesus in this context, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express Paul’s meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “by order of the Lord Jesus himself” or “through a message from the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
282	1TH	4	3	ycsw	figs-abstractnouns	τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ, ὁ ἁγιασμὸς ὑμῶν,	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	If your language does not use an abstract nouns for these ideas, you could express the ideas behind the abstract nouns will and sanctification in another way. Alternate translation: “Indeed, God desires that you live like those who belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
283	1TH	4	3	vnp0	grammar-collectivenouns	τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν θέλημα τοῦ Θεοῦ	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Here, this is a singular pronoun that emphasizes what is the will of God. If your language does not use singular nouns in that way, you can use a different expression. Alternate translation: “In fact, this is God’s will” or “Certainly, this very thing is God’s will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
284	1TH	4	3	lit4	grammar-connect-words-phrases	τοῦτο γάρ ἐστιν	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Here, For this is indicates that this is the beginning of a section about the content of the “commands … through the Lord Jesus” in 4:2. Use a natural way in your language that indicates the beginning of new topic. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
285	1TH	4	3	mw4j	figs-litany	ἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τῆς πορνείας	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Here, begins a list spanning from 4:3-8 that explains what sanctification means. This repetitive style of speaking or writing is called a “litany.” Use a form in your language that someone would use to list things. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
286	1TH	4	3	lgac	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τῆς πορνείας	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Here, sexual immorality is contrasted with sanctification. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “to refrain from sexually immoral acts” or “to hold yourself back from sexually immoral activity” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
287	1TH	4	3	lhxi	figs-imperative	ἀπέχεσθαι ὑμᾶς	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	The following list of verb forms in 4:3-6 could be translated as commands (See 4:2). Here, the verb forms are likely meant to express a strong suggestion or appeal. Use a form in your language that would be used in this type of situation. Alternate translation: “you yourselves must refrain” or “so you should withhold yourselves” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
288	1TH	4	3	le7j	translate-textvariants	τῆς πορνείας	1	for you to keep from sexual immorality	Some ancient manuscripts read “all sexual immorality” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
289	1TH	4	4	ox95	figs-abstractnouns	εἰδέναι ἕκαστον ὑμῶν τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ,	1	to know to possess his own vessel	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “each husband must only have sexual knowledge of his own wife, by treating her like she belongs to God and by honoring her” or “each man should know how to practice self-control by setting apart and honoring his own body” or (See UST for two separate sentences)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
290	1TH	4	4	zis1	figs-abstractnouns	εἰδέναι ἕκαστον ὑμῶν τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ,	1	to know to possess his own vessel	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase into two active sentences (See UST). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
291	1TH	4	4	vhbp	figs-euphemism	εἰδέναι…κτᾶσθαι	1	to know to possess his own vessel	to know … to possess is a euphemism for sexual intimacy or knowledge (See previous note for an alternate translation). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
292	1TH	4	4	f4ux	figs-metaphor	τὸ ἑαυτοῦ σκεῦος, κτᾶσθαι	1	to know to possess his own vessel	Here, to possess his own vessel is a metaphor or idiom that compares sexual self-control to a proper use of a container. It could refer to: (1) a husband’s own body. Alternate translation: “to practice self-control with his own body” or “to control his own body” (2) his wife’s body. Alternate translation: “to hold onto his wife’s body” or “to properly care for his own wife” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
293	1TH	4	4	fk6n	figs-nominaladj	ἕκαστον	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This nominal adjective is used to emphasize that every husband or man must obey this teaching. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
294	1TH	4	4	arkf	figs-rpronouns	ἑαυτοῦ	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This reflexive pronoun further emphasizes the necessity of “sanctification” 4:3, that the vessel belongs to the husband or man. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
295	1TH	4	4	ihqe	figs-hendiadys	ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This phrase is a hendiadys. Alternate translation: “by sanctifying and honoring his body” or “by sanctifying and honoring her body” or “by honorably setting it apart” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
296	1TH	4	4	nppk		ἐν ἁγιασμῷ καὶ τιμῇ	1	to know to possess his own vessel	This phrase could also refer to: (1) Condition. Alternate translation: “in the condition of holiness and honor” or “in a state of holiness and honor” (2) Association. Alternate translation: “with holiness and honor” (3) Means. Alternate translation: “through holiness and honor”
297	1TH	4	5	y9g2	figs-parallelism	μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας, καθάπερ καὶ τὰ ἔθνη τὰ μὴ εἰδότα τὸν Θεόν	1	in the passion of lust	This verse expresses a contrasting parallelism. in the passion of lust contrasts “in holiness and honor”. each of you to know contrasts “the Gentiles who do not know”. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
298	1TH	4	5	utvd	figs-abstractnouns	μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας	1	in the passion of lust	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase into an active form (See UST), Alternate translation: “You must not passionately lust” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
299	1TH	4	5	x2t7		μὴ ἐν πάθει ἐπιθυμίας	1	in the passion of lust	Like the previous phrase, this could refer to: (1) condition. Alternate translation: “in the condition of lustful passion” or “in a state of passionate lust” (2) association. Alternate translation: “with lustful passion” (3) means. Alternate translation: “through lustful passion”
300	1TH	4	5	vjej	figs-possession	πάθει ἐπιθυμίας	1	in the passion of lust	This genitive phrase could refer to: (1) attribute. Alternate translation: “lustful passion” (2) source. Alternate translation: “from lustful passion” or “from desire’s passion” (3) object. Alternate translation: “passion that leads to lust” (4) means. Alternate translation: “through lustful passion” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
301	1TH	4	5	nrmz	figs-distinguish	καθάπερ καὶ τὰ ἔθνη τὰ μὴ εἰδότα τὸν Θεόν	1	in the passion of lust	This emphatic clause is meant to inform. who do not know indicates a past state of being that continues. God indicates “the one true God” or “the only God”. Alternate translation: “the nations who remain ignorant of God act like this” or “this is the way those nations live, who continually refuse to give recognition to God” or “exactly like all the people who have no relationship with God” or “this is exactly the way the Gentiles, who have never known God, live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
302	1TH	4	5	tz8o	figs-genericnoun	τὰ ἔθνη	1	in the passion of lust	Here, the Gentiles is a generic noun that refers to all non-Christians (See 2:16). Alternate translation: “all those nations” or “all the people” or “the pagan nations” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-genericnoun]])
303	1TH	4	6	wmb6	figs-parallelism	τὸ μὴ ὑπερβαίνειν καὶ πλεονεκτεῖν	1	transgress and wrong	This is a parallel clause that strongly repeats the prohibitive “not” concept found in 4:5. Alternate translation: “no one should offend and take advantage of” or “no one must violate and exploit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
304	1TH	4	6	a9st	figs-doublet	ὑπερβαίνειν καὶ πλεονεκτεῖν	1	transgress and wrong	The words translated transgress and wrong are a superlative doublet. The word translated transgress can mean “to overstep.” The word translated wrong can mean “possess more.” Here it conveys the nuance of “claiming what does not belong to someone,” or “to take advantage of.” The idea is that no one is permitted to violate or cross over the bounds of lawful marital relations, by taking what belongs to another man. Alternate translation: “trespass against and claim what belongs to” or “violate and exploit” or “transgress and take advantage of” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
305	1TH	4	6	ckez	figs-metaphor	ἐν τῷ πράγματι τὸν ἀδελφὸν αὐτοῦ	1	the Lord is an avenger	Here, in this matter uses a business metaphor to speak of sexual immorality 4:3. The idea is that no one should intrude in the marital relationship of another brother or “fellow Christian.” Alternate translation: “in the marital matters of his fellow Christian” or “in the marriage relationship of another Christian” or (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
306	1TH	4	6	q7bf	grammar-connect-logic-result	διότι ἔκδικος Κύριος περὶ πάντων τούτων	1	the Lord is an avenger	This clause gives the final result of those who live “in the passion of lust” 4:5. This could refer to: (1) the sexually immoral people. Alternate translation: “This is because the Lord will punish all those people” (2) all the matters spoken of in 1:3-6. Alternate translation: “Certainly, the Lord will avenge for all these things” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
307	1TH	4	6	p80j	figs-abstractnouns	ἔκδικος	1	the Lord is an avenger	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this abstract noun into a verb form. Alternate translation: “is a punisher” or “is a judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
308	1TH	4	6	r9n4	figs-metaphor	ἔκδικος Κύριος	1	the Lord is an avenger	This is a metaphorical title used of God throughout the Old Testament (See Judith 9:2 for a similar use in relational to sexual immorality). avenger literally means “judge from.” Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus will avenge” or “the Lord Jesus will punish” or “the Lord Jesus will judge” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
309	1TH	4	6	jitm	figs-explicit	Κύριος	1	the Lord is an avenger	The assumed knowledge here is that Lord refers to “Jesus” (See 4:2). Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
310	1TH	4	6	d1ip	writing-background	καθὼς καὶ προείπαμεν ὑμῖν καὶ διεμαρτυράμεθα	1	we also forewarned you and testified	This is background information referring to the apostles earlier visit. The same root word translated testified here, is used twice in 2:10-12. Alternate translation: “in the just the way we previously told and warned you” or “This will happen just we already told and solemnly warned you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
311	1TH	4	6	ix4p	figs-doublet	καθὼς καὶ προείπαμεν ὑμῖν καὶ διεμαρτυράμεθα	1	we also forewarned you and testified	just as combined with these two similar verbs, indicates that this is a doublet. If it is clearer in your language, you could combine the verbs to express this emphasis. Alternate translation: “as we also previously warned you” or “exactly as we also solemnly forewarned you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
312	1TH	4	7	qx6y	figs-abstractnouns	οὐ γὰρ ἐκάλεσεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ	1	God did not call us	This verse parallels 4:4. If it is clearer in your language, you could change these abstract nouns into verb forms, the double negatives to positive statements, and the reorder the clauses. Alternate translation: “God called us, so we must purify and set ourselves apart like those who belong to God” or “We must not live impurely or act unholy, because God did not call us as his people for this purpose” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
313	1TH	4	7	v3np	figs-doublenegatives	οὐ γὰρ ἐκάλεσεν ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ	1	God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness	The double negative is used as a strong prohibition against sexual immorality 4:3. Alternate translation: “Because God did not summon us for impurity, but into sanctification”. You could also state this in positive form. Alternate translation: “Because God called us to be pure and holy” or “Certainly God summoned us to pure and holy living” or “Indeed, God invited us to become pure and holy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
314	1TH	4	7	ie7g		ἐκάλεσεν	1	God did not call us to uncleanness, but in holiness	The word translated called can also refer to simple statement of fact or summarizing act. Alternate translation: “summons” or “beckons” or “invites”
315	1TH	4	7	q4tj	figs-exclusive	ἡμᾶς	1	God did not call us	Here “us” is inclusive, referring to the apostles, the Thessalonian Church, and by extension all Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
316	1TH	4	7	qli0		ἐπὶ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, ἀλλ’ ἐν ἁγιασμῷ	1	God did not call us	The prepositions translated to and in can refer to: (1) Disadvantage and advantage. Alternate translation: “for the sake of … for the sake of” (2) Purpose and rule. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of … to conform to” (3) Basis and association. Alternate translation: “on the basis of … in association with” (4) Destination. Alternate translation: “to lead to … leading to” (5) Means. Alternate translation: “through … through”
317	1TH	4	8	zdsc	figs-parallelism	τοιγαροῦν ὁ ἀθετῶν, οὐκ ἄνθρωπον ἀθετεῖ, ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν, τὸν διδόντα τὸ Πνεῦμα αὐτοῦ τὸ Ἅγιον εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	the one rejecting this	This verse parallels some of the concepts found in 4:7. The words translated Therefore and “For” have the same root. the one rejecting and rejects parallel “uncleanness.” Holy Spirit parallels “in holiness.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
318	1TH	4	8	mn5y	grammar-connect-words-phrases	τοιγαροῦν	1	the one rejecting this	This triply emphatic connecting word is meant to mark the end of this section prohibiting sexual immorality. Alternate translation: “Now pay close attention” or “So then, you must realize” or “It is absolutely certain” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
319	1TH	4	8	gzz8	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ὁ ἀθετῶν…ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν, τὸν διδόντα	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	The words translated the one rejecting this and who gives indicate continual or repeated activity. God’s constant giving of the Holy Spirit is contrasted with person who constantly rejects the apostolic teaching. Alternate translation: “he who continues to reject … but actually God himself, who continues to give” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
320	1TH	4	8	su51	figs-ellipsis	ὁ ἀθετῶν	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	The phrase translated the one rejecting this does not contain this, but the context implies that it should be included. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
321	1TH	4	8	mm3n	translate-textvariants	διδόντα	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	Many ancient manuscripts read “who gave” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
322	1TH	4	8	k7fr	translate-textvariants	ὑμᾶς	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	Many ancient manuscripts read “us”. This could either refer exclusively to the apostles or inclusively to all Christians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
323	1TH	4	8	vrbs	figs-explicit	ἀλλὰ τὸν Θεὸν, τὸν διδόντα τὸ Πνεῦμα αὐτοῦ τὸ Ἅγιον	1	rejecting this rejects not man, but God	In 1:5,6 we see that the Holy Spirit gives power and joy. Here, two implicit teachings are contained: the divinity of the Holy Spirit, and the doctrine of the procession of the Spirit from the Father. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
324	1TH	4	9	uxn8	figs-explicit	περὶ δὲ τῆς φιλαδελφίας, οὐ χρείαν ἔχετε γράφειν ὑμῖν	1	brotherly love	This connecting phrase implies that the apostles are answering a specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian Church. If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Now as it relates to your question about how fellow believers in Christ should show affection to each other …” or “Now, about your question referring to Christian relationships …” or “Now, about your question relating to Christian friendships” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
325	1TH	4	9	sgen	grammar-connect-logic-result	οὐ χρείαν ἔχετε γράφειν ὑμῖν, αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε, εἰς τὸ ἀγαπᾶν ἀλλήλους	1	brotherly love	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “because God himself teaches you that you should love each other, you do not need us to write to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
326	1TH	4	9	l1n7	figs-hyperbole	οὐ χρείαν…ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε	1	brotherly love	The apostles use hyperbolic phrases no need and “you yourselves are those taught by God” to express how successfully the Thessalonian Church is practicing Christian love. “(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
327	1TH	4	9	xxg8	translate-textvariants	ἔχετε	1	brotherly love	Some ancient manuscripts read “we were having.” Other manuscripts read “we are having.” Alternate translation: “we do not need to write to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
328	1TH	4	9	j7z0	figs-metaphor	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε, εἰς τὸ ἀγαπᾶν ἀλλήλους	1	brotherly love	This phrase could also be using a metaphor, speaking as if the Thessalonian Church has God himself physically present as their teacher. Alternate translation: “God is the one who teaches you how to love each other” or “God himself teaches you that you must love one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
329	1TH	4	9	ctiq	grammar-connect-logic-result	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ὑμεῖς θεοδίδακτοί ἐστε, εἰς τὸ ἀγαπᾶν ἀλλήλους	1	brotherly love	This clause could indicate: (1) Content of God’s teaching. Alternate translation: “Because it is God himself who teaches you: love each other” (2) Manner. Alternate translation: “Indeed, God is the one who teaches you how to love each other” (3) Purpose/Result. Alternate translation: “the reason why God teaches you is so that you would love each other” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
330	1TH	4	10	e3e0	writing-background	καὶ γὰρ ποιεῖτε αὐτὸ εἰς πάντας τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς, τοὺς ἐν ὅλῃ τῇ Μακεδονίᾳ	1	you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia	This is background reference that shows another aspect of how the Thessalonian Church “became an example” to the churches in Macedonia and Achaia (See 1:7-8). Alternate translation: “Certainly, you make a practice of showing love to all your fellow believers in Christ throughout the region of Macedonia” or “In fact, you are doing just that, to all the fellow Christians throughout the province of Macedonia” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
331	1TH	4	10	dec9	grammar-connect-words-phrases	καὶ γὰρ	1	you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia	These connecting words indicate that what follows in an example of how the Thessalonian Church shows Christian love. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
332	1TH	4	10	hg7a	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸ	1	you do this to all the brothers who are in all Macedonia	This reflexive pronoun this refers back to the phrase “to love” 4:9. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
333	1TH	4	10	jcg3	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοὺς	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, brothers is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” 4:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
334	1TH	4	10	k81f	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοὺς	1	brothers	Here, the idiom brothers includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
335	1TH	4	10	gxfa	figs-litany	παρακαλοῦμεν δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί, περισσεύειν μᾶλλον	1	brothers	This is the beginning of a list of five verb forms that continues into 4:11, that the apostles exhort the Thessalonian Church to do. Alternate translation: “Now, fellow believers in Christ, we are urging you: to excel more and more,” or “But, fellow Christians, we are encouraging you: to surpass even more,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
336	1TH	4	10	u3fl	figs-ellipsis	περισσεύειν	1	abound	Here, abound refers back to “love one another” in 4:9 in a relative ellipsis. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
337	1TH	4	11	h2df	figs-metaphor	καὶ φιλοτιμεῖσθαι, ἡσυχάζειν καὶ πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια, καὶ ἐργάζεσθαι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσὶν ὑμῶν	1	to strive	The combination of these verbs could be a metaphor for peaceful communal living. If it is clearer in your language, you could use an expression that explains this metaphor for peaceful communal living. Alternate translation: “and seek to lovingly honor others: by living quietly and tending to your own business and focusing on doing your own work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
338	1TH	4	11	d2fg	figs-hendiadys	καὶ φιλοτιμεῖσθαι, ἡσυχάζειν	1	to strive	This phrase continues the litany of exhortations from the apostles. Here, and to strive to live quietly could: (1) Express separate ideas. Alternate translation: “and seek to lovingly honor others, to live quietly” (2) Complement each other. Alternate translation: “and to aspire to live quietly” or “and to show ambition to honor others by living silently” or “to aim to be still” (3) Function as hendiadys. Alternate translation: “and to quietly seek to lovingly honor others” or “and to silently seek to lovingly honor others” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
339	1TH	4	11	j4c7	figs-explicit	πράσσειν τὰ ἴδια	1	to live quietly	Here, to perform your own things implicitly refers to self-sacrificial thoughts and actions. The surrounding verbs make this explicit. Alternate translation: “to focus on your own tasks” or “to focus on your own business” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
340	1TH	4	11	jmt9	figs-idiom	ἐργάζεσθαι ταῖς ἰδίαις χερσὶν ὑμῶν	1	to perform your own things	to work with your own hands is an idiom for “earning a living.” Alternate translation: “to work hard to earn what you need” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
341	1TH	4	11	bz8s	figs-distinguish	καθὼς ὑμῖν παρηγγείλαμεν	1	to work with your own hands	This phrase and the following verse signal the end of this larger section of teaching (See 4:1,2 for the same wording). Here, the apostles are reminding the Thessalonian Church of what they already taught them, by way of summary. It also equates that what God taught the Thessalonian Church is the same thing as what the apostles teach 4:9. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
342	1TH	4	12	hp6g	figs-idiom	περιπατῆτε εὐσχημόνως	1	you may walk properly	Here, walk is the common biblical idiom that means “live.” The word translated properly literally means “well-formed.” It can also mean “appropriately, decently, modestly, nobly.” Alternate translation: “you would live appropriately” or “you would live nobly” or “you would behave modestly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
343	1TH	4	12	wj25	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα περιπατῆτε	1	you may walk properly	so that you may walk could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that you live” or “in order that you live” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
344	1TH	4	12	oo9l	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἵνα περιπατῆτε εὐσχημόνως	1	you may walk properly	so that you may walk could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “then you will live”. It is possible that this phrase refers to both purpose and result. If there is a way to indicate this in your language, you could express this dual meaning. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
345	1TH	4	12	k59r	figs-metaphor	πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω	1	before those outside	those outside is a metaphor for “non-Christians.” Alternate translation: “in the presence of non-Christians” or “in front of unbelievers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
346	1TH	4	12	uwsf	figs-distinguish	καὶ μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχητε	1	before those outside	This clause signals the end of the shorter section of teaching, by using the same phrase found in 4:9. Here, the apostles are reminding the Thessalonian Church of what they already taught them about “brotherly love.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
347	1TH	4	12	nait	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχητε	1	before those outside	This phrase also continues the idea of self-sufficiency found in verse 11, by using a result clause. It is possible that this phrase refers to both purpose and result. If there is a way to indicate this in your language, you could express this dual meaning. Alternate translation: “and so that you would not need anything” or “then you will be self-sufficient” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
348	1TH	4	13	vi2y	grammar-connect-words-phrases	δὲ	1	General Information:	Now is a connecting word that signals the beginning of an extended section 4:13-5:11 about the Second Coming of Christ (See chapter and book introduction)(See also 2 Thessalonians 1:7-10; 2:3-12). If our language has a special section marker, you could use it here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
349	1TH	4	13	lan8	figs-doublenegatives	οὐ θέλομεν δὲ ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν	1	General Information:	If it is clearer in your language, you could change this double negative or litotes to a positive form. Alternate translation: “But, we want you to know for certain” or “Now, we desire to clarify” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
350	1TH	4	13	mmy0	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	General Information:	Throughout this letter, brothers is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” 4:10. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
351	1TH	4	13	wt7l	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom brothers includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
352	1TH	4	13	qt5b	figs-explicit	περὶ	1	you may not grieve	Here, about implies that the apostles are answering another specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian Church (See 4:9). If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “as it relates to your question about” or “concerning your question about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
353	1TH	4	13	j68e	figs-euphemism	τῶν κοιμωμένων	1	General Information:	In the biblical usage, fallen asleep often refers to physical death. It could indicate an idiom or euphemism. The verb form indicates that this is a present condition “are sleeping.” If you have a cultural idiom or euphemism for representing death as “sleeping”, you could use it here. Alternate translation: “those who are already dead” or “those who have died” or “those who have been laid to rest” or “those who continue to die” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
354	1TH	4	13	wzr3	translate-textvariants	κοιμωμένων	1	General Information:	Many ancient manuscripts read “have fallen asleep (and remain asleep)” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
355	1TH	4	13	ocjp	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα μὴ λυπῆσθε	1	brothers	Here, so that you may not grieve is a purpose clause that informs how the Thessalonian Church should respond to those who are asleep. Alternate translation: “so that you would not sorrow” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
356	1TH	4	13	r9f8	figs-explicit	καθὼς καὶ οἱ λοιποὶ	1	so that you may not grieve just as also the rest	Here, it is assumed that the rest are non-Christians. If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “in the same way as the rest of humanity” or “like the rest of people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
357	1TH	4	13	f9eq	figs-explicit	οἱ μὴ ἔχοντες ἐλπίδα	1	so that you may not grieve just as also the rest	Here, it is assumed that hope refers to resurrection salvation (See 1:3; 2:19; 4:16; 5:8), and was previously associated with the Second Coming of Christ in 2:19. Alternate translation: “who possess no hope of life after death” or “who possess no confidence of life after death” or “who possess no assurance of life after death” or “who do not have confidence in the future promise” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
358	1TH	4	14	j09o	grammar-connect-condition-fact	εἰ γὰρ πιστεύομεν ὅτι Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη	1	if we believe	This clause frames the apostles’ argument as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but they actually mean that it is true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might misunderstand and think what the apostles are saying is not certain, then you can translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “We certainly believe that Jesus died and resurrected” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact]])
359	1TH	4	14	hmw4	figs-explicit	Ἰησοῦς ἀπέθανεν καὶ ἀνέστη	1	if we believe	Here, it is assumed that the Thessalonian Church knows thatJesus died and rose again is the main content of the gospel message. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
360	1TH	4	14	ybz6	figs-exclusive	πιστεύομεν	1	if we believe	Though, we believe could be inclusive of the Thessalonian church (and by extension all Christians), it is most likely exclusive, referring to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. The previous use in 4:11 and subsequent uses (See “we say” in 4:15) are clearly referring to the apostles. Here, it mostly likely is a reference to their authoritative teaching. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
361	1TH	4	14	kmk2	grammar-connect-logic-result	οὕτως καὶ ὁ Θεὸς	1	rose again	This phrase could express at least two things: (1) Manner. Alternate translation: “this is the way God” or “this is how God” (2) Result. Alternate translation: “then God will also” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
362	1TH	4	14	m1fy	figs-possession	καὶ ὁ Θεὸς τοὺς κοιμηθέντας διὰ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἄξει σὺν αὐτῷ	1	rose again	Here, through Jesus could refer to: (1) those who are only temporarily dead through/associated with/in union with Jesus’ resurrection power. Alternate translation: “God … those who through Jesus are asleep” or “God … those who are asleep in Jesus” (2) it is through Jesus that God will bring them back again. Alternate translation: “through Jesus, God will also bring those who sleep along with Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
363	1TH	4	14	b3gs	figs-explicit	ὁ Θεὸς…τοῦ Ἰησοῦ	1	rose again	The assumed knowledge is that God is equated with Father, and he is one who sends the Son Jesus back to earth at the Second Coming. If it would be clearer in your language, you could make this distinction explicit. Alternate translation: “God the Father … his Son Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
364	1TH	4	14	tjqj	figs-rpronouns	αὐτῷ	1	rose again	This is a reflexive pronoun that refers to Jesus. If it would be clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
365	1TH	4	15	vvda	grammar-connect-words-phrases	τοῦτο γὰρ ὑμῖν λέγομεν ἐν λόγῳ Κυρίου	1	by the word of the Lord	This clause indicates a strong emphasis in form and content (See 1:8 for the word of the Lord). Alternate translation: “Certainly, what we now say to you is the Lord’s message” or “In fact, what we are saying is from the Lord himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
366	1TH	4	15	ni3m	figs-metonymy	ἐν λόγῳ Κυρίου	1	by the word of the Lord	Here, word is a metonym for “message.” It could refer to: (1) means of the message. Alternate translation: “with the Lord’s message” (2) authority of the message. “with the authorization of the Lord” or “is the Lord’s message” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
367	1TH	4	15	gbe1	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ὅτι	1	by the word of the Lord	This connecting word indicates that what follows is the content of the word of the Lord. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
368	1TH	4	15	fdwk	figs-exclusive	ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες	1	by the word of the Lord	Though, we who are alive could be exclusive of the apostles (See note at 4:14), the universal content of the following section, implies that this is inclusive of all Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
369	1TH	4	15	hdlr	figs-distinguish	οἱ περιλειπόμενοι	1	by the word of the Lord	The relative clause who are left behind refers to we who are alive. Alternate translation: “who survive” or “who are remain around” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
370	1TH	4	15	b786	figs-idiom	εἰς τὴν παρουσίαν τοῦ Κυρίου	1	at the coming of the Lord	Here, the word translated coming is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ 3:13 or the “Day of the Lord” 5:2. It literally means, “presence” or “being with or near.” Here, coming expresses “presence,” so the emphasis is on the lasting presence of the Lord Jesus (see also Matthew 24). The definite article the indicates either the one and only Coming of the Lord, or the well-known Coming of the Lord. The word translated until could indicate: (1) Duration. Alternate translation: “until the Lord returns” or “until the second coming of the Lord” (2) Event. Alternate translation: “at the coming of our Lord Jesus” or “at the arrival of the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
371	1TH	4	15	byit	figs-explicit	τοῦ Κυρίου	1	at the coming of the Lord	It is assumed that the Lord refers to Jesus (See 4:1). If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus” or “our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
372	1TH	4	15	k9n9	translate-textvariants	τοῦ Κυρίου	1	at the coming of the Lord	One important ancient manuscript reads “of Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
373	1TH	4	15	xd2y	figs-doublenegatives	οὐ μὴ φθάσωμεν τοὺς κοιμηθέντας	1	by the word of the Lord	This double negative certainly not is an idiom for “never.” Alternate translation: “will never precede those who are dead” or “can never overtake those already dead” or “are not permitted to come before those asleep in the Lord”. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
374	1TH	4	16	ah7p	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ὅτι	1	the Lord himself … will descend	For marks the beginning of the sequence of events related to the Second Coming. The word then indicates that the events the story will now relate came after the event it has just described. Alternately translation: “Certainly” or “Because” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
375	1TH	4	16	yk2q	figs-litany	ὅτι αὐτὸς ὁ Κύριος ἐν κελεύσματι, ἐν φωνῇ ἀρχαγγέλου, καὶ ἐν σάλπιγγι Θεοῦ, καταβήσεται ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ; καὶ οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον,	1	the Lord himself … will descend	The list of the events of the Second Coming continues through verse 17. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
376	1TH	4	16	c26b	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	ὅτι αὐτὸς ὁ Κύριος ἐν κελεύσματι, ἐν φωνῇ ἀρχαγγέλου, καὶ ἐν σάλπιγγι Θεοῦ, καταβήσεται ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ	1	the Lord himself … will descend	These things happen at the same time the Lord descends. The text emphasizes the order of events by listing them prior to the main verb. If it is clearer in your language, you could place the main verb before the accompanying actions. Alternate translation: “Certainly, the Lord Jesus himself will come down from heaven: with a commanding shout, with the archangel’s voice, and with God’s trumpet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
377	1TH	4	16	ygfp	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸς ὁ Κύριος	1	the Lord himself … will descend	This reflexive noun himself emphasizes that “with him” in 4:14 refers to the Lord Jesus. Alternate translation: “the Lord Jesus himself” or “it is the Lord Jesus who” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
378	1TH	4	16	z9ka		ἀρχαγγέλου	1	of the archangel	See Jude 9.
379	1TH	4	16	pjrh	figs-parallelism	καταβήσεται ἀπ’ οὐρανοῦ; καὶ οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον	1	the Lord himself … will descend	The first main verb descend is listed after the events that describe it. This is to show a contrasting parallelism with the second verb rise. After the Lord Jesus comes down form heaven, the dead Christians will resurrect from the earth. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
380	1TH	4	16	k7sg	grammar-connect-time-sequential	καὶ	2	the Lord himself … will descend	Here, the word translated and indicates sequence. If it is clearer in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “then next” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
381	1TH	4	16	ni7n	figs-parallelism	οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	This is a parallel phrase to “those who are asleep through Jesus” in 4:14. Alternate translation: “those who died in union with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
382	1TH	4	16	dr89	figs-explicit	οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	the dead in Christ are the same as “the sleepers” in 4:13–15. The verb translated “rise” refers to this section’s main theme of resurrection. Alternate translation: “Christians who have already died will be the first to resurrect” or “those who died united with Christ will resurrect first” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
383	1TH	4	16	gnp0	figs-parallelism	οἱ νεκροὶ ἐν Χριστῷ ἀναστήσονται πρῶτον	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	This clause parallels and explains, “may not certainly go before those who have fallen asleep” 4:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
384	1TH	4	16	wboi	figs-parallelism	ἐν Χριστῷ	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	in Christ is another reference to the important concept of union with Christ or God (See 2:14). This is also a parallel phrase to “those who are asleep through Jesus” in 4:14. Alternate translation: “united to Christ” or “in union with Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
385	1TH	4	16	offz	translate-textvariants	πρῶτον	1	the dead in Christ will rise first	Some ancient manuscripts read “the first ones” referring to the dead, not the timing of resurrection. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
386	1TH	4	17	ay13	figs-parallelism	ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες, οἱ περιλειπόμενοι	1	we who are alive	who are alive, who are left behind is a parallel reference to 4:15. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
387	1TH	4	17	l5l1	figs-exclusive	ἡμεῖς οἱ ζῶντες	1	we who are alive	Though, we who are alive could be exclusive of the apostles (See note for the same phrase at 4:15), the universal content of this section, implies that all Christians are in view. It also implies that the apostles assumed Second Coming would happen in their lifetime. Your language may require you to mark these forms(See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
388	1TH	4	17	otiq	grammar-connect-time-simultaneous	ἅμα σὺν αὐτοῖς	1	we who are alive	together with them could indicate three things: (1) Simultaneous event. Alternate translation: “with them at the same time” (2) Association. Alternate translation: “along with them” (3) Both event and association. Alternate translation: “at the same time together with them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous]])
389	1TH	4	17	wvi8	writing-pronouns	αὐτοῖς	1	with them	The word them refers to the resurrected dead who are united to Christ. Alternate translation: “the resurrected dead who are united to Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
390	1TH	4	17	m3gb	writing-background	ἁρπαγησόμεθα ἐν νεφέλαις εἰς ἀπάντησιν τοῦ Κυρίου εἰς ἀέρα	1	with them	This phrase indicates a reference to the words of the angels at Jesus’ Ascension in Acts 1:9-11, as a fulfillment of the prophecy of Daniel 7:13-14. Alternate translation: “we will be snatched up on clouds to encounter the Lord Jesus in the air” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-background]])
391	1TH	4	17	o7lj	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς ἀπάντησιν	1	with them	Here, the word translated to meet indicates purpose, and a positive encounter and/or royal escort. Alternate translation: “as a royal escort of” or “for a meeting with” or “to encounter” (See Exodus 19:17 where this same root word is used when God’s people encounter God, and Matthew 25:6 where this word is used in the same context of the Second Coming with bridal escorts). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
392	1TH	4	17	ukh1	writing-symlanguage	ἐν νεφέλαις…εἰς ἀέρα	1	with them	Here, clouds … air could be considered symbolic language representing God’s presence and the spiritual realm. (See Exodus 19; Daniel 7:13-14; Matthew 24; Mark 13; Luke 17; 21; Ephesians 2:2). Alternate translation: “ (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-symlanguage]])
393	1TH	4	17	ti69	writing-endofstory	καὶ οὕτως πάντοτε σὺν Κυρίῳ ἐσόμεθα	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This clause is meant to signal the end of the events related to the Second Coming. You can use the natural form in your language for expressing the conclusion of a story. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-endofstory]])
394	1TH	4	17	ouvu	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ οὕτως πάντοτε σὺν Κυρίῳ ἐσόμεθα	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This clause also indicates the result of the meeting with the Lord. Alternate translation: “and then we will always be together with the Lord Jesus” or “this is the how we will be with the Lord Jesus forever” or “as a result, we will always be together with the Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
395	1TH	4	17	k6qc	figs-parallelism	σὺν Κυρίῳ	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	Here, with the Lord parallels together with them to express union with Christ as communion with his people. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
396	1TH	4	17	pdqi	translate-textvariants	σὺν	2	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	One important ancient manuscript reads “united to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
397	1TH	4	18	gt91	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὥστε παρακαλεῖτε	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This is a result clause. Alternate translation: “because of this, you should comfort” or “as a result, you can bring comfort to” or “so then, you ought to encourage” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]]
398	1TH	4	18	y7zi	figs-imperative	παρακαλεῖτε	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This clause also could express an appeal or polite command. Alternate translation: “you should encourage” or “you must encourage” or “keep comforting” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
399	1TH	4	18	aya5	writing-pronouns	ἀλλήλους	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	This pronoun indicates association among the Thessalonian Church. If your readers would misunderstand this, you could make it explicit. Alternate translation: “the fellow member of your church” or “your fellow Thessalonian Christian” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns]])
400	1TH	4	18	xsus	figs-metonymy	ἐν τοῖς λόγοις τούτοις	1	will be caught up … in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air	with these words is a reference to “and in this way we will always be with the Lord” in 4:17 or a metonymy for all that has been said in 4:13-17. Alternate translation: (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
401	1TH	5	intro	ay3d			0		1 Thessalonians 5 General Notes Outline of 1 Thessalonians 5 Apostolic Teachings on the Second Coming of Christ (5:1-10) Timing (5:1-3) Preparation (5:4-8) God’s plan (5:9-10) Final Instructions (5:11-28) Final Commands (5:11-22) Final Prayer (5:23-24) Final Appeals (5:25-27) Final blessing (5:25-27) Structure and formatting Paul concludes his letter in a way that was typical of letters in the ancient Near East. “We” and “you” In this letter, the words we and our refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. Throughout the letter, we and our is used to convey that all three apostles are in agreement with the letter. Special concepts in this chapter Idiom Day of the Lord The “day of the Lord” is an idiom for the time of final salvation for God’s people final judgment for God’s enemies. “Day” is metaphorical for a time period. Thus, the exact time of the coming “day of the Lord” will be a surprise to the world. The simile “like a thief in the night” refers this surprise timing. Because of this, Christians must prepare for the coming of the Lord by living with faith, hope and love 5:8 toward God and others. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/dayofthelord]] Simile Like a Thief The simile “like a thief in the night” refers this surprise timing. Because of this, Christians must prepare for the coming of the Lord by living with faith, hope and love 5:8 toward God and others. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]]) Metaphor Day and Night, Light and Darkness The apostles use many metaphors throughout 5:1-11. “Night,” “darkness,” “drunk,” “sleep” are all metaphors about spiritual ignorance or lack of readiness. “Day,” “light,” “sober,” “watch” are all metaphors about spiritual awareness and readiness. Armor Here, the apostles use a military metaphor to urge the Thessalonian Church to be ready for Christ’s Second Coming at “the day of the Lord.” Just as soldiers must always be armed and ready to fight, so the Christian must live prepared for Christ’s return. Faithfulness and love are compared to a breastplate, and the hope of salvation is likened to a helmet 5:8. Prophecy Those who “despise prophecies” in 5:20 are said to “quench the Spirit.” This is a metaphor for trying to hinder the Holy Spirit’s guidance in the Church. All prophecies are to be examined and tested to determine if they adhere to apostolic teaching 5:21. All prophecies that are proven to agree with apostolic teaching, are to be retained as good 5:21-22. Submission to Christian Leadership The apostles link the well-being and spiritual safety of the Thessalonian Church to obedience to their leaders. Christian leaders are to be given recognition and loving respect by the church 5:12-13. Holy Kiss This refers to the ancient practice of exchanging a kiss of peace on the cheek during the liturgy. Different cultures have different standards of appropriate physical contact. These different cultural standards may make translating this passage difficult. Translators will have to consider the most appropriate way to communicate this sensitive issue 5:26.
402	1TH	5	1	i2vm	figs-explicit	περὶ δὲ	1	General Information:	Now concerning signals a change in subject (See 4:9). Here, the timing of and preparation for the Second Coming is in view. This phrase implies that the apostles are answering another specific question previously asked by the Thessalonian Church. If it could be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Now as it relates to your question about” or “Now, about your question referring to” or “Now, about your question relating to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
403	1TH	5	1	a8f3	figs-idiom	τῶν χρόνων καὶ τῶν καιρῶν	1	General Information:	Here, the times and the seasons is an idiom referring to: (1) a specific period in time. Alternate translation: “the appointed time of Jesus’ return” or “the fixed time when Jesus returns” (See Acts 1:7 for this exact phrase referring to the same thing). (2) a specific amount of time. Alternate translation: “how long it will take for the Lord Jesus to return” or “when the Lord Jesus will return” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
404	1TH	5	1	z1s6	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	Connecting Statement:	Throughout this letter, brothers is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” 4:13. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
405	1TH	5	1	pjf6	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	Connecting Statement:	Here, the idiom brothers includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
406	1TH	5	1	bcsa	figs-activepassive	οὐ χρείαν ἔχετε ὑμῖν γράφεσθαι	1	General Information:	If you have no passive form in your language, you could make it active (See this same phrase in 4:9). Alternate translation: “we do not need to write to you” or “you have no need for us to write it for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
407	1TH	5	1	caue	figs-you	ἔχετε	1	General Information:	The word you is plural and refers to the believers in the Thessalonian Church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
408	1TH	5	2	dqgk	figs-rpronouns	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ἀκριβῶς οἴδατε	1	perfectly well	The words For, yourselves, and perfectly emphasize the how clearly the Thessalonian Church should understand when and how the Lord’s Second Coming will happen. Alternate translation: “Certainly you are well aware” or “Because you understand perfectly well” or “Indeed, you know precisely” or “In fact, you recognize accurately” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
409	1TH	5	2	yvg3	figs-simile	αὐτοὶ γὰρ ἀκριβῶς οἴδατε ὅτι ἡμέρα Κυρίου, ὡς κλέπτης ἐν νυκτὶ οὕτως ἔρχεται	1	perfectly well	This verse begins an extended list of contrasting similes that continues through 5:8. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
410	1TH	5	2	mcq9	grammar-connect-logic-result	γὰρ	1	perfectly well	This connecting word gives the reason why the Thessalonian Church has no need to have anything written to them about the timing and manner of the Lord’s Second Coming. Alternate translation: “Because” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
411	1TH	5	2	tu9t	figs-idiom	ἡμέρα Κυρίου	1	in this manner—like a thief in the night	This is an idiom that refers to the Old Testament concept of the time of God’s final judgment. This passage makes it clear that the day of the Lord is synonymous with “the coming of the Lord” in 2:15. (See also Acts 2:20; 1 Corinthians 5:5; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Peter 3:10). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
412	1TH	5	2	tmj3	figs-simile	ὡς κλέπτης ἐν νυκτὶ οὕτως ἔρχεται	1	in this manner—like a thief in the night	This simile expresses the unknown timing and exact manner, but certain reality of the Second Coming of the Lord. Alternate translation: “is coming as unexpectedly as a robber at night” or “is going to come so surprisingly” or “is going to happen like this–all of a sudden” (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
413	1TH	5	3	p1wi	figs-hypo	ὅταν λέγωσιν, εἰρήνη καὶ ἀσφάλεια	1	When they may say	This clause continues the theme of unexpected timing of the Lord’s Coming, by using a hypothetical situation to express the suddenness of the “the day of the Lord.” Alternate translation: “Whenever they might say, ‘Everything is safe and sound,’” or “At a time when people are saying, ‘All is well,’” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hypo]])
414	1TH	5	3	mjvd	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	τότε	1	When they may say	This verse expresses a contrast to what is expected. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “but then” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
415	1TH	5	3	ne9n	figs-parallelism	τότε αἰφνίδιος αὐτοῖς ἐφίσταται ὄλεθρος	1	then sudden destruction	sudden destruction parallels the idea of terror that accompanies a sudden attack by “a thief in the night” 5:2. Alternate translation: “right then immediate destruction is looming over them” or “at that moment unseen destruction hovers over them” or “then swift destruction attacks” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
416	1TH	5	3	f1xr	figs-simile	ὥσπερ ἡ ὠδὶν τῇ ἐν γαστρὶ ἐχούσῃ; καὶ οὐ μὴ ἐκφύγωσιν	1	like birth pains to the one having in the womb	like birth pains is a simile of the suddenness and inescapable nature of God’s judgment. Alternate translation: “just as suddenly as labor pains seize a pregnant woman–they can never escape this destruction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-simile]])
417	1TH	5	3	sde2	figs-parallelism	ὥσπερ ἡ ὠδὶν τῇ ἐν γαστρὶ ἐχούσῃ; καὶ οὐ μὴ ἐκφύγωσιν	1	like birth pains to the one having in the womb	like birth pains parallels sudden, and destruction parallels certainly not escape. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
418	1TH	5	4	sk6v	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ὑμεῖς δέ	1	you, brothers	But you begins a clause that contrasts the destruction of those appointed “to wrath” (See 5:9) with the Thessalonian Church who are not in darkness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
419	1TH	5	4	rr9j		ἀδελφοί	1	you, brothers	Throughout this letter, brothers is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” 5:1. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
420	1TH	5	4	nr5f	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	you, brothers	Here, the idiom brothers includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
421	1TH	5	4	b6lv	figs-metaphor	οὐκ ἐστὲ ἐν σκότει	1	are not in darkness	Here in darkness is a metaphor for “unaware” or “unprepared” or “living in sin (like a thief)” (See 4:6-8). Alternate translation: “are not unaware” or “are not unprepared” or “are not living in sin” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
422	1TH	5	4	elp9	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἵνα ἡ ἡμέρα ὑμᾶς ὡς κλέπτας καταλάβῃ	1	so that the day might overtake you like a thief	This is a result clause. Alternate translation: “causing you to be like people surprised by a robber. You are ready for the time when he returns” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
423	1TH	5	4	otz2	figs-ellipsis	ἡ ἡμέρα	1	For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day	Here, the day is a relative ellipsis referring to the “the day of the Lord.” If it would be misunderstood in your language, you can make it clear. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
424	1TH	5	5	ddce	figs-doublet	πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς υἱοὶ φωτός ἐστε, καὶ υἱοὶ ἡμέρας. οὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους	1	For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day	Here, sons of the light means the same thing as sons of the day. Also, of the night means the same thing as of the darkness. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “Certainly, all of you are ready for Christ’s second coming. None of us are ignorant” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
425	1TH	5	5	ww4y	figs-parallelism	πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς υἱοὶ φωτός ἐστε, καὶ υἱοὶ ἡμέρας. οὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους	1	For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day	Here, you are all sons of the light and sons of the day is a contrasting parallelism to We are not of the night, nor of the darkness. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
426	1TH	5	5	zp3z	figs-metaphor	πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς υἱοὶ φωτός ἐστε, καὶ υἱοὶ ἡμέρας	1	For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day	sons of the light and sons of the day are metaphors for prepared Christians who will be saved (See 5:8-9). sons means “Christians who are characterized by.” light and day mean “spiritually ready.” This is opposite of those of the darkness. See also “those outside” in 4:12. Alternate translation: “This is because all of you are ready for Christ’s coming” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
427	1TH	5	5	ilv4	grammar-connect-logic-result	πάντες γὰρ ὑμεῖς…ἐστε	1	For you are all sons of the light and sons of the day	This reason clause uses an emphatic reflexive pronoun you and the inclusive all in order to “comfort” the Thessalonians 4:18, 5:11. Alternate translation: “Certainly all of you are” or “This is because you are all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
428	1TH	5	5	d6fm	figs-metaphor	οὐκ ἐσμὲν νυκτὸς οὐδὲ σκότους	1	We are not of the night nor of the darkness	night and darkness are metaphors for “ignorant,” “unprepared,” or “sin” (See 5:4. Alternate translation: “We are not characterized by spiritual ignorance” or “We are not unprepared like those who live in the darkness, like those at night” or “we do not live like those who are characterized by sinful activities” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
429	1TH	5	5	kq0x	figs-exclusive	ἐσμὲν	1	We are not of the night nor of the darkness	Here, we is inclusive of all Christians in 5:5-5:10. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
430	1TH	5	6	paqf	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἄρα οὖν	1	we might keep watch and be sober	This phrase indicates as strong emphatic reason clause. Alternate translation: “This is the reason why,” or “As a result,” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
431	1TH	5	6	d2aj	figs-metaphor	μὴ καθεύδωμεν ὡς οἱ λοιποί	1	we might keep watch and be sober	Here, sleep is used as a metaphor for “unprepared” or “unaware” (See note at 5:4). the rest refers to non-Christians: “those outside” in 4:12, those “in darkness” in 5:4, those “of the night and of the darkness” in 5:5. Alternate translation: “we must not be unprepared like non-Christians” or “we must not remain spiritually unaware like the rest of humanity” or “let us not be like others, who are not aware that Jesus is coming back” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
432	1TH	5	6	on3d		μὴ καθεύδωμεν…γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν	1	we might keep watch and be sober	Here, the verb forms sleep, keep watch, and be sober can be translated in three main ways: (1) Commands. Alternate translation: “we must not sleep … we must keep watch and be sober” (2) Suggestions/Obligations. Alternate translation: “we should not sleep … we should keep watch and we should be sober” (3) Appeals. Alternate translation: “let us not sleep … let us keep watch and let us be sober”
433	1TH	5	6	q33e	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ	1	we might not sleep	This marks the beginning of a contrast clause. Alternate translation: “however” or “instead” or “on the contrary” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
434	1TH	5	6	sdww	figs-metaphor	γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν	1	we might not sleep	The metaphor of spiritual preparedness and awareness continues with the phrase keep watch and be sober. Alternate translation: “instead, we must stay spiritually alert and prepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
435	1TH	5	6	osxu	figs-doublet	γρηγορῶμεν καὶ νήφωμεν	1	we might not sleep	Here, keep watch and be sober could refer to the same thing. If your language does not use repetition in this way, you could combine these phrases. Alternate translation: “let us remain soberly awake” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
436	1TH	5	7	s253	figs-metaphor	οἱ γὰρ καθεύδοντες, νυκτὸς καθεύδουσιν	1	For those who are sleeping, sleep at night	Here again, like in 5:6, sleep is used as a metaphor for “unprepared” or “unaware” or even “sinful” (see also note at 5:4. Here, this is combined with the metaphor of night 5:2. This verb forms also conveys habitual or repeated activity. Alternate translation: “Because those who are sleep are unaware” or “Certainly those who are asleep are unprepared” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
437	1TH	5	7	fxca	figs-parallelism	οἱ γὰρ καθεύδοντες, νυκτὸς καθεύδουσιν; καὶ οἱ μεθυσκόμενοι, νυκτὸς μεθύουσιν	1	For those who are sleeping, sleep at night	This verse utilizes structural parallelism to compare sleeping and getting drunk. It uses the same phrasing in both clauses to convey this parallelism. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
438	1TH	5	7	exa8	figs-metaphor	οἱ μεθυσκόμενοι, νυκτὸς μεθύουσιν	1	those who are getting drunk, get drunk at night	Again, the metaphor of “unprepared” or “unaware” is compared to “drunkenness.” So, here, sleeping and getting drunk are metaphorical synonyms. Both verbs indicate a repeated or habitual practice. Alternate translation: “those who are drunk are unaware” or “Certainly those who are drunk are unprepared” or “those who drink too much alcohol, do it at night” or “alcoholics tend to get drunk at night” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
439	1TH	5	8	wh3g	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἡμεῖς δὲ ἡμέρας ὄντες, νήφωμεν	1	we, being of the day	This contrasting clause concludes this section’s main theme of day (See first note at 5:2 and emphasizes the previous term sober 5:6 as a contrast to “getting drunk.” Alternate translation: However, since we are ready for Christ’s coming, we must stay prepared” or “Instead, because we are ready, let us remain aware” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
440	1TH	5	8	i8j1	figs-exclusive	ἡμεῖς	1	might stay sober	Here, we is inclusive of all Christians (See note at 4:17, 5:5. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
441	1TH	5	8	iv63		νήφωμεν	1	we, being of the day	This verb can be translated in three main ways (see your translation at 5:6: (1) command. Alternate translation: “we must remain sober” (2) strong suggestion/obligation. Alternate translation: “we should remain sober” (3) appeal. Alternate translation: “let us remain sober”
442	1TH	5	8	jqqo	figs-metaphor	ἡμέρας ὄντες	1	we, being of the day	being of the day could refer to: (1) belonging. Alternate translation: “belong to Christ” or “are part of those who are ready for Christ’s coming” (2) character. (See your translation at 5:5. Alternate translation: “This is because all of you are ready for Christ’s coming” or “Certainly none of you are characterized by ignorance” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
443	1TH	5	8	ev6i	figs-metaphor	ἐνδυσάμενοι θώρακα πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης, καὶ περικεφαλαίαν, ἐλπίδα σωτηρίας	1	having put on the breastplate of faith and of love	The military metaphor of breastplate and helmet reinforces that sober refers to readiness. As a soldier must equip himself with armor in order to be ready to fight, so the Christian must prepare himself for the Second Coming of Christ with spiritual protection (See also Ephesians 6:10-18,23). Alternate translation: “having equipped ourselves with faithfulness and love, like a soldier wears a breastplate; and having put on the confidence of salvation, like a helmet” or “by arming ourselves with faithful love, as with a breastplate; and salvation’s confident assurance, as with a helmet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
444	1TH	5	8	l89q	figs-possession	πίστεως καὶ ἀγάπης…σωτηρίας	1	having put on the breastplate of faith and of love	Here is a reference to three things that “remain: faith, hope, love” (See 1 Corinthians 13:13). These genitive phrases of faith and of love … of salvation can refer to: (1) means. Alternate translation: “through faith … love … salvation” (2) source. Alternate translation: “that comes from faith … that comes from love … that comes from salvation” (3) association. Alternate translation: “associated with faith … love … salvation” or “that is characterized by faith … love … salvation” (4) attribute. Alternate translation: “of faithful love … salvation’s hope” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
445	1TH	5	9	sgu8	figs-parallelism	ὅτι οὐκ ἔθετο ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς εἰς ὀργὴν, ἀλλὰ εἰς περιποίησιν σωτηρίας διὰ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ,	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	To emphasize the contrast of this parallelism, you could convert these clauses into two sentences. Alternate translation: “Because God did not destine us for wrath. Actually, God destined that our Lord Jesus Christ would preserve and save us.” or “Certainly, God did not determine to punish us. Instead, he determined that our Lord Jesus Christ would protect and save us.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
446	1TH	5	9	lrx6	grammar-connect-logic-result	ὅτι	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	Here, For signals a reason clause. Alternate translation: “This is because” or “Certainly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
447	1TH	5	9	h5y2	figs-abstractnouns	ὅτι οὐκ ἔθετο ἡμᾶς ὁ Θεὸς εἰς ὀργὴν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	Here, wrath is an abstract noun referring to God’s future and final Judgment. See your translation of wrath at 1:10, 2:16. If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate this phrase with a verb form. Alternate translation: “This is because God did not determine that he would judge us” or “Certainly, God did not destine to punish us” (See: What is the “second coming” of Jesus?)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
448	1TH	5	9	y7bg	figs-exclusive	ἡμᾶς	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	Here, us is inclusive of all Christians. Your language may require you to mark these forms. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
449	1TH	5	9	qmo5	grammar-connect-logic-contrast	ἀλλὰ	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	Here, but marks the beginning of a contrast clause that emphasizes the impossibility of God’s people experiencing final judgment. Alternate translation: “but actually” or “instead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
450	1TH	5	9	ea58	figs-parallelism	εἰς περιποίησιν σωτηρίας	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This clause reinforces the impossibility of Christians experiencing God’s final wrath, and parallels the language of 5:8. This word translated to obtain is a noun that literally means “placed around,” echoing the language of “helmet.” So then, to obtain and “hope” are parallels describing salvation in both verses. Alternate translation: “for possession of salvation” or “for preserving salvation” or “for the protection of salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
451	1TH	5	9	qfcf	figs-possession	περιποίησιν σωτηρίας	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This genitive phrase expresses possession. Alternate translation: “possession of salvation” or “acquiring of salvation” or “preserving of salvation” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
452	1TH	5	9	ytdm	grammar-connect-time-sequential	εἰς περιποίησιν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase could refer to destination. Alternate translation: “leading to the obtaining of” or “towards possession of” or “toward preserving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-sequential]])
453	1TH	5	9	m8y1	grammar-connect-logic-result	εἰς περιποίησιν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “with the result of the possession of” or “causing us to obtain” or “so then preserving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
454	1TH	5	9	c8t7	grammar-connect-logic-goal	εἰς περιποίησιν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “for the purpose of possessing” or “in order to obtain” or “so that we preserve” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
455	1TH	5	9	reki	translate-textvariants	Χριστοῦ	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	A number of ancient manuscripts omit Christ. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
456	1TH	5	10	arhm	figs-distinguish	τοῦ ἀποθανόντος περὶ ἡμῶν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This relative clause gives the guarantee that we will “obtain salvation,” because Jesus died for us. Alternate translation: “he died for our sake” or “he died on our behalf” or “he died on our in place” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-distinguish]])
457	1TH	5	10	dzq0	grammar-connect-logic-goal	ἵνα εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν, ἅμα σὺν αὐτῷ ζήσωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This could be a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that … we would live together with him” or “in order that … we could both live together with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal]])
458	1TH	5	10	j2ye	grammar-connect-logic-result	ἵνα εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν, ἅμα σὺν αὐτῷ ζήσωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This could be a result clause. Alternate translation: “resulting in the fact that … we will live together with him” or “. So then, … we will both live together with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
459	1TH	5	10	w59c	figs-euphemism	εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	awake or asleep is likely a euphemism that refers to “the dead and the living.” The previous use of asleep refers to those “appointed to wrath,” so it would not make sense to have the same meaning here. Alternate translation: “whether alive or dead” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-euphemism]])
460	1TH	5	10	q3oy	figs-metaphor	εἴτε γρηγορῶμεν εἴτε καθεύδωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This could also be continuing the metaphor of spiritual alertness or sleepiness. See 5:6) where the same words have this meaning. Here, it would indicate that since Christ died for us, we are assured “to obtain salvation” 5:9. Alternate translation: “even if we are spiritually alert or groggy” or “whether we are prepared or caught unaware” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
461	1TH	5	10	lrxs	figs-parallelism	ἅμα σὺν αὐτῷ ζήσωμεν	1	whether we might be awake or asleep	This phrase echoes the language of 4:17, indicating that this life together with him is eternal life. Here, for us parallels together with him to express union with Christ as communion with his people. Alternate translation: “we would both live eternally with him” or “both the living and dead will live forever with him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
462	1TH	5	11	r921	grammar-connect-words-phrases	διὸ παρακαλεῖτε ἀλλήλους, καὶ οἰκοδομεῖτε εἷς τὸν ἕνα, καθὼς καὶ ποιεῖτε	1	build up one the other	Therefore indicates the conclusion of this section about “the day of the Lord,” echoing and expanding on the closing exhortation and exact phrase comfort one another found in 4:18. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
463	1TH	5	11	m2c9	figs-doublet	διὸ παρακαλεῖτε ἀλλήλους, καὶ οἰκοδομεῖτε εἷς τὸν ἕνα, καθὼς καὶ ποιεῖτε	1	build up one the other	This verse uses a doublet to make an emphatic appeal to the Thessalonian Church. comfort one another is similar to build up one the other. just as is a common emphatic phrase in this letter (See 4:1). Alternate translation: “So then, keep encouraging each other and edifying one another, exactly as you are now doing” or “This is why you must keep consoling each other and confirming each one, doing it just as you are now” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
464	1TH	5	11	fx2f	figs-idiom	οἰκοδομεῖτε	1	build up one the other	build up is an idiom that refers to spiritual strengthening or a metaphor that compares building a house to strengthening another person’s faithfulness. Alternate translation: “keep supporting” or “continue to confirm” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
465	1TH	5	11	kdae	figs-idiom	εἷς τὸν ἕνα	1	build up one the other	The phrase translated one the other literally means “one the one.” It is an idiom that means “each and every one” or “each one” or “one another” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
466	1TH	5	12	pd47	grammar-connect-words-phrases	δὲ	1	General Information:	This connecting word indicates the final section of instructions from the apostles. Alternate translation: “Finally” or “But” or “Indeed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
467	1TH	5	12	jeeb	grammar-connect-words-phrases	ἐρωτῶμεν δὲ ὑμᾶς	1	General Information:	Here, we ask you is a final appeal to the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “Now we appeal to you” or “But we urge you” (See 4:1 for a similar phrase).
468	1TH	5	12	rka4		ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Throughout this letter, brothers is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” 5:4. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
469	1TH	5	12	xnnz	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom brothers includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
470	1TH	5	12	ksp2		εἰδέναι	1	to acknowledge those who are laboring	In 5:12-13 the verb forms to know and “to regard” are used twice to urge the Thessalonian Church to submit to their leaders. Alternate translation: “to acknowledge the authority of” or “to recognize the authority”
471	1TH	5	12	fqh3	figs-merism	τοὺς κοπιῶντας ἐν ὑμῖν, καὶ προϊσταμένους ὑμῶν ἐν Κυρίῳ, καὶ νουθετοῦντας ὑμᾶς	1	leading you in the Lord	This clause is merism that expresses different functions or categories for the same group of leaders: working, leading, training. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
472	1TH	5	12	f4jv	figs-idiom	ἐν Κυρίῳ	1	leading you in the Lord	Here, the idiom in the Lord indicates that the Thessalonian Church must acknowledge these leaders because they are authorized by Lord Jesus himself (See also 4:1. Alternate translation: “with their authority from the Lord Jesus” or “as spokespersons of the Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
473	1TH	5	12	zlqn		νουθετοῦντας	1	leading you in the Lord	The word translated admonishing literally means “placing in mind” or “putting within the perceptions.” In essence, it refers to all the aspects of spiritual instruction. Alternate translation: “instructing” or “training” or “warning” or “disciplining”
474	1TH	5	13	c966	figs-parallelism	καὶ ἡγεῖσθαι αὐτοὺς ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ, διὰ τὸ ἔργον αὐτῶν	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This verse uses intensified parallelism 5:12, by adding highly in love. to regard parallels “to acknowledge,” because of their work parallels “laboring.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
475	1TH	5	13	jq0o	grammar-connect-logic-result	καὶ ἡγεῖσθαι αὐτοὺς ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ, διὰ τὸ ἔργον αὐτῶν	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases, since the second phrase gives the reason for the result that the first phrase describes. Alternate translation: “Because of their work for you, we also ask you to regard them highly in love” or “Since they work so hard for you, we also urge you to show them the highest honor out of love” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
476	1TH	5	13	qcw4		καὶ ἡγεῖσθαι αὐτοὺς ὑπέρἐκπερισσοῦ ἐν ἀγάπῃ	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This phrase uses double emphasis. The word translated regard is meant to be a pun for leadership. The apostles are urging the Thessalonian Church “to lead the way” by their “excessive love” for their leaders. Alternate translation: “and to continue to model for them how to abundantly love” or “and to keep showing them the highest honor in love” or “and to lovingly demonstrate the utmost consideration”
477	1TH	5	13	p6m4		ἐν ἀγάπῃ	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This phrase could refer to: (1) means. Alternate translation: “with love” (2) association. Alternate translation: “in the communion of love” (3) basis. Alternate translation: “on the basis of love” or “from love”
478	1TH	5	13	rqs8	figs-imperative	εἰρηνεύετε ἐν ἑαυτοῖς	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here is the first of seventeen final appeals that apostles give the Thessalonian Church in 5:13-26. Be at peace is an imperative, but the previous use of “we ask” in 5:12 and following use of “we exhort” in 5:14 communicate polite requests rather than a command. You could use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. among yourselves refers to the Thessalonian Church at its leaders. Alternate translation: “Continue to live at peace with your leaders” or “Reconcile with each other” or (See UST)(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
479	1TH	5	14	tdxa	grammar-connect-words-phrases	παρακαλοῦμεν δὲ ὑμᾶς, ἀδελφοί,	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This phrase signals the apostles’ final appeals to the Thessalonian Church. Since there are fourteen commands in this section 5:14-22, you could use a marker from your language to indicate this final section. Alternate translation: “Now, we urge you, fellow believers in Christ:” See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
480	1TH	5	14	qadb	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	See notes at 5:12 about brothers.
481	1TH	5	14	lajk	figs-litany	νουθετεῖτε τοὺς ἀτάκτους, παραμυθεῖσθε τοὺς ὀλιγοψύχους, ἀντέχεσθε τῶν ἀσθενῶν, μακροθυμεῖτε πρὸς πάντας	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here begins a litany of commands that extends through 5:22. It most likely is addressed to the leaders spoken of in 5:12-13. All of these verbs indicate an emphasis of characteristic or repeated action. If your language makes this distinction, you could indicate this emphasis in your translation. Alternate translation: “Keep admonishing … toward all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litany]])
482	1TH	5	15	oz10	figs-parallelism	ὁρᾶτε μή τις κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ τινι ἀποδῷ, ἀλλὰ πάντοτε τὸ ἀγαθὸν διώκετε, καὶ εἰς ἀλλήλους καὶ εἰς πάντας	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	This verse uses contrasting parallelism: pay back evil for evil contrasts pursue good, no one contrasts always. This verse also uses synonymous parallelism: to anyone is similar to both for one another and for all. If this parallelism is unclear in your language, you could make it emphatic. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
483	1TH	5	15	vlp7	figs-idiom	ὁρᾶτε μή τις κακὸν ἀντὶ κακοῦ τινι ἀποδῷ	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here, See that is an idiom for commanding attention. Alternate translation: “Be certain that no one repays evil in place of evil” or “It is forbidden for anyone to pay back evil instead of evil” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
484	1TH	5	15	mc2z	figs-hyperbole	πάντοτε	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here, always could be using a hyperbole to express emphasis. Alternate translation: “constantly” or “habitually” or “make every effort to” or (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
485	1TH	5	15	pe3l	figs-merism	καὶ εἰς ἀλλήλους καὶ εἰς πάντας	1	to regard them highly in love because of their work	Here, both for one another and for all is used as a way to emphasize the whole human race (See how you translated this phrase in 3:12. If both for one another and for all would be misunderstood in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “for everyone” or “for each and every person” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
486	1TH	5	16	chw9	figs-hyperbole	πάντοτε	1	Rejoice always	Here again, always could be using a hyperbole to express emphasis. Alternate translation: “constantly” or “habitually” or “make every effort to” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
487	1TH	5	17	l63i	figs-hyperbole	ἀδιαλείπτως προσεύχεσθε	1	Pray without ceasing	Here, without ceasing could be using a hyperbole to express emphasis. Alternate translation: “Keep praying regularly” or “Continue to habitually pray” or “Be in a prayerful state” or “Retain a prayerful state of mind” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
488	1TH	5	18	bt5q		ἐν παντὶ εὐχαριστεῖτε	1	In everything	Here, in everything could refer to: (1) situation/circumstance. Alternate translation: “In every situation give thanks” or “In every circumstance be thankful” or “No matter what happens offer thanks to God” (2) time. Alternate translation: “At every time give thanks” or “In every moment be thankful” (3) both. Alternate translation: “In every situation and moment”
489	1TH	5	18	z9gg	figs-infostructure	ἐν παντὶ εὐχαριστεῖτε	1	In everything give thanks	If it would be more natural in your language, you could reverse the order of these phrases. Alternate translation: “Continue to give thanks in everything” or “Keep giving thanks at every time” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-infostructure]])
490	1TH	5	18	q7gn	grammar-connect-logic-result	τοῦτο γὰρ θέλημα Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	for this is the will of God	This is a reason clause. Alternate translation: “Because this is God’s will for you who are united to Christ Jesus” or “Certainly, this very thing is God’s will for you who are in union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
491	1TH	5	18	l3sk	grammar-collectivenouns	τοῦτο γὰρ θέλημα Θεοῦ	1	for this is the will of God	this emphasizes what is the will of God. this refers either to in everything give thanks or all the commands in 5:14-18. See your translation of the will of God at 4:3. Alternate translation: “In fact, this is God’s will” or “Certainly, this very thing is God’s will” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-collectivenouns]])
492	1TH	5	18	sw8b	figs-abstractnouns	θέλημα Θεοῦ ἐν Χριστῷ Ἰησοῦ εἰς ὑμᾶς	1	for this is the will of God	If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could change this abstract noun phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “God desires that you live like those who are in union with Christ Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
493	1TH	5	19	j1ei	figs-metaphor	τὸ Πνεῦμα μὴ σβέννυτε	1	Do not quench the Spirit	quench is a metaphor comparing the Spirit to a breath or wind that can be snuffed out. Alternate translation: “Do not extinguish the Spirit” or “Do not reject the Spirit” or (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
494	1TH	5	19	sv8r	figs-litotes	μὴ σβέννυτε	1	Do not quench the Spirit	If do not quench would be misunderstood in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “Continue to kindle the Spirit” or “Keep working along with the Spirit” or “Be fervent in the Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
495	1TH	5	19	lqc3	figs-explicit	τὸ Πνεῦμα	1	Do not quench the Spirit	The phrase translated the Spirit is assumed to refer to “the Holy Spirit” (See 4:8. Alternate translation: “The Holy Spirit” or “the Spirit of God” or “God’s Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
496	1TH	5	20	iv1n		προφητείας μὴ ἐξουθενεῖτε	1	Do not despise prophecies	This could refer to: (1) the content of “quench the Spirit.” Alternate translation: “Do not despise prophecies from the Spirit” (2) a separate issue within the Thessalonian Church. Alternate translation: “Do not revile prophecies” or “Do not scorn prophetic messages”
497	1TH	5	21	wx69	figs-metaphor	πάντα δοκιμάζετε	1	Test all things	all things refers to “prophecies” 5:20. (See 2:4 for the word translated test as “approved” used in the same context). Here, test is a metaphor comparing “prophecies” to metal tested for purity in a refiner’s fire. If you have an equivalent metaphor from your culture, you could use it. Alternate translation: “Examine and approve all prophecies” or “Test and examine all prophetic messages” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
498	1TH	5	21	qgay	translate-textvariants	πάντα δοκιμάζετε; τὸ καλὸν κατέχετε	1	Test all things	Many ancient manuscripts add a contrasting “But” at the beginning of this verse. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
499	1TH	5	21	n1jv	figs-metaphor	τὸ καλὸν κατέχετε	1	Test all things	Here, “prophecies” are spoken of as what {is} good, compared to objects that someone could hold in his hands. Alternate translation: “Hold on tight to a genuine prophecy from the Spirit” or “Keep only the good prophecies” or “Clutch whatever prophecies are excellent” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
500	1TH	5	22	bm8l	figs-parallelism	ἀπὸ παντὸς εἴδους πονηροῦ ἀπέχεσθε	1	Test all things	This verse is a contrasting parallel to 5:21. Stay away is the opposite of “Hold fast,” all parallels “all things,” appearance of evil is opposite of “what is good.” Alternate translation: “Hold back from accepting any prophecy that appears wicked” or “Don’t hold on tight to any prophecy that appears false” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
501	1TH	5	22	z9k0	figs-personification	παντὸς εἴδους πονηροῦ	1	Test all things	appearance is used to personify prophecy as if someone or something that can be seen. If appearance might be misunderstood by your readers, you could express appearance in clear terms. Alternate translation: “all apparently evil prophecies” or “all obvious evil prophecies” or “any clearly wicked prophecies” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
502	1TH	5	23	mqi7	translate-blessing	ἁγιάσαι	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	The verbs sanctify … be kept indicate that this is a final blessing or prayer section. You could use a form that people would recognize as a blessing or prayer in your language. Alternate translation: “Now I pray, that God himself, who gives peace, would sancitfy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
503	1TH	5	23	ozyh	figs-parallelism	ἁγιάσαι ὑμᾶς ὁλοτελεῖς, καὶ ὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα, ἀμέμπτως…τηρηθείη	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	Here, the words translated completely and entire have parallel forms and meanings. sanctify parallels be kept blamelessly. See also 3:13 for a parallel passage. Alternate translation: “may … fully preserve you as his people to the end, and may every part of you be protected” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
504	1TH	5	23	sbxc	figs-possession	ὁ Θεὸς τῆς εἰρήνης	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	the God of peace is a title for God found in the New Testament (See Romans 15:33; 16:20; Philippians 4:9; Hebrews 13:20). the God of peace can refer to: (1) God’s character. Alternate translation: “the God who is characterized by peace” (2) What God does. Alternate translation: “the God who gives peace” (3) Both. Alternate translation: (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
505	1TH	5	23	nb1x	figs-rpronouns	αὐτὸς	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	himself is used to emphasize the urgency of the apostles’ prayer or blessing. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
506	1TH	5	23	vkhs	figs-activepassive	ὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα, ἀμέμπτως…τηρηθείη.	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	The passive verb form may be … kept indicates God is one who is being asked to complete the action. You could change this phrase to an active form. Alternate translation: “may God make your whole life sinless” or “may God keep you completely blameless” or (See UST) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
507	1TH	5	23	a64t		ὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα, ἀμέμπτως…τηρηθείη.	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	The word translated may … be kept also indicates a strong desire or hope. Alternate translation: “O that … would be kept” or “may … be guarded blamelessly” or “may … be protected blamelessly” or “may … be preserved blamelessly”.
508	1TH	5	23	s36k	figs-merism	ὁλόκληρον ὑμῶν τὸ πνεῦμα, καὶ ἡ ψυχὴ, καὶ τὸ σῶμα	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	Here, the concepts your entire spirit, and soul, and body represent the whole person. If your language does not have three words for these concepts you can state it as “your whole life” “your entire life” or “all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
509	1TH	5	23	nyma	figs-idiom	ἐν τῇ παρουσίᾳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ	1	may your entire spirit, and soul, and body be kept blamelessly	Here, the word translated coming is a well-known idiom in 1-2 Thessalonians for the Second Coming of Christ 4:15 or the “Day of the Lord” 5:2. It literally means, “presence” or “being with or near.” Here, coming expresses “presence,” so the emphasis is on the lasting presence of the Lord Jesus (see also Matthew 24). The definite article the indicates either the one and only Coming of the Lord, or the well-known Coming of the Lord. Alternate translation: or “when the Lord Jesus Christ presents himself” or “at the arrival of the Lord Jesus Christ” or “when our Lord Jesus Christ arrives” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
510	1TH	5	24	vx20		πιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς, ὃς καὶ ποιήσει	1	Faithful is he who calls you	This statement concludes the blessing of 5:23.
511	1TH	5	24	mq2u	figs-parallelism	πιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς	1	Faithful is he who calls you	This verse specifically parallels the language of 4:7 and also 2:12. Alternate translation: “The faithful God keeps summoning you to complete sanctification” or “The trustworthy God is inviting you to completely belong to him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
512	1TH	5	24	i03k	grammar-connect-logic-result	πιστὸς ὁ καλῶν ὑμᾶς, ὃς καὶ ποιήσει	1	who will also do it	Here, who will also do it is the reason of result clause. If it would be misunderstood in your language, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “Because God is faithful, he will also completely sanctify you” or “Since God is trustworthy, he will also accomplish your complete sanctification” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
513	1TH	5	24	j08v	figs-ellipsis	ὁ καλῶν	1	Faithful is he who calls you	This is an example of relative ellipsis, where the presumed reference is “the God of peace” in 5:23. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “God who calls” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
514	1TH	5	24	c3jg	figs-rpronouns	ὃς	1	who will also do it	The pronoun who refers to he. he refers to God and emphasizes the faithfulness of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
515	1TH	5	25	q8ki	figs-idiom	ἀδελφοί	1	General Information:	Throughout this letter, brothers is an idiom meaning “fellow Christians” or “fellow believers in Christ” 5:14. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
516	1TH	5	25	qa1c	figs-gendernotations	ἀδελφοί	1	brothers	Here, the idiom brothers includes females. If your language does not have this idiom, you can use a gender inclusive term that refers to male and female. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” or “spiritual brothers and sisters” or “fellow believers in Christ” or “fellow believers in God” (See [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
517	1TH	5	25	b7w3	figs-imperative	προσεύχεσθε	1	brothers	pray is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. It may be helpful to add an expression such as “please” to make this clear. Alternate translation: “Please pray” or “We ask you to pray” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
518	1TH	5	25	i5yv	translate-textvariants	καὶ	1	brothers	Some ancient manuscripts omit “also” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
519	1TH	5	25	tbhj	figs-exclusive	ἡμῶν	1	brothers	Here, us refers exclusively to the apostles. Your language may require you to mark these forms. Alternate translation: “us apostles” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
520	1TH	5	26	j46q	figs-imperative	ἀσπάσασθε	1	brothers	Greet is an imperative, but it communicates a polite request rather than a command. Use a form in your language that communicates a polite request. Alternate translation: “Make it your habit to greet” or “Make it your practice to greet” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-imperative]])
521	1TH	5	26	dwl8	figs-idiom	τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς πάντας	1	brothers	Here, all the brothers is an idiom that refers to the whole Thessalonian Church–and by extension–all Christians. Alternate translation: “all believers in Christ” or “all Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
522	1TH	5	26	v9iy	figs-explicit	ἐν φιλήματι ἁγίῳ	1	brothers	a holy kiss is a reference to a symbolic greeting of Christian affection that the Thessalonian Church would have understood. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
523	1TH	5	26	jhvi		φιλήματι ἁγίῳ	1	brothers	This letter’s theme of holiness is reinforced by calling it a holy kiss. Alternate translation: “a kiss shared by those who belong to God” or “a kiss that shows that you belong to God’s people”
524	1TH	5	27	xn0n	writing-oathformulas	ἐνορκίζω ὑμᾶς τὸν Κύριον	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	The phrase I solemnly charge you by the Lord is an oath formula. If you have a term or phrase that would be most natural in your language to express an oath in this context, consider using that. Alternate translation: “I put you under oath to the Lord that this read this letter must be read” or “I implore you by the Lord to read this letter” or “You must swear an oath to the Lord that you will read this letter” or “You must make a vow to the Lord that you will read this letter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/writing-oathformulas]])
525	1TH	5	27	n5cn	figs-explicit	ἀναγνωσθῆναι τὴν ἐπιστολὴν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	to have this letter read indicates the content of the charge by the Lord. The assumption is that this letter would be read out loud by someone in the local church. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
526	1TH	5	27	yp7e	figs-activepassive	ἀναγνωσθῆναι τὴν ἐπιστολὴν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	If your language does not contain passive verbs, you could change it to an active verb. Alternate translation: “to make sure you read this letter out loud” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
527	1TH	5	27	fyc7	figs-idiom	πᾶσιν τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	Here, all the brothers is an idiom that refers to the whole Thessalonian Church–and by extension–all Christians (See 5:26. Alternate translation: “to the whole church at Thessalonica” or “to all believers in Christ” or “to all Christians” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
528	1TH	5	27	ojue	translate-textvariants	πᾶσιν τοῖς ἀδελφοῖς	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	Many ancient manuscripts read “all the holy brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
529	1TH	5	28	ykkr	translate-blessing	ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μεθ’ ὑμῶν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	This is a blessing formula. You should use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “May our Lord Jesus Christ show you how kind he is” or “May the favor of the Lord Jesus Christ be among you all” or “I pray that the Lord Jesus Christ will favor all of you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
530	1TH	5	28	n8ur	figs-abstractnouns	ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μεθ’ ὑμῶν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	grace is an abstract noun. Alternate translation: “May our Lord Jesus Christ always show you how kind he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
531	1TH	5	28	d35d	translate-textvariants	μεθ’ ὑμῶν	1	I solemnly charge you by the Lord to have this letter read	Many ancient manuscripts add “Amen” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])