1 Thessalonians 2:13

And we continually thank God because, when you received the word of God that you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as the true word of God--the word which is now at work in you who believe.

Study Bible

And we continually thank God
This phrase emphasizes the Apostle Paul's persistent gratitude. The Greek word for "thank" is "εὐχαριστοῦμεν" (eucharistoumen), which conveys a deep sense of thankfulness and is the root of the term "Eucharist," reflecting a continual, heartfelt gratitude. Paul’s thanksgiving is not a one-time event but an ongoing practice, highlighting the importance of a thankful heart in the Christian life. Historically, this reflects the early church's practice of constant prayer and gratitude, a model for believers today.

that when you received the word of God
The term "received" comes from the Greek "παραλαβόντες" (paralabontes), indicating an active acceptance or taking to oneself. This suggests that the Thessalonians did not passively hear the message but actively embraced it. The "word of God" refers to the gospel message, which is not merely human wisdom but divine revelation. This highlights the transformative power of the gospel, which was a radical concept in a world filled with competing philosophies and religions.

which you heard from us
The phrase underscores the role of apostolic preaching. The Thessalonians heard the gospel directly from Paul and his companions, emphasizing the importance of faithful transmission of the message. The Greek "ἀκούσαντες" (akousantes) for "heard" implies not just hearing but understanding and internalizing the message. This reflects the historical context where oral tradition was vital, and the spoken word carried significant authority.

you accepted it not as the word of men
"Accepted" here is "ἐδέξασθε" (edexasthe), which implies a welcoming reception. The Thessalonians distinguished the gospel from human teachings, recognizing its divine origin. This distinction is crucial, as it affirms the authority and authenticity of the apostolic message. In a historical context, this was significant because many philosophies and teachings were circulating, yet the Thessalonians discerned the truth of the gospel.

but as the true word of God
The contrast here is vital. The Greek "ἀλλ’ ὡς ἀληθῶς" (all’ hōs alēthōs) emphasizes the genuineness and truthfulness of the message. The Thessalonians recognized the gospel as God's revelation, not merely human opinion. This acknowledgment is foundational for faith, as it affirms the Bible's divine inspiration and authority, a cornerstone of conservative Christian belief.

which is now at work in you who believe
The phrase "at work" is from the Greek "ἐνεργεῖται" (energeitai), suggesting an active, ongoing process. The word of God is not static; it is dynamic and transformative, continually working in believers' lives. This reflects the historical reality of the early church, where the gospel was visibly changing lives and communities. The phrase "in you who believe" underscores the necessity of faith for the word to be effective, highlighting the personal and communal impact of the gospel. This transformative power is a testament to the living nature of God's word, encouraging believers to trust in its ongoing work in their lives.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Thessalonians, expressing gratitude for their reception of the Gospel.

2. Thessalonians
The recipients of the letter, a group of believers in Thessalonica who accepted the Gospel message.

3. God
The divine source of the message that Paul and his companions preached.

4. Word of God
The message of the Gospel that Paul preached, which the Thessalonians accepted as divine truth.

5. Believers
Those in Thessalonica who accepted the Gospel and in whom the word of God is actively working.

Teaching Points

The Divine Origin of the Gospel
The Gospel is not merely human wisdom but the true word of God. Believers should approach it with reverence and faith.

The Transformative Power of the Word
The word of God is active and transformative in the lives of those who believe. It is essential to allow it to work in us by being open and obedient.

Gratitude for Spiritual Receptivity
Like Paul, we should continually thank God for the work He is doing in the lives of believers, including our own spiritual growth.

Faithful Reception of the Word
The Thessalonians serve as a model for how we should receive the word—not as human opinion but as divine truth that demands a response.

Active Faith
The word of God should lead to active faith, evidenced by a life that reflects its teachings and power.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does recognizing the divine origin of the Gospel impact the way you read and apply Scripture in your life?

2. In what ways have you experienced the word of God being "at work" in your life? Can you identify specific changes or growth?

3. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude for the spiritual growth in your life and the lives of others?

4. What steps can you take to ensure that you are receiving the word of God as divine truth rather than merely human wisdom?

5. How does the example of the Thessalonians challenge you to live out your faith more actively and visibly?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Hebrews 4:12
This verse speaks about the living and active nature of the word of God, similar to how Paul describes it as "at work in you who believe."

2 Timothy 3:16-17
These verses affirm the divine inspiration of Scripture, paralleling the Thessalonians' acceptance of the Gospel as the word of God.

James 1:21-22
James encourages believers to receive the word and be doers of it, which aligns with the Thessalonians' active faith.

John 17:17
Jesus prays for His followers to be sanctified by the truth, which is God's word, echoing the transformative power of the word in believers.

Acts 17:11
The Bereans are commended for examining the Scriptures, similar to the Thessalonians' acceptance of the Gospel as truth.