1 Thessalonians 2:6
What does 1 Thessalonians 2:6 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Thessalonians 2:6 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Thessalonians 2:6 means
They did not seek “glory of men,” either from the Thessalonians or others. Though as “apostles of Christ” they might have claimed certain rights or expected deference, they waived such privileges. By refusing honor and entitlement, they removed obstacles to the Gospel and modeled servant leadership. Their aim was not to build a personal following or to bask in applause, but to exalt Christ and care for souls. This self-denial further disproves any charge that they were driven by pride or self-interest. The authority they possessed was real, yet it was exercised with restraint and humility for the good of the believers.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000nor seeking glory of men, neither from you nor from others, when we might have claimed authority as apostles of Christ.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901nor seeking glory of men, neither from you nor from others, when we might have claimed authority as apostles of Christ.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Or looking for glory from men, from you or from others, when we might have made ourselves a care to you as Apostles of Christ.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862nor seeking of men glory, neither from you nor from others, being able to be burdensome, as Christ's apostles.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Nor sought we glory of men, neither of you, nor of others.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890nor seeking glory from men, neither from you nor from others, when we might have been a charge as Christ's apostles;
Context
Verses 5–6 list practices they intentionally avoided—flattery, greed, and human glory-seeking—to display sincerity. Verse 6 especially highlights the contrast between possible apostolic prerogatives and chosen gentleness. This sets the stage for verses 7–8, where Paul shifts from what they did not do to what they did: tender, sacrificial love. The flow moves from renouncing self-serving methods to embracing nurturing care, reinforcing the portrait of authentic ministry.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Esther 1:4
when he showed the riches of his glorious kingdom and the honor of his excellent majesty many days, even a hundred and fourscore days.
- John 12:43
for they loved the glory that is of men more than the glory that is of God.
- 2 Corinthians 10:10
For, His letters, they say, are weighty and strong; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account.
- 1 Corinthians 11:9
for neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man:
- Philemon 1:8
Wherefore, though I have all boldness in Christ to enjoin thee that which is befitting,
- 1 Corinthians 12:13
For in one Spirit were we all baptized into one body, whether Jews or Greeks, whether bond or free; and were all made to drink of one Spirit.
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