1 Thessalonians 3:10
What does 1 Thessalonians 3:10 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Thessalonians 3:10 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Thessalonians 3:10 means
Paul’s thanksgiving shapes his petitions: he prays constantly and earnestly to see the Thessalonians again and to supply what is lacking in their faith. Their faith is real and commendable, yet still incomplete—as is true for all believers this side of glory. “Perfecting” what is lacking means filling out their understanding, strengthening their convictions, and guiding their practice where experience or teaching is still thin. This is humble, hopeful ministry—no harsh rebuke, but a desire to build upon a solid foundation. Paul models a shepherd who celebrates progress while seeking greater maturity through presence, instruction, and patient care.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face, and may perfect that which is lacking in your faith?
KJV
King James Version · 1611Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face, and may perfect that which is lacking in your faith?
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Night and day requesting God again and again that we may see your face and make your faith complete.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862night and day exceedingly beseeching, that we might see your face, and perfect the things lacking in your faith.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Night and day more abundantly praying that we may see your face and may accomplish those things that are wanting to your faith?
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890night and day beseeching exceedingly to the end that we may see your face, and perfect what is lacking in your faith?
Context
Verse 10 follows verse 9’s thanksgiving with specific intercession: reunion for the sake of further equipping. It bridges the joy over their current state and the yearning for their continued growth. This naturally leads to the formal prayer wishes of verses 11–13, where Paul asks God to clear the way for a visit (verse 11), increase their love (verse 12), and establish them in holiness for Christ’s coming (verse 13).
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Thessalonians 1:11
To which end we also pray always for you, that our God may count you worthy of your calling, and fulfil every desire of goodness and every work of faith, with power;
- Revelation 7:15
Therefore are they before the throne of God; and they serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall spread his tabernacle over them.
- Colossians 4:12
Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ Jesus, saluteth you, always striving for you in his prayers, that ye may stand perfect and fully assured in all the will of God.
- 2 Corinthians 13:9
For we rejoice, when we are weak, and ye are strong: this we also pray for, even your perfecting.
- Luke 2:37
and she had been a widow even unto fourscore and four years), who departed not from the temple, worshipping with fastings and supplications night and day.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:17
But we, brethren, being bereaved of you for a short season, in presence not in heart, endeavored the more exceedingly to see your face with great desire:
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