Devine Scripture

1 Thessalonians 3:4

What does 1 Thessalonians 3:4 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Thessalonians 3:4 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Thessalonians 3:4 means

Paul reminds them that when he was with them he had warned them that suffering would come, and events proved his words true. This is not “I told you so,” but a shepherd’s way of confirming their experience with sound teaching. Forewarning breeds forearming: because hardship was predicted, its arrival need not overthrow faith. The fact that it “came to pass” shows that Christian trials are not accidents but part of the normal pattern of discipleship. By linking their present pains to prior instruction, Paul helps them interpret reality through the lens of God’s Word rather than panic, resentment, or false promises of an easy path.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For verily, when we were with you, we told you beforehand that we are to suffer affliction; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For verily, when we were with you, we told you beforehand that we are to suffer affliction; even as it came to pass, and ye know.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And when we were with you, we said to you that trouble was before us; and so it came about, as you see.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for even when we were with you, we said to you beforehand, that we are about to suffer tribulation, as also it did come to pass, and ye have known <FI>it<Fi> ;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For even when we were with you, we foretold you that we should suffer tribulations: as also it is come to pass, and you know.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

for also, when we were with you, we told you beforehand we are about to be in tribulation, even as also it came to pass, and ye know.)

Context

Verse 4 reinforces verse 3 by recalling earlier teaching: suffering was expected and has occurred. This backward look strengthens the forward resolve. It also justifies Paul’s decision to investigate their condition (verse 5): knowing affliction was coming, he could not rest without checking on their faith. The logic moves from teaching to testing to pastoral action—preparing the reader to appreciate the relief and gladness when Timothy returns with good news (verses 6–7).

v.3that no man be moved by these afflictions; for yourselves know that hereunto we are appointed.

v.4This passage

v.5For this cause I also, when I could no longer forbear, sent that I might know your faith, lest by any means the tempter had tempted you, and our labor should be in vain.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:14

    For ye, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God which are in Judæa in Christ Jesus: for ye also suffered the same things of your own countrymen, even as they did of the Jews;

  • John 16:1

    These things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be caused to stumble.

  • 2 Thessalonians 1:4

    so that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions which ye endure;

  • Acts 17:5

    But the Jews, being moved with jealousy, took unto them certain vile fellows of the rabble, and gathering a crowd, set the city on an uproar; and assaulting the house of Jason, they sought to bring them forth to the people.

  • Acts 20:24

    But I hold not my life of any account as dear unto myself, so that I may accomplish my course, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:2

    but having suffered before and been shamefully treated, as ye know, at Philippi, we waxed bold in our God to speak unto you the gospel of God in much conflict.

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