1 Thessalonians 2:8

Text (1 Thessalonians 2:8)

8 even so, being affectionately desirous of you, we were well pleased to impart unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were become very dear to us.

Translation and Paraphrase

9.

Even so (in the same manner as the nurse cherishing her own children, we,) yearning after you (greatly as we did,) were well-pleased to impart unto you not only the good news of God, but even our own lives, because ye were (that) beloved unto us.

Notes (1 Thessalonians 2:8)

1.

Paul's feelings toward the Thessalonians overflowed with love so deep and genuine that it led him to make many great sacrifices for them. He worked day and night to support himself while with them.

The true minister of Christ does not count the cost to him of helping people to know Christ. Anything he can give he will give.

2.

Paul was like Jesus, who came not to be ministered unto but to minister. Matthew 20:28.

3.

2 Corinthians 12:15And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.

4.

Concerning the gospel of God, see notes on 1 Thessalonians 2:2, paragraph 6.

5.

Paul's self-sacrificing sincerity is also seen in Romans 9:1-3, where Paul says that he could wish himself accursed from Christ for the sake of his brethren in the flesh, the Israelites, if that would help save them.