THE NATURE OF ST. PAUL'S LIFE AND WORK AT THESSALONICA 2. The persecution at the Roman garrison-town of Philippi made a deep impression on St. Paul the Roman citizen (Acts 16:19; Philippians 1:30). It was the indignity that hurt him. CONTENTION] better, 'conflict.'... [ Continue Reading ]
It would seem that St. Paul was at first looked upon by some as an impostor, seeking his own ends. He declares that he came with a sincere desire for their salvation only. DECEIT] better, 'error.' UNCLEANNESS] Impurity was often associated with heathen worship, and this was especially the case at Th... [ Continue Reading ]
ALLOWED] better, 'approved.'... [ Continue Reading ]
CLOKE OF COVETOUSNESS] i.e. covering to conceal avarice. 6-11. St. Paul says that he might have made a display of apostolic authority and have demanded pecuniary support: see 1 Corinthians 9. But he was like a babe (better than 'gentle'), or like a mother who nurses her own children, or a father wh... [ Continue Reading ]
The (Gentile) Thessalonian Church had suffered much at the hands of their fellow-countrymen, just as the Jewish Church had suffered from the unbelieving Jews. Here was a bond of union and sympathy between the two. 15, 16. A characteristic outburst. The Jews had followed St. Paul with unceasing host... [ Continue Reading ]
The prospect of presenting his converts to Christ fills the Apostle with joy.... [ Continue Reading ]