Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

1 THESSALONIANS 2:6KJV
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1 Thessalonians 2:6 (KJV)

What does 1 Thessalonians 2:6 mean?

1 Thessalonians 2:6 means that Paul and his companions did not seek praise or recognition from people, whether from the Thessalonian believers or anyone else, even though, as apostles of Christ, they could have insisted on certain rights or honors. Instead, they chose not to be a burden or to demand special treatment.

Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica, reminding them of how he and his fellow workers behaved when they were with them. The verse highlights their humility and their refusal to use their position as apostles (messengers sent by Christ) for personal gain or status. This sets the tone for the kind of leadership and service Paul believes is fitting for followers of Jesus.

The Greek behind 1 Thessalonians 2:6

  • δόξα (doxa, G1391): This word is often translated as "glory" or "honor." Here, it refers to seeking recognition, praise, or approval from people. Paul is emphasizing that their motivation was not to gain a good reputation or applause.
  • βαρεῖν (barein, G922): This word, translated as "burdensome," carries the sense of putting a weight or demand on others. Paul is saying they did not make demands or insist on privileges that could have made life harder for the Thessalonians.
  • ἀπόστολοι (apostoloi, G652): Meaning "apostles" or "sent ones," this word underlines their authority and right to expect certain things, yet they chose not to use that authority for their own advantage.

Why 1 Thessalonians 2:6 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that spiritual leaders should expect or demand special treatment; Paul points to a different model of leadership based on humility and service.
  • It emphasizes that Paul’s ministry was not about personal gain or reputation but about genuinely serving others for Christ’s sake.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage by showing the integrity and selflessness of Paul and his team, which helps explain why the Thessalonians could trust their message and example.

Where else these words appear

“burdensome” Greek G922 · used in 6 verses

  • Matthew 20:12 Saying, These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us, which have borne the burden and heat of the day.
  • Acts 15:28 For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;
  • Galatians 6:2 Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

“Nor” Greek G3777 · used in 45 verses

  • Matthew 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
  • John 9:3 Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:11 Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord.

“apostles” Greek G652 · used in 80 verses

  • Matthew 10:2 Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;
  • Acts 8:14 Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John:
  • 2 Corinthians 8:23 Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.

“sought” Greek G2212 · used in 116 verses

  • Matthew 2:13 And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.
  • Luke 13:6 He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
  • John 13:33 Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you.