1 Thessalonians 2:6
ESV
Nor did we seek glory from people, whether from you or from others, though we could have made demands as apostles of Christ.
NIV
We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.
NASB
nor did we seek honor from people, either from you or from others, though we could have asserted our authority as apostles of Christ.
CSB
and we didn’t seek glory from people, either from you or from others.
NLT
As for human praise, we have never sought it from you or anyone else.
KJV
Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.
NKJV
Nor did we seek glory from men, either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as apostles of Christ.
What does 1 Thessalonians 2:6 mean?
Paul and his missionary companions did not try to make a name for themselves among the Thessalonians and others. Nor did they demand money from their audience. They did not use their apostolic credentials as a means of getting anything from those to whom they preached the gospel. Their goal was to serve and to give of themselves on behalf of others. They were servants for Jesus' sake (2 Corinthians 4:5). However, as apostles, they were worthy of financial support. By contrast, orators and philosophers combed the Roman Empire, entertaining audiences and collecting money from them. Also, they hoped to become famous.Paul and his coworkers ministered in the tradition of Jesus, the greatest minister of all. He taught his followers to renounce prestige and to serve humbly. He explained, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).
