1 Thessalonians 2:5

Text (1 Thessalonians 2:5)

5 For neither at any time were we found using words of flattery, as ye know, nor a cloak of covetousness, God is witness;

Translation and Paraphrase

5.

(We avoided other wrong doings besides men-pleasing while we were with you;) for neither were me at any time found using flattering speech, as you (well) know; neither (did we use any) pretext (to cover a motive) of covetousness, God is (our) witness (that we are telling the truth about that).

Notes (1 Thessalonians 2:5)

1.

God had preserved for us in this verse (and paragraph) a record of how an inspired apostle went about preaching in a city where the gospel had never before been heard. We must imitate his methods and motives.

2.

As to his outward conduct (that it was without flattery) Paul calls the Thessalonians to witness; as to his inward desires (that they were without covetousness) he calls God to witness. (McGarvey)

3.

Flattering words are often very powerful, and can bring about some spectacular results. Such words will win the favor of the majority of people. Absolom stole the hearts of the people of Israel by flattery. 2 Samuel 15:2-6. But flattery is dangerous to use, and its effects are not lasting. It should be avoided. Good-will gained through flattery will not stand the tests that brotherly love produced by conversion will stand. He that rebuketh a man afterwards shall find more favor than he that flattereth with his tongue. Proverbs 28:23. See also Proverbs 29:5; Proverbs 26:28; Proverbs 6:24.

4.

The word cloke means a pretext, or pretense, or show. Jesus said that the scribes for a pretense (cloke) make long prayers. Mark 12:40. Their long prayers covered up their desire for the praise of men.

Thus a cloke of covetousness would be a pretended manner such as a person would use to cover up the fact that he wanted money. Covetous men have often used such a pretense, And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you. 2 Peter 2:3. Paul did not put a cloke over covetousness, for he had none to hide.

5.

Paul did not use his ministry as a pretext for making money. Acts 20:33. I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel. The world of the Greeks was full of teachers and philosophers who travelled about lecturing and disputing, seeking to live by their wits. Notice Acts 13:6-12; Acts 19:13-20. Paul was that kind of a man, and he was careful to conduct himself so that he could not possibly be accused of being one. Preachers must be supported, according to God's command, but if money becomes their motive, they have missed the path altogether.

6.

It might almost appear that Paul used an oath when he called upon God to witness that he had not been covetous among the Thessalonians. However, inasmuch as Paul was an inspired man, it would be presumptuous of us to judge him. See 1 Corinthians 2:15. Paul had the mind of Christ perfectly. 1 Corinthians 2:16. What he said here was, therefore, befitting before God.

But for ourselves, we should avoid saying, By God, that anything is true or not true. Let your Yes mean Yes, and your No mean No. Whatsoever is more than these cometh of the evil one. Matthew 5:37. Paul's words were acceptable by God. But we cannot know with the certainty of Paul when such a statement would be an oath, and when we would be stating a harmless fact. Therefore, Swear not at all. Matthew 5:34.