John Bengel Commentary - 1 Thessalonians 2:3 - 2:3

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John Bengel Commentary - 1 Thessalonians 2:3 - 2:3


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1Th 2:3. Γὰρ, for) for occurs again, 1Th 2:5. There is a double reason assigned (ÆtioIogia), α, in the thesis, concerning their (his and his companions’) regular and constant practice; β, in the hypothesis, how they behaved (proceeded) among the Thessalonians, 1Th 2:5 and the following verses; comp. with 2Co 1:12, concerning his general and special mode of proceeding towards others.-παράκλησις, exhortation) The whole preaching of the Gospel is so called, seasoned as it is with the sweetness of sufferings; see 1Th 2:2, with which comp. 2Co 1:3, et seqq. Παράκλησις, Zuspruch, has an extensive meaning; when he rouses the slothful, it is exhortation (παράκλησις): when he applies balm to sorrow, it is comfort or consolation (παραμύθιον); comp. 1Th 2:11, note.-οὐκ-οὐδὲ-οὔτε, not-nor-nor) He disavows evil intentions, in relation to God, himself, and others. The antithesis to this is similarly universal, in the following verse, which should be compared with 1Th 2:10 [where see the note on the similar threefold relation].-οὐκ ἐκ πλάνης, not from [of] deceit) namely, is; comp. we speak, in the present, 1Th 2:4.-οὐδὲ ἐξ ἀκαθαρσίας, nor from [of] uncleanness) This uncleanness is when the fruit of the flesh is sought after: comp. Php 1:16. The fruit of the flesh is somewhat subtile: Eigenheit, self-seeking (seeking one’s own honour or gain), peculiarity.[4] Concerning its antithesis, purity, see Act 15:9.

[4] Beng., I conceive, contrasts purity, in the sense of singleness of aim for God’s glory and Christ’s, Mat 5:8, with carnal seeking of self, the want of a pure intention, οὐχ ἀγνῶς, not purely, Php 1:16. Comp. Jam 4:8, Purify your hearts, ye double-minded.-ED