I Thessalonians 3:8
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For now we can go on living, as long as you are standing firm in the Lord.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
now--as the case is; seeing ye stand fast. we live--we flourish. It revives us in our affliction to hear of your steadfastness (Psa 22:26). if--implying that the vivid joy which the missionaries "now" feel, will continue if the Thessalonians continue steadfast. They still needed exhortation, Th1 3:10; therefore he subjoins the conditional clause, "if ye," &c. (Phi 4:1).
Open source ↗In this chapter the apostle gives further evidence of his love to the Thessalonians, reminding them of his sending Timothy to them, with the mention of his design therein and his inducements so to do (Th1 3:1-5). He acquaints them also with his great satisfaction at the return of Timothy, with good tidings concerning them (Th1 3:6-10). And concludes with fervent prayer for them (Th1 3:11 to the end).
Open source ↗3:8 Paul was distressed by his present circumstances (3:7) and deeply concerned for the church (3:1, 5). He was relieved to learn that the Thessalonians remained strong and were standing firm in the Lord even though they were also suffering (2:14; 3:3-4).
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
Be on the alert. Stand firm in the faith. Be men of courage. Be strong.
if indeed you continue in your faith, established and firm, not moved from the hope of the gospel you heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.
I am coming soon. Hold fast to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.
For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.
Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to what we profess.
For His anger is fleeting, but His favor lasts a lifetime. Weeping may stay the night, but joy comes in the morning.
so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. Then you, being rooted and grounded in love,
When he arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to abide in the Lord with all their hearts.
Remember, then, what you have received and heard. Keep it and repent. If you do not wake up, I will come like a thief, and you will not know the hour when I will come upon you.