1 Thessalonians 2:6
“Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul sought no human praise and made no demands, though as an apostle he had the right to be supported.
What Does 1 Thessalonians 2:6 Mean?
Paul disclaims another motive: he did not chase 'glory' from people, neither from the Thessalonians nor from anyone else. He had every right, 'as the apostles of Christ,' to expect honor and material support, to be 'burdensome' in the sense of letting them bear his expenses. He set that right aside.
The craving for human approval is a subtle master, and Paul names it as one he refused to serve. He carried real authority, yet he did not trade on it for praise or comfort. To seek glory from people is to put oneself at their mercy, always performing for their applause; Paul wanted the freedom of seeking glory only from God. He held a genuine claim but declined to press it, choosing to give rather than to take. Such restraint is its own quiet testimony that he sought their good, not their gratitude.
In the Original Language
doxa (δόξα), 'glory' -- honor, praise, the weight of esteem given to a person.