1 Thessalonians 2:6
Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burden some, as the apostles of Christ. Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burden some, as the apostles of Christ.
Paul and his fellow workers sought no honor, praise, status, or glory from people, neither from the Thessalonian believers they served nor from anyone else. Although as Christ's apostles they had the standing, authority, and right to claim honor and material support and could have been burdensome, they refused to impose the cost of their ministry on the believers or to use their position for personal glory or gain. This self-denial belonged to a larger pattern in which those entrusted with the gospel speak to please God who tests hearts rather than to please people, with boldness even after suffering and shameful treatment at Philippi, with a message free from deceit, uncleanness, and guile, without flattering words or any cover for covetousness. In place of seeking glory they were gentle among believers as a nurse cherishes her children, giving personal, self-sacrificing care for souls. They expressed this by working with their own hands night and day while preaching so as not to be chargeable to the church, thus avoiding financial burden and setting an example of responsible labor.
Their affection led them to be willing to share not only the gospel but their own lives because the converts were dear to them, and they regarded those converts as their hope and joy and crown of rejoicing in the presence of the Lord Jesus at His coming, their glory and joy. The verse sets the standard God requires of true ministers today, calling them to learn of Christ, be filled with His Spirit, be clothed in His righteousness, and do thorough work that brings solid timbers into the structure rather than merely speaking acceptably, even if less preaching is done, so that the labor truly benefits the cause. Making this self-denying ministry one's own experience makes a person Christlike at home and abroad, in health and sickness, in the world and in the sanctuary, brings fidelity attested by the heavenly record, a hope that does not bring shame, and patient endurance of trial that will be rewarded when Christ comes to give each person according to his works.