4 In fact, when we were with you, we kept telling you that we would be persecuted. And it turned out that way, as you well know.
4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.
4 For when we were with you, we kept telling you beforehand that we were to suffer affliction, just as it has come to pass, and just as you know.
4 When we were with you, we made it quite clear that there was trouble ahead. And now that it's happened, you know what it's like.
4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.
4 Even while we were with you, we warned you that troubles would soon come-and they did, as you well know.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 3:4
Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5
(Read 1 Thessalonians 3:1-5)
The more we find pleasure in the ways of God, the more we shall desire to persevere therein. The apostle's design was to establish and comfort the Thessalonians as to the object of their faith, that Jesus Christ was the Saviour of the world; and as to the recompence of faith, which was more than enough to make up all their losses, and to reward all their labours. But he feared his labours would be in vain. If the devil cannot hinder ministers from labouring in the word and doctrine, he will, if possible, hinder the success of their labours. No one would willingly labour in vain. It is the will and purpose of God, that we enter into his kingdom through many afflictions. And the apostles, far from flattering people with the expectation of worldly prosperity in religion, told them plainly they must count upon trouble in the flesh. Herein they followed the example of their great Master, the Author of our faith. Christians were in danger, and they should be forewarned; they will thus be kept from being improved by any devices of the tempter.