1 Thessalonians 1:7
So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.
Original Language Analysis
ὥστε
So
G5620
ὥστε
So
Strong's:
G5620
Word #:
1 of 13
so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)
γενέσθαι
were
G1096
γενέσθαι
were
Strong's:
G1096
Word #:
2 of 13
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
τύπους
ensamples
G5179
τύπους
ensamples
Strong's:
G5179
Word #:
4 of 13
a die (as struck), i.e., (by implication) a stamp or scar; by analogy, a shape, i.e., a statue, (figuratively) style or resemblance; specially, a samp
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πιστεύουσιν
that believe
G4100
πιστεύουσιν
that believe
Strong's:
G4100
Word #:
7 of 13
to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
11 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Titus 2:7In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,1 Timothy 4:12Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.1 Peter 5:3Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
Historical Context
The speed of this influence is remarkable. Paul founded churches in Philippi, Thessalonica, and Berea during his second missionary journey (Acts 16-17), then moved to Athens and Corinth. By the time he wrote from Corinth (perhaps 6-12 months after leaving Thessalonica), the Thessalonian church had already become famous throughout the region. Their bold witness despite persecution, contrasting sharply with the Athenians' philosophical skepticism, made them a model of authentic conversion.
Questions for Reflection
- What specific characteristics would make your faith an 'ensample' worth imitating rather than a cautionary tale?
- How does the Thessalonians' rapid progression challenge assumptions that spiritual maturity requires lengthy training?
- Why does Christianity proven through suffering often have greater evangelistic impact than prosperity-gospel testimonies?
Analysis & Commentary
So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia—within months of conversion, the Thessalonians became typous (τύπους, 'types/patterns/models') for others. This rapid progression from imitators (v. 6) to examples demonstrates authentic Christianity's reproductive nature. Macedonia (northern Greece, including Philippi and Berea) and Achaia (southern Greece, including Corinth and Athens) encompassed the entire region. A church birthed in persecution and nurtured from distance became the model for established congregations.
What made them exemplary? Not theological sophistication or numerical size, but faith demonstrated through affliction-with-joy (v. 6), transformation from idols (v. 9), and waiting for Christ's return (v. 10). The gospel's power doesn't require ideal circumstances—persecuted, recently converted Gentiles became spiritual instructors to the region. Their testimony proved the sufficiency of the Spirit for sanctification, not requiring apostolic presence or extended teaching.