What does 1 Thessalonians 2:6 mean?
Paul and his missionary companions did not try to make a name for themselves among the Thessalonians and others. Nor did they demand money from their audience. They did not use their apostolic credentials as a means of getting anything from those to whom they preached the gospel. Their goal was to serve and to give of themselves on behalf of others. They were servants for Jesus' sake (2 Corinthians 4:5). However, as apostles, they were worthy of financial support. By contrast, orators and philosophers combed the Roman Empire, entertaining audiences and collecting money from them. Also, they hoped to become famous.Paul and his coworkers ministered in the tradition of Jesus, the greatest minister of all. He taught his followers to renounce prestige and to serve humbly. He explained, "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" (Mark 10:45).