1 Thessalonians 2:2-6 We had previously suffered and been insulted in Philippi, as you know, but with the help of our God we dared to tell you his gospel in spite of strong opposition. For the appeal we make does not spring from error or impure motives, nor are we trying to trick you. On the contrary, we speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, who tests our hearts. You know we never use flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed — God is our witness. We were not looking for praise from men, not from you or anyone else.

Commentary: As we see in the words of the Apostle Paul, the motives of those who share the Gospel are always in question. The correct motive, however, is to please God, not men. This is done by sharing the Gospel's truth, not a sugar coated facsimile. Good evangelists are not necessarily popular people. The message must be founded soundly on scripture and not a message designed to create popularity.

1 Thessalonians 2:9 Surely you remember, brothers, our toil and hardship; we worked night and day in order not to be a burden to anyone while we preached the gospel of God to you.

Commentary: The Apostle Paul and his followers knew that their motives would affect how others related to their message. So Paul went out of his way to work and not take from those gathered to hear his message.

1 Thessalonians 2:13 And we also thank God continually because, when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the word of God, which is at work in you who believe.

Commentary: The Apostle Paul never took credit for success. He knew that his role was only to share the Gospel and leave the results to God. Paul never took credit for his own efforts.