1 Thessalonians 2:1

For yourselves. Paul is here enlarging on the reasoning begun in ch. 1:5. Others had voluntarily testified to the phenomenal success of the work of Paul and his associates in Thessalonica (see on ch. 1:9), but the apostle now appeals at length to what the Thessalonians themselves recollected. Every minister of the gospel ought so to conduct himself that when slanderously attacked he is able to make a similar appeal to his people.

Entrance. That is, the evangelizing visit of Paul and his company (cf. Acts 17:1-4; 1 Thess. 1:9). The converts at Thessalonica knew better than any others what this missionary visit accomplished in their own lives.

In vain. Literally, “empty” (see on 1 Cor. 15:10). The Thessalonian believers were themselves proof of the truth of Paul’s claim.