1 Thessalonians 2:5

Flattering words. Literally, “speech of flattery.” To prove that their aim had not been to please men, Paul reminds their converts that they know that the apostles, in preaching, had never descended to flattery in order to make the gospel acceptable. A radical work of reform was needed in the lives of the Thessalonians. To flatter would have encouraged their self-complacency and would have blinded them to their need. These apostles of Christ did not preach smooth things, as did false prophets (see Isa. 30:10; Eze. 13:10).

Cloke. Gr. prophasis, “pretext” (see on Phil. 1:18). The apostles did not use their office for enriching themselves. On the contrary, they were most careful to give no occasion for such a charge. Paul could testify that he had “coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel” (Acts 20:33; cf. 2 Cor. 12:14).

God is witness. A solemn, reverent oath (cf. on Phil. 1:8). Paul could appeal to the Thessalonians’ personal recollection for confirmation of the fact that he and his associates had not flattered them, but as to their motives he could appeal only to God. Thus he forcefully denies all charges that he and his associates had labored for personal gain.