1 Thessalonians 1:5

how that our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit, and in much assurance; even as ye know what manner of men we showed ourselves toward you for your sake.

See comment on preceding verse.

Our gospel ... Paul on occasion could say "my" gospel; and therefore the thought persists that the construction here is for the purpose of affirming the oneness of the gospel the Thessalonians had received with the same gospel taught by all of the apostles. Note that the acceptance of that gospel by the Thessalonians was one of the reasons that Paul spoke so confidently of their being the election of God. Those who accept the gospel in all generations are likewise of the elect.

What manner of men we showed ourselves ... It seems to this writer that commentators make too much of this and other passages in the letter which might be construed as Paul's defense against "charges." Barclay made a list of these, compiling them from references in 1 Thessalonians 2.

It was being said that Paul preached from sheer delusion (1 Thessalonians 2:3).

That his preaching sprang from impure motives (1 Thessalonians 2:3).

It was said his preaching aimed at deluding others (1 Thessalonians 2:3).

That he was seeking to please people, not God (1 Thessalonians 2:4).

That he was preaching for what he could get out of it (1 Thessalonians 2:5,9).

That he sought personal prestige (1 Thessalonians 2:6).

He was something of a dictator (1 Thessalonians 2:7).[13]

A careful reading of the epistle fails to support the theoretical speculations of a savage campaign of slander as alleged by Barclay. It was the part of wisdom to place in the hands of churches the truth which could prevent such slanders from ever being propagated; and that is just as reasonable a supposition as the other. That Paul, knowing the ways of Satan, would have anticipated and frustrated such slanders in advance, wherever possible, would appear to be a certainty; and there must be some of that in evidence here.

Not in word only ... Paul's preaching was accompanied by the exhibition of miraculous apostolic powers (Romans 15:19) of "signs and wonders and mighty deeds in the Holy Spirit"; such things, of course, having been the Father's way of confirming the gospel he preached.

What manner of men we showed ourselves ... Paul worked with his own hands to support his preaching; his conduct was righteous and holy in their presence; and it was fitting indeed that he should remind them of the Christian character he had exhibited among them.