3:3a
so that none of you would be shaken: The Greek verb sainō, which the Berean Standard Bible translates as shaken, has two possible meanings:
(1) It means “disturbed, unsettled”.
(Berean Standard Bible, New International Version (2011 Revision), NET Bible, Contemporary English Version, New Century Version, New Living Translation (2004 Revision), God’s Word, Revised Standard Version, Revised English Bible, New Jerusalem Bible, King James Version)
(2) It means “deceived.” The Good News Translation has interpreted this to mean “turn back.”
Although the second meaning “deceive” is the most common meaning in Greek for this verb, in this context the first option (1) makes better sense and has the best support from commentaries and English versions, so it is recommended that you follow it in your translation.
by these trials: This phrase refers to the persecutions that the Thessalonian believers were suffering. The same Greek word was translated “suffering” in 1:6c.
3:3b
For you know: The Greek text say literally, “For you yourselves know.” These words show that Paul was again reminding the Thessalonians of what they already knew because he had taught it to them while he was in Thessalonica.
we are destined for this: The Greek verb keimai, which the Berean Standard Bible has translated as are destined, has many meanings. In this context it means “appointed, destined, ordained.” Paul did not say who had destined people for the trials of 3:3a, but he apparently meant that it was God. Make sure the word you choose to translate this verb does not give the impression that God is a dictator who, without good reason, likes to make people suffer. Here is another way to translate this clause:
such persecutions are part of God’s will for us (Good News Translation)
we: Here this refers to all Christians, not just Paul and his companions.
this: The word this refers to the “trials” in 3:3a.
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