Definition: But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important verse from 1 Thessalonians 2:7: “But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: Essentially, it’s about loving and caring for people. Let’s unpack the imagery: “But we were gentle”: This is the key part. It means we didn’t treat people harshly or aggressively. We weren't demanding, critical, or trying to force things on them. We were thoughtful and kind. “…among you”: This refers to the community of believers – the church. “Even as a nurse cherisheth her children:” This is where it gets really powerful. A “nurse” is someone who takes care of young animals, especially lambs. The word "cheriseh" means to nurture, protect, and care for something delicate and vulnerable. So, the image is that of a nurturing nurse protecting the people in the church. Putting it all together: The verse is saying that the Apostle Paul and his team were incredibly careful and gentle when they were teaching and leading the believers. They weren’t trying to control or dominate them; they were showing compassion and care. It's like a nurse gently tending to lambs – protecting and nurturing their well-being. Why is this important? This imagery highlights several important truths about Paul's ministry: Love is Paramount: Paul understood that love was the most important thing in his work. Servant Leadership: He wasn’t trying to be a boss; he was serving and caring for those under his protection. Gentleness & Patience: It emphasizes the need to approach people with kindness, understanding, and patience. In short, it's a powerful reminder that true leadership isn't about power or control, but about showing love and care. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse or would you like me to explain it in a different way? For example, are you curious about: The historical context of the verse? Its significance within Paul’s teachings?