Definition: So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from 1 Thessalonians 2:8. It’s a really beautiful and comforting passage about how the Apostle Paul cared deeply for his fellow believers. Here’s what it means in simple terms: Basically, Paul is saying: “We weren’t just giving you the good news of God – we were also willing to share our own hearts with you.” Let's unpack that a little further: “So being affectionately desirous of you…” - This means Paul was feeling a really warm and loving desire for his followers. It wasn’t just a casual interest; he truly wanted them to know God. “…we were willing to have imparted unto you…” – "Imparted" means to share or give something. So, he was offering the gospel (the good news about Jesus) and his own personal connection with it. “not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls…” - This is a key part! He wasn’t just telling you about God; he was sharing his love for him, his faith, and his understanding of God. It went beyond just the basic message – he wanted to connect with you on a deeper level. “because ye were dear unto us.” - This is the really important part! "Dear" means cherished, valued, and loved. He felt that his followers were incredibly special to him, and he valued their relationship with God immensely. It highlights the importance of the bonds between believers. In a nutshell, Paul was expressing immense affection for his followers and wanted them to experience the same love and connection he felt. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the idea that true faith isn't just about hearing words; it’s about being connected with God and with each other. It shows a genuine desire to nurture and bless those who are part of his community. Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse might be applied to your life?