1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.

2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.

4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.

5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.

6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

7 For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.

8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.

9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;

13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

16 Rejoice evermore.

17 Pray without ceasing.

18 In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

19 Quench not the Spirit.

20 Despise not prophesyings.

21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.

23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

25 Brethren, pray for us.

26 Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss.

27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren.

28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

Commentary

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
It is needless or useless to ask about the particular time of Christ's coming. Christ did not reveal this to the apostles. There are times and seasons for us to work in, and these are our duty and interest to know and observe; but as to the time when we must give up our account, we know it not, nor is it needful that we should. The coming of Christ will be a great surprise to men. Our Lord himself said so. As the hour of death is the same to each person that the judgment will be to mankind in general, so the same remarks answer for both. Christ's coming will be terrible to the ungodly. Their destruction will overtake them while they dream of happiness, and please themselves with vain amusements. There will be no means to escape the terror or the punishment of that day. This day will be a happy day to the righteous. They are not in darkness; they are the children of the light. It is the happy condition of all true Christians. But how many are speaking peace and safety to themselves, over whose heads utter destruction is hovering! Let us endeavour to awaken ourselves and each other, and guard against our spiritual enemies.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
But of the precise times when this shall be.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
But as to times. He now, in the third place, calls them back from a curious and unprofitable inquiry as totimes, but in the mean time admonishes them to be constantly in a state of preparation for receiving Christ.He speaks, however, by way ofanticipation, saying, that they have no need that he should write as to those things which the curious desire to know. For it is an evidence of excessive incredulity not to believe what the Lord foretells, unless he marks out the day by certain circumstances, and as it were points it out with the finger. As, therefore, those waver between doubtful opinions who require that moments of time should be marked out for them, as if they would draw a conjecturefrom some plausible demonstration, he accordingly says that discussions of this nature are not necessary for the pious. There is also another reason — that believers do not desire to know more than they are permitted to learn in God’s school. Now Christ designed that the day of his coming should be hid from us, that, being in suspense, we might be as it were upon watch.
McArther Bible Commentary
But. Paul used familiar Greek words here to indicate a change of topics within the same general subject of prophecy (cf. 1Th 4:9, 1Th 4:13; 1Co 7:1, 1Co 7:25; 1Co 8:1; 1Co 12:1; 1Co 16:1). The expression here points to the idea that within the broader context of the end time coming of the Lord Jesus, the subject is changing from a discussion of the blessings of the rapture of believers to the judgment of unbelievers. times and the seasons. These two terms mean the measurement of time and the character of the times respectively (cf. Dan 2:21; Act 1:7). Many of them expected the Lord to come in their lifetime and were confused and grieved when their fellow believers died before His coming (see notes on 1Th 4:13-18). They were concerned about the delay. Apparently, the Thessalonians knew all that God intended believers to know about coming judgment, and Paul had taught them what they hadn't known about the rapture (1Th 4:13-18), so Paul exhorted them, here, to live godly lives in light of coming judgment on the world, rather than to be distracted by probing into issues of prophetic timing. They could not know the timing of God's final judgment, but they knew well that it was coming unexpectedly (1Th 5:2).
Bible Cross References
Acts 1:7 1 Thessalonians 4:9 1 Thessalonians 4:18

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
It is needless or useless to ask about the particular time of Christ's coming. Christ did not reveal this to the apostles. There are times and seasons for us to work in, and these are our duty and interest to know and observe; but as to the time when we must give up our account, we know it not, nor is it needful that we should. The coming of Christ will be a great surprise to men. Our Lord himself said so. As the hour of death is the same to each person that the judgment will be to mankind in general, so the same remarks answer for both. Christ's coming will be terrible to the ungodly. Their destruction will overtake them while they dream of happiness, and please themselves with vain amusements. There will be no means to escape the terror or the punishment of that day. This day will be a happy day to the righteous. They are not in darkness; they are the children of the light. It is the happy condition of all true Christians. But how many are speaking peace and safety to themselves, over whose heads utter destruction is hovering! Let us endeavour to awaken ourselves and each other, and guard against our spiritual enemies.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For this in general ye do know; and ye can and need know no more.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Ye know perfectly. He places exact knowledge in contrast with an anxious desire of investigation. But what is it that he says the Thessalonians know accurately?It is, that the day of Christ will come suddenly and unexpectedly, so as to take unbelievers by surprise, as a thief does those that are asleep. This, however, is opposed to evident tokens, which might portend afar off his coming to the world. Hence it were foolish to wish to determine the time precisely from presages or prodigies.
McArther Bible Commentary
day of the Lord. There are nineteen indisputable uses of the Day of the Lord in the OT and four in the NT (cf. Act 2:20; 2Th 2:2; 2Pe 3:10). The OT prophets used Day of the Lord to describe near historical judgments (see Isa 13:6-22; Eze 30:2-19; Joe 1:15; Amo 5:18-20; Zep 1:14-18) or far eschatological divine judgments (see Joe 2:30-32; Joe 3:14; Zec 14:1; Mal 4:1, Mal 4:5). Six times it is referred to as the "day of doom" and four times "day of vengeance." The NT calls it a day of "wrath," day of "visitation," and the "Great Day of God Almighty" (Rev 16:14). These are terrifying judgments from God (cf. Joe 2:30-31; 2Th 1:7-10) for the overwhelming sinfulness of the world. The future Day of the Lord, which unleashes God's wrath, falls into two parts: (1) the end of the seven year tribulation period (cf. Rev 19:11-21), and (2) the end of the millennium. These two are actually 1,000 years apart; and Peter refers to the end of the 1,000-year period in connection with the final Day of the Lord (cf. 2Pe 3:10; Rev 20:7-15). Here, Paul refers to that aspect of the Day of the Lord,"which concludes the tribulation period. a thief in the night. This phrase is never used to refer to the rapture of the church. It is used of Christ's coming in judgment on the Day of the Lord at the end of the seven-year tribulation which is distinct from the rapture of the church (see note on 1Th 4:15) and it is used of the judgment which concludes the millennium (2Pe 3:10). As a thief comes unexpectedly and without warning, so will the Day of the Lord come in both its final phases.
Bible Cross References
Luke 21:34 1 Corinthians 1:8 1 Thessalonians 5:4 2 Thessalonians 2:2 2 Peter 3:10 Revelation 3:3 Revelation 16:15

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
It is needless or useless to ask about the particular time of Christ's coming. Christ did not reveal this to the apostles. There are times and seasons for us to work in, and these are our duty and interest to know and observe; but as to the time when we must give up our account, we know it not, nor is it needful that we should. The coming of Christ will be a great surprise to men. Our Lord himself said so. As the hour of death is the same to each person that the judgment will be to mankind in general, so the same remarks answer for both. Christ's coming will be terrible to the ungodly. Their destruction will overtake them while they dream of happiness, and please themselves with vain amusements. There will be no means to escape the terror or the punishment of that day. This day will be a happy day to the righteous. They are not in darkness; they are the children of the light. It is the happy condition of all true Christians. But how many are speaking peace and safety to themselves, over whose heads utter destruction is hovering! Let us endeavour to awaken ourselves and each other, and guard against our spiritual enemies.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
When they - The men of the world say.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For when they shall say. Here we have an explanation of the similitude,the day of the Lord will be like a thief in the night. Why so? because it will come suddenly to unbelievers, when not looked for, so that it will take them by surprise, as though they were asleep. But whence comes that sleep? Assuredly from deep contempt of God. The prophets frequently reprove the wicked on account of this supine negligence, and assuredly they await in a spirit of carelessness not merely that last judgment, but also such as are of daily occurrence. Though the Lord threatens destruction,they do not hesitate to promise themselves peace and every kind of prosperity. And the reason why they fall into this destructive indolenceis, because they do not see those things immediately accomplished, which the Lord declares will take place, for they reckon that to be fabulous that does not immediately present itself before their eyes. For this reason the Lord, in order that he may avenge this carelessness, which is full of obstinacy, comes all on a sudden, and contrary to the expectation of all, precipitates the wicked from the summit of felicity. He sometimes furnishes tokens of this nature of a sudden advent, but that will be the principal one, when Christ will come down to judge the world, as he himself testifies, (Matthew 24:37) comparing that time to the age of Noe, inasmuch as all will give way to excess, as if in the profoundest repose.As the pains of child-bearing.Here we have a most apt similitude, inasmuch as there is no evil that seizes more suddenly, and that presses more keenly and more violently on the very first attack; besides this, a woman that is with child carries in her womb occasion of grief without feeling it, until she is seized amidst feasting and laughter, or in the midst of sleep.
McArther Bible Commentary
"Peace and safety!" Just as false prophets of old fraudulently forecast a bright future, in spite of the imminence of God's judgment (Jer 6:14; Jer 8:11; Jer 14:13-14; Lam 2:14; Eze 13:10, Eze 13:16; Mic 3:5), so they will again in future days just before the final Day of the Lord destruction. labor pains. The Lord used this same illustration in the Olivet Discourse (see note on Mat 24:8). It portrays the inevitability, suddenness, inescapable nature, and painfulness of the Day of the Lord.
Bible Cross References
Job 15:21 Psalm 35:8 Psalm 55:15 Psalm 69:22 Isaiah 20:6 Isaiah 21:3 Isaiah 29:5 Isaiah 47:9 Isaiah 47:11 Jeremiah 6:14 Jeremiah 8:11 Jeremiah 14:19 Ezekiel 13:10 John 16:21 2 Thessalonians 1:9

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
It is needless or useless to ask about the particular time of Christ's coming. Christ did not reveal this to the apostles. There are times and seasons for us to work in, and these are our duty and interest to know and observe; but as to the time when we must give up our account, we know it not, nor is it needful that we should. The coming of Christ will be a great surprise to men. Our Lord himself said so. As the hour of death is the same to each person that the judgment will be to mankind in general, so the same remarks answer for both. Christ's coming will be terrible to the ungodly. Their destruction will overtake them while they dream of happiness, and please themselves with vain amusements. There will be no means to escape the terror or the punishment of that day. This day will be a happy day to the righteous. They are not in darkness; they are the children of the light. It is the happy condition of all true Christians. But how many are speaking peace and safety to themselves, over whose heads utter destruction is hovering! Let us endeavour to awaken ourselves and each other, and guard against our spiritual enemies.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Ye are not in darkness - Sleeping secure in sin.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
while darkness covers the earth, the Lord arises upon us, and his glory is seen in us. (Isaiah 60:2)He admonishes us, therefore, that it were an unseemly thing that we should be caught by Christ asleep, as it were, or seeing nothing, while the full blaze of light is shining forth upon us. He calls them children of light, in accordance with the Hebrew idiom, as meaning — furnished with light; as alsochildren of the day, meaning — those who enjoy the light of day.And this he again confirms, when he says that we arenot of the night nor of darkness, because the Lord has rescued us from it. For it is as though he had said, that we have not been enlightened by the Lord with a view to our walking in darkness.
McArther Bible Commentary
But you, brethren. Paul dramatically shifts from the third person plural pronoun (three times in 1Th 5:3) to the second person plural. Because the church is raptured before the judgment of the Day of the Lord, believers will not be present on earth to experience its terrors and destruction (1Th 5:3). not in darkness. Believers have no part in the Day of the Lord, because they have been delivered from the domain of darkness and transferred to the kingdom of light (Col 1:13). Jesus taught that to believe in Him would remove a person from spiritual darkness (Joh 8:12; Joh 12:46). The contrast between believers and the lost is emphatic and Paul draws it out all the way through verse 1Th 5:7. Believers will not experience the wrath of God because they are different in nature. Unbelievers are in darkness (cf. 1Th 5:2, "in the night"), engulfed in mental, moral, and spiritual darkness because of sin and unbelief (cf. Joh 1:5; Joh 3:19; Joh 8:12; 2Co 4:6; Eph 4:17-18; Eph 5:8, Eph 5:11). All these people are children of Satan (cf. Joh 8:44) who is called "the power of darkness" (Luk 22:53). The Day of the Lord will "overtake" them suddenly and with deadly results.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 10:15 Luke 21:34 Acts 26:18 1 Thessalonians 5:2 2 Peter 3:10 1 John 2:8 Revelation 3:3 Revelation 16:15

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
It is needless or useless to ask about the particular time of Christ's coming. Christ did not reveal this to the apostles. There are times and seasons for us to work in, and these are our duty and interest to know and observe; but as to the time when we must give up our account, we know it not, nor is it needful that we should. The coming of Christ will be a great surprise to men. Our Lord himself said so. As the hour of death is the same to each person that the judgment will be to mankind in general, so the same remarks answer for both. Christ's coming will be terrible to the ungodly. Their destruction will overtake them while they dream of happiness, and please themselves with vain amusements. There will be no means to escape the terror or the punishment of that day. This day will be a happy day to the righteous. They are not in darkness; they are the children of the light. It is the happy condition of all true Christians. But how many are speaking peace and safety to themselves, over whose heads utter destruction is hovering! Let us endeavour to awaken ourselves and each other, and guard against our spiritual enemies.
McArther Bible Commentary
sons of light. This is a Hebrew expression that characterizes believers as children of God, their heavenly Father, who is light and in whom is no darkness at all (1Jn 1:5-7). Cf. Luk 16:8; Joh 8:12; Joh 12:36. Believers live in a completely different sphere of life than those who will be in the Day of the Lord.
Bible Cross References
Luke 16:8 Acts 26:18 1 Thessalonians 5:8 1 John 2:8

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
Most of mankind do not consider the things of another world at all, because they are asleep; or they do not consider them aright, because they sleep and dream. Our moderation as to all earthly things should be known to all men. Shall Christians, who have the light of the blessed gospel shining in their faces, be careless about their souls, and unmindful of another world? We need the spiritual armour, or the three Christian graces, faith, love, and hope. Faith; if we believe that the eye of God is always upon us, that there is another world to prepare for, we shall see reason to watch and be sober. True and fervent love to God, and the things of God, will keep us watchful and sober. If we have hope of salvation, let us take heed of any thing that would shake our trust in the Lord. We have ground on which to build unshaken hope, when we consider, that salvation is by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, to atone for our sins and to ransom our souls. We should join in prayer and praise one with another. We should set a good example one before another, and this is the best means to answer the end of society. Thus we shall learn how to live to Him, with whom we hope to live for ever.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Awake, and keep awake - Being awakened, let us have all our spiritual senses about us.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Therefore let us not sleep. He adds other metaphors closely allied to the preceding one. For as he lately shewed that it were by no means seemly that they should be blind in the midst of light, so he now admonishes that it were dishonorable and disgraceful to sleep or be drunk in the middle of the day. Now, as he gives the name ofdayto the doctrine of the gospel, by which the Christ, theSun of righteousness (Malachi 4:2) is manifested to us, so when he speaks of sleep and drunkenness, he does not mean natural sleep, or drunkenness from wine, but stupor of mind, when, forgetting God and ourselves, we regardlessly indulge our vices.Let us not sleep, says he; that is, let us not, sunk in indolence, become senseless in the world.As others, that is, unbelievers,from whom ignorance of God, like a dark night, takes away understanding and reason.But let us watch, that is, let us look to the Lord with an attentive mind.And be sober, that is, casting away the cares of the world, which weigh us down by their pressure, and throwing off base lusts, mount to heaven with freedom and alacrity. For this is spiritual sobriety, when we use this world so sparingly and temperately that we are not entangled with its allurements.
McArther Bible Commentary
let us not sleep. Because believers have been delivered from the domain of darkness, they are taken out of the night of sin and ignorance and put into the light of God. Because Christians are in the light, they should not sleep in spiritual indifference and comfort, but be alert to the spiritual issues around them. They are not to live like the sleeping, darkened people who will be jolted out of their coma by the Day of the Lord (1Th 5:7), but to live alert, balanced, godly lives under control of the truth.
Bible Cross References
Romans 13:11 Ephesians 2:3 1 Thessalonians 4:13 1 Thessalonians 5:10 1 Peter 1:13

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
Most of mankind do not consider the things of another world at all, because they are asleep; or they do not consider them aright, because they sleep and dream. Our moderation as to all earthly things should be known to all men. Shall Christians, who have the light of the blessed gospel shining in their faces, be careless about their souls, and unmindful of another world? We need the spiritual armour, or the three Christian graces, faith, love, and hope. Faith; if we believe that the eye of God is always upon us, that there is another world to prepare for, we shall see reason to watch and be sober. True and fervent love to God, and the things of God, will keep us watchful and sober. If we have hope of salvation, let us take heed of any thing that would shake our trust in the Lord. We have ground on which to build unshaken hope, when we consider, that salvation is by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, to atone for our sins and to ransom our souls. We should join in prayer and praise one with another. We should set a good example one before another, and this is the best means to answer the end of society. Thus we shall learn how to live to Him, with whom we hope to live for ever.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
They usually sleep and are drunken in the night - These things do not love the light.
Bible Cross References
John 2:10 Acts 2:15 Ephesians 5:18 2 Peter 2:13

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
Most of mankind do not consider the things of another world at all, because they are asleep; or they do not consider them aright, because they sleep and dream. Our moderation as to all earthly things should be known to all men. Shall Christians, who have the light of the blessed gospel shining in their faces, be careless about their souls, and unmindful of another world? We need the spiritual armour, or the three Christian graces, faith, love, and hope. Faith; if we believe that the eye of God is always upon us, that there is another world to prepare for, we shall see reason to watch and be sober. True and fervent love to God, and the things of God, will keep us watchful and sober. If we have hope of salvation, let us take heed of any thing that would shake our trust in the Lord. We have ground on which to build unshaken hope, when we consider, that salvation is by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, to atone for our sins and to ransom our souls. We should join in prayer and praise one with another. We should set a good example one before another, and this is the best means to answer the end of society. Thus we shall learn how to live to Him, with whom we hope to live for ever.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Having put on the breastplate. He adds this, that he may the more effectually shake us out of our stupidity, for he calls us as it were to arms, that he may shew that it is not a time to sleep. It is true that he does not make use of the termwar;but when he arms us with abreastplate and ahelmet, he admonishes us that we must maintain a warfare. Whoever, therefore, is afraid of being surprised by the enemy, must keep awake, that he may be constantly on watch. As, therefore, he has exhorted to vigilance, on the ground that the doctrine of the gospel is like the light of day, so he now stirs us up by another argument — that we must wage war with our enemy. From this it follows, that idleness is too hazardous a thing. For we see that soldiers, though in other situations they may be intemperate, do nevertheless, when the enemy is near, from fear of destruction, refrain from gluttonyand all bodily delights, and are diligently on watch so as to be upon their guard. As, therefore, Satan is on the alert against us, and tries a thousand schemes, we ought at least to be not less diligent and watchful.It is, however, in vain, that some seek a more refined exposition of the names of the kinds of armor, for Paul speaks here in a different way from what he does in Ephesians 6:14for there he makesrighteousnessthebreastplate. This, therefore, will suffice for understanding his meaning, that he designs to teach, that the life of Christians is like a perpetual warfare, inasmuch as Satan does not cease to trouble and molest them. He would have us, therefore, be diligently prepared and on the alert for resistance: farther, he admonishes us that we have need of arms, because unless we be well armed we cannot withstand so powerfulan enemy. He does not, however, enumerateall the parts of armor, (πανοπλίαν,) but simply makes mention of two, thebreastplate and thehelmet. In the mean time, he omits nothing of what belongs to spiritual armor, for the man that is provided withfaith,love, andhope, will be found in no department unarmed.
McArther Bible Commentary
breastplate. Paul pictured the Christian life in military terms as being a life of soberness (alertness) and proper equipping. The breastplate covers the vital organs of the body. Faith is an essential protection against temptations, because it is trust in God's promise, plan, and truth. It is unwavering belief in God's Word that protects us from temptation's arrows. Looking at it negatively, it is unbelief that characterizes all sin. When believers sin, they have believed Satan's lie. Love for God is essential, as perfect love for Him yields perfect obedience to Him. Elsewhere, the warrior's breastplate has been used to represent righteousness (Isa 59:17; Eph 6:14). Faith elsewhere is represented by a soldier's shield (Eph 6:16). The helmet is always associated with salvation in its future aspects (cf. Isa 59:17; Eph 6:17). Our future salvation is guaranteed, nothing can take it away (Rom 13:11). Paul again combined faith, love, and hope (cf. 1Th 1:3). See notes on Eph 6:10-17.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 59:17 Romans 8:24 Romans 13:12 Ephesians 6:14 Ephesians 6:16 Ephesians 6:17 Ephesians 6:23 1 Thessalonians 5:5 1 Peter 1:13

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
Most of mankind do not consider the things of another world at all, because they are asleep; or they do not consider them aright, because they sleep and dream. Our moderation as to all earthly things should be known to all men. Shall Christians, who have the light of the blessed gospel shining in their faces, be careless about their souls, and unmindful of another world? We need the spiritual armour, or the three Christian graces, faith, love, and hope. Faith; if we believe that the eye of God is always upon us, that there is another world to prepare for, we shall see reason to watch and be sober. True and fervent love to God, and the things of God, will keep us watchful and sober. If we have hope of salvation, let us take heed of any thing that would shake our trust in the Lord. We have ground on which to build unshaken hope, when we consider, that salvation is by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, to atone for our sins and to ransom our souls. We should join in prayer and praise one with another. We should set a good example one before another, and this is the best means to answer the end of society. Thus we shall learn how to live to Him, with whom we hope to live for ever.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
God hath not appointed us to wrath - As he hath the obstinately impenitent.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For God hath not appointed us. As he has spoken of thehope of salvation,he follows out that department, and says that God has appointed us to this — that wemay obtain salvation through Christ. The passage, however, might be explained in a simple way in this manner — that we mustput on the helmet of salvation, because God wills not that we should perish, but rather that we should be saved. And this, indeed, Paul means, but, in my opinion, he has in view something farther. For as the day of Christ is for the most part regarded with alarm,having it in view to close with the mention of it, he says that we areappointed to salvationThe Greek term περιποίησιςmeansenjoyment, (as they speak,) as well asacquisition. Paul, undoubtedly, does not mean that God has called us, that we may procure salvation for ourselves, but that we may obtain it, as it has been acquired for us by Christ. Paul, however, encourages believers to fight strenuously, setting before them the certainty of victory; for the man who fights timidly and hesitatingly is half-conquered. In these words, therefore, he had it in view to take away the dread which arises from distrust. There cannot, however, be a better assurance of salvation gathered, than from the decreeof God. The termwrath, in this passage, as in other instances, is taken to mean the judgment or vengeance of God against the reprobate.
McArther Bible Commentary
wrath. This is the same wrath referred to in 1Th 1:10 (see note there). In this context (note especially the contrast), it appears obvious that this wrath refers to God's eternal wrath, not His temporal wrath during the tribulation period (cf. Rom 5:9).
Bible Cross References
1 Thessalonians 1:10 2 Thessalonians 2:13 2 Timothy 2:10

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
Most of mankind do not consider the things of another world at all, because they are asleep; or they do not consider them aright, because they sleep and dream. Our moderation as to all earthly things should be known to all men. Shall Christians, who have the light of the blessed gospel shining in their faces, be careless about their souls, and unmindful of another world? We need the spiritual armour, or the three Christian graces, faith, love, and hope. Faith; if we believe that the eye of God is always upon us, that there is another world to prepare for, we shall see reason to watch and be sober. True and fervent love to God, and the things of God, will keep us watchful and sober. If we have hope of salvation, let us take heed of any thing that would shake our trust in the Lord. We have ground on which to build unshaken hope, when we consider, that salvation is by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, to atone for our sins and to ransom our souls. We should join in prayer and praise one with another. We should set a good example one before another, and this is the best means to answer the end of society. Thus we shall learn how to live to Him, with whom we hope to live for ever.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Whether we wake or sleep - Be alive or dead at his coming.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Who died. From the design of Christ’s death he confirms what he has said, for if he died with this view — that he might make us partakers of his life, there is no reason why we should be in doubt as to our salvation. It is doubtful, however, what he means now bysleepingandwaking, for it might seem as if he meantlifeanddeath, and this meaning would be more complete. At the same time, we might not unsuitably interpret it as meaning ordinary sleep. The sum is this — that Christ died with this view, that he might bestow upon us his life, which is perpetual and has no end. It is not to be wondered, however, that he affirms that we nowlive with Christ, inasmuch as we have, by entering through faith into the kingdom of Christ,passed from death into life. (John 5:24) Christ himself, into whose body we are ingrafted, quickens us by his power, and the Spirit that dwelleth in us islife, because of justification
McArther Bible Commentary
wake or asleep. This analogy goes back to 1Th 4:13-15 and refers to being physically alive or dead with the promise that, in either case, we will one day live together (cf. 1Th 4:17; Joh 14:1-3) forever with the Savior who died as the substitute for our sins. Cf. Rom 4:9; Gal 1:4; 2Co 5:15, 2Co 5:21.
Bible Cross References
Romans 14:8 Romans 14:9 1 Thessalonians 4:15 1 Thessalonians 4:17 1 Thessalonians 5:6 2 Timothy 2:11

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
The apostle exhorts to be always ready for the coming of Christ to judgment, which will be with suddenness and surprise.
Most of mankind do not consider the things of another world at all, because they are asleep; or they do not consider them aright, because they sleep and dream. Our moderation as to all earthly things should be known to all men. Shall Christians, who have the light of the blessed gospel shining in their faces, be careless about their souls, and unmindful of another world? We need the spiritual armour, or the three Christian graces, faith, love, and hope. Faith; if we believe that the eye of God is always upon us, that there is another world to prepare for, we shall see reason to watch and be sober. True and fervent love to God, and the things of God, will keep us watchful and sober. If we have hope of salvation, let us take heed of any thing that would shake our trust in the Lord. We have ground on which to build unshaken hope, when we consider, that salvation is by our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, to atone for our sins and to ransom our souls. We should join in prayer and praise one with another. We should set a good example one before another, and this is the best means to answer the end of society. Thus we shall learn how to live to Him, with whom we hope to live for ever.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Exhort. It is the same word that we had in the close of the preceding chapter, and which we renderedcomfort, because the context required it, and the same would not suit ill with this passage also. For what he has treated of previously furnishes matter of both — ofconsolationas well as ofexhortation. He bids them, therefore, communicate to one another what has been given them by the Lord. He adds, that they mayedify one another — that is, may confirm each other in that doctrine. Lest, however, it might seem as if he reproved them for carelessness, he says at the same time that they of their own accord did what he enjoins. But, as we are slow to what is good, those that are the most favourably inclined of all, have always, nevertheless, need to be stimulated.
Bible Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:19 Ephesians 4:29 Jude 1:20

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
The ministers of the gospel are described by the work of their office, which is to serve and honour the Lord. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to warn the flock of dangers, and reprove for whatever may be amiss. The people should honour and love their ministers, because their business is the welfare of men's souls. And the people should be at peace among themselves, doing all they can to guard against any differences. But love of peace must not make us wink at sin. The fearful and sorrowful spirits, should be encouraged, and a kind word may do much good. We must bear and forbear. We must be long-suffering, and keep down anger, and this to all men. Whatever man do to us, we must do good to others.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Know them that, Labour among you: Are over you in the Lord: Admonish you. Know - See, mark, take knowledge of them and their work. Sometimes the same person may both labour, that is, preach; be over, or govern; and admonish the flock by particular application to each: sometimes two or more different persons, according as God variously dispenses his gifts. But O, what a misery is it when a man undertakes this whole work without either gifts or graces for any part of it! Why, then, will he undertake it? for pay? What! will he sell both his own soul and all the souls of the flock? What words can describe such a wretch as this? And yet even this may be "an honourable man!"
John Calvin Bible Commentary
And we beseech you. Here we have an admonition that is very necessary. For as the kingdom of God is lightly esteemed, or at least is not esteemed suitably to its dignity, there follows also from this, contempt of pious teachers. Now, the most of them, offended with this ingratitude, not so much because they see themselves despised, as because they infer from this, that honor is not rendered to their Lord, are rendered thereby more indifferent, and God also, on just grounds, inflicts vengeance upon the world, inasmuch as he deprives it of good ministers,to whom it is ungrateful. Hence, it is not so much for the advantage of ministers as of the whole Church, that those who faithfully preside over it should be held in esteem. And it is for this reason that Paul is so careful to recommend them. Toacknowledgemeans here tohave regard or respect; but Paul intimates that the reason why less honor is shewn to teachers themselves than is befitting, is because their labor is not ordinarily taken into consideration.We must observe, however, with what titles of distinction he honors pastors. In the firstplace, he says that theylabor. From this it follows, that all idle bellies are excluded from the number of pastors. Farther, he expresses the kind of labor when he adds,those that admonish, or instruct,you. It is to no purpose, therefore, that any, that do not discharge the office of an instructor, glory in the name of pastors. The Pope, it is true, readily admits such persons into his catalogue, but the Spirit of God expunges them fromhis. As, however, they are held in contempt in the world, as has been said, he honors them at the same time, with the distinction of presidency.Paul would have such as devote themselves to teaching, and preside with no other end in view than that of serving the Church, be held in no ordinary esteem. For he says literally — let them be more than abundantly honored,and not without good ground, for we must observe the reason that he adds immediately afterwards —on account of their work. Now, thisworkis the edification of the Church, the everlasting salvation of souls, the restoration of the world, and, in fine, the kingdom of God and Christ. The excellence and dignity of this work are inestimable: hence those whom God makes ministers in connection with so great a matter, ought to be held by us in great esteem. We may, however, infer from Paul’s words, that judgment is committed to the Church, that it may distinguish true pastors.For to no purpose were these marks pointed out, if he did not mean that they should be taken notice of by believers. And while he commands that honor be given to those thatlabor, and to those that by teachinggovern properly and faithfully, he assuredly does not bestow any honor upon those that are idle and wicked, nor does he mark them out as deserving of it.Preside in the Lord.This seems to be added to denote spiritual government. For although kings and magistrates also preside by the appointment of God, yet as the Lord would have the government of the Church to be specially recognized ashis, those that govern the Church in the name and by the commandment of Christ, are for this reason spoken of particularly aspresiding in the Lord.We may, however, infer from this, how very remote those are from the rank of pastors and prelates who exercise a tyranny altogether opposed to Christ. Unquestionably, in order that any one may be ranked among lawful pastors, it is necessary that he should shew that hepresidesin the Lord, and has nothing apart from him. And what else is this, but that by pure doctrine he puts Christ in his own seat, that he may be the only Lord and Master?
McArther Bible Commentary
recognize. This does not mean simple face recognition, but that the people are to literally know their pastors well enough to have an intimate appreciation for them and to respect them because of their value. The work of pastors is summarized in a threefold description which includes: (1) laboring, working to the point of exhaustion; (2) overseeing, literally standing before the flock to lead them in the way of righteousness; and (3) admonishing, instructing in the truths of God's Word. Cf. Heb 13:7, Heb 13:17.
Bible Cross References
Romans 16:6 Romans 16:12 1 Corinthians 15:10 1 Corinthians 16:16 1 Corinthians 16:18 1 Thessalonians 4:1 1 Timothy 5:17 Hebrews 13:17

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
The ministers of the gospel are described by the work of their office, which is to serve and honour the Lord. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to warn the flock of dangers, and reprove for whatever may be amiss. The people should honour and love their ministers, because their business is the welfare of men's souls. And the people should be at peace among themselves, doing all they can to guard against any differences. But love of peace must not make us wink at sin. The fearful and sorrowful spirits, should be encouraged, and a kind word may do much good. We must bear and forbear. We must be long-suffering, and keep down anger, and this to all men. Whatever man do to us, we must do good to others.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Esteem them very highly - Literally, more than abundantly, in love - The inexpressible sympathy that is between true pastors and their flock is intimated, not only here, but also in divers other places of this epistle. See (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8) . For their work's sake - The principal ground of their vast regard for them. But how are we to esteem them who do not work at all?
John Calvin Bible Commentary
With love.Others render itby love;for Paul saysin love, which, according to the Hebrew idiom, is equivalent tobyorwith. I prefer, however, to explain it thus — as meaning that he exhorts them not merely to respect them,but also love them. For as the doctrine of the gospel is lovely, so it is befitting that the ministers of it should be loved. It were, however, rather stiff to speak ofhaving in esteem by love, while the connecting together of love with honor suits well.Be at peace. While this passage has various readings, even among the Greeks, I approve rather of the rendering which has been given by the old translator, and is followed by Erasmus —Pacem habete cum eis, vel colite— (Haveorcultivate peace with them.)For Paul, in my opinion, had in view to oppose the artifices of Satan, who ceases not to use every endeavor to stir up either quarrels, or disagreements, or enmities, between people and pastor. Hence we see daily how pastors are hated by their Churches for some trivial reason, or for no reason whatever, because this desire for the cultivation of peace, which Paul recommends so strongly, is not exercised as it ought.
McArther Bible Commentary
esteem. In addition to knowing pastors (see note on 1Th 5:12), congregations are to think rightly and lovingly of their pastors, not because of their charm or personality, but because of the fact that they work for the Chief Shepherd as His special servants (cf. 1Pe 5:2-4). They are also to submit to their leadership so that "peace" prevails in the church.
Bible Cross References
Mark 9:50 1 Thessalonians 5:14

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
The ministers of the gospel are described by the work of their office, which is to serve and honour the Lord. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to warn the flock of dangers, and reprove for whatever may be amiss. The people should honour and love their ministers, because their business is the welfare of men's souls. And the people should be at peace among themselves, doing all they can to guard against any differences. But love of peace must not make us wink at sin. The fearful and sorrowful spirits, should be encouraged, and a kind word may do much good. We must bear and forbear. We must be long-suffering, and keep down anger, and this to all men. Whatever man do to us, we must do good to others.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Warn the disorderly - Them that stand, as it were, out of their rank in the spiritual warfare. Some such were even in that church. The feeble - minded - Literally, them of little soul; such as have no spiritual courage.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Admonish the unruly.It is a common doctrine — that the welfare of our brethren should be the object of our concern. This is done byteaching, admonishing, correcting, and arousing; but, as the dispositions of men are various, it is not without good reason that the Apostle commands that believers accommodate themselves to this variety. He commands, therefore, that theunrulybe admonished, that is, those wholive dissolutely. The termadmonition, also, is employed to mean sharp reproof, such as may bring them back into the right way, for they are deserving of greater severity, and they cannot be brought to repentance by any other remedy.Towards the faint-heartedanother system of conduct must be pursued, for they have need of consolation. Theweakmust also be assisted. Byfaint-hearted, however, he means those that are of a broken and afflicted spirit. He accordingly favors them, and theweak, in such a way as to desire that theunruly should be restrained with some degree of sternness. On the other hand, he commands that theunruly should be admonished sharply, in order that the weak may be treated with kindness and humanity, and that thefaint-hearted may receive consolation. It is therefore to no purpose that those that are obstinate and intractable demand that they be soothingly caressed, inasmuch as remedies must be adapted to diseases.He recommends, however, patience towards all, for severity must be tempered with some degree of lenity, even in dealing with theunruly. Thispatience, however, is, properly speaking, contrasted with a feeling of irksomeness,for nothing are we more prone to than to feel wearied out when we set ourselves to cure the diseases of our brethren. The man who has once and again comforted a person who isfaint-hearted, if he is called to do the same thing a third time, will feel I know not what vexation, nay, even indignation, that will not permit him to persevere in discharging his duty. Thus, if by admonishing or reproving, we do not immediately do the good that is to be desired, we lose all hope of future success. Paul had in view to bridle impatience of this nature, by recommending to us moderation towards all.
McArther Bible Commentary
we exhort you. Paul has discussed how the pastors are to serve the people and how the people are to respond to the pastors (1Th 5:12-13). In these verses, he presents how the people are to treat each other in the fellowship of the church. The "unruly," those out of line, must be warned and taught to get back in line. The "fainthearted," those in fear and doubt, must be encouraged and made bold. The "weak," those without spiritual and moral strength, must be held up firmly. Patience, forgiveness, and acts of goodness must prevail between all the people.
Bible Cross References
Isaiah 35:4 Romans 14:1 Romans 15:1 1 Corinthians 8:7 1 Corinthians 13:4 1 Thessalonians 2:11 2 Thessalonians 3:6 2 Thessalonians 3:7 2 Thessalonians 3:15

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
The ministers of the gospel are described by the work of their office, which is to serve and honour the Lord. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to warn the flock of dangers, and reprove for whatever may be amiss. The people should honour and love their ministers, because their business is the welfare of men's souls. And the people should be at peace among themselves, doing all they can to guard against any differences. But love of peace must not make us wink at sin. The fearful and sorrowful spirits, should be encouraged, and a kind word may do much good. We must bear and forbear. We must be long-suffering, and keep down anger, and this to all men. Whatever man do to us, we must do good to others.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
See that none - Watch over both yourselves and each other. Follow that which is good - Do it resolutely and perseveringly.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
See that no one render evil for evil. As it is difficult to observe this precept, in consequence of the strong bent of our nature to revenge, he on this account bids us take care to be on our guard. For the wordseedenotes anxious care. Now, although he simply forbids us to strive with each other in the way of inflicting injuries, there can, nevertheless, be no doubt that he meant to condemn, at the same time, every disposition to do injury. For if it is unlawful torender evil for evil, every disposition to injure is culpable. This doctrine is peculiar to Christians — not to retaliate injuries, but to endure them patiently. And lest the Thessalonians should think that revenge was prohibited only towards their brethren, he expressly declares that they are todo evil to no one. For particular excuses are wont to be brought forward in some cases. “What! why should it be unlawful for me to avenge myself on one that is so worthless, so wicked, and so cruel?” But as vengeance is forbidden us in every case, without exception, however wicked the man that has injured us may be, we must refrain from inflicting injury.But always follow benignity.By this last clause he teaches that we must not merely refrain from inflicting vengeance, when any one has injured us, but must cultivate beneficence towards all. For although he means that it should in the first instance be exercised among believers mutually, he afterwards extends it to all, however undeserving of it, that we may make it our aim toovercome evil with good, as he himself teaches elsewhere. (Romans 12:21) The first step, therefore, in the exercise of patience, is, not to revenge injuries; the second is, to bestow favors even upon enemies.
Bible Cross References
Proverbs 20:22 Matthew 5:44 Romans 12:9 Romans 12:17 Galatians 6:10 1 Thessalonians 5:21 1 Peter 3:9

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
We are to rejoice in creature-comforts, as if we rejoiced not, and must not expect to live many years, and rejoice in them all; but if we do rejoice in God, we may do that evermore. A truly religious life is a life of constant joy. And we should rejoice more, if we prayed more. Prayer will help forward all lawful business, and every good work. If we pray without ceasing, we shall not want matter for thanksgiving in every thing. We shall see cause to give thanks for sparing and preventing, for common and uncommon, past and present, temporal and spiritual mercies. Not only for prosperous and pleasing, but also for afflicting providences, for chastisements and corrections; for God designs all for our good, though we at present see not how they tend to it. Quench not the Spirit. Christians are said to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire. He worketh as fire, by enlightening, enlivening, and purifying the souls of men. As fire is put out by taking away fuel, and as it is quenched by pouring water, or putting a great deal of earth upon it; so we must be careful not to quench the Holy Spirit, by indulging carnal lusts and affections, minding only earthly things. Believers often hinder their growth in grace, by not giving themselves up to the spiritual affections raised in their hearts by the Holy Spirit. By prophesyings, here understand the preaching of the word, the interpreting and applying the Scriptures. We must not despise preaching, though it is plain, and we are told no more than what we knew before. We must search the Scriptures. And proving all things must be to hold fast that which is good. We should abstain from sin, and whatever looks like sin, leads to it, and borders upon it. He who is not shy of the appearances of sin, who shuns not the occasions of it, and who avoids not the temptations and approaches to it, will not long keep from doing sin.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Rejoice evermore - In uninterrupted happiness in God. Pray without ceasing - Which is the fruit of always rejoicing in the Lord. In everything give thanks - Which is the fruit of both the former. This is Christian perfection. Farther than this we cannot go; and we need not stop short of it. Our Lord has purchased joy, as well as righteousness, for us. It is the very design of the gospel that, being saved from guilt, we should be happy in the love of Christ. Prayer may be said to be the breath of our spiritual life. He that lives cannot possibly cease breathing. So much as we really enjoy of the presence of God, so much prayer and praise do we offer up without ceasing; else our rejoicing is but delusion. Thanksgiving is inseparable from true prayer: it is almost essentially connected with it. He that always prays is ever giving praise, whether in ease or pain, both for prosperity and for the greatest adversity. He blesses God for all things, looks on them as coming from him, and receives them only for his sake; not choosing nor refusing, liking nor disliking, anything, but only as it is agreeable or disagreeable to his perfect will.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
but in every prayer let your requests be made known to God, with giving of thanks.In that passage, as we see, he presents as a source of joy a calm and composed mind, that is not unduly disturbed by injuries or adversities. But lest we should be borne down by grief, sorrow, anxiety, and fear, he bids us repose in the providence of God. And as doubts frequently obtrude themselves as to whether God cares for us, he also prescribes the remedy — that by prayer we disburden our anxieties, as it were, into his bosom, as David commands us to do in Psalm 37:5andPsalm 55:22; and Peter also, after his example. (1 Peter 5:7.) As, however, we are unduly precipitate in our desires, he imposes a check upon them — that, while we desire what we are in need of, we at the same time do not cease to give thanks.He observes, here, almost the same order, though in fewer words. For, in the first place, he would have us hold God’s benefits in such esteem, that the recognition of them and meditation upon them shall overcome all sorrow. And, unquestionably, if we consider what Christ has conferred upon us, there will be no bitterness of grief so intense as may not be alleviated, and give way to spiritual joy. For if this joy does not reign in us, the kingdom of God is at the same time banished from us, or we from it. And very ungrateful is that man to God, who does not set so high a value on the righteousness of Christ and the hope of eternal life, as to rejoice in the midst of sorrow. As, however, our minds are easily dispirited, until they give way to impatience, we must observe the remedy that he subjoins immediately afterwards. For on being cast down and laid low we are raised up again by prayers, because we lay upon God what burdened us. As, however, there are every day, nay, every moment, many things that may disturb our peace, and mar our joy, he for this reason bids uspray without ceasing. Now, as to this constancy in prayer, we have spoken of elsewhere.Thanksgiving, as I have said, is added as a limitation. For many pray in such a manner, as at the same time to murmur against God, and fret themselves if he does not immediately gratify their wishes. But, on the contrary, it is befitting that our desires should be restrained in such a manner that, contented with what is given us, we always mingle thanksgiving with our desires. We may lawfully, it is true, ask, nay, sigh and lament, but it must be in such a way that the will of God is more acceptable to us than our own.
McArther Bible Commentary
Paul gave a summary of the Christian's virtues. These verses provide the foundational principles for a sound spiritual life in brief, staccato statements that, in spite of their brevity, give believers the priorities for successful Christian living.
Bible Cross References
John 6:34 Philippians 4:4

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
We are to rejoice in creature-comforts, as if we rejoiced not, and must not expect to live many years, and rejoice in them all; but if we do rejoice in God, we may do that evermore. A truly religious life is a life of constant joy. And we should rejoice more, if we prayed more. Prayer will help forward all lawful business, and every good work. If we pray without ceasing, we shall not want matter for thanksgiving in every thing. We shall see cause to give thanks for sparing and preventing, for common and uncommon, past and present, temporal and spiritual mercies. Not only for prosperous and pleasing, but also for afflicting providences, for chastisements and corrections; for God designs all for our good, though we at present see not how they tend to it. Quench not the Spirit. Christians are said to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire. He worketh as fire, by enlightening, enlivening, and purifying the souls of men. As fire is put out by taking away fuel, and as it is quenched by pouring water, or putting a great deal of earth upon it; so we must be careful not to quench the Holy Spirit, by indulging carnal lusts and affections, minding only earthly things. Believers often hinder their growth in grace, by not giving themselves up to the spiritual affections raised in their hearts by the Holy Spirit. By prophesyings, here understand the preaching of the word, the interpreting and applying the Scriptures. We must not despise preaching, though it is plain, and we are told no more than what we knew before. We must search the Scriptures. And proving all things must be to hold fast that which is good. We should abstain from sin, and whatever looks like sin, leads to it, and borders upon it. He who is not shy of the appearances of sin, who shuns not the occasions of it, and who avoids not the temptations and approaches to it, will not long keep from doing sin.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on Proverbs 4:23.
McArther Bible Commentary
pray. This does not mean pray repetitiously or continuously without a break (cf. Mat 6:7-8), but rather pray persistently (cf. Luk 11:1-13; Luk 18:1-8) and regularly (cf. Eph 6:18; Php 4:6; Col 4:2, Col 4:12).
Bible Cross References
Daniel 6:10 Ephesians 6:18

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
We are to rejoice in creature-comforts, as if we rejoiced not, and must not expect to live many years, and rejoice in them all; but if we do rejoice in God, we may do that evermore. A truly religious life is a life of constant joy. And we should rejoice more, if we prayed more. Prayer will help forward all lawful business, and every good work. If we pray without ceasing, we shall not want matter for thanksgiving in every thing. We shall see cause to give thanks for sparing and preventing, for common and uncommon, past and present, temporal and spiritual mercies. Not only for prosperous and pleasing, but also for afflicting providences, for chastisements and corrections; for God designs all for our good, though we at present see not how they tend to it. Quench not the Spirit. Christians are said to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire. He worketh as fire, by enlightening, enlivening, and purifying the souls of men. As fire is put out by taking away fuel, and as it is quenched by pouring water, or putting a great deal of earth upon it; so we must be careful not to quench the Holy Spirit, by indulging carnal lusts and affections, minding only earthly things. Believers often hinder their growth in grace, by not giving themselves up to the spiritual affections raised in their hearts by the Holy Spirit. By prophesyings, here understand the preaching of the word, the interpreting and applying the Scriptures. We must not despise preaching, though it is plain, and we are told no more than what we knew before. We must search the Scriptures. And proving all things must be to hold fast that which is good. We should abstain from sin, and whatever looks like sin, leads to it, and borders upon it. He who is not shy of the appearances of sin, who shuns not the occasions of it, and who avoids not the temptations and approaches to it, will not long keep from doing sin.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
For this - That you should thus rejoice, pray, give thanks. Is the will of God - Always good, always pointing at our salvation.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
For this is the will of God — that is, according to Chrysostom’s opinion — that wegive thanks. As for myself, I am of opinion that a more ample meaning is included under these terms — that God has such a disposition towards us in Christ, that even in our afflictions we have large occasion of thanksgiving. For what is fitter or more suitable for pacifying us, than when we learn that God embraces us in Christ so tenderly, that he turns to our advantage and welfare everything that befalls us? Let us, therefore, bear in mind, that this is a special remedy for correcting our impatience — to turn away our eyes from beholding present evils that torment us, and to direct our views to a consideration of a different nature — how God stands affected towards us in Christ.
McArther Bible Commentary
give thanks. Thanklessness is a trait of unbelievers (cf. Rom 1:21; 2Ti 3:1-5). "This is the will of God" includes verses 1Th 5:16-17. The Will of God Christians ought to make God's will the practice of their life-nothing more, nothing less, and nothing else. There are at least ten specific statements of God's particular will in the Bible for true believers. 1. Salvation (1Ti 2:4; 2Pe 3:9) 2. Sacrifice (Rom 12:1-2) 3. Spirit-control (Eph 5:17-21) 4. Sanctification (1Th 4:3-4) 5. Submission (1Pe 2:13-15) 6. Satisfaction (1Th 5:18) 7. Seeking (1Jn 5:14-15) 8. Serving (Psa 103:21) 9. Suffering (1Pe 3:17; 1Pe 4:19) 10. Shepherding (1Pe 5:2)
Bible Cross References
Psalm 34:1 Daniel 6:10 Ephesians 5:20

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
We are to rejoice in creature-comforts, as if we rejoiced not, and must not expect to live many years, and rejoice in them all; but if we do rejoice in God, we may do that evermore. A truly religious life is a life of constant joy. And we should rejoice more, if we prayed more. Prayer will help forward all lawful business, and every good work. If we pray without ceasing, we shall not want matter for thanksgiving in every thing. We shall see cause to give thanks for sparing and preventing, for common and uncommon, past and present, temporal and spiritual mercies. Not only for prosperous and pleasing, but also for afflicting providences, for chastisements and corrections; for God designs all for our good, though we at present see not how they tend to it. Quench not the Spirit. Christians are said to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire. He worketh as fire, by enlightening, enlivening, and purifying the souls of men. As fire is put out by taking away fuel, and as it is quenched by pouring water, or putting a great deal of earth upon it; so we must be careful not to quench the Holy Spirit, by indulging carnal lusts and affections, minding only earthly things. Believers often hinder their growth in grace, by not giving themselves up to the spiritual affections raised in their hearts by the Holy Spirit. By prophesyings, here understand the preaching of the word, the interpreting and applying the Scriptures. We must not despise preaching, though it is plain, and we are told no more than what we knew before. We must search the Scriptures. And proving all things must be to hold fast that which is good. We should abstain from sin, and whatever looks like sin, leads to it, and borders upon it. He who is not shy of the appearances of sin, who shuns not the occasions of it, and who avoids not the temptations and approaches to it, will not long keep from doing sin.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on 1 John 4:1.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Quench not the Spirit - Wherever it is, it burns; it flames in holy love, in joy, prayer, thanksgiving. O quench it not, damp it not in yourself or others, either by neglecting to do good, or by doing evil!
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Quench not the Spirit. This metaphor is derived from the power and nature of the Spirit; for as it is the proper office of the Spirit to illuminate the understandings of men, and as he is on this account called our light, it is with propriety that we are said toquench him, when we make void his grace. There are some that think that it is the same thing that is said in this clause and the succeeding one. Hence, according to them, toquench the Spirit is precisely the same as todespise prophesyings. As, however, the Spirit isquenchedin various ways, I make a distinction between these two things—that of ageneralstatement, and aparticular. For althoughcontempt of prophesying is aquenching of the Spirit, yet those alsoquench the Spirit who, instead of stirring up, as they ought, more and more, by daily progress, the sparks that God has kindled in them, do, by their negligence, make void the gifts of God. This admonition, therefore, as to notquenching the Spirit, has a wider extent of meaning than the one that follows as to notdespising prophesyings. The meaning of theformeris: “Be enlightened by the Spirit of God. See that you do not lose that light through your ingratitude.” This is an exceedingly useful admonition, for we see that those who have beenonce enlightened, (Hebrews 6:4) when they reject so precious a gift of God, or, shutting their eves, allow themselves to be hurried away after the vanity of the world, are struck with a dreadful blindness, so as to be an example to others. We must, therefore, be on our guard against indolence, by which the light of God is choked in us.Those, however, who infer from this that it is in man’s option either to quenchor tocherishthe light that is presented to him, so that they detract from the efficacy of grace, and extol the powers of free will, reason on false grounds. For although God works efficaciously in his elect, and does not merely present the light to them, but causes them to see, opens the eyes of their heart, and keeps them open, yet as the flesh is always inclined to indolence, it has need of being stirred up by exhortations. But what God commands by Paul’s mouth, He himself accomplishes inwardly. In the mean time, it is our part to ask from the Lord, that he would furnish oil to the lamps which he has lighted up, that he may keep the wick pure, and may even increase it.
McArther Bible Commentary
quench. The fire of God's Spirit is not to be doused with sin. Believers are also instructed to not grieve the Holy Spirit (Eph 4:30), but to be controlled by the Holy Spirit (Eph 5:18) and to walk by the Holy Spirit (Gal 5:16).
Bible Cross References
Ephesians 4:30 1 Thessalonians 5:20

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
We are to rejoice in creature-comforts, as if we rejoiced not, and must not expect to live many years, and rejoice in them all; but if we do rejoice in God, we may do that evermore. A truly religious life is a life of constant joy. And we should rejoice more, if we prayed more. Prayer will help forward all lawful business, and every good work. If we pray without ceasing, we shall not want matter for thanksgiving in every thing. We shall see cause to give thanks for sparing and preventing, for common and uncommon, past and present, temporal and spiritual mercies. Not only for prosperous and pleasing, but also for afflicting providences, for chastisements and corrections; for God designs all for our good, though we at present see not how they tend to it. Quench not the Spirit. Christians are said to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire. He worketh as fire, by enlightening, enlivening, and purifying the souls of men. As fire is put out by taking away fuel, and as it is quenched by pouring water, or putting a great deal of earth upon it; so we must be careful not to quench the Holy Spirit, by indulging carnal lusts and affections, minding only earthly things. Believers often hinder their growth in grace, by not giving themselves up to the spiritual affections raised in their hearts by the Holy Spirit. By prophesyings, here understand the preaching of the word, the interpreting and applying the Scriptures. We must not despise preaching, though it is plain, and we are told no more than what we knew before. We must search the Scriptures. And proving all things must be to hold fast that which is good. We should abstain from sin, and whatever looks like sin, leads to it, and borders upon it. He who is not shy of the appearances of sin, who shuns not the occasions of it, and who avoids not the temptations and approaches to it, will not long keep from doing sin.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on 1 John 4:1.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Despise not prophesyings - That is, preaching; for the apostle is not here speaking of extraordinary gifts. It seems, one means of grace is put for all; and whoever despises any of these, under whatever pretence, will surely (though perhaps gradually and almost insensibly) quench the Spirit.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Despise not prophesyings. This sentence is appropriately added to the preceding one, for as the Spirit of God illuminates us chiefly by doctrine, those who give not teaching its proper place, do, so far as in them lies,quench the Spirit, for we must always consider in what manner or by what means God designs to communicate himself to us. Let every one, therefore, who is desirous to make progress under the direction of the Holy Spirit, allow himself to be taught by the ministry of prophets.By the term prophecy, however, I do not understand the gift of foretelling the future, but as in1 Corinthians 14:3, the science of interpreting Scripture,so that aprophetis an interpreter of the will of God. For Paul, in the passage which I have quoted, assigns toprophets teaching for edification, exhortation, andconsolation, and enumerates, as it were, these departments. Let, therefore, prophecy in this passage be understood as meaning — interpretation made suitable to present use.Paul prohibits us fromdespisingit, if we would not choose of our own accord to wander in darkness.The statement, however, is a remarkable one, for the commendation of external preaching. It is the dream of fanatics, that those are children who continue to employ themselves in the reading of the Scripture, or the hearing of the word, as if no one were spiritual, unless he is a despiser of doctrine. They proudly, therefore, despise the ministry of man, nay, even Scripture itself, that they may attain the Spirit. Farther, whatever delusions Satan suggests to them, they presumptuously set forth as secret revelations of the Spirit. Such are the Libertines,and other furies of that stamp. And the more ignorant that any one is, he is puffed up and swollen out with so much the greater arrogance. Let us, however, learn from the example of Paul, to conjoin the Spirit with the voice of men, which is nothing else than his organ.
McArther Bible Commentary
prophecies. This word can refer to a spoken revelation from God (cf. Act 11:27-28; 1Ti 1:18; 1Ti 4:14), but most often refers to the written word of Scripture (cf. Mat 13:14; 2Pe 1:19-21; Rev 1:3; Rev 22:7, Rev 22:10, Rev 22:18-19). These "prophecies" are authoritative messages from God through a well recognized spokesman for God that, because of their divine origin, are not to be treated lightly. When God's Word is preached or read, it is to be received with great seriousness.
Bible Cross References
Acts 13:1 1 Corinthians 11:4 1 Corinthians 14:31 1 John 4:1

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
We are to rejoice in creature-comforts, as if we rejoiced not, and must not expect to live many years, and rejoice in them all; but if we do rejoice in God, we may do that evermore. A truly religious life is a life of constant joy. And we should rejoice more, if we prayed more. Prayer will help forward all lawful business, and every good work. If we pray without ceasing, we shall not want matter for thanksgiving in every thing. We shall see cause to give thanks for sparing and preventing, for common and uncommon, past and present, temporal and spiritual mercies. Not only for prosperous and pleasing, but also for afflicting providences, for chastisements and corrections; for God designs all for our good, though we at present see not how they tend to it. Quench not the Spirit. Christians are said to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire. He worketh as fire, by enlightening, enlivening, and purifying the souls of men. As fire is put out by taking away fuel, and as it is quenched by pouring water, or putting a great deal of earth upon it; so we must be careful not to quench the Holy Spirit, by indulging carnal lusts and affections, minding only earthly things. Believers often hinder their growth in grace, by not giving themselves up to the spiritual affections raised in their hearts by the Holy Spirit. By prophesyings, here understand the preaching of the word, the interpreting and applying the Scriptures. We must not despise preaching, though it is plain, and we are told no more than what we knew before. We must search the Scriptures. And proving all things must be to hold fast that which is good. We should abstain from sin, and whatever looks like sin, leads to it, and borders upon it. He who is not shy of the appearances of sin, who shuns not the occasions of it, and who avoids not the temptations and approaches to it, will not long keep from doing sin.
EGW SDA Bible Commentary
. See EGW on 1 John 4:1.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Meantime, prove all things - Which any preacher recommends. (He speaks of practice, not of doctrines.) Try every advice by the touchstone of scripture, and hold fast that which is good - Zealously, resolutely, diligently practise it, in spite of all opposition.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Prove all things. As rash men and deceiving spirits frequently pass off their trifles under the name ofprophecy, prophecymight by this means be rendered suspicious or even odious, just as many in the present day feel almost disgusted with the very name ofpreaching, as there are so many foolish and ignorant persons that from the pulpit blab out their worthless contrivances,while there are others, also, that are wicked and sacrilegious persons, who babble forth execrable blasphemies.As, therefore, through the fault of such persons it might be, thatprophecywas regarded with disdain, nay more, was scarcely allowed to hold a place, Paul exhorts the Thessalonians toprove all things, meaning, that although all do not speak precisely according to set rule, we must, nevertheless, form a judgment, before any doctrine is condemned or rejected.As to this, there is a twofold error that is wont to be fallen into, for there are some who, from having either been deceived by a false pretext of the name of God, or from their knowing that many are commonly deceived in this way, reject every kind of doctrine indiscriminately, while there are others that by a foolish credulity embrace, without distinction, everything that is presented to them in the name of God. Both of these ways are faulty, for the former class, saturated with a presumptuous prejudice of that nature, close up the way against their making progress, while the other class rashly expose themselves to all windsof errors. (Ephesians 4:14.) Paul admonishes the Thessalonians to keep the middle path between these two extremes, while he prohibits them from condemning anything without first examining it; and, on the other hand, he admonishes them to exercise judgment, before receiving, what may be brought forward, as undoubted truth. And unquestionably, this respect, at least, ought to be shewn to the name of God — that we do notdespise prophecy, which is declared to have proceeded from him. As, however, examination or discrimination ought to precede rejection, so it must, also, precede the reception of true and sound doctrine. For it does not become the pious to shew such lightness, as indiscriminately to lay hold of what is false equally with what is true. From this we infer, that they have the spirit of judgment conferred upon them by God, that they may discriminate, so as not to be imposed upon by the impostures of men. For if they were not endowed with discrimination, it were in vain that Paul said —Prove: hold fast that which is good. If, however, we feel that we are left destitute of the power ofprovingaright; it must be sought by us from the same Spirit, who speaks by his prophets. But the Lord declares in this place by the mouth of Paul, that the course of doctrine ought not, by any faults of mankind, or by any rashness, or ignorance, or, in fine, by any abuse, to be hindered from being always in a vigorous state in the Church. For as the abolition of prophecy is the ruin of the Church, let us allow heaven and earth to be commingled, rather than that prophecy should cease.Paul, however, may seem here to give too great liberty in teaching, when he would have all things proved;for things must be heard by us, that they may beproved, and by this means a door would be opened to impostors for disseminating their falsehoods. I answer, that in this instance he does not by any means require that an audience should be given to false teachers, whosemouthhe elsewhere teaches (Titus 1:11)must be stopped, and whom he so rigidly shuts out, and does not by any means set aside the arrangement, which he elsewhere recommends so highly (1 Timothy 3:2) in the election of teachers. As, however, so great diligence can never be exercised as that there should not sometimes be persons prophesying, who are not so well instructed as they ought to be, and that sometimes good and pious teachers fail to hit the mark, he requires such moderation on the part of believers, as, nevertheless, not to refuse to hear. For nothing is more dangerous, than that moroseness, by which every kind of doctrine is rendered disgusting to us, while we do not allow ourselves toprovewhat is right.
McArther Bible Commentary
Test all things. This call for careful examination and discernment is in response to the command of verse 1Th 5:20. One is never to downgrade the proclamation of God's Word, but to examine the preached word carefully (cf. Act 17:10-11). What is found to be "good" is to be wholeheartedly embraced. What is "evil"or unbiblical is to be shunned.
Bible Cross References
Romans 12:9 1 Corinthians 14:29 Galatians 6:10 1 Thessalonians 5:15 1 Thessalonians 5:22 1 John 4:1

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
He directs to several particular duties.
We are to rejoice in creature-comforts, as if we rejoiced not, and must not expect to live many years, and rejoice in them all; but if we do rejoice in God, we may do that evermore. A truly religious life is a life of constant joy. And we should rejoice more, if we prayed more. Prayer will help forward all lawful business, and every good work. If we pray without ceasing, we shall not want matter for thanksgiving in every thing. We shall see cause to give thanks for sparing and preventing, for common and uncommon, past and present, temporal and spiritual mercies. Not only for prosperous and pleasing, but also for afflicting providences, for chastisements and corrections; for God designs all for our good, though we at present see not how they tend to it. Quench not the Spirit. Christians are said to be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire. He worketh as fire, by enlightening, enlivening, and purifying the souls of men. As fire is put out by taking away fuel, and as it is quenched by pouring water, or putting a great deal of earth upon it; so we must be careful not to quench the Holy Spirit, by indulging carnal lusts and affections, minding only earthly things. Believers often hinder their growth in grace, by not giving themselves up to the spiritual affections raised in their hearts by the Holy Spirit. By prophesyings, here understand the preaching of the word, the interpreting and applying the Scriptures. We must not despise preaching, though it is plain, and we are told no more than what we knew before. We must search the Scriptures. And proving all things must be to hold fast that which is good. We should abstain from sin, and whatever looks like sin, leads to it, and borders upon it. He who is not shy of the appearances of sin, who shuns not the occasions of it, and who avoids not the temptations and approaches to it, will not long keep from doing sin.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And be equally zealous and careful to abstain from all appearance of evil - Observe, those who "heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears," under pretence of proving all things, have no countenance or excuse from this scripture.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
From every evil appearance. Some think that this is a universal statement, as though he commanded to abstain from all things that bear upon their front anappearance of evil. In that case the meaning would be, that it is not enough to have an internal testimony of conscience, unless regard be at the same time had to brethren, so as to provide against occasions of offense, by avoiding every thing that can have the appearance of evil.Those who explain the word speciemafter the manner of dialecticians as meaning the subdivision of a general term, fall into an exceedingly gross blunder. For hehas employed the termspeciemas meaning what we commonly termappearance. It may also be rendered either—evil appearance, orappearance of evil. The meaning, however, is the same. I rather prefer Chrysostom and Ambrose, who connect this sentence with the foregoing one. At the same time, neither of them explains Paul’s meaning, and perhaps have not altogether hit upon what he intends. I shall state briefly my view of it.In the first place, the phrase appearance of evil, orevil appearance, I understand to mean — when falsity of doctrine has not yet been discovered in such a manner, that it can on good grounds be rejected; but at the same time an unhappy suspicion is left upon the mind, and fears are entertained, lest there should be some poison lurking. He, accordingly, commands us to abstain from that kind of doctrine, which has an appearance of being evil, though it is not really so — not that he allows that it should be altogether rejected, but inasmuch as it ought not to be received, or to obtain belief. For why has he previously commanded thatwhat is good should beheld fast, while he now desires that we shouldabstainnot simply from evil, but fromall appearance of evil? It is for this reason, that, when truth has been brought to light by careful examination, it is assuredly becoming in that case to give credit to it. When, on the other hand, there is any fear of false doctrine, or when the mind is involved in doubt, it is proper in that case to retreat, or to suspend our step, as they say, lest we should receive anything with a doubtful and perplexed conscience. In short, he shews us in what wayprophecywill be useful to us without any danger — in the event of our being attentive inproving all things, and our being free from lightness and haste.
Bible Cross References
1 Thessalonians 5:21 1 Thessalonians 5:23

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And concludes with prayer, greetings, and a blessing.
The apostle prays that they might be sanctified more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; therefore we should pray for, and press toward, complete holiness. And as we must fall, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, we should pray to God to perfect his work, till we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This epistle was to be read to all the brethren. Not only are the common people allowed to read the Scriptures, but it is their duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. The word of God should not be kept in an unknown tongue, but transplanted, that as all men are concerned to know the Scriptures, so they all may be able to read them. The Scriptures should be read in all public congregations, for the benefit of the unlearned especially. We need no more to make us happy, than to know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is an ever-flowing and an over-flowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
And may the God of peace sanctify you - By the peace he works in you, which is a great means of sanctification. Wholly - The word signifies wholly and perfectly; every part and all that concerns you; all that is of or about you. And may the whole of you, the spirit and the soul and the body - Just before he said you; now he denominates them from their spiritual state. The spirit - (Galatians 6:8) ; wishing that it may be preserved whole and entire: then from their natural state, the soul and the body; (for these two make up the whole nature of man, (Matthew 10:28) ;) wishing it may be preserved blameless till the coming of Christ. To explain this a little further: of the three here mentioned, only the two last are the natural constituent parts of man. The first is adventitious, and the supernatural gift of God, to be found in Christians only. That man cannot possibly consist of three parts, appears hence: The soul is either matter or not matter: there is no medium. But if it is matter, it is part of the body: if not matter, it coincides with the Spirit.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
“My soul hath desired thee in the night, my spirit hath thought of thee,” (Isaiah 26:9)no one doubts that he speaks of his understanding and affection, and thus enumerates two departments of the soul. These two terms are conjoined in the Psalms in the same sense. This, also, corresponds better with Paul’s statement. For how is the whole manentire, except when his thoughts are pure and holy, when all his affections are right and properly regulated, when, in fine, the body itself lays out its endeavors and services only in good works? For the faculty of understanding is held by philosophers to be, as it were, a mistress: the affections occupy a middle place for commanding; the body renders obedience. We see now how well everything corresponds. For then is the man pure and entire, when he thinks nothing in his mind, desires nothing in his heart, does nothing with his body, except what is approved by God. As, however, Paul in this manner commits to God the keeping of the whole man, and all its parts, we must infer from this that we are exposed to innumerable dangers, unless we are protected by his guardianship.
McArther Bible Commentary
God … sanctify you. Having concluded all the exhortations beginning in 1Th 4:1, and especially from verses 1Th 5:16-22, Paul's ending benediction acknowledged the source for obeying and fulfilling them all. It is not within human power to be sanctified in all these ways (cf. Zec 4:6; 1Co 2:4-5; Eph 3:20-21; Col 1:29). Only God (cf. Rom 15:33; Rom 16:20; Php 4:9; Heb 13:20 for references to God as "peace") "Himself" can separate us from sin to holiness "completely." whole spirit, soul, and body. This comprehensive reference makes the term completely more emphatic. By using spirit and soul, Paul was not indicating that the immaterial part of man could be divided into two substances (cf. Heb 4:12). The two words are used interchangeably throughout Scripture (cf. Heb 6:19; Heb 10:39; 1Pe 2:11; 2Pe 2:8). There can be no division of these realities, but rather they are used as other texts use multiple terms for emphasis (cf. Deu 6:5; Mat 22:37; Mar 12:30; Luk 10:27). Nor was Paul a believer in a three-part human composition (cf. Rom 8:10; 1Co 2:11; 1Co 5:3-5; 1Co 7:34; 2Co 7:1; Gal 6:18; Col 2:5; 2Ti 4:22), but rather two parts: material and immaterial. at the coming. This fourth mention of Christ's parousia refers to the rapture of the church as it has previously at 1Th 2:19; 1Th 3:13; 1Th 4:15.
Bible Cross References
Luke 1:46 Romans 15:33 1 Corinthians 1:8 1 Corinthians 1:30 1 Thessalonians 2:19 1 Thessalonians 3:11 1 Thessalonians 5:22 Hebrews 4:12 James 1:4 2 Peter 3:14

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And concludes with prayer, greetings, and a blessing.
The apostle prays that they might be sanctified more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; therefore we should pray for, and press toward, complete holiness. And as we must fall, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, we should pray to God to perfect his work, till we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This epistle was to be read to all the brethren. Not only are the common people allowed to read the Scriptures, but it is their duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. The word of God should not be kept in an unknown tongue, but transplanted, that as all men are concerned to know the Scriptures, so they all may be able to read them. The Scriptures should be read in all public congregations, for the benefit of the unlearned especially. We need no more to make us happy, than to know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is an ever-flowing and an over-flowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
Who also will do it - Unless you quench the Spirit.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Faithful is he that hath called you. As he has shewn by his prayer what care he exercised as to the welfare of the Thessalonians, so he now confirms them in an assurance of Divine grace. Observe, however, by what argument he promises them the never-failing aid of God — because he hascalledthem; by which words he means, that when the Lord has once adopted us as his sons, we may expect that his grace will continue to be exercised towards us. For he does not promise to be a Father to us merely for one day, but adopts us with this understanding, that he is to cherish us ever afterwards. Hence ourcallingought to be held by us as an evidence of everlasting grace, for hewill not leave the work of his hands incomplete. (Psalm 138:8) Paul, however, addresses believers, who had not been merely called by outward preaching, but had been effectually brought by Christ to the Father, that they might be of the number of his sons.
McArther Bible Commentary
calls you. This, as every time the divine call is mentioned in the NT, refers to God's effectual call of His chosen ones to salvation (cf. 1Th 2:12; 1Th 4:7; Rom 1:6-7; Rom 8:28; 1Co 1:9; Eph 4:1, Eph 4:4; 2Ti 1:9; 1Pe 2:9; 1Pe 5:10; 2Pe 1:10). The God who calls will also bring those whom He calls to glory, and none will be lost (cf. Joh 6:37-44; Joh 10:28-29; Rom 8:28-39; Php 1:6; Jud 1:24).
Bible Cross References
Deuteronomy 7:9 1 Corinthians 1:9 1 Thessalonians 2:12 2 Thessalonians 3:3

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And concludes with prayer, greetings, and a blessing.
The apostle prays that they might be sanctified more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; therefore we should pray for, and press toward, complete holiness. And as we must fall, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, we should pray to God to perfect his work, till we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This epistle was to be read to all the brethren. Not only are the common people allowed to read the Scriptures, but it is their duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. The word of God should not be kept in an unknown tongue, but transplanted, that as all men are concerned to know the Scriptures, so they all may be able to read them. The Scriptures should be read in all public congregations, for the benefit of the unlearned especially. We need no more to make us happy, than to know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is an ever-flowing and an over-flowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
Bible Cross References
Ephesians 6:19 2 Thessalonians 3:1 Hebrews 13:18

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And concludes with prayer, greetings, and a blessing.
The apostle prays that they might be sanctified more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; therefore we should pray for, and press toward, complete holiness. And as we must fall, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, we should pray to God to perfect his work, till we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This epistle was to be read to all the brethren. Not only are the common people allowed to read the Scriptures, but it is their duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. The word of God should not be kept in an unknown tongue, but transplanted, that as all men are concerned to know the Scriptures, so they all may be able to read them. The Scriptures should be read in all public congregations, for the benefit of the unlearned especially. We need no more to make us happy, than to know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is an ever-flowing and an over-flowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
Salute all the brethren with an holy kiss. As to thekiss, it was a customary token of salutation, as has been stated elsewhere.In these words, however, he declares his affection towards all the saints.
McArther Bible Commentary
holy kiss. This gesture of affection is commanded five times in the NT (Rom 16:16; 1Co 16:20; 2Co 13:12; 1Pe 5:14) and refers to the cultural hug and kiss greeting of the first century which, for Christians, was to be done righteously in recognition that believers are brothers and sisters in the family of God.
Bible Cross References
Matthew 5:47 Romans 16:16

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And concludes with prayer, greetings, and a blessing.
The apostle prays that they might be sanctified more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; therefore we should pray for, and press toward, complete holiness. And as we must fall, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, we should pray to God to perfect his work, till we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This epistle was to be read to all the brethren. Not only are the common people allowed to read the Scriptures, but it is their duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. The word of God should not be kept in an unknown tongue, but transplanted, that as all men are concerned to know the Scriptures, so they all may be able to read them. The Scriptures should be read in all public congregations, for the benefit of the unlearned especially. We need no more to make us happy, than to know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is an ever-flowing and an over-flowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
John Wesley's Bible Commentary
I charge you by the Lord - Christ, to whom proper divine worship is here paid. That this epistle - The first he wrote. Be read to all the brethren - That is, in all the churches. They might have concealed it out of modesty, had not this been so solemnly enjoined: but what Paul commands under so strong an adjuration, Rome forbids under pain of excommunication.
John Calvin Bible Commentary
I adjure you by the Lord. It is not certain whether he feared that, as often happened, spiteful and envious persons would suppress the Epistle, or whether he wished to provide against another danger — lest by a mistaken prudence and caution on the part of some, it should be kept among a few.For there will always be found some who say that it is of no advantage to publish generally things that otherwise they recognize as very excellent. At least, whatever artifice or pretext Satan may have at that time contrived, in order that the Epistle might not come to the knowledge of all, we may gather from Paul’s words with what earnestness and keenness he sets himself in opposition to it. For it is no light or frivolous thing toadjure by the name of God.We find, therefore, that the Spirit of God would have those things which he had set forth in this Epistle, through the ministry of Paul, to be published throughout the whole Church. Hence it appears, that those are more refractory than even devils themselves, who in the present day prohibit the people of God from reading the writings of Paul, inasmuch as they are no way moved by so strict an adjuration.END OF THE COMMENTARY ON THE FIRST EPISTLE TO THE THESSALONIANS.
McArther Bible Commentary
Public reading was the foundation of spiritual accountability (cf. Gal 4:16; 2Th 3:14).
Bible Cross References
Acts 1:15 Colossians 4:16

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary
And concludes with prayer, greetings, and a blessing.
The apostle prays that they might be sanctified more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; therefore we should pray for, and press toward, complete holiness. And as we must fall, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, we should pray to God to perfect his work, till we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This epistle was to be read to all the brethren. Not only are the common people allowed to read the Scriptures, but it is their duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. The word of God should not be kept in an unknown tongue, but transplanted, that as all men are concerned to know the Scriptures, so they all may be able to read them. The Scriptures should be read in all public congregations, for the benefit of the unlearned especially. We need no more to make us happy, than to know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is an ever-flowing and an over-flowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
McArther Bible Commentary
Cf. Rom 16:20, Rom 16:24; 2Th 3:18.
Bible Cross References
Romans 16:20 2 Thessalonians 3:18