1 Thessalonians 4:1
Verse
Context
Living to Please God
1Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us. This is how you already live, so you should do so all the more.2For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.
Sermons
A.W. Tozer
Jim Cymbala
David WilkersonA.W. Tozer
John Piper
Voddie Baucham
Lehman StraussSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We beseech you, brethren, and exhort - We give you proper instructions in heavenly things, and request you to attend to our advice. The apostle used the most pressing entreaties; for he had a strong and affectionate desire that this Church should excel in all righteousness and true holiness. Please God more and more - God sets no bounds to the communications of his grace and Spirit to them that are faithful. And as there are no bounds to the graces, so there should be none to the exercise of those graces. No man can ever feel that he loves God too much, or that he loves man too much for God's sake.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren,.... Or request of you in the most kind and tender manner, from real and hearty love and affection for you, and with a view to your good, and the glory of God: and exhort you: or beseech and entreat you. The apostle does not lay his commands upon them as he might have done, and sometimes does, but endeavours to work upon them by way of entreaty, and which he doubtless thought the most effectual method to win upon them, and gain them; for some minds are more easily wrought upon by entreaty than by authority: and this he does in the most moving and powerful manner, even by the Lord Jesus; or "in the Lord Jesus"; in his name and stead, as personating him, and as though he did beseech and entreat them by him, and his fellow ministers; or for his sake, intimating, that if they had any regard to him, any value for his name, if that had any weight with them, or they had any concern for his honour and interest, then he begs their attention to the following exhortation; or by the Lord Jesus, by all that is in him, or done for them by him; in whom they were chosen, by whom they were redeemed, in whom they were made new creatures, to whose image they were to be conformed, whose followers they professed to be, whose Gospel they embraced, and by whose name they were called. That as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk, and to please God. The walk of believers is twofold, either internal or external. Their internal walk is by faith, which is the going out of the soul by faith to Christ for every supply of grace. Their external walk is not as it was before conversion, according to the course of this world, or as other Gentiles walk, but in a holy religious life and conversation; and this requires spiritual life, strength and direction from Christ; for neither dead men, nor, if alive, yet weak, can walk; nor is it in a spiritual man, that walketh to direct his steps; and such a walk also denotes continuance, in well doing, and a progression or going on in it, and supposes ways to walk in. Christ, he is the chief and principal way, and there are other paths which regard him, or relate and lead unto him; as the way of truth, the path of ordinances, and of religious worship, both public and private, and the ways of righteousness, holiness, and good works: the manner in which saints are to walk is as Christ himself walked, after the Spirit, and not after the flesh, according to the rule of the word, which is the standard of faith and practice, with prudence, wisdom, circumspection, and worthy of God, and of that calling wherein they are called: and of such a walk there is a necessity; it "ought", it must be both on the account of God, it being his will, and for his glory, and the contrary would show great ingratitude to him; and on the account of the saints themselves, to adorn them, and their profession, and preserve them from shame and disgrace, to show their faith, and demonstrate their calling and election to others; and likewise on account of others, partly for the winning of some, by recommending in this way the Gospel to them, and partly for the bringing of others to shame and silence, who falsely accuse their good conversation. Now when the apostle, and those that were with him, were at Thessalonica, they gave these saints directions and instructions about their walk and conversation, to order it in such a manner as might "please God"; which is not to be understood of rendering their persons acceptable to God hereby, for the saints' acceptance with God is only in Christ the beloved; nor of their gaining the love and favour of God by such means, for the love of God is from everlasting, and is free, and sovereign, and does not arise from, or depend upon the holiness and obedience of men; or of making peace with God by such a walk, for peace is only made by the blood of Christ; but of doing those things, and in such a way God approves of: unregenerate men cannot please God, nor anything they do, because they are destitute of the Spirit of God, and are without Christ, and his grace and have not faith in him, without which it is impossible to please God; but what a believer does in faith, from a principle of love, in the name and strength of Christ, and to the glory of God, is approved of by God, and is acceptable to him through Christ, and for his sake; and there are many things of this kind, as prayer, praise, acts of beneficence to the poor, and indeed every good work and holy action: and inasmuch as they had been thus taught and instructed how to behave and conduct in their outward walk and conversation, they are entreated and exhorted to go on and abound in the work of the Lord: so ye would abound more and more: that is, be more and more in the exercise of every grace, and in the discharge of every duty, making advances in holiness of life, and perfecting it in the fear of God. Beza's ancient copy, and another manuscript, as also the Alexandrian copy, and some others, add between the preceding, and this last clause, "as ye also walk"; and so the Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions seem to have read; commending them for their present and past walk and conversation, in order to persuade and encourage them to go forward.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here we have, I. An exhortation to abound in holiness, to abound more and more in that which is good, Th1 4:1, Th1 4:2. We may observe, 1. The manner in which the exhortation is given - very affectionately. The apostle entreats them as brethren; he calls them so, and loved them as such. Because his love to them was very great, he exhorts them very earnestly: We beseech and exhort you. The apostle was unwilling to take any denial, and therefore repeats his exhortation again and again. 2. The matter of his exhortation - that they would abound more and more in holy walking, or excel in those things that are good, in good works. Their faith was justly famed abroad, and they were already examples to other churches: yet the apostle would have them yet further to excel others, and to make further progress in holiness. Note, (1.) Those who most excel others fall short of perfection. The very best of us should forget those things which are behind, and reach forth unto those things which are before. (2.) It is not enough that we abide in the faith of the gospel, but we must abound in the work of faith. We must not only persevere to the end, but we should grow better, and walk more evenly and closely with God. 3. The arguments with which the apostle enforces his exhortation. (1.) They had been informed of their duty. They knew their Master's will, and could not plead ignorance as an excuse. Now as faith, so knowledge, is dead without practice. They had received of those who had converted them to Christianity, or been taught of them, how they ought to walk. Observe, The design of the gospel is to teach men not only what they should believe, but also how they ought to live; not so much to fill men's minds with notions as to regulate their temper and behaviour. The apostle taught them how to walk, not how to talk. To talk well without living well will never bring us to heaven: for the character of those who are in Christ Jesus is this: They walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (2.) Another argument is that the apostle taught and exhorted them in the name, or by the authority, of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was Christ's minster and ambassador, declaring to them what was the will and command of the Lord Jesus. (3.) Another argument is this. Herein they would please God. Holy walking is most pleasing to the holy God, who is glorious in holiness. This ought to be the aim and ambition of every Christian, to please God and to be accepted of him. We should not be men-pleasers, nor flesh-pleasers, but should walk so as to please God. (4.) The rule according to which they ought to walk and act - the commandments they had given them by the Lord Jesus Christ, which were the commandments of the Lord Jesus Christ himself, because given by authority and direction from him and such as were agreeable to his will. The apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ were only commissioned by him to teach men to observe all things whatsoever he had commanded them, Mat 28:20. Though they had great authority from Christ, yet that was to teach men what Christ had commanded, not to give forth commandments of their own. They did not act as lords over God's heritage (Pe1 5:3), nor should any do so that pretend to be their successors. The apostle could appeal to the Thessalonians, who knew what commandments he gave them, that they were no other than what he had received from the Lord Jesus. II. A caution against uncleanness, this being a sin directly contrary to sanctification, or that holy walking to which he so earnestly exhorts them. This caution is expressed, and also enforced by many arguments, 1. It is expressed in these words: That you should abstain from fornication (Th1 4:3), by which we are to understand all uncleanness whatsoever, either in a married or unmarried state. Adultery is of course included, though fornication is particularly mentioned. And other sorts of uncleanness are also forbidden, of which it is a shame even to speak, though they are done by too many in secret. All that is contrary to chastity in heart, speech, and behaviour, is contrary to the command of God in the decalogue, and contrary to that holiness which the gospel requires. 2. There are several arguments to enforce this caution. As, (1.) This branch of sanctification in particular is the will of God, Th1 4:3. It is the will of God in general that we should be holy, because he that called us is holy, and because we are chosen unto salvation through the sanctification of the Spirit; and not only does God require holiness in the heart, but also purity in our bodies, and that we should cleanse ourselves from all filthiness both of flesh and spirit, Co2 7:1. Whenever the body is, as it ought to be, devoted to God, and dedicated and set apart for him, it should be kept clean and pure for his service; and, as chastity is one branch of our sanctification, so this is one thing which God commands in his law, and what his grace effects in all true believers. (2.) This will be greatly for our honour: so much is plainly implied, Th1 4:4. Whereas the contrary will be a great dishonour. And his reproach shall not be wiped away, Pro 6:33. The body is here called the vessel of the soul, which dwells therein (so Sa1 21:5), and it must be kept pure from defiling lusts. Every one should be careful in this matter, as he values his own honour and will not be contemptible on this account, that his inferior appetites and passions gain not the ascendant, tyrannizing over his reason and conscience, and enslaving the superior faculties of his soul. What can be more dishonourable than for a rational soul to be enslaved by bodily affections and brutal appetites? (3.) To indulge the lust of concupiscence is to live and act like heathens? Even as the Gentiles who know not God, Th1 4:5. The Gentiles, and especially the Grecians, were commonly guilty of some sins of uncleanness which were not so evidently forbidden by the light of nature. But they did not know God, nor his mind and will, so well as Christians know, and should know, this his will, namely our sanctification in this branch of it. It is not so much to be wondered at, therefore, if the Gentiles indulge their fleshly appetites and lusts; but Christians should not walk as unconverted Gentiles, in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, etc. (Pe1 4:3), because those who are in Christ have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts. (4.) The sin of uncleanness, especially adultery, is a great piece of injustice that God will be the avenger of; so we may understand those words, That no man go beyond or defraud his brother (Th1 4:6), in any matter - en tō pragmati, in this matter of which the apostle is speaking in the preceding and following verses, namely, the sin of uncleanness. Some understand these words as a further warning and caution against injustice and oppression, all fraud and deceit in our dealings with men, which are certainly criminal, and contrary to the gospel. And Christians should not impose upon the ignorance and necessity of those they deal with, and so go beyond them, nor should they by equivocations or lying arts defraud them; and although this may be practised by some and lie long undiscovered, and so go unpunished among men, yet the righteous God will render a recompence. But the meaning may rather be to show the injustice and wrong that in many cases are done by the sin of uncleanness. Not only are fornication and other acts of uncleanness sins against his own body who commits them (Co1 6:18), not only are they very injurious to the sinner himself both in soul and body, but sometimes they are very injurious, and no less than defrauding, acts of injustice to others, particularly to those who are joined together in the marriage covenant and to their posterity. And, as this sin is of such a heinous nature, so it follows that God will be the avenger of it. Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge, Heb 13:4. This the apostle had forewarned and testified by his gospel, which, as it contained exceedingly great and precious promises, so also it revealed from heaven the wrath of God against all ungodliness and unrighteousness among men, Rom 1:18. (5.) The sin of uncleanness is contrary to the nature and design of our Christian calling: For God hath called us not unto uncleanness, but unto holiness, Th1 4:7. The law of God forbids all impurity, and the gospel requires the greatest purity; it calls us from uncleanness unto holiness. (6.) The contempt therefore of God's law and gospel is the contempt of God himself: He that despises despises God, not man only. Some might possibly make light of the precepts of purity and holiness, because they heard them from men like themselves; but the apostle lets them know that they were God's commands, and to violate them was no less than to despise God. He adds, God hath given Christians his Spirit, intimating that all sorts of uncleanness do in an especial manner grieve the Holy Spirit, and will provoke him to withdraw from us; and also the Holy Spirit is given unto us to arm us against these sins, and to help us to mortify these deeds of the body, that we may live, Rom 8:13.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1–5:22 The second part of the body of the letter concerns Timothy’s news about the church and the questions the believers had for Paul. Paul addresses the problem of sexual immorality (4:3-8) before responding to the Thessalonians’ questions about love for other Christians (4:9-12), the destiny of believers who have died (4:13-18), and the timing of the day of the Lord (5:1-11). Paul takes up a variety of exhortations on topics such as leadership and community relations (5:12-15), relationship with the Lord (5:16-18), and prophecy (5:19-22). 4:1-2 we urge you: Paul’s exhortation in the name of the Lord Jesus emphasizes the authority of his teaching. • you remember what we taught: Ancient letters frequently included reminders of what the recipients already knew. Paul reminds the Thessalonians of matters that required their obedience (4:11; 2 Thes 3:4, 6, 10, 12).
1 Thessalonians 4:1
Living to Please God
1Finally, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus to live in a way that is pleasing to God, just as you have received from us. This is how you already live, so you should do so all the more.2For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Believer's Walk
By A.W. Tozer8.9K27:46Christian Walk1TH 4:1In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a man named James Williger who was living a sinful life but was transformed by the power of God. James was an alcoholic and was causing disgrace to himself and his Christian wife. However, through the prayers of his wife and a Christian doctor, James had a supernatural encounter with God and was instantly sober and converted. The preacher emphasizes that the worst part of sin is what it does inside a person, causing internal suffering and destruction. He also highlights the importance of living a holy life according to the will of God, as taught by Paul in the Bible.
Making God Happy
By Jim Cymbala6.1K43:51Pleasing God1TH 4:1In this sermon, the pastor discusses the negative influence of rap songs and the lewdness and suggestiveness of their lyrics. He emphasizes that money is at the root of this issue, as people pay for these records to be made. The pastor encourages the congregation to focus on pleasing God by loving and being kind to others. He also highlights the importance of minding one's own business and working diligently to earn a living. The sermon is based on the scripture from First Thessalonians 4:1-2, which instructs believers to live in a way that pleases God.
Don't Judge by Your Feelings - Part 1
By David Wilkerson4.1K35:37EPH 4:111TH 4:1
This sermon emphasizes the importance of not judging one's spiritual condition based on feelings but on faith and growth in grace. It highlights the need to understand that true growth in grace involves doing the same things with more love for Jesus and assurance in the heart. The speaker encourages believers to focus on learning to love Jesus more and not to be deceived by feelings of boredom or comparison to past emotional experiences.
The Believers Way
By A.W. Tozer2.9K28:09The Way1TH 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a holy life according to the will of God. He references the teachings of Paul in 1 Thessalonians 4, where Paul urges believers to walk in a way that pleases God and abstain from sexual immorality. The speaker also highlights the danger of allowing sin to take root in one's heart and the negative consequences it can have. He criticizes the idea that certain sins can be justified or excused, emphasizing the need for absolute truth and righteousness in all aspects of life.
Battling the Unbelief of Lust
By John Piper2.8K31:461TH 4:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of fighting lust by feeding faith with the knowledge of an irresistibly glorious God. He encourages the audience to engage in week by week growth in knowing God through meditating on His Word, reading solid books about His character, and associating with God-focused individuals. The speaker urges the audience to pray daily, with fasting if necessary, for God to awaken their hearts and enable them to be captivated by His glory, overpowering any temptations towards pornography. He concludes with the story of a man who found victory over lust and highlights the biblical definition of lust and the eternal danger it poses.
What Is Adultery?
By Voddie Baucham2.5K1:00:42Sermon on the MountMAT 5:171CO 7:11TH 4:11TH 4:3In this sermon, the speaker discusses the tension between the already and not yet aspects of the kingdom of God. He emphasizes that Jesus has already achieved victory on the cross, but there are still things to be accomplished before the kingdom is fully realized. The speaker then explores the six antithesis that Jesus presents in the Sermon on the Mount, which demonstrate how our righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees. He highlights the importance of obeying God's law and living in a manner that honors our relationship with Jesus, using the example of faithfulness in marriage as a reflection of our faithfulness to Christ.
Seeking His Preeminence - Part 1
By Lehman Strauss1.4K29:09Preeminence1CO 13:13COL 1:4COL 1:101TH 4:1JAS 1:5In this sermon, Lehmann Strauss shares his personal experience of receiving a new vision and understanding of the importance of preaching and teaching the Word of God. He recounts a near-death experience and his prayer to be spared in order to care for his handicapped wife and continue his ministry. Strauss emphasizes the significance of finding, following, and finishing God's will for one's life, highlighting the potential for any Christian to fall into sin. He urges listeners to not judge those who have fallen but to recognize their own capacity for sin. The sermon is based on Paul's epistle to the Colossians and emphasizes the importance of being filled with knowledge of God's will.
How Ye Ought to Walk and to Please God
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.3K30:27Pleasing God1TH 4:1In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story about three officers who risked their lives to bring the gospel to a place where nobody cared. Despite being warned not to go, they endured being howled and battered for a long time, all for the love of Jesus. Eventually, their love and perseverance paid off, and many souls were saved. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having the love of God in our hearts and exercising it, as it is what we are saved for according to the teachings of the Apostle Paul.
Pioneers (Abraham, a Pioneer of Revival, Missions, and Holiness) - Part 2
By David Smithers95700:00GAL 3:6GAL 3:91TH 4:11TH 4:82TI 2:19HEB 6:12HEB 6:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of pleasing God and growing in faith. He encourages the audience to abound more and more in their walk with Christ. The speaker shares his personal journey of stepping into full-time ministry after years of working in various jobs. He believes that now is the time for God to raise up an army of hidden pioneers who will bring revival, missions, and holiness to the church and the world. The sermon references several Bible verses, including 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8, Hebrews 6:12-15, and Galatians 3:6-9, to support the message of faith and promise.
Pleasing God - Pt. 3
By Kay Smith8311:02:41Pleasing GodROM 6:12ROM 13:141CO 6:20GAL 5:161TH 4:11TI 3:72TI 2:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of realizing Christ's soon return and how it should impact our lives. The speaker urges the audience to consider how this realization is affecting their priorities, schedules, prayer life, and witness. The sermon then focuses on 1 Thessalonians 4:1-3, which instructs believers to live in a way that pleases God and to avoid sexual immorality. The speaker encourages the audience to adjust their lives to align with God's will and emphasizes that living a life pleasing to God is the most important thing in this world.
(Faith Community Chapel) Remain Steadfast
By Terrill Yoder82437:05MAT 21:38COL 2:41TH 4:1HEB 3:142PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the importance of building our lives on the teachings of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that it is not enough to simply hear the words of Jesus, but we must also put them into practice. The preacher warns that if we build our lives on anything other than Jesus Christ, our foundation will not stand when faced with trials and challenges. He encourages believers to be steadfast, unmovable, and always abounding in the work of the Lord, reminding them that their labor is not in vain in the Lord.
Studies in Song of Solomon 01 His Head as Fine Gold
By Svend Christensen72445:411TH 1:91TH 2:71TH 4:11TH 4:121TH 5:8In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the book of 1 Thessalonians and highlights five key themes. Firstly, he discusses the progression of the Thessalonians' spiritual growth, comparing it to the stages of infancy, where they turned away from idols, were nurtured by Paul, and stood firm in their faith. Secondly, he emphasizes the importance of walking in a way that pleases God and being a good example to those outside the faith. Thirdly, he encourages believers to fight against spiritual battles by putting on the armor of God. The speaker then discusses the three-fold result of the Thessalonians' faith, as they became followers of God, examples to others, and witnesses of the gospel. Finally, he highlights the three-fold call for the Thessalonians to turn to God, serve Him, and eagerly await the return of Jesus. Throughout the sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of faith, salvation, and the need for a personal relationship with God.
Studies in 1 Thessalonians 04 Coming
By Svend Christensen72146:061TH 4:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on 1 Thessalonians 4, discussing the believer's walk and the Lord's coming for the saints. The first part of the chapter emphasizes the importance of the believer's conduct and pleasing God. The preacher highlights the commandments given by the Lord Jesus and the will of God for sanctification and abstaining from fornication. The sermon also touches on the benefits of trials and the practical ways believers can show love and meet daily needs.
Week of Meetings 02 Dedication New Chapel
By Svend Christensen44246:431TH 4:1In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the believer's walk and the Lord's coming. He encourages the audience to read and study the Word of God, specifically referring to chapter 4 of a particular book. The preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life that pleases God and following His commandments. He also mentions the hope and blessedness that believers have in the midst of trials and the nearing of the rapture. Additionally, the preacher briefly mentions significant events in the world, such as President Nixon's trip to Russia and China, as signs of the Lord's coming.
Doing the Will of God From the Heart
By G.W. North1951:17:03Will Of GodMAT 26:391TH 4:11TH 4:3HEB 1:1JAS 1:16JAS 1:19In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing and following the will of God. He encourages the audience to read through the New Testament and take note of every verse that talks about God's will. The preacher specifically references 1 Thessalonians 4, which states that the will of God is for believers to live in sanctification and abstain from fornication. He also mentions James 1, which highlights the importance of being swift to hear and slow to speak. The sermon concludes with a call to surrender everything to God and live according to His will.
Strengthening Your Weakest Link
By Gary Wilkerson9143:54Christian LifeStrengthening WeaknessesWholeness in MinistryPRO 17:22MAT 11:28JHN 10:10ROM 12:11CO 6:19GAL 6:2PHP 4:131TH 4:11TH 5:23HEB 12:1Gary Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of addressing the weakest links in our lives and ministries, sharing five practical elements that can lead to a sustainable and joyful ministry. He encourages listeners to focus on their spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being, highlighting the need for balance and wholeness in every aspect of life. Wilkerson stresses that true success in ministry comes from being pleasing to God and maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends. He reminds us that our identity should not be tied solely to our ministry success, but rather in our relationship with Christ. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to strengthen the frayed areas of our lives to serve God effectively.
Of Heaven and Hell
By Jacob Boehme02CO 2:112CO 7:21TH 4:11TH 4:6Greek Word Studies delves into the meaning of 'defraud' (pleonekteo), emphasizing the act of selfishly taking advantage of others for personal gain, especially in the context of sexual sin. The term highlights the deprivation of one's rights and the deliberate perversion of truth, reflecting insatiable selfishness and idolatry. The misuse of 'defraud' extends to various forms of exploitation, including theft, evil ambition, and sexual immorality, ultimately leading to a violation of God's law and a lack of love for others.
The Lord Is My Light / Revelation 21:7 (Don't Leave Your First Love; Hear What the Spirit Saith to the churches.)
By Hans R. Waldvogel0Spiritual RenewalFirst Love1TH 4:1REV 2:4REV 21:7Hans R. Waldvogel emphasizes the necessity of returning to our first love for Christ, warning against the dangers of complacency and the consequences of neglecting our relationship with Him. He illustrates how many people stray from the path of righteousness, leading to spiritual darkness, and urges believers to heed the Spirit's call to repentance and renewal. Waldvogel highlights the importance of following Jesus as our guide and the blessings that come from overcoming the trials of life through faith. He reminds the church that true love for God requires a complete commitment of the heart, and that neglecting this love can lead to dire consequences.
How Ye Ought to Walk and to Please God
By A.B. Simpson0Finding Your PlaceServing GodEPH 2:10COL 3:231TH 4:1A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of recognizing and embracing the specific roles God has assigned to each believer, suggesting that many Christians struggle with feelings of inadequacy and the belief that they are not pleasing God. He encourages believers to find joy and power in their service by faithfully filling their designated places, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Just as every part of a machine has its purpose, so does every Christian have a role in God's plan, and by accepting this, they can contribute meaningfully to His work. Simpson reminds us that even the smallest acts of service can have a profound impact, as everyone has something to offer.
Two Exhortations to Theodore After His Fall - Part 3
By St. John Chrysostom0ISA 5:8MAT 11:28JHN 14:2ROM 2:61CO 15:412CO 5:101TH 4:1HEB 4:13John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of repentance and the dangers of despair, emphasizing the need to confess sins with true remorse and seek forgiveness through a genuine change of heart. He warns against the traps of indolence and despair, urging believers to cut off these roots and manifest zeal in turning towards God. Chrysostom highlights the significance of good deeds in balancing out sins and the ultimate judgment according to one's works, as declared in the divine oracles.
Moving Ever Closer to Jesus
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual AbundanceDrawing Closer to GodMAT 6:33JHN 10:101CO 15:58EPH 3:201TH 4:1JAS 4:8David Wilkerson emphasizes the urgent need for Christians to draw closer to God in worship, obedience, and diligence as the Lord prepares to pour out His Spirit in these last days. He warns against the distractions of modern life that lead to spiritual laziness and encourages believers to devote more time to God, assuring them that as they seek His kingdom, they will experience His abundant blessings. Wilkerson highlights God's desire to fill His people with His presence and glory, urging them to cultivate a ravenous appetite for Him and to abound in their spiritual walk. He reminds the congregation that God's plans for them exceed their current experiences and that their prayer lives should be transformed into a continuous dialogue with God.
"The Believer's Walk"
By A.W. Tozer0HolinessRighteousness1TH 4:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the significance of the believer's walk in holiness, urging Christians to move beyond mere rule-keeping to a heartfelt relationship with God that reflects true righteousness. He highlights the transformation of the Thessalonian church, which turned from idolatry to serve the true God, and stresses the necessity of personal purity and sanctification in the life of a believer. Tozer warns against the dangers of sin, particularly sexual immorality, and the internal damage it causes, advocating for a life that pleases God through spontaneous love and obedience. He calls for a deeper understanding of holiness that aligns with God's standards, encouraging believers to embody righteousness in all aspects of life. Ultimately, Tozer's message is a call to pursue holiness as a reflection of one's relationship with God.
Abundant Resources (Ii. Cor. Ix. 8)
By Seth Rees0ROM 15:132CO 9:6PHP 1:9COL 2:71TH 4:12PE 1:82PE 1:11Seth Rees preaches on the abundance of God's grace, emphasizing the law of grace that the more we give away, the more we receive, contrary to human reasoning. He encourages cheerful and even hilarious giving, illustrating how God desires us to be channels of His blessings to the world. Rees reminds believers that God is able to help always, even in the midst of trials and challenges, and urges them to face difficulties head-on, trusting in God's ability to lift them up. He highlights the importance of abounding in every good work after receiving God's abundance, leading to a life filled with faith, thanksgiving, joy, love, pleasing God, liberality, and hope.
Above All That We Ask for or Think
By David Wilkerson0Seeking God's GloryAbundance in GodJHN 10:101CO 15:58EPH 1:8EPH 3:20COL 2:61TH 4:1David Wilkerson emphasizes that God desires to pour out His glory on His people, offering blessings that exceed our expectations as stated in Ephesians 3:20. He encourages believers to cultivate a deep hunger for God's presence, which leads to an abundant life as promised in John 10:10. Wilkerson stresses the importance of living a life that pleases God, urging believers to abound in good works and faithfulness. He explains that God's glory will surpass our past experiences, but it requires more than just routine prayers; it demands a commitment to serve Him wholeheartedly. Ultimately, God seeks to reveal deeper truths and wisdom to those who earnestly seek Him.
The Way to Please God
By James Smith0PRO 16:7ROM 8:81CO 7:322CO 5:9PHP 2:13COL 1:101TH 4:1HEB 11:6HEB 13:161JN 3:22James Smith preaches on the importance of living a life that pleases the Lord, emphasizing the need to detach from worldly desires and focus on seeking to please God above all else. He highlights key principles such as having right views of God, being reconciled to Him through Christ, exercising filial confidence, keeping our eyes on Him, and cheerfully acquiescing to His will. Smith also stresses the significance of honoring Jesus, striving against sin, being zealous for God's cause, avoiding what displeases Him, and aiming at His glory in all aspects of life.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We beseech you, brethren, and exhort - We give you proper instructions in heavenly things, and request you to attend to our advice. The apostle used the most pressing entreaties; for he had a strong and affectionate desire that this Church should excel in all righteousness and true holiness. Please God more and more - God sets no bounds to the communications of his grace and Spirit to them that are faithful. And as there are no bounds to the graces, so there should be none to the exercise of those graces. No man can ever feel that he loves God too much, or that he loves man too much for God's sake.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren,.... Or request of you in the most kind and tender manner, from real and hearty love and affection for you, and with a view to your good, and the glory of God: and exhort you: or beseech and entreat you. The apostle does not lay his commands upon them as he might have done, and sometimes does, but endeavours to work upon them by way of entreaty, and which he doubtless thought the most effectual method to win upon them, and gain them; for some minds are more easily wrought upon by entreaty than by authority: and this he does in the most moving and powerful manner, even by the Lord Jesus; or "in the Lord Jesus"; in his name and stead, as personating him, and as though he did beseech and entreat them by him, and his fellow ministers; or for his sake, intimating, that if they had any regard to him, any value for his name, if that had any weight with them, or they had any concern for his honour and interest, then he begs their attention to the following exhortation; or by the Lord Jesus, by all that is in him, or done for them by him; in whom they were chosen, by whom they were redeemed, in whom they were made new creatures, to whose image they were to be conformed, whose followers they professed to be, whose Gospel they embraced, and by whose name they were called. That as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk, and to please God. The walk of believers is twofold, either internal or external. Their internal walk is by faith, which is the going out of the soul by faith to Christ for every supply of grace. Their external walk is not as it was before conversion, according to the course of this world, or as other Gentiles walk, but in a holy religious life and conversation; and this requires spiritual life, strength and direction from Christ; for neither dead men, nor, if alive, yet weak, can walk; nor is it in a spiritual man, that walketh to direct his steps; and such a walk also denotes continuance, in well doing, and a progression or going on in it, and supposes ways to walk in. Christ, he is the chief and principal way, and there are other paths which regard him, or relate and lead unto him; as the way of truth, the path of ordinances, and of religious worship, both public and private, and the ways of righteousness, holiness, and good works: the manner in which saints are to walk is as Christ himself walked, after the Spirit, and not after the flesh, according to the rule of the word, which is the standard of faith and practice, with prudence, wisdom, circumspection, and worthy of God, and of that calling wherein they are called: and of such a walk there is a necessity; it "ought", it must be both on the account of God, it being his will, and for his glory, and the contrary would show great ingratitude to him; and on the account of the saints themselves, to adorn them, and their profession, and preserve them from shame and disgrace, to show their faith, and demonstrate their calling and election to others; and likewise on account of others, partly for the winning of some, by recommending in this way the Gospel to them, and partly for the bringing of others to shame and silence, who falsely accuse their good conversation. Now when the apostle, and those that were with him, were at Thessalonica, they gave these saints directions and instructions about their walk and conversation, to order it in such a manner as might "please God"; which is not to be understood of rendering their persons acceptable to God hereby, for the saints' acceptance with God is only in Christ the beloved; nor of their gaining the love and favour of God by such means, for the love of God is from everlasting, and is free, and sovereign, and does not arise from, or depend upon the holiness and obedience of men; or of making peace with God by such a walk, for peace is only made by the blood of Christ; but of doing those things, and in such a way God approves of: unregenerate men cannot please God, nor anything they do, because they are destitute of the Spirit of God, and are without Christ, and his grace and have not faith in him, without which it is impossible to please God; but what a believer does in faith, from a principle of love, in the name and strength of Christ, and to the glory of God, is approved of by God, and is acceptable to him through Christ, and for his sake; and there are many things of this kind, as prayer, praise, acts of beneficence to the poor, and indeed every good work and holy action: and inasmuch as they had been thus taught and instructed how to behave and conduct in their outward walk and conversation, they are entreated and exhorted to go on and abound in the work of the Lord: so ye would abound more and more: that is, be more and more in the exercise of every grace, and in the discharge of every duty, making advances in holiness of life, and perfecting it in the fear of God. Beza's ancient copy, and another manuscript, as also the Alexandrian copy, and some others, add between the preceding, and this last clause, "as ye also walk"; and so the Vulgate Latin and Ethiopic versions seem to have read; commending them for their present and past walk and conversation, in order to persuade and encourage them to go forward.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here we have, I. An exhortation to abound in holiness, to abound more and more in that which is good, Th1 4:1, Th1 4:2. We may observe, 1. The manner in which the exhortation is given - very affectionately. The apostle entreats them as brethren; he calls them so, and loved them as such. Because his love to them was very great, he exhorts them very earnestly: We beseech and exhort you. The apostle was unwilling to take any denial, and therefore repeats his exhortation again and again. 2. The matter of his exhortation - that they would abound more and more in holy walking, or excel in those things that are good, in good works. Their faith was justly famed abroad, and they were already examples to other churches: yet the apostle would have them yet further to excel others, and to make further progress in holiness. Note, (1.) Those who most excel others fall short of perfection. The very best of us should forget those things which are behind, and reach forth unto those things which are before. (2.) It is not enough that we abide in the faith of the gospel, but we must abound in the work of faith. We must not only persevere to the end, but we should grow better, and walk more evenly and closely with God. 3. The arguments with which the apostle enforces his exhortation. (1.) They had been informed of their duty. They knew their Master's will, and could not plead ignorance as an excuse. Now as faith, so knowledge, is dead without practice. They had received of those who had converted them to Christianity, or been taught of them, how they ought to walk. Observe, The design of the gospel is to teach men not only what they should believe, but also how they ought to live; not so much to fill men's minds with notions as to regulate their temper and behaviour. The apostle taught them how to walk, not how to talk. To talk well without living well will never bring us to heaven: for the character of those who are in Christ Jesus is this: They walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. (2.) Another argument is that the apostle taught and exhorted them in the name, or by the authority, of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was Christ's minster and ambassador, declaring to them what was the will and command of the Lord Jesus. (3.) Another argument is this. Herein they would please God. Holy walking is most pleasing to the holy God, who is glorious in holiness. This ought to be the aim and ambition of every Christian, to please God and to be accepted of him. We should not be men-pleasers, nor flesh-pleasers, but should walk so as to please God. (4.) The rule according to which they ought to walk and act - the commandments they had given them by the Lord Jesus Christ, which were the commandments of the Lord Jesus Christ himself, because given by authority and direction from him and such as were agreeable to his will. The apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ were only commissioned by him to teach men to observe all things whatsoever he had commanded them, Mat 28:20. Though they had great authority from Christ, yet that was to teach men what Christ had commanded, not to give forth commandments of their own. They did not act as lords over God's heritage (Pe1 5:3), nor should any do so that pretend to be their successors. The apostle could appeal to the Thessalonians, who knew what commandments he gave them, that they were no other than what he had received from the Lord Jesus. II. A caution against uncleanness, this being a sin directly contrary to sanctification, or that holy walking to which he so earnestly exhorts them. This caution is expressed, and also enforced by many arguments, 1. It is expressed in these words: That you should abstain from fornication (Th1 4:3), by which we are to understand all uncleanness whatsoever, either in a married or unmarried state. Adultery is of course included, though fornication is particularly mentioned. And other sorts of uncleanness are also forbidden, of which it is a shame even to speak, though they are done by too many in secret. All that is contrary to chastity in heart, speech, and behaviour, is contrary to the command of God in the decalogue, and contrary to that holiness which the gospel requires. 2. There are several arguments to enforce this caution. As, (1.) This branch of sanctification in particular is the will of God, Th1 4:3. It is the will of God in general that we should be holy, because he that called us is holy, and because we are chosen unto salvation through the sanctification of the Spirit; and not only does God require holiness in the heart, but also purity in our bodies, and that we should cleanse ourselves from all filthiness both of flesh and spirit, Co2 7:1. Whenever the body is, as it ought to be, devoted to God, and dedicated and set apart for him, it should be kept clean and pure for his service; and, as chastity is one branch of our sanctification, so this is one thing which God commands in his law, and what his grace effects in all true believers. (2.) This will be greatly for our honour: so much is plainly implied, Th1 4:4. Whereas the contrary will be a great dishonour. And his reproach shall not be wiped away, Pro 6:33. The body is here called the vessel of the soul, which dwells therein (so Sa1 21:5), and it must be kept pure from defiling lusts. Every one should be careful in this matter, as he values his own honour and will not be contemptible on this account, that his inferior appetites and passions gain not the ascendant, tyrannizing over his reason and conscience, and enslaving the superior faculties of his soul. What can be more dishonourable than for a rational soul to be enslaved by bodily affections and brutal appetites? (3.) To indulge the lust of concupiscence is to live and act like heathens? Even as the Gentiles who know not God, Th1 4:5. The Gentiles, and especially the Grecians, were commonly guilty of some sins of uncleanness which were not so evidently forbidden by the light of nature. But they did not know God, nor his mind and will, so well as Christians know, and should know, this his will, namely our sanctification in this branch of it. It is not so much to be wondered at, therefore, if the Gentiles indulge their fleshly appetites and lusts; but Christians should not walk as unconverted Gentiles, in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, etc. (Pe1 4:3), because those who are in Christ have crucified the flesh with its affections and lusts. (4.) The sin of uncleanness, especially adultery, is a great piece of injustice that God will be the avenger of; so we may understand those words, That no man go beyond or defraud his brother (Th1 4:6), in any matter - en tō pragmati, in this matter of which the apostle is speaking in the preceding and following verses, namely, the sin of uncleanness. Some understand these words as a further warning and caution against injustice and oppression, all fraud and deceit in our dealings with men, which are certainly criminal, and contrary to the gospel. And Christians should not impose upon the ignorance and necessity of those they deal with, and so go beyond them, nor should they by equivocations or lying arts defraud them; and although this may be practised by some and lie long undiscovered, and so go unpunished among men, yet the righteous God will render a recompence. But the meaning may rather be to show the injustice and wrong that in many cases are done by the sin of uncleanness. Not only are fornication and other acts of uncleanness sins against his own body who commits them (Co1 6:18), not only are they very injurious to the sinner himself both in soul and body, but sometimes they are very injurious, and no less than defrauding, acts of injustice to others, particularly to those who are joined together in the marriage covenant and to their posterity. And, as this sin is of such a heinous nature, so it follows that God will be the avenger of it. Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge, Heb 13:4. This the apostle had forewarned and testified by his gospel, which, as it contained exceedingly great and precious promises, so also it revealed from heaven the wrath of God against all ungodliness and unrighteousness among men, Rom 1:18. (5.) The sin of uncleanness is contrary to the nature and design of our Christian calling: For God hath called us not unto uncleanness, but unto holiness, Th1 4:7. The law of God forbids all impurity, and the gospel requires the greatest purity; it calls us from uncleanness unto holiness. (6.) The contempt therefore of God's law and gospel is the contempt of God himself: He that despises despises God, not man only. Some might possibly make light of the precepts of purity and holiness, because they heard them from men like themselves; but the apostle lets them know that they were God's commands, and to violate them was no less than to despise God. He adds, God hath given Christians his Spirit, intimating that all sorts of uncleanness do in an especial manner grieve the Holy Spirit, and will provoke him to withdraw from us; and also the Holy Spirit is given unto us to arm us against these sins, and to help us to mortify these deeds of the body, that we may live, Rom 8:13.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:1–5:22 The second part of the body of the letter concerns Timothy’s news about the church and the questions the believers had for Paul. Paul addresses the problem of sexual immorality (4:3-8) before responding to the Thessalonians’ questions about love for other Christians (4:9-12), the destiny of believers who have died (4:13-18), and the timing of the day of the Lord (5:1-11). Paul takes up a variety of exhortations on topics such as leadership and community relations (5:12-15), relationship with the Lord (5:16-18), and prophecy (5:19-22). 4:1-2 we urge you: Paul’s exhortation in the name of the Lord Jesus emphasizes the authority of his teaching. • you remember what we taught: Ancient letters frequently included reminders of what the recipients already knew. Paul reminds the Thessalonians of matters that required their obedience (4:11; 2 Thes 3:4, 6, 10, 12).