1 Thessalonians 4:7
Verse
Context
Living to Please God
6and no one should ever violate or exploit his brother in this regard, because the Lord will avenge all such acts, as we have already told you and solemnly warned you.7For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness.8Anyone, then, who rejects this command does not reject man but God, the very One who gives you His Holy Spirit.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God hath not called us unto uncleanness - He is the creator of male and female, and the institutor of marriage, and he has called men and women to this state; but the end of this and all the other callings of God to man is holiness, not uncleanness. And they who use the marriage state as he directs, will find it conducive to their holiness and perfection.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
unto uncleanness--Greek, "for the purpose of." unto--rather as Greek, "in"; marking that "holiness" is the element in which our calling has place; in a sphere of holiness. Saint is another name for Christian.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God hath not called us,.... The Syriac version reads "you". This is another reason to enforce the above exhortations, and to caution them against the above unclean practices, taken from the end of the effectual calling by the efficacious grace of God, which is not unto uncleanness of any sort, as before specified. This they had lived in before their calling, and were now called from it into communion with Christ, who loves righteousness, and hates iniquity; and by the Gospel, which teaches to deny ungodliness, and worldly lusts, and to forsake all impurity, both of flesh and spirit: but this call is unto holiness of life and conversation in general, and to chastity in thought, look, word, and actions in particular; for God that calls is holy, and therefore those who are called ought to be so; the calling with which they are called is an holy calling, principles of grace and holiness are wrought in their souls, when they are called; and the end of their calling is to live soberly, righteously, and godly; and then, and then only, do they walk worthy of that calling wherewith they are called, and of God who has, by his grace, called them to his kingdom and glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7 holy . . . not impure: Cp. 1:4; 2:12; 5:23-24; 2 Thes 2:13-14; 1 Pet 1:15-16.
1 Thessalonians 4:7
Living to Please God
6and no one should ever violate or exploit his brother in this regard, because the Lord will avenge all such acts, as we have already told you and solemnly warned you.7For God has not called us to impurity, but to holiness.8Anyone, then, who rejects this command does not reject man but God, the very One who gives you His Holy Spirit.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Intoxicated With Babylon-Chapter Five
By Steve Gallagher1.3K09:42BabylonLEV 11:44MAT 5:482CO 7:1EPH 4:221TH 4:7HEB 12:141PE 1:15In this video, Steve Gallagher discusses the importance of holiness in the Christian life. He emphasizes that holiness is not a popular concept in today's society, but it is still a central requirement for believers. Gallagher explains that God calls us to strive towards holiness and to repent of sin. He also highlights the idea that our time on earth is a testing ground and a preparation for eternity, where we will be used by God in ways we cannot fully comprehend.
Know Jesus, and Make the Exchange: Himself for Your Self
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K17:46Great ExchangePSA 133:1MAT 6:33ROM 8:91CO 6:19GAL 2:201TH 4:7REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of intimacy with Jesus and being joined to Him in spirit. He laments how people often run after worldly things instead of seeking the living water that Jesus offers. The preacher shares a personal experience at a convention where he witnessed a lack of true spirituality and a focus on self-promotion. He emphasizes that revival is not about flashy displays or speaking in tongues, but about hearts and bodies being filled with the power of Jesus' resurrection. The preacher urges listeners to know Jesus and open the door of their hearts to Him.
Holiness
By J. Sidlow Baxter1.0K44:43HolinessMAT 6:33ROM 8:291CO 1:2EPH 1:41TH 4:7HEB 12:141PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker begins by recounting a story of a mischievous child who caused a disaster by playing with two important bottles on his mother's tablecloth. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of holiness in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that true sanctification is a priority concern for Christians and that it is necessary for pleasing God. The speaker focuses on Ephesians 1:4, highlighting the significance of the verb "he hath chosen" and explaining its implications in Greek grammar.
Be Ye Holy
By Darrell Stetler86753:38Holiness1TH 1:31TH 2:131TH 2:171TH 3:11TH 4:31TH 4:7HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of holiness and sanctification in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that God's command to be holy is clear and definite in the Bible. The speaker highlights the need for believers to guard their minds against the influence of the devil and to have the mind of Christ. He also reminds the audience of the imminent return of Jesus Christ and the need to live in holiness in anticipation of His coming. The sermon concludes with a call to obedience and a reminder that God's call to holiness is written and forever settled in heaven.
Biblical Purity (German/zulu)
By Erlo Stegen7521:03:37Purity1TH 4:7I'm sorry, but I cannot summarize a video as I do not have access to visual content. However, if you provide me with the transcript or audio of the video, I would be happy to summarize it for you.
(Clip) the Holy Spirit Will Make You Holy
By Tim Conway57101:30JHN 14:26GAL 5:22EPH 4:31TH 4:7HEB 12:14This sermon emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in making believers holy and like Christ. It highlights the necessity of holiness to see the Lord and the work of the Spirit in producing the fruit of the Spirit in every believer. The speaker underscores that the Spirit's primary role is to sanctify God's people and bring them into unity, ultimately fulfilling the promise of the Father through Jesus Christ.
His Holiness for Us
By G.W. North2041:34:22HolinessMAT 5:48ROM 12:2EPH 6:141TH 4:71PE 1:141JN 5:18REV 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obedience in the lives of believers. He encourages the audience to be obedient children and to not conform to their former sinful desires. The preacher also highlights the power of God in overcoming sin and the sacrifice of Jesus to put away sin. He urges the listeners to strive for holiness, as Jesus will be revealed and they should be prepared to see him in all his glory.
Without Holiness No One Will See the Lord
By Shane Idleman1449:58HolinessHumilityISA 57:15MAT 5:8ROM 12:12CO 7:1EPH 4:241TH 4:7HEB 12:14JAS 4:101PE 1:161JN 1:9Shane Idleman emphasizes the critical importance of holiness in the life of a believer, asserting that without holiness, no one will see the Lord. He explains that holiness means being set apart for God's use and highlights the struggle between the desire for holiness and the temptations of unholiness in today's culture. Idleman discusses the concepts of positional and progressive sanctification, urging believers to grow closer to God and reject sin. He encourages the congregation to pursue holiness actively, as it is essential for experiencing God's presence and power in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for humility and a contrite heart, reminding listeners that true strength comes from within through the Holy Spirit.
Come Out From Among Them
By Shane Idleman836:29Separation from the WorldHolinessPSA 119:11ISA 52:1MAT 5:14ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:181TH 4:7JAS 4:41PE 1:161JN 2:15Shane Idleman emphasizes the call to holiness in his sermon 'Come Out From Among Them,' urging believers to separate themselves from worldly influences and to embody genuine faith through obedience to God's word. He explains that true holiness is a matter of the heart, not merely external appearances, and that a holy church can transform society. Shane warns against being conformed to the world and encourages Christians to seek a deeper relationship with God, highlighting the importance of repentance and the power of the Holy Spirit in achieving holiness. He concludes by reminding the congregation that true joy and fulfillment come from living a life set apart for God.
Preach Constantly
By Arthur Vess0LEV 20:72CO 7:1EPH 1:41TH 4:71TI 4:12TIT 2:11HEB 12:141PE 1:151JN 3:3REV 22:11Arthur Vess emphasizes the importance of preaching holiness constantly, not as a hobby, but as the great foundation and fountain of all truth. He echoes John Wesley's words to preach holiness in every sermon, stating that preaching holiness is essential to preaching the truth. Vess highlights that everything is either holy or unholy, and by exploring holiness in all its aspects, one can never exhaust its depth. He encourages preachers to repeat key points not for emptiness but for emphasis, drawing a comparison to how lawyers present evidence. Vess underscores the significance of holiness in the Holy Bible and the urgent need for it in the unholy world, urging the use of various tools like illustrations, persuasion, arguments, and inspiration to preach holiness in regeneration, sanctification, and glorification.
A Holiness Catechism
By James Blaine Chapman0ACT 1:8ROM 6:221CO 1:302CO 7:1EPH 5:251TH 4:71TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:151JN 1:9James Blaine Chapman preaches about the importance of holiness as taught in the Bible, emphasizing that holiness is a state of the heart resulting from receiving the baptism with the Holy Ghost and fire. The doctrine of holiness is a standard for all God's people, and the experience of holiness is the full blessing of the gospel in response to our human need. The process of sanctification leads to holiness, described as Christian perfection, perfect love, heart purity, and the Spirit-filled life.
From Addresses of Bishops -- 1824
By Samuel Alexander Danford02CO 7:1EPH 4:241TH 4:7HEB 12:141PE 1:15Samuel Alexander Danford emphasizes the importance of holding onto the doctrine of entire sanctification and Christian holiness in Methodism. He warns that if Methodists abandon this doctrine, they risk losing their identity and purpose as a people. Danford highlights that holiness is the core foundation that unites Methodists and drives them towards holy living and good works, as envisioned by the founder of Methodism, Mr. Wesley.
Interesting Early Christian Literature
By J.B. Galloway0GEN 49:1MAT 5:1JHN 14:6ACT 2:381CO 6:19EPH 4:241TH 4:71TI 4:121PE 1:15J.B. Galloway delves into the Testament Of The Twelve Patriarchs, an ancient text that offers high ethical teachings and parallels with the New Testament. It presents the dying patriarchs' guidance for future generations, foretelling the Messiah's coming and the end of troubles. The work emphasizes virtue, righteousness, and holiness, echoing the spirit of the Sermon on the Mount. Additionally, the Pseudo-Clementine Literature, attributed to Clement of Rome, provides theological insights and stories of conversion, highlighting the importance of faith and righteousness.
Second Century Holiness Ideas
By J.B. Galloway0PSA 24:3MAT 5:16ACT 2:38ROM 16:141CO 6:19EPH 1:13PHP 2:151TH 4:71PE 1:151JN 2:20J.B. Galloway delves into the historical context and significance of 'The Shepherd of Hermas,' a popular book in the Early Church, focusing on Hermas' journey from a slave to a free man and the lessons on repentance and holiness portrayed in the book. The sermon also explores 'The Epistle of Barnabas' and 'Theophilus of Antioch,' shedding light on their teachings on holiness and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Additionally, the sermon touches on 'Aristides, The Philosopher,' highlighting his lost Apology that showcased the moral character and faith of early Christians.
Section I. the Scripture Argument
By Jesse T. Peck0MAT 5:82CO 7:1EPH 1:41TH 4:7HEB 12:141PE 1:15Jesse T. Peck preaches about the central idea of Christianity being holiness, emphasizing the necessity of purity of heart and life as the ultimate goal of the Christian faith. He highlights how the doctrine of holiness should be the guiding principle in every aspect of Christian belief and practice, condemning any deviation from this central idea. Peck urges Christians to prioritize the pursuit of holiness above all else, as it is the core purpose of the gospel and the key to true spiritual transformation.
The Logic of Holiness Evangelism
By Charles William Butler0JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ROM 10:171CO 6:11EPH 1:71TH 4:72TI 1:9TIT 2:14HEB 10:101PE 1:16Charles William Butler preaches about the importance of understanding holiness as an integral part of God's salvation provision, directly related to the blood of Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit. He emphasizes that holiness is as much a part of salvation as forgiveness and should not be relegated to a secondary role. Butler highlights the need for genuine evangelism to precipitate conviction and realization of sin's remedy in personal experience, urging believers to spread Scriptural holiness persistently and insistently as a central idea of Christianity.
Of the Holiness of God.
By John Gill0Divine PerfectionThe Holiness of GodEXO 15:11DEU 32:4PSA 27:4ISA 40:25JHN 17:112CO 7:11TH 4:7HEB 1:81PE 1:15REV 15:4John Gill emphasizes the holiness of God as an essential and immutable attribute that defines His nature and essence. He explains that God's holiness is the foundation of His perfection, distinguishing Him from all creation, which is inherently flawed. Gill illustrates how God's holiness is evident in His works of creation, providence, and grace, asserting that it is the source of all true righteousness and purity. He also highlights the holiness of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, affirming that all three persons of the Trinity share this divine attribute. Ultimately, Gill calls believers to reflect God's holiness in their lives, as they are called to be holy as He is holy.
Pursue After Holiness
By Thomas Brooks0Pursuit of HolinessPerseverance in FaithPRO 3:17MAT 5:8ROM 12:12CO 7:1EPH 4:241TH 4:7HEB 10:24HEB 12:141PE 1:151JN 3:3Thomas Brooks emphasizes the necessity of pursuing holiness, arguing that if the ambitious, pleasure-seeking, and worldly individuals strive for their desires, Christians should strive even more for holiness. He describes the way of holiness as the safest, noblest, sweetest, cleanest, pleasantest, and happiest path, encouraging believers to persist despite obstacles. Brooks reminds the congregation that God continues to show mercy despite their sins, urging them to remain steadfast in their pursuit of sanctity. He challenges them to consider the perseverance of Satan and the wicked, questioning why they should not also persevere in their quest for holiness.
Identification - Holiness
By Charles William Butler0PSA 16:11MAT 7:20MAT 25:40LUK 19:10JHN 15:5JHN 17:17GAL 5:22COL 3:41TH 4:71PE 1:15Charles William Butler emphasizes the importance of identification with Christ in various aspects, such as material interests, life, and mission. He highlights the need for believers to be fully consecrated and aligned with the great objective of Christ in seeking and saving the lost. Butler stresses the significance of maintaining a strong identification with holiness, urging believers to uphold this truth and experience without compromise. He calls for a revival of true holiness preaching and the propagation of holiness through witnesses and special meetings.
Preach Holiness by Example
By Arthur Vess0JHN 3:16ROM 6:231TH 4:7TIT 2:141PE 1:151JN 4:18REV 20:6Arthur Vess emphasizes the importance of preaching holiness by example, urging believers to not only speak about holiness but to live it out daily, demonstrating its power in their lives. He highlights the need to live above reproach so that even those who oppose us will witness our holy lives and be impacted by the transformation. Vess stresses that true holiness will stand the test of time and keep us pure and blessed, ultimately leading to perfect rest and the casting out of fear through perfect love. He concludes with a powerful reminder of God's great love and salvation as depicted in John 3:16, encouraging believers to focus on eternal life through Jesus Christ.
The Heavenly Vision
By Aaron Hills0PRO 29:18ISA 6:1ACT 7:55ACT 10:9ACT 16:9ACT 18:9ACT 26:19ACT 27:231TH 4:7REV 1:12Aaron Hills preaches about the importance of daring to follow the Vision despite the world's derision and secular influences that degrade angelic qualities in the soul. He emphasizes how heavenly visions can lift the soul above earthly burdens and lead to life-changing transformations, as seen in biblical figures like Peter, Samuel, Gideon, Saul, and John. Hills highlights how God uses visions to awaken souls to their potential greatness and impending ruin, urging listeners to heed the call to a higher and fuller life through visions that lead to holiness and sanctification.
Holiness Imparted
By James Blaine Chapman0MAL 3:3MAT 3:11ACT 2:39ACT 15:8EPH 1:41TH 4:7HEB 12:14HEB 12:28JAS 4:81PE 1:15James Blaine Chapman preaches on the importance of holiness as a heart experience necessary to see the Lord, emphasizing the dangers of failing to seek sanctification and allowing bitterness or impurity to defile us. He explores the dispensational blessing of sanctification through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, comparing Mount Sinai's law, Mount Calvary's redemption, and Mount Zion's impartation of holiness. Chapman highlights the Holy Spirit's role in purifying believers, drawing on biblical metaphors of refining gold and separating wheat from chaff to illustrate sanctification as a work of God's Spirit. He encourages believers to seek sanctification as a high privilege and a means to serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.
Holiness Defined
By James Blaine Chapman0MAT 5:48JHN 3:3ROM 6:22PHP 2:131TH 4:7HEB 12:14JAS 4:71PE 1:161JN 1:91JN 2:6James Blaine Chapman preaches on the concept of holiness, emphasizing that it is a state of heart resulting from being sanctified wholly by the Holy Spirit, leading to moral purity, complete alignment with God's will, and a supreme love for Him. Holiness is compared to soul health, where sin is abnormal and burdensome, while holiness brings joy and removes uneasiness. It is the standard set by God's Word for all believers, enabling them to live up to the Christian standard with inner power and increased Christian experience.
The Advantages, to Ourselves and Others, of Living in the Enjoyment of the Witness of Holiness
By Phoebe Palmer01CO 3:16PHP 4:131TH 4:7HEB 10:191PE 1:15Phoebe Palmer preaches about the infinite advantages of living in the enjoyment of holiness, emphasizing the eternal weight of glory awaiting those who lead a holy life. She highlights the importance of having boldness to enter the holiest by the Blood of Jesus and the necessity of purity of intention in all our works. Palmer urges believers to persevere in seeking holiness, as it not only benefits themselves but also impacts the world around them, leading to the spread of sacred influence and the advancement of God's kingdom.
Holiness - the High Calling of God in Christ Jesus
By Art Katz0Spiritual WarfareHolinessMAT 5:8ROM 12:12CO 7:1PHP 3:141TH 4:7HEB 12:14JAS 1:121PE 1:151JN 3:2REV 3:5Art Katz emphasizes the profound call to holiness as articulated by Charles Spurgeon, who equates perfect holiness with the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Spurgeon encourages believers to engage in the spiritual warfare necessary to attain this purity, promising that the struggles will lead to joy, peace of conscience, and a triumphant victory. Katz highlights that true joy and gladness stem from a heart made righteous through the sanctifying work of God, and that believers must be serious about their spiritual journey to experience this state of being. He challenges the church to strive for this holiness, which not only transforms individual lives but also serves as a powerful witness to the world. Ultimately, Katz calls for a commitment to the struggle for holiness, assuring that the rewards are eternal and glorious.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
God hath not called us unto uncleanness - He is the creator of male and female, and the institutor of marriage, and he has called men and women to this state; but the end of this and all the other callings of God to man is holiness, not uncleanness. And they who use the marriage state as he directs, will find it conducive to their holiness and perfection.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
unto uncleanness--Greek, "for the purpose of." unto--rather as Greek, "in"; marking that "holiness" is the element in which our calling has place; in a sphere of holiness. Saint is another name for Christian.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God hath not called us,.... The Syriac version reads "you". This is another reason to enforce the above exhortations, and to caution them against the above unclean practices, taken from the end of the effectual calling by the efficacious grace of God, which is not unto uncleanness of any sort, as before specified. This they had lived in before their calling, and were now called from it into communion with Christ, who loves righteousness, and hates iniquity; and by the Gospel, which teaches to deny ungodliness, and worldly lusts, and to forsake all impurity, both of flesh and spirit: but this call is unto holiness of life and conversation in general, and to chastity in thought, look, word, and actions in particular; for God that calls is holy, and therefore those who are called ought to be so; the calling with which they are called is an holy calling, principles of grace and holiness are wrought in their souls, when they are called; and the end of their calling is to live soberly, righteously, and godly; and then, and then only, do they walk worthy of that calling wherewith they are called, and of God who has, by his grace, called them to his kingdom and glory.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:7 holy . . . not impure: Cp. 1:4; 2:12; 5:23-24; 2 Thes 2:13-14; 1 Pet 1:15-16.