1 Thessalonians 5:1
Verse
Context
Sermons
David Wilkerson
Dwight Pentecost
David Roper
Paul Washer
Tow Siang Hwa
Aaron Hurst
Svend ChristensenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But of the times and the seasons - It is natural to suppose, after what he had said in the conclusion of the preceding chapter concerning the coming of Christ, the raising of the dead, and rendering those immortal who should then be found alive, without obliging them to pass through the empire of death, that the Thessalonians would feel an innocent curiosity to know, as the disciples did concerning the destruction of Jerusalem, when those things should take place, and what should be the signs of those times, and of the coming of the Son of man. And it is remarkable that the apostle answers, here, to these anticipated questions as our Lord did, in the above case, to the direct question of his disciples; and he seems to refer in these words, Of the times and the seasons ye have no need that I write unto you, for yourselves know that the day of the Lord cometh as a thief in the night, to what our Lord said, Mat 24:44; Mat 25:13; and the apostle takes it for granted that they were acquainted with our Lord's prediction on the subject: For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. It is very likely therefore, that the apostle, like our Lord, couples these two grand events-the destruction of Jerusalem and the final judgment. And it appears most probable that it is of the former event chiefly that he speaks here, as it was certainly of the latter that he treated in the conclusion of the preceding chapter. In the notes on Act 1:6, Act 1:7, it has already been shown that the χρονους η καιρους, times or seasons, (the very same terms which are used here), refer to the destruction of the Jewish commonwealth; and we may fairly presume that they have the same meaning in this place.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But of the times and the seasons, brethren,.... Of the coming of Christ, his "appointed time" and "his day", as the Ethiopic version renders it; of the resurrection of the dead in Christ first, and of the rapture of all the saints in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, things treated of in the preceding chapter: and which might excite a curiosity to know the times and seasons of them; as in what year they would come to pass; in what season of the year, whether winter or summer; in what month, and on what day of the month; and whether in the night season, or in the daytime; and in what hour, whether at midnight, cockcrowing, morning, or noonday: to repress which the apostle observes, ye have no need that I write unto you; to write to them concerning the things themselves was necessary and useful, to stir up and encourage their faith, hope, and expectation of them; to allay their grief for departed friends, and to comfort one another under the various trials and exercises of life; but to write to them about the time of these things would be trifling and unnecessary, would be an idle speculation, and an indulging a vain curiosity; and, besides, was impracticable: for of that day and hour knows no man; the times and seasons the Father hath put in his own power; for these things are equally true of Christ's second coming, as of the kingdom of Christ coming with power and glory, and of the destruction of Jerusalem, Mat 24:36. The Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions read, "ye have no need that we write unto you"; the reason follows;
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these words observe, I. The apostle tells the Thessalonians it was needless or useless to enquire about the particular time of Christ's coming: Of the times and seasons you need not that I write unto you, Th1 5:1. The thing is certain that Christ will come, and there is a certain time appointed for his coming; but there was no need that the apostle should write about this, and therefore he had no revelation given him; nor should they or we enquire into this secret, which the Father has reserved in his own power. Of that day and hour knoweth no man. Christ himself did not reveal this while upon earth; it was not in his commission as the great prophet of the church: nor did he reveal this to his apostles; there was no need of this. There are times and seasons for us to do our work in: these it is our duty and interest to know and observe; but the time and season when we must give up our account we know not, nor is it needful that we should know them. Note, There are many things which our vain curiosity desires to know which there is no necessity at all of our knowing, nor would our knowledge of them do us good. II. He tells them that the coming of Christ would be sudden, and a great surprise to most men, Th1 5:2. And this is what they knew perfectly, or might know, because our Lord himself had so said: In such an hour as you think not, the Son of man cometh, Mat 24:44. So Mar 13:35, Mar 13:36, Watch you therefore, for you know not when the master of the house cometh; lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. And no doubt the apostle had told them, as of the coming of Christ, so also of his coming suddenly, which is the meaning of his coming as a thief in the night, Rev 16:15. As the thief usually cometh in the dead time of the night, when he is least expected, such a surprise will the day of the Lord be; so sudden and surprising will be his appearance. The knowledge of this will be more useful than to know the exact time, because this should awaken us to stand upon our watch, that we may be ready whenever he cometh. III. He tells them how terrible Christ's coming would be to the ungodly, Th1 5:3. It will be to their destruction in that day of the Lord. The righteous God will bring ruin upon his and his people's enemies; and this their destruction, as it will be total and final, so, 1. It will be sudden. It will overtake them, and fall upon them, in the midst of their carnal security and jollity, when they say in their hearts, Peace and safety, when they dream of felicity and please themselves with vain amusements of their fancies or their senses, and think not of it, - as travail cometh upon a woman with child, at the set time indeed, but not perhaps just then expected, nor greatly feared. 2. It will be unavoidable destruction too: They shall not escape; they shall in no wise escape. There will be no means possible for them to avoid the terror nor the punishment of that day. There will be no place where the workers of iniquity shall be able to hide themselves, no shelter from the storm, nor shadow from the burning heat that shall consume the wicked. IV. He tells them how comfortable this day will be to the righteous, Th1 5:4, Th1 5:5. Here observe, 1. Their character and privilege. They are not in darkness; they are the children of the light, etc. This was the happy condition of the Thessalonians as it is of all true Christians. They were not in a state of sin and ignorance as the heathen world. They were some time darkness, but were made light in the Lord. They were favoured with the divine revelation of things that are unseen and eternal, particularly concerning the coming of Christ, and the consequences thereof. They were the children of the day, for the day-star had risen upon them; yea, the Sun of righteousness had arisen on them with healing under his wings. They were no longer under the darkness of heathenism, nor under the shadows of the law, but under the gospel, which brings life and immortality to light. Ti2 1:10. 2. Their great advantage on this account: that that day should not overtake them as a thief, Th1 5:4. It was at least their own fault if they were surprised by that day. They had fair warning, and sufficient helps to provide against that day, and might hope to stand with comfort and confidence before the Son of man. This would be a time of refreshing to them from the presence of the Lord, who to those that look for him will appear without sin unto their salvation, and will come to them as a friend in the day, not as a thief in the night.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:1 Questions such as how and when all this will happen occupied the thoughts of both Jewish and Christian people (Dan 12:6; Matt 24:3; Luke 17:20; Acts 1:6; 1 Pet 1:10-11).
1 Thessalonians 5:1
The Day of the Lord
1Now about the times and seasons, brothers, we do not need to write to you.2For you are fully aware that the Day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Sudden Destruction
By David Wilkerson3.6K56:03Destruction1TH 5:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of watching and being sober in the face of impending judgment. He references 1 Thessalonians 5:6, where Paul urges believers to stay awake and alert. The preacher explains that while destruction and tragedy may befall the world, it signifies a new day for God's people. He further discusses the concept of sudden destruction, comparing it to the pains of childbirth, and warns that America will experience intensified warnings and catastrophes before its final destruction.
Week of Meetings-03 Will the Church Go Thru the Tribulation
By Dwight Pentecost2.6K55:151TH 5:1In this sermon, the preacher begins by praying for the guidance and understanding of the Holy Spirit. The sermon focuses on the topic of the translation of the church and the coming of the Lord. The preacher emphasizes that the timing of these events is unknown and compares it to the unexpected arrival of a thief in the night. The sermon also highlights the importance of being prepared and living in the light as children of God, rather than being in darkness. The preacher concludes by reminding the congregation that God has not appointed them to wrath, but to obtain salvation through Jesus Christ.
A Hope That Produces Endurance
By David Roper2.6K38:06Hope1TH 5:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of our response to the revelation that God will come in judgment to set things right. He encourages believers to have hope in eternal life, the resurrection of their bodies, and the second coming of Christ. The preacher assures that God has not abandoned us and is actively working towards His glory and victory. Despite the prevalence of evil in the world, the preacher reminds believers to remain calm because God will ultimately establish His righteous rule. He urges believers to be armed for the spiritual conflict by relying on faith, love, and the hope of salvation. The sermon concludes with the assurance that God is in control and is moving towards a point of triumph.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-3
By Paul Washer2.0K53:29Teaching1TH 5:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the day of the Lord's coming. He references 2 Peter 3:10 and Revelation 16:15 to highlight the suddenness and urgency of this event. The preacher encourages believers to discipline themselves by regularly listening to the Word of God in order to be alert and watchful. He also emphasizes the need for believers to be witnesses to the world, fulfilling the Great Commission. The sermon aims to encourage believers to live in the light, away from spiritual darkness, and to be characterized by faith, love, and hope.
As a Thief in the Night
By Tow Siang Hwa1.3K29:21Secret Rapture1TH 5:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not forgetting that the Lord is coming. He explains that history is the story of God's creation of man from the beginning until the end. The preacher urges the audience to be prepared for the Lord's coming, comparing it to a thief in the night who comes when least expected. He emphasizes the need to constantly remind ourselves of this, as our memories are frail and the pressures of life can make us forget.
The Times and the Seasons
By Aaron Hurst1.1K1:30:06Seasons1TH 5:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being vigilant and watchful in the face of spiritual dangers. He uses metaphors of lions and serpents to illustrate the need for strict attention and caution. The preacher warns against being distracted by worldly temptations and urges believers to be prepared for the return of Jesus. He references biblical passages, such as Revelation 16:15 and Luke 12, to emphasize the blessings that come to those who are found watching and ready for the Lord's coming.
Studies in 1 Thessalonians 05 Concecration
By Svend Christensen71745:461TH 5:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of complete surrender to God. He encourages believers to present their bodies as living sacrifices to the Lord and to consecrate themselves fully to Him. The sermon also touches on the topics of prayer and love, highlighting the significance of praying for one another and greeting fellow believers with a holy kiss. The preacher concludes by discussing the faithfulness of God and His ability to fulfill His promises. The sermon references the book of 1 Thessalonians, particularly chapter 5, which discusses the day of the Lord and the contrast between believers and unbelievers.
Church History - Session 6 (Revelation Fullfilled - Part 2)
By Edgar F. Parkyns29844:231TH 5:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the book "Torch of the Testimony" by John Kennedy as a valuable history book. The speaker mentions that they were unable to provide their notes for the sermon but promises to address the topic next week. They also mention the importance of studying history rather than making guesses about the future. The sermon touches on the topic of the 70 weeks mentioned in the book of Daniel and emphasizes that there is no gap in God's timeline. The speaker encourages the audience to ask any burning questions and addresses the topic of the Second Coming mentioned in the Thessalonian Epistle.
Knowing the Signs of the Times, Part 1
By Mike Bickle171:07:14Urgency in PreparationSigns Of The Times1TH 5:1Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of understanding the signs of the times, arguing that this topic is often neglected within the church. He encourages believers to study scripture and be aware of the prophetic signs that indicate the return of Christ, asserting that we are in the generation that will witness His second coming. Bickle highlights the need for urgency in preparation and prayer, as well as the responsibility of the church to discern the times and respond appropriately. He warns against complacency and encourages a deep engagement with God's word to avoid unnecessary loss when the Lord returns.
Belshazzar's Feast and the Fall of Babylon
By John F. Walvoord0PSA 2:1ISA 13:17ISA 21:2JER 51:33JER 51:57DAN 5:251TH 5:1John F. Walvoord preaches on the downfall of Belshazzar and the fall of Babylon as prophesied in the book of Daniel. The sermon highlights the divine judgment on the wicked world, illustrating how human pride and security are defenseless against God's judgment. The narrative serves as a warning that the honors and security of this world are short-lived and futile compared to God's ultimate authority and wisdom.
1 Thessalonians 5:1, 2
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 24:42EPH 6:141TH 5:11TH 5:8John Chrysostom emphasizes the uncertainty of the day of the Lord's coming, likening it to a thief in the night, urging believers to be vigilant and not indulge in curiosity about the end times. He highlights the importance of faith, love, and hope as spiritual armor to guard against the temptations of vice and the distractions of the world. Chrysostom urges listeners to live as 'sons of light' and 'sons of the day,' being sober, watchful, and prepared for the return of Christ, reminding them that God has appointed them to obtain salvation through Jesus Christ.
1 Thessalonians 4:13
By St. John Chrysostom0PSA 39:51CO 8:21CO 15:181CO 15:521TH 4:141TH 5:1John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of understanding the doctrine of the Resurrection to banish grief and sorrow, emphasizing that even those who have fallen asleep in Jesus will be brought by God. He addresses the disbelief in the Resurrection, highlighting the comfort and honor in glory that believers will experience. Chrysostom encourages faith in the Resurrection by pointing out the miraculous transformations in nature and the human body, urging believers to trust in God's power and wisdom beyond human understanding.
Our Focus
By David Wilkerson0Hope in ProphecyFocus on Christ1TH 5:1David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of maintaining our focus on Christ amidst the chaos and fear of the world, as experienced by early Christians who were anxious about the impending destruction of Jerusalem. He references Paul's assurance that believers need not worry about the signs of the times, as the return of the Lord is certain and should bring comfort. Wilkerson reminds us that history is moving towards God's eternal purpose, and we should not be distracted by daily news or calamities. Instead, our focus should be on the promise of Christ's return and the hope of a new heaven and earth where He reigns. Ultimately, we are called to look up and trust in God's plan.
Christians May Discern the Approaching End
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0JHN 14:11CO 15:511TH 4:131TH 5:1HEB 10:24Lewis Sperry Chafer emphasizes the importance of understanding the different prophetic days mentioned in the Bible, particularly 'The day of the Lord' and 'The day of Christ.' He explains how 'The day of the Lord' is focused on Israel and the world, extending from Christ's glorious appearing to the end of the millennium, while 'The day of Christ' pertains to the Church, involving her judgments and rewards. Chafer delves into the mystery of the Church being caught up to meet the Lord in the air, contrasting it with the events of Christ's return to establish His kingdom on earth and judge the nations.
Watchfulness
By C.I. Scofield01TH 5:1C.I. Scofield preaches on the believer's attitude towards the possible return of the Lord at any moment, emphasizing the importance of constant watching and waiting for His coming. He highlights the need for believers to be ready and prepared for the Son of Man's arrival, as the penalty is in proportion to the light sinned against. The heart of the lesson focuses on the imminent return of Christ as a motive for right living, urging Christians to be sober, patient, moderate, charitable, diligent, pure, and always abiding in Jesus, while warning against the danger of believing in a delayed return of the Lord, which leads to complacency and worldly living.
Perplexed Without Context
By David Servant0PSA 14:1MAT 24:421TH 5:1JAS 2:5David Servant emphasizes the importance of reading Bible verses within their context to avoid misrepresenting God's Word. Using the example of misinterpretations around Jesus' return, he highlights the significance of understanding the wider context of Scripture to grasp the true meaning of passages. Servant cautions against extracting verses to fit personal beliefs and urges listeners to consider the entirety of the Bible for a consistent understanding of God's message.
First Epistle to the Thessalonians
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0ACT 17:11TH 4:161TH 5:11TH 5:23Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the historical context of the city of Thessalonica, the persecution faced by the Apostle Paul, and the establishment of the Church in Thessalonica. He highlights the importance of surrendering to God, being prepared for the Lord's coming, and living a life of sanctification and separation from the world. Gaebelein emphasizes the comfort and hope found in the promise of the Lord's return, the resurrection of the dead in Christ, and the eternal union with the Lord in glory.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But of the times and the seasons - It is natural to suppose, after what he had said in the conclusion of the preceding chapter concerning the coming of Christ, the raising of the dead, and rendering those immortal who should then be found alive, without obliging them to pass through the empire of death, that the Thessalonians would feel an innocent curiosity to know, as the disciples did concerning the destruction of Jerusalem, when those things should take place, and what should be the signs of those times, and of the coming of the Son of man. And it is remarkable that the apostle answers, here, to these anticipated questions as our Lord did, in the above case, to the direct question of his disciples; and he seems to refer in these words, Of the times and the seasons ye have no need that I write unto you, for yourselves know that the day of the Lord cometh as a thief in the night, to what our Lord said, Mat 24:44; Mat 25:13; and the apostle takes it for granted that they were acquainted with our Lord's prediction on the subject: For you yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. It is very likely therefore, that the apostle, like our Lord, couples these two grand events-the destruction of Jerusalem and the final judgment. And it appears most probable that it is of the former event chiefly that he speaks here, as it was certainly of the latter that he treated in the conclusion of the preceding chapter. In the notes on Act 1:6, Act 1:7, it has already been shown that the χρονους η καιρους, times or seasons, (the very same terms which are used here), refer to the destruction of the Jewish commonwealth; and we may fairly presume that they have the same meaning in this place.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But of the times and the seasons, brethren,.... Of the coming of Christ, his "appointed time" and "his day", as the Ethiopic version renders it; of the resurrection of the dead in Christ first, and of the rapture of all the saints in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, things treated of in the preceding chapter: and which might excite a curiosity to know the times and seasons of them; as in what year they would come to pass; in what season of the year, whether winter or summer; in what month, and on what day of the month; and whether in the night season, or in the daytime; and in what hour, whether at midnight, cockcrowing, morning, or noonday: to repress which the apostle observes, ye have no need that I write unto you; to write to them concerning the things themselves was necessary and useful, to stir up and encourage their faith, hope, and expectation of them; to allay their grief for departed friends, and to comfort one another under the various trials and exercises of life; but to write to them about the time of these things would be trifling and unnecessary, would be an idle speculation, and an indulging a vain curiosity; and, besides, was impracticable: for of that day and hour knows no man; the times and seasons the Father hath put in his own power; for these things are equally true of Christ's second coming, as of the kingdom of Christ coming with power and glory, and of the destruction of Jerusalem, Mat 24:36. The Vulgate Latin and Arabic versions read, "ye have no need that we write unto you"; the reason follows;
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these words observe, I. The apostle tells the Thessalonians it was needless or useless to enquire about the particular time of Christ's coming: Of the times and seasons you need not that I write unto you, Th1 5:1. The thing is certain that Christ will come, and there is a certain time appointed for his coming; but there was no need that the apostle should write about this, and therefore he had no revelation given him; nor should they or we enquire into this secret, which the Father has reserved in his own power. Of that day and hour knoweth no man. Christ himself did not reveal this while upon earth; it was not in his commission as the great prophet of the church: nor did he reveal this to his apostles; there was no need of this. There are times and seasons for us to do our work in: these it is our duty and interest to know and observe; but the time and season when we must give up our account we know not, nor is it needful that we should know them. Note, There are many things which our vain curiosity desires to know which there is no necessity at all of our knowing, nor would our knowledge of them do us good. II. He tells them that the coming of Christ would be sudden, and a great surprise to most men, Th1 5:2. And this is what they knew perfectly, or might know, because our Lord himself had so said: In such an hour as you think not, the Son of man cometh, Mat 24:44. So Mar 13:35, Mar 13:36, Watch you therefore, for you know not when the master of the house cometh; lest, coming suddenly, he find you sleeping. And no doubt the apostle had told them, as of the coming of Christ, so also of his coming suddenly, which is the meaning of his coming as a thief in the night, Rev 16:15. As the thief usually cometh in the dead time of the night, when he is least expected, such a surprise will the day of the Lord be; so sudden and surprising will be his appearance. The knowledge of this will be more useful than to know the exact time, because this should awaken us to stand upon our watch, that we may be ready whenever he cometh. III. He tells them how terrible Christ's coming would be to the ungodly, Th1 5:3. It will be to their destruction in that day of the Lord. The righteous God will bring ruin upon his and his people's enemies; and this their destruction, as it will be total and final, so, 1. It will be sudden. It will overtake them, and fall upon them, in the midst of their carnal security and jollity, when they say in their hearts, Peace and safety, when they dream of felicity and please themselves with vain amusements of their fancies or their senses, and think not of it, - as travail cometh upon a woman with child, at the set time indeed, but not perhaps just then expected, nor greatly feared. 2. It will be unavoidable destruction too: They shall not escape; they shall in no wise escape. There will be no means possible for them to avoid the terror nor the punishment of that day. There will be no place where the workers of iniquity shall be able to hide themselves, no shelter from the storm, nor shadow from the burning heat that shall consume the wicked. IV. He tells them how comfortable this day will be to the righteous, Th1 5:4, Th1 5:5. Here observe, 1. Their character and privilege. They are not in darkness; they are the children of the light, etc. This was the happy condition of the Thessalonians as it is of all true Christians. They were not in a state of sin and ignorance as the heathen world. They were some time darkness, but were made light in the Lord. They were favoured with the divine revelation of things that are unseen and eternal, particularly concerning the coming of Christ, and the consequences thereof. They were the children of the day, for the day-star had risen upon them; yea, the Sun of righteousness had arisen on them with healing under his wings. They were no longer under the darkness of heathenism, nor under the shadows of the law, but under the gospel, which brings life and immortality to light. Ti2 1:10. 2. Their great advantage on this account: that that day should not overtake them as a thief, Th1 5:4. It was at least their own fault if they were surprised by that day. They had fair warning, and sufficient helps to provide against that day, and might hope to stand with comfort and confidence before the Son of man. This would be a time of refreshing to them from the presence of the Lord, who to those that look for him will appear without sin unto their salvation, and will come to them as a friend in the day, not as a thief in the night.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:1 Questions such as how and when all this will happen occupied the thoughts of both Jewish and Christian people (Dan 12:6; Matt 24:3; Luke 17:20; Acts 1:6; 1 Pet 1:10-11).