1 Thessalonians 5:18
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In every thing give thanks - For this reason, that all things work together for good to them that love God; therefore, every occurrence may be a subject of gratitude and thankfulness. While ye live to God, prosperity and adversity will be equally helpful to you. For this is the will of God - That ye should be always happy; that ye should ever be in the spirit of prayer; and that ye should profit by every occurrence in life, and be continually grateful and obedient; for gratitude and obedience are inseparably connected.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In every thing--even what seems adverse: for nothing is really so (compare Rom 8:28; Eph 5:20). See Christ's example (Mat 15:36; Mat 26:27; Luk 10:21; Joh 11:41). this--That ye should "rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing, (and) in every thing give thanks," "is the will of God in Christ Jesus (as the Mediator and Revealer of that will, observed by those who are in Christ by faith, compare Phi 3:14) concerning you." God's will is the believer's law. LACHMANN rightly reads commas at the end of the three precepts (Th1 5:16-18), making "this" refer to all three.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Quench not the spirit. By which is meant, not the person of the Spirit, but either the graces of the spirit, which may be compared to light, and fire, and heat, to which the allusion is in the text; such as faith, which is a light in the soul, a seeing of the Son, and an evidence of things not seen; and love, which gives a vehement flame, which many waters cannot quench; and zeal, which is the boiling up of love, the fervency of it; and spiritual knowledge, which is also light, and of an increasing nature, and are all graces of the spirit: and though these cannot be totally extinguished, and utterly put out and lost, yet they may be greatly damped; the light of faith may become dim; and the flame of love be abated, and that wax cold; the heat of zeal may pass into lukewarmness, and an indifference of spirit; and the light of knowledge seem to decline instead of increasing; and all through indulging some sin or sins, by keeping ill company, and by neglecting the ordinances of God, prayer, preaching, and other institutions of the Gospel; wherefore such an exhortation is necessary to quicken saints, and stir them up to the use of those means, whereby those graces are cherished and preserved in their lively exercise; though rather the gifts of the Spirit are intended. The extraordinary gifts of the Spirit, bestowed on the apostles at the day of Pentecost, are represented under the symbol of fire, to which perhaps the apostle may here have respect; and the more ordinary gifts of the Spirit are such as are to be stirred up, as coals of fire are stirred up, in order that they may burn, and shine the brighter, and give both light and heat, Ti2 1:6 and which may be said to be quenched, when they are neglected, and lie by as useless; when they are wrapped up in a napkin, or hid in the earth; or when men are restrained from the use of them; or when the use of them is not attended to, or is brought into contempt, and the exercise of them rendered useless and unprofitable, as much as in them lies. And even private persons may quench the Spirit of God, his gifts of light and knowledge, when they hold the truth in unrighteousness, imprison it, and conceal it, and do not publicly profess it as they ought. and which may be said to be quenched, when they are neglected, and lie by as useless; when they are wrapped up in a napkin, or hid in the earth; or when men are restrained from the use of them; or when the use of them is not attended to, or is brought into contempt, and the exercise of them rendered useless and unprofitable, as much as in them lies. And even private persons may quench the Spirit of God, his gifts of light and knowledge, when they hold the truth in unrighteousness, imprison it, and conceal it, and do not publicly profess it as they ought. 1 Thessalonians 5:20 th1 5:20 th1 5:20 th1 5:20Despise not prophesyings. Or "prophecies"; the prophecies of the Old Testament concerning the first coming of Christ, concerning his person, office, and work, his obedience, sufferings, and death, his resurrection from the dead, ascension and session at God's right hand; for though all these are fulfilled, yet they have still their usefulness; for by comparing these with facts, the perfections of God, his omniscience, truth, faithfulness, wisdom, &c. are demonstrated, the authority of the Scriptures established, the truths of the Gospel illustrated and confirmed, and faith strengthened; and besides, there are many prophecies which regard things to be done, and yet to be done under the Gospel dispensation, and therefore should not be set at nought, but highly valued and esteemed: also the predictions of Christ concerning his own sufferings and death, and resurrection from the dead, and what would befall his disciples afterwards, with many things relating to the destruction of Jerusalem, his second coming, and the end of the world, these should be had in great esteem; nor should what the apostles foretold concerning the rise of antichrist, the man of sin, and the apostasy of the latter days, and the whole book of the Revelations, which is no other than a prophecy of the state of the church, from the times of the apostles to the end of the world, be treated with neglect and contempt, but should be seriously considered, and diligently searched and inquired into. Yea, the prophecies of private men, such as Agabus, and others, in the apostle's time, and in later ages, are not to be slighted; though instances of this kind are rare in our times, and things of this nature should not be precipitantly, and without care, given into: but rather prophesyings here intend the explanation of Scripture, and the preaching of the word, and particularly by persons who had not the gift of tongues, and therefore men were apt to despise them; see Co1 13:2. Just as in our days, if persons have not had a liberal education, and do not understand Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, though they have ministerial gifts, and are capable of explaining the word to edification and comfort, yet are set at nought and rejected, which should not be.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:18 Be thankful: God is sovereign and can redeem any situation (Rom 8:28).
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Christian Living
17Pray without ceasing.18Give thanks in every circumstance, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How You Can Walk in the Spirit
By Bill Bright4.3K33:26Walk In The SpiritPSA 100:4MAT 6:33ROM 8:28EPH 6:121TH 5:18JAS 2:221JN 4:4In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of saving his son from falling and relates it to how God saves us from spiritual falls. He emphasizes the importance of letting God control our lives and walking with Him daily. The speaker encourages living by faith and trusting in God's faithfulness, sharing a testimony of how God provided a miraculous solution to a problem. He emphasizes that Christianity is about knowing and relying on Jesus Christ, who is all we need, and encourages gratitude in all circumstances, citing the promise in Romans 8:28 and the command in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 to give thanks in everything.
Always Giving Thanks (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen4.2K1:04:05GEN 50:20ROM 8:28EPH 5:20PHP 2:141TH 5:18REV 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of having a spirit of thankfulness and praise, even in the face of challenges and false accusations. It highlights how God can use difficult situations, jealousy, and forgetfulness of others to fulfill His purpose in our lives, teaching us to trust Him and give thanks always. The message encourages believers to shine as lights in a dark world, free from grumbling and complaining, and to rely on the Holy Spirit for strength and victory.
The Joy of Suffering
By Joni Eareckson Tada2.2K58:34SufferingMAT 6:33JHN 10:10ROM 8:281TH 5:18JAS 1:2In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story about a young man named Rick who became paralyzed after a fight at the age of 15. Despite his physical limitations, Rick was determined to continue his education and achieved a 3.0 average in college. His mother played a crucial role in helping him communicate by creating an alphabet chart above his pillow. The speaker also reflects on his own journey of searching for purpose and identity in high school and how he found his way through joining a sports team and attending a young life weekend camp. The sermon emphasizes the importance of having faith in God and challenges the misconception of a distant and score-keeping God, highlighting the true nature of God as revealed in the Bible.
The Compromising Church
By Keith Daniel2.0K1:15:01CompromiseLEV 19:12PRO 19:11ECC 5:6HAB 3:17MAT 5:331TH 5:18HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a life free from compromise as a Christian. He urges believers to carefully and prayerfully expose their hearts to the teachings of the Bible. The preacher specifically addresses the issue of failing God with one's eyes, urging believers to focus on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and have a good report. He warns that evil thoughts and actions defile a person and calls for a clean heart and a consistent Christian life. The sermon also highlights the need to rejoice in the Lord and trust in Him even in the midst of difficult circumstances, using examples from the Bible such as Habakkuk and Job.
In Everything Give Thanks
By Paris Reidhead1.8K32:59ThanksgivingMAT 5:40MAT 6:33ROM 12:12EPH 6:181TH 5:18JAS 5:16The sermon transcript discusses the ethical teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the importance of going above and beyond in our actions towards others. It challenges the cultural norm of seeking personal protection and vindication, instead urging believers to surrender their possessions, time, and selves to the Lord. The sermon references 1 Thessalonians 5:18, which instructs believers to give thanks in all circumstances, highlighting the difficulty of obeying this command in a society that values rectifying wrongs. The transcript concludes by reminding listeners that as followers of Christ, we have renounced the world and belong to God, and should not become resentful when our possessions or reputation are touched, as they are no longer our own.
Your Purpose in Life
By Alan Ives1.8K44:10PurposePSA 89:16PSA 139:14ISA 40:31MAT 6:33COL 3:171TH 5:18HEB 13:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of praising God. He contrasts the worship of false gods with the privilege of singing a new song to the one true God. The preacher highlights the example of David, who purposed in his heart to praise the Lord as long as he lived. The sermon also emphasizes the need to continually praise Jesus, as he is always worthy of our praise. The preacher encourages believers to offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, as it is the fruit of our lips.
Being a Witness by Obedience
By Zac Poonen1.5K58:241SA 15:22MAT 5:14JHN 14:15ACT 1:8ROM 8:28EPH 3:101TH 5:181JN 2:17This sermon emphasizes the importance of being true witnesses for Christ by doing God's will in every aspect of our lives. It highlights the significance of giving thanks in all situations, obeying God's commands, and living a life that reflects Christ's character. The speaker challenges listeners to be radical disciples who prioritize obedience to God over personal desires and worldly influences.
How God Makes Us New Covenant Servants (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.3K56:21ISA 53:3ISA 53:10MAT 8:17MAT 11:282CO 3:62CO 12:101TH 5:18HEB 13:161PE 4:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of being servants of the new covenant, highlighting the need to go through trials and experiences to understand and help others effectively. It discusses the significance of giving thanks in all circumstances, being content with weaknesses and insults, and finding ministry opportunities through personal struggles. The speaker encourages a mindset of gratitude, readiness to face challenges, and a commitment to serve others with compassion and encouragement.
Waterloo Conference - Part 4
By Colin Anderson1.3K46:36CommunityGratitudeBible ConferencePSA 107:1EPH 5:20PHP 1:3COL 3:151TH 5:18Colin Anderson emphasizes gratitude in his sermon, repeatedly expressing thanks to the audience for their presence and engagement. He highlights the importance of acknowledging others and fostering a sense of community through appreciation. The repetitive nature of his thanks serves to reinforce the value of connection and support among individuals. Anderson's message encourages listeners to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness in their own lives.
Give Thanksgiving to God Part 1
By Chuck Smith1.2K25:03Thanksgiving1CH 16:34PSA 136:1MAT 6:33ROM 8:28EPH 5:20COL 3:151TH 5:18In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith teaches on the importance of giving thanks to God. He begins by discussing Psalm 136, which is an antiphonal Psalm meant to be sung back and forth between the priest and the congregation. The Psalm highlights God's mighty acts, such as dividing the Red Sea, leading the Israelites through the wilderness, and defeating great kings. Pastor Chuck emphasizes the enduring and deep mercy of God, which is demonstrated through His creative acts and His faithfulness to His people. He encourages listeners to recognize and give thanks for God's mercy, which endures forever.
Habitation or Visitation?
By David Ravenhill1.2K1:02:30Presence of GodGEN 22:1PSA 68:19LAM 3:22MRK 6:3ROM 1:211CO 10:311TH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the significance of the earthly tabernacle as a representation of God's dwelling place throughout eternity. He then uses the analogy of visiting someone's home to illustrate how we can learn about a person by observing their living space. The speaker describes a hypothetical scenario of visiting a friend's house and being able to discern details about their family and lifestyle. Drawing from this analogy, the speaker transitions to Revelation chapter 4, where he explores the concept of entering into God's house. He emphasizes that this chapter provides profound insights into the nature and character of God.
A Thankful Heart
By Chuck Smith1.2K25:06HeartEXO 16:2ACT 16:231CO 10:10EPH 5:20PHP 2:14COL 3:151TH 5:18In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith emphasizes the importance of giving thanks in all circumstances. He shares stories from the Bible, such as Paul and Silas praising God in prison and Daniel giving thanks despite facing discrimination. Pastor Chuck also highlights Jesus as our ultimate example of giving thanks, as he gave thanks before feeding the multitude and at the Last Supper. The message encourages listeners to develop a habit of gratitude and to trust that good can come out of any situation when we choose to give thanks.
Skyland Conference 1979-07 Testimony and Message
By Aldy Fam Fanous1.1K44:39TestimonyPSA 84:5JHN 12:1COL 1:8COL 2:141TH 4:31TH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of patience and waiting on the Lord in a fast-paced world. He shares his experience of coming from a slower-paced culture to the USA, where everything moves quickly. He highlights the need to take time with the Word of God and to wait patiently for the Lord. The speaker also discusses the order and creation of God, referencing Genesis 1 and the importance of light in the first day of creation.
Expressing Appreciation
By Zac Poonen1.0K21:38MAT 8:10JHN 1:47EPH 1:16COL 3:151TH 5:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of appreciating and expressing gratitude towards others, highlighting the need to overcome the tendency to criticize and find fault. It encourages filling our hearts with appreciation rather than accusation, following the example of Jesus who appreciated even those society deemed unworthy. The message stresses the significance of expressing thanks to those who serve us, including parents, elders, and spiritual leaders, as a reflection of living a new covenant life like Jesus.
Kingdom Righteousness
By Wingrove Taylor1.0K52:15GEN 12:2LEV 11:44LEV 20:26MAT 6:331TH 4:31TH 5:18In this sermon, the preacher begins by describing a scene where a little girl desperately wants a bag, highlighting the human tendency towards self-deification and the need for sanctification. He then references Romans chapter 1, explaining how the refusal to honor and glorify God leads to the degradation of the world. The preacher then shifts to the story of Abraham, emphasizing how God's pronouncements not only relate to behavior but also to blessings. He shares a personal experience of seeking God's guidance in his church and emphasizes the importance of doing God's will and recognizing that it is not severe but rather sweet.
The Will of God
By George Verwer1.0K1:11:50Will Of GodMAT 6:33JHN 3:16ROM 5:8GAL 1:81TH 5:181PE 5:61JN 2:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking and obeying the will of God. He mentions two recommended books for reading, "Life's Sense" by Charles Coulson and "World on the Run" by Michael Green. The speaker also highlights six things to remember when trying to find God's will, including the understanding that God guides different people in different ways and the significance of waiting on Him and gathering facts. He emphasizes the need for a general overall understanding of the Word of God and the importance of testing thoughts that God brings to our minds. Lastly, the speaker mentions the providence of God and how He uses circumstances and people to guide us, including the door pushing method in Operation Mobilization.
Spiritual Joy
By Jim Cymbala98728:49JoyPSA 98:4LUK 6:38JHN 13:34PHP 3:1PHP 4:41TH 5:161TH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of rejoicing in the Lord. He points out that the Apostle Paul mentions this multiple times in his letter to the Philippians. The speaker encourages the audience to reflect on past experiences where God came through for them and lifted them up. He reminds them that they should not dwell on the past, but rather focus on the present and trust that God will be with them in the future. The speaker also highlights the contrast between rejoicing in the Lord and the anger and bitterness that is prevalent in the world, urging believers to shine like stars by rejoicing in the Lord and avoiding grudges.
The Discipline of Detail - 16
By Jack Hibbs9331:02:07DisciplinePSA 118:23MAT 21:42MAT 28:18ROM 11:25PHP 1:211TH 5:18JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of slowing down and taking time to appreciate the spiritual matters in life. He criticizes the fast-paced nature of society and how it affects churches and Christian programming. The speaker reminds the audience of God's unchanging nature and encourages them to trust in Him. The sermon also focuses on the discipline of detail, highlighting the significance of living a purposeful life centered around Christ.
My Day Before God
By Basilea Schlink93304:35Radio ShowPSA 127:3PSA 141:3MAT 6:33ROM 8:18EPH 2:81TH 5:18JAS 1:17In this sermon, the speaker begins by acknowledging the tendency to complain and grumble about people and circumstances. They emphasize the importance of refraining from complaining and instead responding with gratitude and thanksgiving. The speaker encourages listeners to see every day as an opportunity to show love and gratitude to God as their Father. They also emphasize the need to recognize that all good gifts come from God's mercy and grace, and to cultivate a deeper relationship with Him through thanksgiving. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's guidance and the desire to enter into a richer fellowship with Him.
Finding the Will of God
By Carter Conlon88245:35PSA 139:23DAN 11:32MAL 3:6MAT 6:10MRK 9:24JHN 7:17EPH 6:61TH 4:31TH 5:181PE 2:15This sermon focuses on the importance of finding and walking in the will of God. It emphasizes the distinction between the revealed will of God, which is clear and practical, and the unique will of God, which may be specific to each individual. The speaker encourages the audience to have a heart willing to obey God's revealed will and be open to His unique calling, even if it takes them out of their comfort zone. The message underscores the significance of doing good, speaking truth, and living a life that glorifies God in all aspects.
Desert Survival Series Pt 20- Moses the Servant of God
By Don Courville82737:01Desert SurvivalEXO 15:11TH 5:181PE 1:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story about losing a ball and finding it again, which serves as a metaphor for having an attitude of praise in life. The speaker emphasizes the importance of praising God in all circumstances and using those opportunities to share the message of the Lord with others. The sermon then transitions to discussing the passage in Exodus 15, where Moses and the children of Israel sing a song of praise to the Lord after being set free from bondage. The speaker highlights the significance of praising God when we experience freedom and encourages listeners to always have an attitude of praise.
On Eagles' Wings Pt 11
By Don Courville77725:52Radio ShowEXO 3:14EXO 4:10LUK 1:71COL 3:171TH 5:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Moses and how he initially resisted God's call to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. The preacher identifies five fears that Moses had, which were revealed through his five excuses. The sermon emphasizes that Christ came to deliver us from fear and that we should serve Him without fear in holiness and righteousness. The preacher also highlights the importance of overcoming fear and being willing to do what God has called us to do.
Thankful People in a Reprobate Day
By Rolfe Barnard75253:11PSA 65:4PSA 107:2MAT 6:332CO 13:5EPH 1:41TH 5:182TH 2:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the current generation is in a state of reprobation because they are not seeking after the Lord. He highlights the importance of people's desires and what they are pursuing in life. The preacher quotes from 2 Corinthians 13:5, urging the audience to examine themselves and prove their faith. He mentions that in a generation filled with delusions and lies, it is crucial to love the truth and have pleasure in righteousness. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the world is spiritually dead and in need of revival.
Celebrate the Lord
By Stephen Kaung74911:12PSA 111:1MAT 6:331CO 11:261TH 5:18HEB 10:24REV 5:11In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of celebrating the Lord's table and remembering the finished work of Christ. He encourages believers to share their personal experiences and testimonies of how Jesus has impacted their lives. The preacher urges the congregation not to be self-centered but to focus on exalting and appreciating Jesus during the celebration. He compares the believers' love for Jesus to the Shulamite's love for her beloved in the Song of Songs, highlighting the uniqueness and beauty of their relationship with Christ.
God-a Father of Faithfulness
By Basilea Schlink65904:35Radio ShowPSA 68:5PSA 100:4MAT 7:11PHP 4:61TH 5:18HEB 12:61PE 5:7In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal testimony of finding herself in a state of depression and overwhelming problems. She received a card from Mother Basilia with a picture of a child enclosed within two large hands, symbolizing God's care for every person. However, the card and words did not initially help her. Mother Basilia then advised her to give thanks in the midst of her problems and difficulties, praising God as a loving and faithful Father. The speaker found that this act of gratitude opened the way to comfort and aid from God, bringing trust and peace to her heart. The sermon encourages listeners to praise God as a kind and faithful Father, believing that He will reveal Himself in that way.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
In every thing give thanks - For this reason, that all things work together for good to them that love God; therefore, every occurrence may be a subject of gratitude and thankfulness. While ye live to God, prosperity and adversity will be equally helpful to you. For this is the will of God - That ye should be always happy; that ye should ever be in the spirit of prayer; and that ye should profit by every occurrence in life, and be continually grateful and obedient; for gratitude and obedience are inseparably connected.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
In every thing--even what seems adverse: for nothing is really so (compare Rom 8:28; Eph 5:20). See Christ's example (Mat 15:36; Mat 26:27; Luk 10:21; Joh 11:41). this--That ye should "rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing, (and) in every thing give thanks," "is the will of God in Christ Jesus (as the Mediator and Revealer of that will, observed by those who are in Christ by faith, compare Phi 3:14) concerning you." God's will is the believer's law. LACHMANN rightly reads commas at the end of the three precepts (Th1 5:16-18), making "this" refer to all three.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Quench not the spirit. By which is meant, not the person of the Spirit, but either the graces of the spirit, which may be compared to light, and fire, and heat, to which the allusion is in the text; such as faith, which is a light in the soul, a seeing of the Son, and an evidence of things not seen; and love, which gives a vehement flame, which many waters cannot quench; and zeal, which is the boiling up of love, the fervency of it; and spiritual knowledge, which is also light, and of an increasing nature, and are all graces of the spirit: and though these cannot be totally extinguished, and utterly put out and lost, yet they may be greatly damped; the light of faith may become dim; and the flame of love be abated, and that wax cold; the heat of zeal may pass into lukewarmness, and an indifference of spirit; and the light of knowledge seem to decline instead of increasing; and all through indulging some sin or sins, by keeping ill company, and by neglecting the ordinances of God, prayer, preaching, and other institutions of the Gospel; wherefore such an exhortation is necessary to quicken saints, and stir them up to the use of those means, whereby those graces are cherished and preserved in their lively exercise; though rather the gifts of the Spirit are intended. The extraordinary gifts of the Spirit, bestowed on the apostles at the day of Pentecost, are represented under the symbol of fire, to which perhaps the apostle may here have respect; and the more ordinary gifts of the Spirit are such as are to be stirred up, as coals of fire are stirred up, in order that they may burn, and shine the brighter, and give both light and heat, Ti2 1:6 and which may be said to be quenched, when they are neglected, and lie by as useless; when they are wrapped up in a napkin, or hid in the earth; or when men are restrained from the use of them; or when the use of them is not attended to, or is brought into contempt, and the exercise of them rendered useless and unprofitable, as much as in them lies. And even private persons may quench the Spirit of God, his gifts of light and knowledge, when they hold the truth in unrighteousness, imprison it, and conceal it, and do not publicly profess it as they ought. and which may be said to be quenched, when they are neglected, and lie by as useless; when they are wrapped up in a napkin, or hid in the earth; or when men are restrained from the use of them; or when the use of them is not attended to, or is brought into contempt, and the exercise of them rendered useless and unprofitable, as much as in them lies. And even private persons may quench the Spirit of God, his gifts of light and knowledge, when they hold the truth in unrighteousness, imprison it, and conceal it, and do not publicly profess it as they ought. 1 Thessalonians 5:20 th1 5:20 th1 5:20 th1 5:20Despise not prophesyings. Or "prophecies"; the prophecies of the Old Testament concerning the first coming of Christ, concerning his person, office, and work, his obedience, sufferings, and death, his resurrection from the dead, ascension and session at God's right hand; for though all these are fulfilled, yet they have still their usefulness; for by comparing these with facts, the perfections of God, his omniscience, truth, faithfulness, wisdom, &c. are demonstrated, the authority of the Scriptures established, the truths of the Gospel illustrated and confirmed, and faith strengthened; and besides, there are many prophecies which regard things to be done, and yet to be done under the Gospel dispensation, and therefore should not be set at nought, but highly valued and esteemed: also the predictions of Christ concerning his own sufferings and death, and resurrection from the dead, and what would befall his disciples afterwards, with many things relating to the destruction of Jerusalem, his second coming, and the end of the world, these should be had in great esteem; nor should what the apostles foretold concerning the rise of antichrist, the man of sin, and the apostasy of the latter days, and the whole book of the Revelations, which is no other than a prophecy of the state of the church, from the times of the apostles to the end of the world, be treated with neglect and contempt, but should be seriously considered, and diligently searched and inquired into. Yea, the prophecies of private men, such as Agabus, and others, in the apostle's time, and in later ages, are not to be slighted; though instances of this kind are rare in our times, and things of this nature should not be precipitantly, and without care, given into: but rather prophesyings here intend the explanation of Scripture, and the preaching of the word, and particularly by persons who had not the gift of tongues, and therefore men were apt to despise them; see Co1 13:2. Just as in our days, if persons have not had a liberal education, and do not understand Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, though they have ministerial gifts, and are capable of explaining the word to edification and comfort, yet are set at nought and rejected, which should not be.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:18 Be thankful: God is sovereign and can redeem any situation (Rom 8:28).