1 Thessalonians 5:2
Verse
Context
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.3While people are saying, “Peace and security,” destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
Sermons




Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
as a thief in the night--The apostles in this image follow the parable of their Lord, expressing how the Lord's coming shall take men by surprise (Mat 24:43; Pe2 3:10). "The night is wherever there is quiet unconcern" [BENGEL]. "At midnight" (perhaps figurative: to some parts of the earth it will be literal night), Mat 25:6. The thief not only gives no notice of his approach but takes all precaution to prevent the household knowing of it. So the Lord (Rev 16:15). Signs will precede the coming, to confirm the patient hope of the watchful believer; but the coming itself shall be sudden at last (Mat 24:32-36; Luk 21:25-32, Luk 21:35).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For yourselves know perfectly,.... With great exactness and accuracy, with great clearness and perspicuity, as a certain truth, which was made plain and evident to them, and about which there could be no question; and which perfect knowledge they had, either from the words of Christ, Mat 24:42, or from the ministration of the apostle and his fellow labourers, when among them: that the day of the Lord; of the Lord Jesus, when he will show himself to be King of kings, and Lord of lords, and the Judge of the whole earth; and which is sometimes styled the day of the Son of man, and the day of God, for Christ will appear then most gloriously, both in his divine and human nature; the day of redemption, that is, of the body from the grave, and from corruption and mortality; and the last day in which will be the resurrection of the dead, and the day of judgment, in which Christ will come to judge the quick and dead: and which so cometh as a thief in the night; at an unawares, and the Lord himself in that day will so come, Rev 3:3 respect is had not to the character of the thief, nor to the end of his coming; but to the manner of it, in the dark, indiscernibly, suddenly, and when not thought of and looked for; and such will be the coming of Christ, it will be sudden, and unknown before hand, and when least thought of and expected: and since the Thessalonians knew this full well, it was needless for the apostle to write about the time and season of it; which they were sensible of, could no more be known and fixed, than the coming of a thief into anyone of their houses.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:2 For you know quite well: Paul reminds them of the teaching they had already received (3:3-4). • The day of the Lord’s return is the time when God will come to judge humanity (Isa 13:6, 9; Ezek 30:3) and save his people (Joel 2:21-32; 3:18; Zech 14). • like a thief in the night: Cp. Matt 24:43-44; Luke 12:39-40; 2 Pet 3:10; Rev 3:3; 16:15.
1 Thessalonians 5:2
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.3While people are saying, “Peace and security,” destruction will come upon them suddenly, like labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
The Last Days of America
By David Wilkerson6.9K1:20:20JER 11:18MAT 24:361TH 5:22PE 3:10REV 3:3REV 16:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that God sent him to New York City for two reasons: to find a holy remnant who would pursue holiness and righteousness, and to warn of coming judgments. He believes that America is not favored by God and will be judged just like other countries. The preacher describes a vision of a train approaching, representing impending judgment, and expresses concern that many people are not listening or heeding the warning. He acknowledges that his message is heavy and may be longer than usual, but he feels compelled to share it based on his interpretation of the word of God and patterns of divine judgment seen in the Bible.
Choices for Life - Tim Wiesner Talks With Jim Cymbala - Part 2
By Jim Cymbala5.2K27:30InterviewPSA 37:5PRO 27:1MAT 6:33MAT 28:20ROM 8:11TH 5:21TI 2:1In this sermon, Pastor Jim Symbola of the Brooklyn Tabernacle emphasizes the importance of preaching the gospel in a time when people are realizing the uncertainty of tomorrow. He highlights the reality of evil and the need for people to believe in God and prayer. Pastor Symbola describes his church as a diverse congregation representing the melting pot of New York City, with members from various nations and backgrounds. Despite the trend of churches leaving the inner city, his church remains committed to serving the community and experiencing a fruitful harvest.
Revival Fire - Part 2 (Compilation)
By Compilations2.3K46:17CompilationISA 55:1JOL 2:28MAT 24:21LUK 3:41TH 5:22PE 3:10REV 22:12In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a group of people who experienced a divine encounter with God. They were on their way back from Brownsville when God's presence fell upon them in the van, leading them to pull over at a gas station. The people were so overwhelmed by the Spirit that they laid on the ground in reverence. The speaker emphasizes the need for the church to be prepared for the approaching day when God's power will bring about a significant change in world history. The sermon encourages believers to regain their passion for God and warns that all fears will be overcome by the terror of that day.
(The Last Days & the Lord's Coming) Dont Get Drunk With Worldliness
By Zac Poonen1.9K58:40PSA 3:3MAT 6:33LUK 21:26JHN 10:101TH 5:2In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of being spiritually prepared for the second coming of Jesus. He references Luke 21:26, where Jesus speaks about the fear and expectation that will come upon the world before his return. The speaker encourages Christians to keep their heads lifted up and trust in the Lord, rather than being consumed by earthly concerns. He emphasizes that believers should be alert and ready for the day of the Lord, as it will come suddenly and unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. The speaker also highlights the danger of putting trust in material possessions and worldly security, urging listeners to prioritize spiritual readiness over studying the specific details of the last days.
David Wilkerson's Last Message to Usa (Clip)
By David Wilkerson1.8K09:33MAT 24:42MAT 24:441TH 5:21PE 4:72PE 3:92PE 3:14This sermon from 2 Peter 3 discusses the impending day of the Lord, emphasizing the importance of repentance and readiness for the coming judgment. It highlights warnings from various sources about catastrophic events and the need for spiritual preparedness in the face of uncertainty and global unrest.
(February 1987) 02 - Who Is Going to Control
By Ray Lowe1.6K1:19:00ControlISA 9:1ISA 11:9EZK 13:1MAT 6:331TH 5:22TI 4:3REV 21:4In this sermon, the preacher describes encountering a man on Skid Road who was homeless and suffering from exposure to the elements. The preacher reaches out to help the man, who initially fears him but eventually accepts his assistance. The preacher then shares a story of a young woman with four children who were almost frozen to death in the cold mountains. The sermon emphasizes the need for peace and unity within the church and warns of the coming problems and distress in the world. It also highlights the importance of not letting our hearts become overwhelmed and out of control. The preacher references biblical passages, such as Luke 21 and Revelation, to support his message.
(Second Coming of Christ) 01 the King Is Coming
By Aeron Morgan1.5K45:01Second Coming1TH 1:31TH 4:161TH 5:22TH 2:142PE 3:101JN 3:2REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the hope of the coming of Christ as presented in the book of 1 Thessalonians. The early Christians are commended for their patience and assurance in this hope. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus Christ is coming again to consummate our blessed hope, and encourages believers to be on fire for Jesus and to actively share the gospel. The sermon concludes with a story of a blind woman who experienced a life-changing encounter with God through Jesus Christ.
(Happenings Ahead) the Demands of the Last Days
By Willie Mullan1.5K1:13:52Last DaysMAT 5:16MRK 16:15ROM 13:11EPH 5:8PHP 2:151TH 5:2TIT 2:11In this sermon, the preacher discusses the dangers of unbelief in the last days. He emphasizes the urgency of accepting Jesus' invitation to come to him for salvation, as the opportunity may be lost in the future. The preacher also highlights the need for Christians to actively spread the gospel and not be complacent in their faith. He references 2 Timothy 3, which describes the characteristics of people in the last days, and warns against having a form of godliness without true faith. The sermon concludes with a call to action for the congregation to wake up and live according to the teachings of Jesus.
True Treasure
By William MacDonald1.5K32:49Treasure In HeavenEXO 20:9PRO 10:4MAT 6:19MAT 6:33JHN 3:162CO 4:181TH 5:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of putting God's work above our own desires and needs. He highlights the biblical teaching of working hard for our current needs but also prioritizing the work of the Lord. The preacher encourages believers to lay up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, emphasizing the eternal value of investing in God's kingdom. He also reminds the audience that where our treasure is, there our heart will be, urging them to examine where their true treasure lies. Additionally, the preacher briefly touches on the topic of the eye being the lamp of the body, suggesting that our focus and perspective should be aligned with God's word.
The Coming of Jesus
By David Wilkerson1.4K37:14MAT 24:42MRK 13:32LUK 21:361CO 16:131TH 5:21TH 5:61PE 5:82PE 3:10REV 3:3REV 16:15This sermon emphasizes the imminent return of Jesus Christ, urging believers to be prepared and expectant for His coming. It highlights the need for spiritual awakening, readiness, and a deep connection with the Holy Spirit to discern the signs of the times and stay faithful amidst societal challenges and distractions.
Fren-05 Questions Et Rponses (Questions and Answers)
By Art Katz1.0K1:02:58Question AnswerISA 53:1MAT 24:14ACT 13:11TH 5:21TI 6:132PE 3:102PE 3:12In this sermon, the speaker addresses the question of how to approach being part of an evangelical assembly that rejects the principles discussed in the conference. He emphasizes the importance of being conscious of the end times and the anticipation of the day of the Lord. The speaker believes that the gospel of the kingdom has not yet been fully proclaimed and calls for a demonstration of the gospel through holy conversations and godliness. He challenges the notion that peace is achieved through international negotiations or military power, stating that the condition of the church is what determines the length of days.
What It Takes for the Lord to Take Back His Throne
By Hoseah Wu9861:08:39Sovereignty Of GodGEN 2:232SA 19:15MAT 24:44MAT 25:13LUK 12:401TH 5:2REV 22:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus as God's anointed king. He highlights how the world has rejected and crucified Jesus, but believers have the opportunity to enthrone him in their hearts. The preacher also discusses the concept of giving with a purpose, referencing the story of Barzillai giving to King David with the expectation of being honored in return. The sermon concludes with a reminder to not just talk about the return of Jesus, but to actively prepare for his coming by welcoming him back into our lives.
The Gospel of the Kingdom #1
By Stephen Kaung6791:14:27Kingdom Of GodMAT 3:2MAT 24:14LUK 21:34LUK 21:36ROM 8:301TH 5:22PE 3:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to God's call and living in the reality of the kingdom of the heavens. He highlights that the age of grace was ushered in by the preaching of John the Baptist, who called for repentance. The speaker also warns against being weighed down by worldly concerns and urges believers to watch and pray in order to be accounted worthy to escape the coming tribulations and stand before the Son of Man. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the gospel of the kingdom must be preached throughout the world as a witness before the end comes.
The Second Coming (Voice Only)
By Compilations62515:18CompilationMAT 24:12MAT 24:45LUK 12:45ROM 3:201TH 5:2HEB 9:28In this sermon, the preacher passionately warns against indulging in worldly entertainment and urges the audience to be mindful of what they consume. He emphasizes that this life is not the real world and that we are headed towards eternity. The preacher highlights the importance of preparing our hearts for the glory of God and living for Him, as we will all stand before Him in judgment. He also emphasizes the reality of God's judgments and the need to be sober and watchful for the second coming of Christ.
Rebellion and Antichrist
By Robert B. Thompson5871:18:06PSA 18:26PRO 3:6MAT 6:131TH 5:2In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of the rapture and challenges the idea that it is supported by the Bible. He emphasizes the importance of keeping biblical passages in context and criticizes evangelical theology for taking verses out of context and applying reasoning to them. The preacher also talks about the signs of the end times and how they will happen within a generation. He mentions that major revivals have a pattern of being outpoured and then withdrawn, comparing it to the balance of rain and sun needed for crops to grow. Additionally, the preacher briefly touches on the history of nations rebelling against abusive kings and relates it to the ability of Christianity to survive under wicked monarchs.
Bristol Conference 1977-05 msg.and Man of Model Ch.
By Stan Ford41943:43ACT 17:21TH 5:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not being disillusioned, defeated, or dejected in our Christian experience. He highlights the need to have a proper understanding of the coming of the Lord and not be swayed by conflicting interpretations. The preacher encourages the audience to be kinder to one another and strive to be model Christians in their assembly. He also emphasizes the importance of applying the message in their hearts and lives, allowing Christ to be seen in them. The sermon is based on an epistle that addresses all men and women, reminding them not to be disillusioned or defeated, but to stand firm in their faith.
Prepare for Suddenly
By Brian Long40640:20Christian LifeMAL 3:1MAT 24:43ACT 16:251TH 5:2HEB 9:271PE 3:13In this sermon on Mark chapter 13, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being ready for the sudden return of Jesus Christ. He highlights the fact that no one knows the exact day or hour of his coming, not even the angels or the Son, only the Father. The preacher urges the listeners to watch, pray, and be vigilant, comparing it to a man who leaves his house and commands his servants to watch. He warns against complacency and compromise, urging believers to be ready to proclaim the gospel and give hope to those in need. The sermon emphasizes the necessity of seeking God through prayer and staying spiritually awake.
The Lord's Coming and Revival
By Peter Brandon544:21EvangelismSpiritual ReadinessMAT 4:19MAT 11:28MRK 1:17LUK 10:2JHN 4:35ROM 10:131CO 1:10GAL 6:11TH 3:101TH 5:2Peter Brandon emphasizes the urgency of spiritual readiness for the imminent return of Christ, urging believers to prepare for a revival and an ingathering of souls. He draws from the book of Thessalonians to highlight the importance of repentance and the call to evangelism, using the example of Jesus calling His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. Brandon stresses that God seeks those who are diligent in their work and ready to follow Him, illustrating the need for both public and private evangelism. He encourages the congregation to be active in their faith and to bring others to Christ, especially in light of the current spiritual climate. The sermon concludes with a call to be spiritually and morally prepared for the Lord's return.
Spiritual Readiness for Blessing
By Peter Brandon544:03EvangelismSpiritual Readiness1TH 5:2Peter Brandon emphasizes the necessity of spiritual readiness for the coming of the Lord, drawing from the teachings in Thessalonians and the Gospel of Matthew. He discusses the importance of repentance and the call to evangelism, highlighting the examples of Peter and Andrew as diligent workers in their fields before being called by Jesus. Brandon encourages believers to be prepared for a movement of the Holy Spirit and to actively engage in evangelism, likening the work of mending nets to restoring unity within the church. He stresses that God seeks those who are already committed in their secular work to be used for His glory in spiritual endeavors.
Preparation for Blessing
By Peter Brandon444:21EvangelismSpiritual Readiness1TH 5:2Peter Brandon emphasizes the urgent need for spiritual readiness in anticipation of Christ's return, drawing from the teachings in Thessalonians and the calling of the first disciples. He highlights the importance of repentance and the role of evangelism, encouraging believers to be diligent in their faith and outreach efforts. Brandon illustrates how Jesus called ordinary fishermen, demonstrating that God seeks those who are actively engaged in their work and willing to follow Him. He stresses the necessity of mending the nets, symbolizing unity and restoration within the church, as well as the importance of personal evangelism. Ultimately, he calls for a collective effort to prepare for a movement of the Holy Spirit and an ingathering of souls.
The Second Coming of Christ
By Edward Payson0MAT 24:30MAT 25:311CO 15:521TH 4:161TH 5:21TH 5:62PE 3:101JN 3:2REV 1:7REV 20:12Edward Payson preaches about the certainty and significance of the second coming of Christ, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for this momentous event. He describes the awe-inspiring scene of Christ coming in the clouds of heaven, visible to all mankind, and the contrasting reactions different characters will have upon seeing Him. Payson highlights the joy and comfort that faithful servants of Christ will experience at His coming, as well as the terror and despair that will grip the hearts of the unprepared and wicked. He urges the congregation to consider the certainty of this event, to prioritize spiritual readiness over worldly distractions, and to reflect on how their own characters would respond to the imminent return of Christ.
The Day of Jehovah
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0NUM 24:17DEU 32:411SA 2:10PSA 2:12ISA 2:12MAL 4:11TH 5:22TH 1:72PE 3:10Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the consistent prophecy throughout the Bible regarding the future day of Jehovah, a day of wrath, judgment, and the manifestation of God's glory. The Old Testament prophets, including Moses, David, Balaam, Isaiah, and others, foretold this day with details of blessings for the earth and its inhabitants. The Psalms, divided into five books, also contain prophetic elements pointing to this future day. The New Testament, through John the Baptist, Jesus, Paul, and Peter, affirms the reality of this day of the Lord, emphasizing the visible manifestation of God's glory, judgment on the nations, and the establishment of His righteous rule.
Exposition on Psalm 6
By St. Augustine0DEU 13:3ISA 65:24MRK 13:32ACT 1:7ROM 5:14ROM 7:251CO 15:56COL 3:101TH 5:21PE 4:18St. Augustine preaches on Psalm 6, reflecting on the day of judgment and the importance of turning to God in repentance. He delves into the symbolism of the number eight, representing the eternal life attained after the end of this world. Augustine emphasizes the need to let go of worldly desires and turn towards spiritual renewal, symbolized by the transition from living according to the body to living according to the soul. The psalmist's plea for healing and deliverance highlights the soul's struggle with sin and the longing for God's compassion and mercy. Through tears, prayers, and repentance, the soul seeks transformation and restoration, acknowledging its weaknesses and sins.
Paul's Prophetic View of the Second Advent of Christ.
By Thomas Reade0MAT 24:371CO 15:51PHP 3:201TH 4:161TH 5:22TI 1:10HEB 10:312PE 3:10REV 21:1Thomas Reade preaches about Paul's prophetic view of the second advent of Christ, cautioning against unbelief and spiritual pride. He highlights the sufferings of early Christians and the glorious hope of immortality that sustained them. Reade emphasizes the importance of valuing the Gospel above earthly treasures, the certainty of Christ's return, and the need for personal holiness in light of the impending judgment. He urges believers to persevere in faith, guard against spiritual pride, and continue in the truth of the Gospel to receive the promised eternal glory.
Great Tribulation Travails
By E.A. Adeboye0JER 12:5ROM 5:201TH 5:22TI 3:1E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of not delaying in serving God, especially in the face of increasing corruption and challenges in the world. He warns against compromising one's faith and waiting until the Great Tribulation to get serious with God, highlighting the extreme conditions and lawlessness that will prevail during that time under the rule of the Antichrist. Adeboye urges believers to rely on God's grace to stay pure and faithful, rather than succumbing to the temptations and depravity that will escalate during the Great Tribulation, making current struggles seem minor in comparison.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
as a thief in the night--The apostles in this image follow the parable of their Lord, expressing how the Lord's coming shall take men by surprise (Mat 24:43; Pe2 3:10). "The night is wherever there is quiet unconcern" [BENGEL]. "At midnight" (perhaps figurative: to some parts of the earth it will be literal night), Mat 25:6. The thief not only gives no notice of his approach but takes all precaution to prevent the household knowing of it. So the Lord (Rev 16:15). Signs will precede the coming, to confirm the patient hope of the watchful believer; but the coming itself shall be sudden at last (Mat 24:32-36; Luk 21:25-32, Luk 21:35).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For yourselves know perfectly,.... With great exactness and accuracy, with great clearness and perspicuity, as a certain truth, which was made plain and evident to them, and about which there could be no question; and which perfect knowledge they had, either from the words of Christ, Mat 24:42, or from the ministration of the apostle and his fellow labourers, when among them: that the day of the Lord; of the Lord Jesus, when he will show himself to be King of kings, and Lord of lords, and the Judge of the whole earth; and which is sometimes styled the day of the Son of man, and the day of God, for Christ will appear then most gloriously, both in his divine and human nature; the day of redemption, that is, of the body from the grave, and from corruption and mortality; and the last day in which will be the resurrection of the dead, and the day of judgment, in which Christ will come to judge the quick and dead: and which so cometh as a thief in the night; at an unawares, and the Lord himself in that day will so come, Rev 3:3 respect is had not to the character of the thief, nor to the end of his coming; but to the manner of it, in the dark, indiscernibly, suddenly, and when not thought of and looked for; and such will be the coming of Christ, it will be sudden, and unknown before hand, and when least thought of and expected: and since the Thessalonians knew this full well, it was needless for the apostle to write about the time and season of it; which they were sensible of, could no more be known and fixed, than the coming of a thief into anyone of their houses.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:2 For you know quite well: Paul reminds them of the teaching they had already received (3:3-4). • The day of the Lord’s return is the time when God will come to judge humanity (Isa 13:6, 9; Ezek 30:3) and save his people (Joel 2:21-32; 3:18; Zech 14). • like a thief in the night: Cp. Matt 24:43-44; Luke 12:39-40; 2 Pet 3:10; Rev 3:3; 16:15.