Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Prove all things - Whatever ye hear in these prophesyings or preachings, examine by the words of Christ, and by the doctrines which, from time to time, we have delivered unto you in our preaching and writings. Try the spirits - the different teachers, by the word of God. Hold fast that which is good - Whatever in these prophesyings has a tendency to increase your faith, love, holiness, and usefulness, that receive and hold fast. There were prophets or teachers even at that time who professed to be of God, and yet were not.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Some of the oldest manuscripts insert "But." You ought indeed not to "quench" the manifestations of "the Spirit," nor "despise prophesyings"; "but," at the same time, do not take "all" as genuine which professes to be so; "prove (test) all" such manifestations. The means of testing them existed in the Church, in those who had the "discerning of spirits" (Co1 12:10; Co1 14:29; Jo1 4:1). Another sure test, which we also have, is, to try the professed revelation whether it accords with Scripture, as the noble Bereans did (Isa 8:20; Act 17:11; Gal 1:8-9). This precept negatives the Romish priest's assumption of infallibly laying down the law, without the laity having the right, in the exercise of private judgment, to test it by Scripture. LOCKE says, Those who are for laying aside reason in matters of revelation, resemble one who would put out his eyes in order to use a telescope. hold fast that which is good--Join this clause with the next clause (Th1 5:22), not merely with the sentence preceding. As the result of your "proving all things," and especially all prophesyings, "hold fast (Luk 8:15; Co1 11:2; Heb 2:1) the good, and hold yourselves aloof from every appearance of evil" ("every evil species" [BENGEL and WAHL]). Do not accept even a professedly spirit-inspired communication, if it be at variance with the truth taught you (Th2 2:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the very God of peace,.... Or "the God of peace himself". The apostle follows his exhortations with prayer to God, knowing the weakness and impotency of the saints to receive them, and act according to them, and his own insufficiency to impress their minds with them; and that unless the Lord opened their ears to discipline, and sealed instruction to them, they would be useless and in vain: wherefore he applies to the throne of grace, and addresses God as "the God of peace"; so called, because of the concern he has in peace and reconciliation made by the blood of Christ, and because he is the giver of peace of conscience, and the author of peace, concord, and unity among the saints, and of all happiness and prosperity, both in this world, and in that which is to come; See Gill on Rom 15:33. And the apostle might choose to address God under this character, partly to encourage boldness, freedom, and intrepidity at the throne of grace, and partly to raise hope, expectation, and faith of having his requests answered, since God is not an angry God, nor is fury in him, but the God of peace: and the petitions he puts up for the Thessalonians are as follow: and first, that God would sanctify you wholly; or "all of you", as the Arabic version; or "all of you perfectly", as the Syriac version. These persons were sanctified by the Spirit of God, but not perfectly; the Gospel was come to them in power, and had wrought effectually in them, and they were turned from idols to serve the living God, and had true faith, hope, and love, implanted in them, and which they were enabled to exercise in a very comfortable and commendable manner; but yet this work of grace and sanctification begun in them was far from being perfect, nor is it in the best of saints. There is something lacking in the faith of the greatest believer, love often waxes cold, and hope is not lively at all times, and knowledge is but in part; sin dwells in all; the saints are poor and needy, their wants continually return upon them, and they need daily supplies; the most holy and knowing among them disclaim perfection in themselves, though desirous of it. Their sanctification in Christ is perfect, but not in themselves; there is indeed a perfection of parts in internal sanctification, every grace is implanted, there is not one wanting; the new creature, or new man, has all its parts, though these are not come to their full growth; there is not a perfection of degrees, and this is what the apostle prays for; for sanctification is a progressive, gradual work, it is like seed cast into the earth, which springs up, first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear, and is as light, which shines more and more to the perfect day. Sanctified persons are first as newborn babes, and then they grow up to be young men, and at last become fathers in Christ; and this work being begun, is carried on, and will be performed, fulfilled, and made perfect: and it is God's work to do it; he begins, and he carries it on, and he will finish it; and therefore the apostle prays to him to do it; this is his first petition: the second follows, and I pray God your whole spirit, soul and body, be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. A like division of man is made by the Jews: says one of their writers (y). "a man cannot know God, unless he knows , "his soul, his breath, or his spirit, and his body".'' Says (z) R. Isaac, "worthy are the righteous in this world, and in the world to come, for lo, they are all holy; their body is holy, their soul is holy, their spirit, and their breath is holy'' See Gill on Heb 4:12. Some by "spirit" understand the graces and gifts of the Spirit in a regenerate man; and by "the soul", the soul as regenerated, and as it is the seat and subject of these graces; and by the body, the habitation of the soul, which is influenced by the grace that is last; and this is a sense not to be despised. Others by "the spirit" understand the rational and immortal soul of man, often called a spirit, as in Ecc 12:7 and by the soul, the animal and sensitive soul, which man has in common with brutes; see Ecc 3:21 and by the "body", the outward frame of flesh and blood, and bones; but rather "spirit" and "soul" design the same immaterial, immortal, and rational soul of man, considered in its different powers and faculties. The "spirit" may intend the understanding, Job 32:8 which is the principal, leading, and governing faculty of the soul; and which being enlightened by the Spirit of God, a man knows himself, Christ Jesus, and the things of the Spirit, the truths of the Gospel, and receives and values them. The "soul" may include the will and affections, which are influenced by the understanding; and in a regenerate man the will is brought to a resignation to the will of God, and the affections are set upon divine things, and the body is the instrument of performing religious and spiritual exercises: and these the apostle prays may be preserved blameless; not that he thought they could be kept from sinning entirely in thought, word, or deed; but that they might be preserved in purity and chastity from the gross enormities of life, and be kept from a total and final falling away, the work of grace be at last completed on the soul and spirit, and the body be raised in incorruption, and glory; and both at the coming of Christ be presented faultless, and without blame, without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, first to himself, and then to his Father. (y) Aben Ezra in Exod. xxxi. 18. (z) Zohar in Lev. fol. 29. 2.
Christian Living
20Do not treat prophecies with contempt,21but test all things. Hold fast to what is good.22Abstain from every form of evil.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Spiritual Treason
By A.W. Tozer16K35:39New ExperiencesROM 12:21CO 1:18COL 1:151TH 5:212TI 3:161PE 1:221JN 4:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses seven tests that can help believers evaluate the impact of their faith on various aspects of their lives. These tests include examining one's attitude towards God, Christ, the scriptures, self, other Christians, the world, and sin. The speaker encourages the audience to persevere in their faith and to continually seek a deeper love for God and a greater understanding of the scriptures. He also emphasizes the importance of discernment and testing the spirits to ensure that any doctrine, blessing, or experience aligns with God's truth as revealed in the Bible.
Easter Passion
By Jim Cymbala5.9K1:04:43Passion Of ChristGEN 12:1GEN 12:3MAT 6:33ACT 17:11GAL 1:81TH 5:212TI 3:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a man who was delivered from a life of addiction and despair by the power of Christ. The speaker emphasizes the simplicity of the gospel message and the importance of sharing it with others. He recounts a moment when he felt a strong urging from the Holy Spirit to go and preach the gospel, despite his initial doubts. The speaker also briefly mentions a personal struggle he had with stepping out in faith and how God can provide guidance and help in uncertain situations.
How to Tell When a Thing Is From God
By A.W. Tozer5.8K49:19Will Of GodMAT 22:37JHN 14:21ROM 12:22CO 6:141TH 5:212TI 3:161JN 4:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of testing whether something is from God or not. He references two Bible verses, 1 Thessalonians 5:21 and 1 John 4, which encourage believers to prove all things and try the spirits. The speaker shares a spiritual treasure that was given to him, which helps discern whether something is from God or not. He emphasizes the need for believers to be discerning and not easily accepting everything they hear, especially when it comes to their spiritual lives.
Apologetics
By Francis Schaeffer4.1K57:23ApologeticsPRO 2:3JHN 14:6ACT 17:11ROM 10:171TH 5:212TI 2:151PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural framework and mindset of the people we are trying to communicate with. He compares it to speaking in a foreign language without learning it first. The speaker suggests that in order to effectively preach the Gospel, we must take the time to understand the generation we are living in and address their objections and concerns. He also highlights the need for both defense and positive communication in engaging with others. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to effectively communicate the message of the Gospel in a way that resonates with the culture of the second half of the 20th century.
Spiritual Discernment
By John Murray2.0K51:22DiscernmentPSA 91:11ACT 17:111TH 5:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of three exercises of the mind: proving, holding, and abstaining. He explains that these exercises are crucial in navigating the challenges of life. The preacher encourages the congregation to not simply accept things at face value, but to search the scriptures daily to discern the truth. He warns against the temptation to always seek something new and encourages the congregation to hold fast to what is good. Lastly, he urges them to abstain from anything that even appears evil. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need for discernment, steadfastness, and purity in the Christian walk.
The Form of Sound Words
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K49:49ACT 4:12ROM 1:16ROM 10:171CO 16:13EPH 4:141TH 5:212TI 1:13The sermon transcript emphasizes the importance of understanding and embracing the truth of the gospel. It encourages parents to provide sound instruction in the doctrines of Christ to their children. The speaker believes that the gospel should be presented in its pure and simple form, without any distortions or dilutions. The transcript also warns of two dangers: the temptation to give up the truth due to opposition and the need to be conservative in holding onto the truth. The sermon concludes by urging believers to pray themselves into a deeper understanding and adherence to the truth.
Audio Sermon: Spiritual Warfare and Deception
By Jim Cymbala1.7K43:40PRO 4:23PRO 13:20MAT 7:152CO 6:142CO 11:14EPH 6:121TH 5:211JN 4:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of discerning spiritual warfare, highlighting the dangers of deception and seduction by Gibeonites, who masquerade as harmless but aim to deceive and destroy. It urges listeners to seek God's discernment, avoid compromising with evil influences, and be vigilant against false prophets and wolves in sheep's clothing.
Take Heed to Yourselves
By Bill McLeod1.5K54:58Sober MindedMAT 6:33ACT 6:4ROM 15:4COL 4:171TH 5:211TI 4:162TI 4:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of personal preparation before delivering a message. He shares that he spends two hours preparing for a sermon, with the majority of that time dedicated to prayer and preparing his heart. The preacher believes that the effectiveness of a message is determined by the person delivering it, as it is an extension of their character. He warns against becoming like Demos, who abandoned his ministry due to his love for the world. The preacher encourages listeners to take heed of the ministry they have received and fulfill it faithfully.
Discernment in the Church
By Vance Havner1.0K25:18ISA 29:13JHN 3:3ROM 8:81CO 1:181CO 2:14EPH 5:8COL 3:11TH 5:21HEB 5:14JAS 1:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual discernment in a time of confusion and uncertainty within the Church. It contrasts the clear, unwavering beliefs of past leaders like Spurgeon with the current trend of ambiguity and compromise. The speaker highlights the need for believers to have discernment to distinguish truth from falsehood, to understand the times, and to recognize the spirits at work. The sermon also addresses the shallowness of worship, the danger of idol worship, and the necessity of being spiritually reborn to truly grasp divine truth.
The Spirit of Anti Christ
By Erlo Stegen7751:04:43PRO 2:6MAT 7:151CO 3:182CO 11:141TH 5:212TH 2:3JAS 3:171JN 2:181JN 4:1This sermon delves into the topic of the Antichrist as mentioned in 2 Thessalonians 2, warning against deception and the spirit of lawlessness already at work. It emphasizes the need for discernment, urging listeners to test all teachings against the truth of the Bible. The story of a woman deceived on a train serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of seeking wisdom and not blindly following false knowledge. Additionally, it stresses the significance of personal transformation before attempting to influence others, drawing parallels to a priest's realization of starting change from within.
The Unclean Person
By Frank Knox76549:05MAT 7:241CO 4:14COL 2:161TH 5:212TI 2:5HEB 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of following God's word without questioning or backtalk. He shares a story about a man who claimed to speak for God but didn't know the true message. The preacher also discusses the significance of being friendly and welcoming to others, as well as the need for personal growth and perfection. He warns against allowing harmful influences into one's life and encourages faith in God as a powerful weapon against adversity. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the importance of living as an example and following God's teachings without hesitation.
Why God Made Man - Part 2 of 6
By Paris Reidhead7601:00:09PurposeGEN 2:17MAT 6:33ACT 16:30ACT 17:11ROM 3:23ROM 5:121TH 5:21In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of meeting members of the Gonsu tribe who were curious about his presence. While they visited, the speaker tried to listen to a BBC broadcast for news but encountered technical difficulties. He uses this experience to illustrate the concept of spiritual death and separation from God. The speaker emphasizes the importance of the human spirit being connected to God and compares it to the necessity of air for survival.
God Sees Everything
By Roy Daniel6531:22:00EZK 8:12MAT 7:15ROM 16:172CO 11:261TH 5:212TI 3:131JN 4:1The sermon begins with a personal story about a dog on a farm, leading into a reflection on Ezekiel 8:12. The speaker then prays for God's word to impact the listeners' lives and reveal His will. A cautionary tale is shared about deception within the family, tying into the warning in 2 Corinthians 11:26 about false brethren. The sermon concludes with a plea for God's work in the conference and a prayer in Jesus Christ's name.
Anatomy of a Prophetic Word
By David Ravenhill721:19:41Prophetic MinistryWord and Spirit BalanceProphetic Word2KI 20:1ISA 46:7JER 18:4HAB 2:3LUK 8:41CO 12:11CO 13:91TH 5:21HEB 4:21PE 1:10David Ravenhill discusses the importance of understanding the prophetic word, emphasizing the need for a balance between the Word of God and the Spirit of God. He highlights the complexity of prophetic ministry, explaining that revelation, interpretation, and application are crucial components of a prophetic word. Ravenhill warns against the extremes of gullibility and skepticism, urging believers to examine prophetic utterances carefully. He also stresses the significance of motivation and the conditions that can affect the fulfillment of prophetic words, encouraging the church to embrace the prophetic as a vital tool for edification and guidance.
Hold Fast
By J.C. Ryle5Holding Fast to TruthContending for the FaithPRO 19:27MAT 24:24ROM 12:2GAL 1:8EPH 6:111TH 5:212TI 4:2HEB 10:231PE 5:8JUD 1:3J.C. Ryle emphasizes the critical importance of holding fast to the truth of the Gospel amidst the challenges and controversies faced by the Church. He warns against the temptation to seek peace at the expense of truth, urging believers to contend earnestly for their faith and remain vigilant against false teachings. Ryle highlights the historical and ongoing threats to the integrity of the Church, particularly from Roman Catholicism, and calls for unity among Protestants to resist these challenges. He stresses that personal faith in Christ is essential, and encourages individuals to actively engage in preserving the truth of the Gospel. Ultimately, Ryle reassures that those who hold fast to Christ will find peace and eternal life, regardless of external circumstances.
Concern for Others
By Warren Wiersbe3PRO 12:25JHN 8:32EPH 4:15PHP 2:31TH 5:21Warren Wiersbe emphasizes the importance of seeking and facing the truth, even when it may be uncomfortable or burdensome, as ignorance can lead to harm. He contrasts the idea of ignorance and confidence leading to success with the reality that ignorance can indeed be detrimental. Wiersbe highlights the caring heart of Nehemiah, who sought the truth about Jerusalem despite the potential pain of the facts. The sermon challenges listeners to be like Nehemiah, genuinely concerned about others and willing to seek and acknowledge the truth, even in difficult situations.
How to Test Doctrines
By R. Stanley1GEN 3:5LUK 6:43JHN 17:20ACT 2:422CO 5:7GAL 4:9GAL 5:1EPH 2:8EPH 4:31TH 5:211TI 1:31TI 6:32TI 4:3Francis Schaeffer emphasizes the importance of standing for truth and against false doctrine to prevent a barrier between future generations and the gospel. Paul's warning to Timothy about false teachings and the rise of false doctrines in the last days is highlighted. The sermon stresses the significance of sound doctrine in the early Church's growth and the need to test teachings and teachers. Seven tests are provided to evaluate teachings, including salvation by grace, liberty versus bondage, promotion of holiness, emphasis on Scriptures over experiences, worship of God's greatness, motivation for evangelism, and fostering spiritual unity over sinful seclusion.
Can God Use Rock Music?
By Keith Green11SA 16:7PRO 4:23MAT 15:18ROM 14:161CO 8:91CO 9:221CO 10:31GAL 5:13COL 3:171TH 5:21Keith Green addresses the controversial topic of using rock music in Christian ministry, sharing his personal struggles and insights on the matter. He discusses the differing opinions within the Christian community regarding the use of rock music for evangelism and worship, emphasizing the importance of examining one's motives and heart condition. Green highlights the need for Christians to surpass worldly standards and focus on glorifying God with pure intentions, rather than seeking self-exaltation. He challenges the notion of labeling music as inherently 'evil,' stressing that it is the heart behind the music that determines its impact.
Following the Man With a Pitcher of Water
By C.A. Coates1PRO 3:5MAT 18:20JHN 16:131CO 12:131TH 5:21HEB 10:25C.A. Coates preaches about the importance of recognizing the truth of the one body in the fellowship of saints, emphasizing the universal unity of believers and the vital organic unity that transcends local assemblies. He discusses the historical context of breaches among brethren, caused by introducing contrary principles or refusing light from the Lord, leading to permanent separations. Coates advises seeking spiritual discernment through personal communion with the Lord to understand where the Lord is and where souls are truly gathered to His name.
The Danger of an Unconverted Ministry
By Gilbert Tennent1MAT 23:27MRK 6:34JHN 10:1ROM 10:141CO 12:312CO 11:141TH 5:212TI 2:2Gilbert Tennent preaches about the importance of having faithful ministers who are true shepherds to the flock, contrasting them with ungodly ministers who are like Pharisees, focusing on pride, policy, malice, ignorance, covetousness, and bigotry. He emphasizes the need for compassion towards those who lack faithful ministry, urging prayers for God to send forth faithful laborers. Tennent encourages seeking greater spiritual nourishment and growth by choosing to hear from ministers who provide edification, even if it means going beyond one's parish. He warns against the dangers and unprofitableness of following unconverted ministers, highlighting the importance of discernment and the duty to seek true spiritual guidance.
Introduction
By J. Vyrnwy Morgan1PRO 14:15MAT 7:15ACT 17:111CO 2:142CO 13:5EPH 5:101TH 5:21HEB 5:141JN 4:11JN 4:6J. Vyrnwy Morgan delves into the history and impact of revivals, emphasizing the need for discernment in evaluating their authenticity and lasting effects. He explores the various types of revivals in Wales, highlighting key figures and their contributions to spiritual awakenings. The sermon touches on the evolution of theological views, from puritanic legalism to a focus on character and conduct, and the shift in emphasis from fear-based inducements to repentance to a deeper understanding of righteousness and retribution. Through historical accounts and reflections, the sermon challenges traditional perceptions and encourages a more critical examination of religious experiences.
What Makes a Man Truly Spiritual?
By Zac Poonen1PSA 73:25ISA 6:1MAT 5:23LUK 10:30ACT 10:38ACT 24:162CO 4:102CO 9:71TH 5:211TI 6:5Zac Poonen preaches on what makes a man truly spiritual, emphasizing the importance of looking upward in worship and devotion to God, inward in acknowledging and repenting of unChristlikeness, and outward in seeking to help and bless others. A spiritual man longs for fellowship with God more than anything else, humbles himself constantly, and seeks to do good deeds hidden from man's eyes. He judges himself, keeps his conscience clear, and dies inwardly daily to hindrances. Additionally, a spiritual man forgives readily, is filled with compassion for others, and seeks to serve and bless without expecting anything in return.
The Christian and Psychic Force
By Watchman Nee1Spiritual WarfareDiscernmentGEN 2:7EZK 36:26MAT 7:15JHN 3:6ROM 8:22CO 11:14GAL 5:16EPH 5:181TH 5:211JN 4:1Watchman Nee addresses the latent psychic force within humanity, emphasizing that while Adam possessed miraculous abilities at creation, these powers became hidden after the fall. He warns that Satan seeks to control and exploit this latent power, leading to confusion between divine miracles and those produced by human psychic abilities. Nee highlights the importance of discerning between the workings of the Holy Spirit and the manipulations of the enemy, urging Christians to rely on God's spirit rather than their own soul power. He concludes by stressing the need for vigilance against deception in spiritual matters, as the enemy continues to exploit human abilities for his purposes.
Courtship #3
By Denny Kenaston0PSA 127:3PRO 11:14PRO 15:221CO 1:41CO 7:1EPH 5:22PHP 4:8COL 3:121TH 5:211PE 3:7Denny Kenaston preaches about the importance of godly courtship, emphasizing the need for young people to seek spiritual fellowship centered around Jesus Christ, to involve loving and watchful authority in their courtship, and to keep their emotions in check by following biblical guidelines. He encourages young couples to seek the blessing of their parents and church authority, to maintain purity and accountability, and to approach courtship with wisdom and maturity, ultimately aiming for a marriage that glorifies God and brings forth beautiful fruit.
Lying Signs and Wonders: Deceptions of the Last Days
By Art Katz0DiscernmentHolinessEXO 20:26EXO 30:32ISA 52:11JER 29:13MAT 24:242CO 7:11TH 5:212TH 2:91PE 4:71JN 4:1Art Katz addresses the phenomenon of 'lying signs and wonders' in the last days, expressing concern over the division it creates among believers. He emphasizes the need for discernment, cautioning against equating experiences with the authenticity of God's work, as some manifestations may be deceptive. Katz reflects on the historical context of revivals, contrasting them with current movements that may lack the holiness and reverence expected in God's presence. He warns that the pursuit of experiences can lead to spiritual jeopardy and urges believers to seek genuine encounters with God rather than superficial blessings. Ultimately, he calls for a return to holiness and discernment in the face of potential deception.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Prove all things - Whatever ye hear in these prophesyings or preachings, examine by the words of Christ, and by the doctrines which, from time to time, we have delivered unto you in our preaching and writings. Try the spirits - the different teachers, by the word of God. Hold fast that which is good - Whatever in these prophesyings has a tendency to increase your faith, love, holiness, and usefulness, that receive and hold fast. There were prophets or teachers even at that time who professed to be of God, and yet were not.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Some of the oldest manuscripts insert "But." You ought indeed not to "quench" the manifestations of "the Spirit," nor "despise prophesyings"; "but," at the same time, do not take "all" as genuine which professes to be so; "prove (test) all" such manifestations. The means of testing them existed in the Church, in those who had the "discerning of spirits" (Co1 12:10; Co1 14:29; Jo1 4:1). Another sure test, which we also have, is, to try the professed revelation whether it accords with Scripture, as the noble Bereans did (Isa 8:20; Act 17:11; Gal 1:8-9). This precept negatives the Romish priest's assumption of infallibly laying down the law, without the laity having the right, in the exercise of private judgment, to test it by Scripture. LOCKE says, Those who are for laying aside reason in matters of revelation, resemble one who would put out his eyes in order to use a telescope. hold fast that which is good--Join this clause with the next clause (Th1 5:22), not merely with the sentence preceding. As the result of your "proving all things," and especially all prophesyings, "hold fast (Luk 8:15; Co1 11:2; Heb 2:1) the good, and hold yourselves aloof from every appearance of evil" ("every evil species" [BENGEL and WAHL]). Do not accept even a professedly spirit-inspired communication, if it be at variance with the truth taught you (Th2 2:2).
John Gill Bible Commentary
And the very God of peace,.... Or "the God of peace himself". The apostle follows his exhortations with prayer to God, knowing the weakness and impotency of the saints to receive them, and act according to them, and his own insufficiency to impress their minds with them; and that unless the Lord opened their ears to discipline, and sealed instruction to them, they would be useless and in vain: wherefore he applies to the throne of grace, and addresses God as "the God of peace"; so called, because of the concern he has in peace and reconciliation made by the blood of Christ, and because he is the giver of peace of conscience, and the author of peace, concord, and unity among the saints, and of all happiness and prosperity, both in this world, and in that which is to come; See Gill on Rom 15:33. And the apostle might choose to address God under this character, partly to encourage boldness, freedom, and intrepidity at the throne of grace, and partly to raise hope, expectation, and faith of having his requests answered, since God is not an angry God, nor is fury in him, but the God of peace: and the petitions he puts up for the Thessalonians are as follow: and first, that God would sanctify you wholly; or "all of you", as the Arabic version; or "all of you perfectly", as the Syriac version. These persons were sanctified by the Spirit of God, but not perfectly; the Gospel was come to them in power, and had wrought effectually in them, and they were turned from idols to serve the living God, and had true faith, hope, and love, implanted in them, and which they were enabled to exercise in a very comfortable and commendable manner; but yet this work of grace and sanctification begun in them was far from being perfect, nor is it in the best of saints. There is something lacking in the faith of the greatest believer, love often waxes cold, and hope is not lively at all times, and knowledge is but in part; sin dwells in all; the saints are poor and needy, their wants continually return upon them, and they need daily supplies; the most holy and knowing among them disclaim perfection in themselves, though desirous of it. Their sanctification in Christ is perfect, but not in themselves; there is indeed a perfection of parts in internal sanctification, every grace is implanted, there is not one wanting; the new creature, or new man, has all its parts, though these are not come to their full growth; there is not a perfection of degrees, and this is what the apostle prays for; for sanctification is a progressive, gradual work, it is like seed cast into the earth, which springs up, first the blade, then the ear, then the full corn in the ear, and is as light, which shines more and more to the perfect day. Sanctified persons are first as newborn babes, and then they grow up to be young men, and at last become fathers in Christ; and this work being begun, is carried on, and will be performed, fulfilled, and made perfect: and it is God's work to do it; he begins, and he carries it on, and he will finish it; and therefore the apostle prays to him to do it; this is his first petition: the second follows, and I pray God your whole spirit, soul and body, be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. A like division of man is made by the Jews: says one of their writers (y). "a man cannot know God, unless he knows , "his soul, his breath, or his spirit, and his body".'' Says (z) R. Isaac, "worthy are the righteous in this world, and in the world to come, for lo, they are all holy; their body is holy, their soul is holy, their spirit, and their breath is holy'' See Gill on Heb 4:12. Some by "spirit" understand the graces and gifts of the Spirit in a regenerate man; and by "the soul", the soul as regenerated, and as it is the seat and subject of these graces; and by the body, the habitation of the soul, which is influenced by the grace that is last; and this is a sense not to be despised. Others by "the spirit" understand the rational and immortal soul of man, often called a spirit, as in Ecc 12:7 and by the soul, the animal and sensitive soul, which man has in common with brutes; see Ecc 3:21 and by the "body", the outward frame of flesh and blood, and bones; but rather "spirit" and "soul" design the same immaterial, immortal, and rational soul of man, considered in its different powers and faculties. The "spirit" may intend the understanding, Job 32:8 which is the principal, leading, and governing faculty of the soul; and which being enlightened by the Spirit of God, a man knows himself, Christ Jesus, and the things of the Spirit, the truths of the Gospel, and receives and values them. The "soul" may include the will and affections, which are influenced by the understanding; and in a regenerate man the will is brought to a resignation to the will of God, and the affections are set upon divine things, and the body is the instrument of performing religious and spiritual exercises: and these the apostle prays may be preserved blameless; not that he thought they could be kept from sinning entirely in thought, word, or deed; but that they might be preserved in purity and chastity from the gross enormities of life, and be kept from a total and final falling away, the work of grace be at last completed on the soul and spirit, and the body be raised in incorruption, and glory; and both at the coming of Christ be presented faultless, and without blame, without spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, first to himself, and then to his Father. (y) Aben Ezra in Exod. xxxi. 18. (z) Zohar in Lev. fol. 29. 2.