1 Thessalonians 5:21
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.
1 Thessalonians 5:21
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.
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.
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. Coates0PRO 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 Ignatian Epistles Entirely Spurious - Part 1
By William Dool Killen0PRO 2:6COL 2:81TH 5:212TI 2:151JN 4:1William Dool Killen addresses the theological inquiries surrounding the genuineness of the Epistles attributed to Ignatius of Antioch, critiquing the arguments presented by J.B. Lightfoot in favor of their authenticity. Killen highlights the historical criticism involved, pointing out the controversy that has surrounded these letters since the Reformation period. He questions the legitimacy of the Ignatian Epistles, emphasizing the implications of accepting them as genuine on the faith and historical accuracy of the early Christian Church.
Stanley Frodsham (1882-1969)
By Keith Malcomson0PRO 22:6MAT 7:15ACT 2:41CO 14:1EPH 6:181TH 5:212TI 3:16JAS 5:141JN 4:1Keith Malcomson shares the inspiring life story of Stanley Frodsham, a man dedicated to God from before birth, who encountered Jesus Christ and experienced a life transformation, leading him to a powerful ministry in the Pentecostal movement. Despite facing challenges and false accusations, Frodsham remained steadfast in his faith, witnessing miraculous healings and impacting many lives through his writings and teachings. He played a significant role in the Pentecostal revival, emphasizing the importance of testing all things by Scripture and standing against extremes in the movement. His ministry was marked by a Christ-centered focus, boldness in addressing error, and a deep commitment to prayer and the Word of God.
Jeremiah 23:29
By Chuck Smith0Spiritual DiscernmentFalse ProphetsPSA 119:105PRO 14:12ISA 30:10JER 23:29EZK 34:2MAT 7:15JHN 6:35ROM 8:61TH 5:212TI 4:1Chuck Smith addresses the dire spiritual condition of the nation, emphasizing how false prophets mislead the people with lies, leading them away from the true worship of God. He highlights the consequences of their refusal to heed God's Word, which results in impending judgment and destruction. Smith draws parallels to contemporary society, where many seek entertainment over sound doctrine, preferring the chaff of false teachings over the nourishing wheat of God's truth. He warns that neglecting God's message leads to spiritual decay and ultimately, ruin.
The Homilies
By J.H. Newman0PRO 3:5ACT 17:111CO 2:14EPH 4:14COL 2:81TH 5:212TI 3:16HEB 5:142PE 3:161JN 4:1J.H. Newman discusses the importance of understanding the doctrine of the Homilies in the context of the Thirty-fifth Article, emphasizing that the focus is on the overall doctrine rather than every specific statement. He highlights the need to discern the core teachings of the Homilies and how they align with the Articles of the Church. Newman challenges the idea of blindly subscribing to every detail in the Homilies, pointing out the nuanced nature of doctrine and the need for discernment. He delves into various propositions and statements from the Homilies that are often overlooked but hold significance in understanding the Church's teachings.
That Persons Did Not Excite Them of Their Own Contrivance and by Their Own Strength, Is No Sign
By Jonathan Edwards0PSA 139:23PRO 3:5ISA 55:81CO 2:102CO 12:9EPH 1:181TH 5:212TI 1:7HEB 6:41JN 4:1Jonathan Edwards discusses the misconception that affections are not from God's Spirit if they seem to be beyond the individual's control or understanding, emphasizing that God's power in producing saving grace can manifest in various ways, sometimes visibly and sensibly. He challenges the notion that God's power should always be hidden and argues that God often makes His power evident in His works to humble human pride and glorify His name. Edwards also warns against assuming that all extraordinary experiences are necessarily from the Spirit of God, as other spirits can influence the mind, and some impressions may not be of a saving nature.
Faith and Fiction
By A.W. Tozer0Discernment in BeliefFaith vs. CredulityPRO 14:15MAT 7:15ROM 10:17EPH 4:14COL 2:81TH 5:212TI 2:15HEB 11:1JAS 1:51JN 4:1A.W. Tozer emphasizes the distinction between faith and credulity, illustrating that while they may appear similar, their effects are fundamentally different. True faith is characterized by a deep trust in God's promises, even in the face of doubt, while credulity reflects a lack of discernment and a tendency to accept unverified claims without question. Tozer warns that an uncritical acceptance of fantastical stories can lead to the spread of false teachings within the church, highlighting the importance of spiritual insight and mental clarity in matters of faith.
D. the Scriptural Knowledge Institution for Home and Abroad
By A.T. Pierson0PSA 20:5PRO 3:5ZEC 4:6MAT 13:24ACT 28:2ROM 13:82CO 6:141TH 5:212TI 3:1JAS 1:5A.T. Pierson preaches on the principles and objects of the institution, emphasizing the importance of relying on scriptural means for the ingathering of God's elect while waiting for the return of Jesus. The institution seeks the Lord's patronage alone, rejecting the help of unbelievers in managing its affairs and avoiding unnecessary debts. Success is measured by the Lord's blessing rather than material gains, and the focus is on assisting schools with scriptural instruction, circulating the Holy Scriptures, and supporting missionary efforts in alignment with the Scriptures.
- 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.