1 Thessalonians 5:22
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Abstain from all appearance of evil - Sin not, and avoid even the appearance of it. Do not drive your morality so near the bounds of evil as to lead even weak persons to believe that ye actually touch, taste, or handle it. Let not the form of it, ειδος, appear with or among you, much less the substance. Ye are called to holiness; be ye holy, for God is holy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
TITTMANN supports English Version, "from every evil appearance" or "semblance." The context, however, does not refer to evil appearances IN OURSELVES which we ought to abstain from, but to holding ourselves aloof from every evil appearance IN OTHERS; as for instance, in the pretenders to spirit-inspired prophesyings. In many cases the Christian should not abstain from what has the semblance ("appearance") of evil, though really good. Jesus healed on the sabbath, and ate with publicans and sinners, acts which wore the appearance of evil, but which were not to be abstained from on that account, being really good. I agree with TITTMANN rather than with BENGEL, whom ALFORD follows. The context favors this sense: However specious be the form or outward appearance of such would-be prophets and their prophesyings, hold yourselves aloof from every such form when it is evil, literally, "Hold yourselves aloof from every evil appearance" or "form."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Faithful is he that calleth you,.... Into the fellowship of his Son, and to his kingdom and glory, and who continues to do so, not only externally by his word, but internally by his Spirit and grace. Who also will do it. Two things the apostle mentions as the ground of confidence that the above petition, would be heard and answered; that is, that God would wholly sanctify them, and preserve the whole of them blameless to the coming of Christ; and they are the faithfulness of God, and the effectual calling of his saints. God is faithful to his word, his covenant and promises; he has promised to sanctify and cleanse his people from all their sins, and to preserve them safe to his kingdom and glory; agreeably the Arabic version renders this last clause, "and will execute his promise": and the effectual calling is a sure pledge of glorification; whom God calls he justifies and glorifies; as sure as he gives grace, he will give glory; and whom he calls to his eternal glory, he will make perfect, stablish, strengthen, and settle. The Complutensian edition reads, "who also will make your hope firm"; that is, with respect to the above things.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:22 They should reject every kind of evil, especially false prophecies (5:19-21).
1 Thessalonians 5:22
Christian Living
21but test all things. Hold fast to what is good.22Abstain from every form of evil.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Biblical Seperation
By Bill McLeod2.6K46:21SeparationPSA 119:104MAT 6:33ROM 12:22CO 6:41TH 5:221PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a powerful experience of being moved by the presence of God during a community service. They express their deep emotions and desire to live a life that pleases God. The speaker also shares about a ministry that is working in 14 countries and training their own workers. They emphasize the need for revival in churches and the importance of aligning with God's plans. The sermon includes references to the book of Ezra and highlights the impact of a pastor's preaching on the congregation.
Freed From Wordly Attitudes
By Zac Poonen1.6K58:11PRO 4:23MAT 5:16MAT 6:33LUK 12:15ROM 12:2PHP 4:81TH 5:22JAS 1:221PE 4:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of walking upright in a crooked world, focusing on avoiding greed, being cautious about unnecessary curiosity, and filling the mind with useful information that aligns with God's will. It challenges listeners to judge themselves, prioritize spiritual growth, and seek to live a life that glorifies God by being concerned about others and making decisions based on God's kingdom principles.
Godly Sorrow-the Way to Revival
By Denny Kenaston1.6K1:41:26Biblical RevivalPSA 51:132CO 7:81TH 5:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being on the starting line in our spiritual journey. He encourages the congregation to be alert and ready to run the race set before them. The speaker also reflects on his own personal struggles and how he fell into worldly temptations, but ultimately found redemption through God's grace. The sermon references the story of David and Nathan, highlighting the deceitfulness of the human heart and the need for repentance and surrender to God.
The Desperate Need for Holiness
By Shane Idleman1.2K08:40ROM 12:12CO 6:17EPH 5:11EPH 6:11PHP 2:51TH 5:22HEB 12:14JAS 4:41PE 1:15This sermon emphasizes the critical need for holiness in our lives, highlighting the prevalence of sin in our culture and the importance of separating ourselves from worldly influences. It addresses the impact of sin on the church, marriages, and our relationship with God, stressing the urgency to put on the whole armor of God and renew our minds in Christ. The speaker challenges lukewarm Christians to seek true holiness and warns against the deception of worldly pleasures that quench the Spirit of God.
Leadership in Acts
By George Verwer1.1K59:15LeadershipMAT 6:33ACT 2:1ACT 3:6ACT 4:31ACT 5:1ACT 6:31TH 5:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of accepting the miraculous book of God and pressing on from there. The leader is highlighted as someone who is bold and filled with the Holy Spirit. The need for continuous filling of the Holy Spirit is emphasized, regardless of one's background or previous experiences. The sermon also discusses practical aspects of leadership, such as getting involved in practical tasks and choosing individuals with an honest report for such work. The story of Stephen is mentioned as a source of learning, and the importance of speaking the straightforward truth is emphasized.
Principles of Godly Music—sing a New Song
By Dean Taylor1.1K1:14:35Godly MusicEPH 2:31TH 5:22JAS 1:9In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the power of music and its ability to evoke emotions and bring about change. He uses the example of a man in Berlin who played a song that had been illegal for 40 years after the fall of the Berlin Wall, symbolizing the end of communism in his town. The speaker then discusses the importance of following the shepherd, drawing a parallel between sheep following their shepherd and individuals following God. He encourages the audience to examine the underlying philosophies behind their music choices and to sing to the Lord with joy. The sermon also touches on the need to avoid mixing worldly influences with the church and to stay true to the message of the Gospel.
Jude - Glorifying God
By Mariano Di Gangi70224:24Glorifying GodMAT 6:33PHP 1:61TH 5:222TI 4:31PE 5:8JUD 1:3JUD 1:24The sermon transcript discusses the dangers of the world we live in, highlighting events such as the bombings in Lebanon and Sri Lanka, and the actions of the IRA. Despite the challenges, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a Christ-like life and having faith in God's ability to keep us from falling. The sermon also emphasizes the need to reflect Jesus in every aspect of our lives, including love for the truth, mercy, and willingness to suffer. The uniqueness of Jesus Christ as the only way to salvation is also discussed, with the speaker addressing the scandal of those who profess the Gospel but live contrary to its teachings.
What You Intended for Evil
By Shane Idleman1549:42Spiritual WarfareConfronting EvilGEN 50:20PSA 51:5ROM 3:23ROM 8:282CO 4:17EPH 2:3EPH 6:121TH 5:22HEB 5:81JN 5:19Shane Idleman emphasizes the need for Christians to confront evil in society, urging them to awaken from apathy and actively engage in spiritual warfare through prayer, worship, and the application of God's Word. He highlights the dangers of a culture that promotes anti-God agendas and the importance of standing firm in faith, even amidst suffering and challenges. Idleman draws parallels between the nature of evil and the story of Joseph, illustrating how what is intended for evil can ultimately serve a greater purpose in God's plan. He calls for a kingdom-minded approach, encouraging believers to reject complacency and actively fight against the forces of darkness.
Christian Recreation and Unchristian Amusement
By T.L. Cuyler0PRO 14:13ECC 5:18ROM 14:211CO 10:31GAL 5:22PHP 4:8COL 3:171TH 5:221PE 4:3T. L. Cuyler preaches about the importance of Christian recreation and the dangers of unchristian amusement, emphasizing the need for activities that strengthen the body, bring happiness to the mind, and purity to the heart. He uses Bible verses to highlight the distinction between healthful enjoyment and sinful pleasures, urging Christians to engage in activities that glorify God and avoid places or practices that lead to moral decay and spiritual ruin. Cuyler warns against the allure of worldly entertainment like theaters, drinking saloons, and ballrooms, which often lead individuals astray from their faith and into destructive lifestyles.
Professor Finney's Letters to Christians No. 3.
By Charles Finney0Christian WitnessSelf-IndulgenceMAT 5:16ROM 12:1ROM 14:211CO 6:191CO 10:31GAL 5:24PHP 2:151TH 5:22JAS 4:171PE 2:16Charles Finney addresses the issue of tobacco use among Christians, emphasizing that example is a powerful teacher, often leading children to adopt habits contrary to their parents' teachings. He argues that using tobacco cannot be justified as it does not glorify God and is a form of self-indulgence that can dominate one's life, making it a sin. Finney challenges the notion that tobacco is beneficial, asserting that any perceived benefits are outweighed by the harm it causes to both the individual and society. He encourages Christians to deny themselves for the sake of others and to consider the moral implications of their actions. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to live in a way that promotes the glory of God and the well-being of others.
Adding to the Stock
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 97:10PRO 8:13ROM 12:9EPH 5:111TH 5:221PE 3:11Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of hating evil for those who love the Lord, highlighting how each individual contributes to the general stock of evil in the world through their actions, words, and attitudes. She warns against defending or making light of wrongdoing, as it actively augments the common fund of wickedness that can lead to more serious crimes. Tileston urges believers to be conscious of their contributions to this evil and to strive to diminish it through righteous living and upholding God's standards.
Doing for Jesus
By George Kulp0PRO 11:30DAN 12:3MAL 3:10MAT 7:20MRK 14:8JHN 15:81TH 5:221TI 2:1JAS 1:221PE 1:16George Kulp preaches on the importance of being doers of the Word, emphasizing that true religion is shown through actions, not just beliefs. He highlights the story of a heroic girl who risked her life to save others, illustrating the concept of doing what one can. Kulp stresses the significance of living a holy life, avoiding even the appearance of evil, praying for the unsaved, giving to the church, speaking to sinners about Jesus, and inviting others to church as ways to actively demonstrate one's faith.
The Night of Weeping
By Horatius Bonar0Joy vs. WorldlinessThe Purpose of AfflictionMAT 6:19LUK 12:15ROM 12:22CO 5:17PHP 3:20COL 3:21TH 5:22HEB 12:1JAS 5:91JN 2:15Horatius Bonar emphasizes the contrast between the superficial joy of the world and the deep, abiding joy found in Christ. He warns that laughter and revelry are hollow distractions that can lead believers away from their true identity as children of God. Bonar explains that affliction serves as a divine tool to awaken us from worldliness and selfishness, drawing us closer to Christ and reminding us of our eternal hope. He encourages the saints to embrace a serious and solemn life, reflecting the gravity of their calling and the reality of eternity. Ultimately, Bonar calls for a return to spiritual seriousness, urging believers to live in a way that honors their heavenly heritage.
The Power of Godly Living
By A.W. Tozer0Witnessing through LifeGodly LivingMAT 5:16ROM 12:12CO 5:20EPH 5:8PHP 2:15COL 3:171TH 5:221TI 4:12JAS 1:221PE 2:12A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the most compelling evidence for Christianity is the exemplary lives of its followers. He argues that a community of pure and joyful Christians serves as a stronger testament to the resurrection of Christ than any scholarly work. In a world filled with distractions, a holy life stands out as the only enduring truth, much like the silent stars that have outlasted civilizations. Tozer highlights that while many may overlook theological writings, they cannot ignore the impact of holy men and women. Ultimately, it is the purity of one's life, as exemplified by figures like Francis of Assisi, that resonates deeply with those seeking God.
He Who Eats the Grapes of Sodom
By C.H. Spurgeon0Separation from SinHolinessNUM 6:4PRO 4:14MAT 5:8ROM 12:22CO 6:17GAL 5:16EPH 5:111TH 5:22JAS 4:71PE 1:15C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strict separation from sin, using the example of Nazirites who abstained from all grape products to illustrate the need for believers to avoid even the appearance of evil. He warns that yielding to worldly temptations, even in small ways, can lead to greater spiritual peril, comparing it to a small crack in a dam that can lead to disaster. Spurgeon encourages Christians to flee from tempting situations and to embrace a lifestyle of careful walking, which, though it may require self-denial, brings its own rewards and joy. The sermon serves as a reminder that true happiness and safety lie in a life dedicated to holiness and separation from sin.
Theater, Cards and Dance
By Billy Sunday0Spiritual WarfareMoral IntegrityPRO 4:23MAT 5:29ROM 12:21CO 15:33GAL 6:7EPH 5:11PHP 4:81TH 5:22JAS 4:41JN 2:15Billy Sunday passionately addresses the dangers of modern amusements such as theater, card playing, and dancing, emphasizing that these activities lead to moral decay and spiritual ruin. He argues that the church must take a stand against these 'Hell-soaked institutions' that corrupt society and endanger the youth. Sunday warns that indulging in such amusements sows seeds of sin, resulting in a harvest of vice and destruction. He calls for a return to purity and decency, urging Christians to reject these practices and uphold their moral responsibilities. His fervent message is a call to action for believers to protect their families and communities from the corrupting influences of the world.
Avoid and Abstain
By Ed Wrather0PRO 4:14PRO 13:20ROM 12:21CO 10:131CO 15:33GAL 5:16EPH 5:111TH 5:22JAS 4:71PE 5:8Ed Wrather emphasizes the importance of abstaining from every form of evil, using real-life examples like a deputy sheriff getting into trouble while soliciting a prostitute and the high number of injuries in bar fights involving alcohol or drugs. He highlights the practical wisdom in 1 Thessalonians 5:17, urging listeners to avoid situations that may lead to trouble and to abstain from anything that even appears to be evil. Wrather stresses the need to make wise choices, such as avoiding pornography by using filters and changing circles of friends to steer clear of illegal substances, even if it means giving up comfortable friendships.
The Christian Life
By David Shelby Corlett0GEN 14:19MAL 3:10MAT 22:21JHN 14:16JHN 17:14ACT 1:8ACT 17:24ROM 8:2ROM 8:41CO 6:191CO 9:141CO 10:311CO 16:22CO 6:142CO 9:7GAL 5:22GAL 6:10EPH 1:13EPH 5:331TH 5:221TI 2:1TIT 2:12HEB 10:241PE 2:131PE 4:102PE 3:18David Shelby Corlett preaches on the standard of Christian living, emphasizing the importance of living upright, sober, and godly lives according to the moral law revealed in the Scriptures, seeking to glorify God in all aspects of life. Christians are called to glorify God in their bodies by recognizing that they are temples of the Holy Spirit, refraining from practices that do not honor God, and living in a way that reflects God's glory. The obligations for Christian growth include developing holiness, Christian virtues, and actively manifesting these in daily life, while the means for growth involve attending public worship, engaging in devotional exercises, and serving in Christian ministry.
An Evil Report and Its Influence
By Lewis Williams0NUM 14:71SA 15:22JHN 14:15GAL 6:7EPH 5:61TH 5:22HEB 3:12JAS 4:171PE 1:14Lewis Williams delivers a powerful sermon on the consequences of disobedience and the importance of obedience to God's commands. He uses the story of the children of Israel at Kadesh-barnea to illustrate how disobedience leads to suffering and the spread of sin's poison. Williams emphasizes the need for preachers to boldly proclaim the truth and not compromise, as their influence greatly impacts the spiritual life of their congregation. He warns against bringing back an 'evil report' like the spies who discouraged the Israelites from entering the promised land, highlighting the devastating effects of hypocrisy and compromise on faith and salvation.
On Being Different
By A.W. Tozer0Spiritual SeparationChurch DistinctivenessMAT 5:14ROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:8PHP 2:15COL 3:21TH 5:22JAS 4:41PE 2:91JN 2:15A.W. Tozer emphasizes that the Church's greatest influence comes from its distinctiveness from the world. He argues that the Church's power is directly proportional to how different it is from society, and that attempts to conform to worldly standards dilute its effectiveness. Tozer warns against the dangers of compromise, asserting that true believers are morally and spiritually separated from the world. He highlights that similarity to the world signifies a decline in the Church's character and mission. The sermon calls for a return to the Church's unique identity as a reflection of God's kingdom.
Behold, There Is in This City a Man of God
By F.B. Meyer0Impact of HolinessGodlinessPSA 37:23PRO 10:9MAT 5:162CO 2:15GAL 5:22EPH 5:8COL 3:121TH 5:22HEB 12:141PE 2:9F.B. Meyer emphasizes the profound impact of a godly life on the community, reflecting on the legacy of holiness that can transform neighborhoods, as exemplified by the life of Samuel. He encourages believers to strive for a character that embodies trustworthiness and godliness, which in turn inspires confidence and respect from others. Meyer calls for Christians to cultivate a deep relationship with God, allowing His beauty and truth to shine through their lives, thus becoming 'men and women of God' who leave a lasting fragrance of holiness wherever they go.
Make God's Will Our Will
By A.W. Tozer0ACT 17:30ROM 12:22CO 5:17GAL 5:19EPH 4:221TH 5:22TIT 3:31PE 1:141JN 2:16John Lillie and J Vernon McGee emphasize the importance of believers not conforming to the patterns of this world but allowing God to transform their minds from within. Peter exhorts believers to reject their former evil practices and not be molded by the corrupting influences of society, urging them to live holy lives in obedience to God. The verb 'conformed' in Romans 12:2 conveys the idea of ceasing an action already in progress, emphasizing the need for believers to continually resist being shaped by worldly influences. Believers are called to make a conscious choice daily to refuse to be squeezed into the mold of a corrupt society and instead be transformed by the renewing of their minds.
The Duties of Presbyters
By St. Polycarp of Smyrna0MAT 6:14ROM 14:121TH 5:221PE 3:81JN 4:1St. Polycarp of Smyrna emphasizes the importance of compassion, mercy, and forgiveness in the Christian community, urging presbyters to care for the vulnerable and avoid wrath, unfair judgment, and covetousness. He reminds believers of the accountability we have before God and the need to forgive others as we seek forgiveness from the Lord. Polycarp encourages a life of reverence, following the teachings of Jesus, the apostles, and the prophets, while being vigilant against false brethren and those who lead others astray.
How Carefully Stumbling-Blocks Must Be Avoided
By Clement of Rome0PRO 4:23MAT 5:8ROM 14:131CO 8:91CO 10:321TH 5:221TI 5:21PE 2:111JN 2:10Clement of Rome emphasizes the importance of being cautious and avoiding situations that may lead to temptation or false accusations, even if it means refraining from good deeds like praying or reading Scriptures in the presence of a lone believing woman. He urges believers to prioritize the well-being and spiritual growth of others over personal desires, especially in matters that could cause a fellow believer to stumble or be led astray. Clement stresses the need to love God and neighbor by being vigilant not to be a stumbling block to anyone, whether Jew, Gentile, or fellow Christian, and to always act in a way that promotes purity and righteousness.
Flee From the Occasions of Sin!
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual WarfareAvoiding TemptationPRO 4:14MAT 26:411TH 5:22JAS 4:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the critical need to avoid even the slightest appearance of evil, urging believers to shun occasions of sin as they would avoid a serpent or poison. He warns that attempting to pray for deliverance from temptation while engaging with sin's occasions is futile, akin to playing with fire. Brooks asserts that true victory over sin requires a conscious effort to turn away from its temptations, as those who flirt with sin are likely to be ensnared by it. He reminds the congregation of their past struggles with sin when they did not heed this warning, encouraging them to flee from sin's occasions to achieve spiritual victory.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Abstain from all appearance of evil - Sin not, and avoid even the appearance of it. Do not drive your morality so near the bounds of evil as to lead even weak persons to believe that ye actually touch, taste, or handle it. Let not the form of it, ειδος, appear with or among you, much less the substance. Ye are called to holiness; be ye holy, for God is holy.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
TITTMANN supports English Version, "from every evil appearance" or "semblance." The context, however, does not refer to evil appearances IN OURSELVES which we ought to abstain from, but to holding ourselves aloof from every evil appearance IN OTHERS; as for instance, in the pretenders to spirit-inspired prophesyings. In many cases the Christian should not abstain from what has the semblance ("appearance") of evil, though really good. Jesus healed on the sabbath, and ate with publicans and sinners, acts which wore the appearance of evil, but which were not to be abstained from on that account, being really good. I agree with TITTMANN rather than with BENGEL, whom ALFORD follows. The context favors this sense: However specious be the form or outward appearance of such would-be prophets and their prophesyings, hold yourselves aloof from every such form when it is evil, literally, "Hold yourselves aloof from every evil appearance" or "form."
John Gill Bible Commentary
Faithful is he that calleth you,.... Into the fellowship of his Son, and to his kingdom and glory, and who continues to do so, not only externally by his word, but internally by his Spirit and grace. Who also will do it. Two things the apostle mentions as the ground of confidence that the above petition, would be heard and answered; that is, that God would wholly sanctify them, and preserve the whole of them blameless to the coming of Christ; and they are the faithfulness of God, and the effectual calling of his saints. God is faithful to his word, his covenant and promises; he has promised to sanctify and cleanse his people from all their sins, and to preserve them safe to his kingdom and glory; agreeably the Arabic version renders this last clause, "and will execute his promise": and the effectual calling is a sure pledge of glorification; whom God calls he justifies and glorifies; as sure as he gives grace, he will give glory; and whom he calls to his eternal glory, he will make perfect, stablish, strengthen, and settle. The Complutensian edition reads, "who also will make your hope firm"; that is, with respect to the above things.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:22 They should reject every kind of evil, especially false prophecies (5:19-21).