1 Thessalonians 5:23
Verse
Context
Sermons
Keith Daniel
Major Ian Thomas
Derek Prince
Zac Poonen
J.I. Packer
Jacob PraschSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And the very God of peace - That same God who is the author of peace, the giver of peace; and who has sent, for the redemption of the world, the Prince of peace; may that very God sanctify you wholly; leave no more evil in your hearts than his precepts tolerate evil in your conduct. The word wholly, ὁλοτελεις means precisely the same as our phrase, to all intents and purposes. May he sanctify you to the end and to the uttermost, that, as sin hath reigned unto death, even so may grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our Lord. Your whole spirit and soul and body - Some think that the apostle alludes to the Pythagorean and Platonic doctrine, which was acknowledged among the Thessalonians. I should rather believe that he refers simply to the fact, that the creature called man is a compound being, consisting, 1. Of a body, σωμα, an organized system, formed by the creative energy of God out of the dust of the earth; composed of bones, muscles, and nerves; of arteries, veins, and a variety of other vessels, in which the blood and other fluids circulate. 2. Of a soul, ψυχη, which is the seat of the different affections and passions, such as love, hatred, anger, etc., with sensations, appetites, and propensities of different kinds. 3. Of spirit, πνευμα, the immortal principle, the source of life to the body and soul, without which the animal functions cannot be performed, how perfect soever the bodily organs may be; and which alone possesses the faculty of intelligence, understanding, thinking, and reasoning, and produces the faculty of speech wherever it resides, if accident have not impaired the organs of speech. The apostle prays that this compound being, in all its parts, powers, and faculties, which he terms ὁλοκληρον, their whole, comprehending all parts, every thing that constitutes man and manhood, may be sanctified and preserved blameless till the coming of Christ; hence we learn, 1. That body, soul, and spirit are debased and polluted by sin. 2. That each is capable of being sanctified, consecrated in all its powers to God, and made holy. 3. That the whole man is to be preserved to the coming of Christ, that body, soul, and spirit may be then glorified for ever with him. 4. That in this state the whole man may be so sanctified as to be preserved blameless till the coming of Christ. And thus we learn that the sanctification is not to take place in, at, or after death. On the pollution and sanctification of flesh and spirit, see the note on Co2 7:1.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the very God--rather as the Greek, "the God of peace Himself"; who can do for you by His own power what I cannot do by all my monitions, nor you by all your efforts (Rom 16:20; Heb 13:20), namely, keep you from all evil, and give you all that is good. sanctify you--for holiness is the necessary condition of "peace" (Phi 4:6-9). wholly--Greek, "(so that you should be) perfect in every respect" [TITTMANN]. and--that is, "and so (omit 'I pray God'; not in the Greek) may your . . . spirit and soul and body be preserved," &c. whole--A different Greek word from "wholly." Translate, "entire"; with none of the integral parts wanting [TITTMANN]. It refers to man in his normal integrity, as originally designed; an ideal which shall be attained by the glorified believer. All three, spirit, soul, and body, each in its due place, constitute man "entire." The "spirit" links man with the higher intelligences of heaven, and is that highest part of man which is receptive of the quickening Holy Spirit (Co1 15:47). In the unspiritual, the spirit is so sunk under the lower animal soul (which it ought to keep under) that such are termed "animal" (English Version. "sensual," having merely the body of organized matter, and the soul the immaterial animating essence), having not the Spirit (compare Co1 2:14; see on Co1 15:44; Co1 15:46-48; Joh 3:6). The unbeliever shall rise with an animal (soul-animated) body, but not like the believer with a spiritual (spirit-endued) body like Christ's (Rom 8:11). blameless unto--rather as Greek, "blamelessly (so as to be in a blameless state) at the coming of Christ." In Hebrew, "peace" and "wholly" (perfect in every respect) are kindred terms; so that the prayer shows what the title "God of peace" implies. BENGEL takes "wholly" as collectively, all the Thessalonians without exception, so that no one should fail. And "whole (entire)," individually, each one of them entire, with "spirit, soul, and body." The mention of the preservation of the body accords with the subject (Th1 4:16). TRENCH better regards "wholly" as meaning, "having perfectly attained the moral end," namely, to be a full-grown man in Christ. "Whole," complete, with no grace which ought to be wanting in a Christian.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Brethren, pray for us. Which is added with great beauty and propriety, after the apostle had so earnestly and affectionately prayed for them; and this is directed, not to the pastors of the church only, but to all the members of it, whom the apostle styles "brethren" in a spiritual relation, as he often does; and of whom he requests, that they would pray for him, and the rest of his fellow ministers and labourers in the word, that God would more and more qualify and fit them for their work, assist in private studies and meditations, give them freedom of thought, liberty of expression, and a door of utterance, and follow their ministrations with a divine blessing and success, and deliver them out of the hands of unreasonable men; See Gill on Heb 13:18. . 1 Thessalonians 5:26 th1 5:26 th1 5:26 th1 5:26Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. In opposition, to an unchaste and hypocritical one. His meaning is, that they would salute the members of the church in his name, and give his Christian love and affections to them. And his view is to recommend to them brotherly love to each other, and to stir them up to the mutual exercise of it more and more.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these words, which conclude this epistle, observe, I. Paul's prayer for them, Th1 5:23. He had told them, in the beginning of this epistle, that he always made mention of them in his prayers; and, now that he is writing to them, he lifts up his heart to God in prayer for them. Take notice, 1. To whom the apostle prays, namely, The very God of peace. He is the God of grace, and the God of peace and love. He is the author of peace and lover of concord; and by their peaceableness and unity, from God as the author, those things would best be obtained which he prays for. 2. The things he prays for on behalf of the Thessalonians are their sanctification, that God would sanctify them wholly; and their preservation, that they might be preserved blameless. He prays that they may be wholly sanctified, that the whole man may be sanctified, and then that the whole man, spirit, soul, and body, may be preserved: or, he prays that they may be wholly sanctified, that is, more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; and therefore we should pray for and press towards complete sanctification. Where the good work of grace is begun, it shall be carried on, be protected and preserved; and all those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus shall be preserved to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. And because, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, it would miscarry, we should pray to God to perfect his work, and preserve us blameless, free from sin and impurity, till at length we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory with exceeding joy. II. His comfortable assurance that God would hear his prayer: Faithful is he who calleth you, who will also do it, Th1 5:24. The kindness and love of God had appeared to them in calling them to the knowledge of his truth, and the faithfulness of God was their security that they should persevere to the end; and therefore, the apostle assures them, God would do what he desired; he would effect what he had promised; he would accomplish all the good pleasure of his goodness towards them. Note, Our fidelity to God depends upon his faithfulness to us. III. His request of their prayers: Brethren, pray for us, Th1 5:25. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This great apostle did not think it beneath him to call the Thessalonians brethren, nor to request their prayers. Ministers stand in need of their people's prayers; and the more people pray for their ministers the more good ministers may have from God, and the more benefit people may receive by their ministry. IV. His salutation: Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss, Th1 5:26. Thus the apostle sends a friendly salutation from himself, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, and would have them salute each other in their names; and thus he would have them signify their mutual love and affection to one another by the kiss of charity (Pe1 5:14), which is here called a holy kiss, to intimate how cautious they should be of all impurity in the use of this ceremony, then commonly practised; as it should not be a treacherous kiss like that of Judas, so not a lascivious kiss like that of the harlot, Pro 7:13. V. His solemn charge for the reading of this epistle, Th1 5:27. This is not only an exhortation, but an adjuration by the Lord. And this epistle was to be read to all the holy brethren. It is not only allowed to the common people to read the scriptures, and what none should prohibit, but it is their indispensable duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. In order to this, these holy oracles should not be kept concealed in an unknown tongue, but translated into the vulgar languages, that all men, being concerned to know the scriptures, may be able to read them, and be acquainted with them. The public reading of the law was one part of the worship of the sabbath among the Jews in their synagogues, and the scriptures should be read in the public assemblies of Christians also. VI. The apostolical benediction that is usual in other epistles: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen, Th1 5:28. We need no more to make us happy than to know that grace which our Lord Jesus Christ has manifested, be interested in that grace which he has purchased, and partake of that grace which dwells in him as the head of the church. This is an ever-flowing and overflowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:23-28 Greek and Roman letters ended with a wish for the good health of the recipient. Jewish letters concluded with a peace blessing. Paul closes with a Christian variation on these practices. 5:23 God enables Christians to live a holy life (3:11-13). His sanctifying work extends to the spirit and soul and body, the totality of human life (cp. Matt 10:28; Mark 12:30; 1 Cor 7:34).
1 Thessalonians 5:23
Final Blessings and Instructions
22Abstain from every form of evil. 23Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely, and may your entire spirit, soul, and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.24The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Be Ye Holy for I Am Holy
By Keith Daniel7.6K1:13:04Practical HolinessROM 12:22CO 6:17EPH 5:81TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:141PE 4:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being transformed and renewed in our minds to align with God's will. He quotes from 1 Peter 1:14, urging believers to be obedient children and not conform to their former lusts. The preacher emphasizes that holiness is a personal choice and not influenced by external factors such as peer pressure or societal corruption. He shares a personal story about a man who was burdened by the moral decay in society and eventually preached at a convention, moving the young people to tears. The sermon highlights the need for believers to maintain their holiness and not compromise their faith.
Christ: Perfect Manhood
By Major Ian Thomas6.7K35:42Christ ManhoodJHN 1:1ROM 11:361TH 5:23HEB 1:1In this sermon, the speaker explores the nature of man and how God created him. The purpose of man's creation is to be inhabited by God and used for His purposes. The speaker emphasizes the tripartite nature of man, consisting of spirit, soul, and body. The spirit is the part of man that enables him to be connected to God, while the soul encompasses the mind, emotions, and will. The body is the physical aspect of man that distinguishes him from other forms of created life. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding and aligning these three parts of man in order to fulfill God's intended purpose.
Glimpses of the Future - Part 1
By Derek Prince4.4K28:221TH 5:23
This sermon focuses on the importance of understanding and heeding biblical prophecy, particularly in relation to Israel and the future events predicted in the Bible. It emphasizes the need to give attention to the written prophecies of Scripture, highlighting the significance of obeying what is already revealed to receive further understanding. The speaker encourages believers to actively participate in proclaiming the gospel to all nations as a crucial aspect of fulfilling prophecy and preparing for the return of Jesus Christ.
Brokenness
By Zac Poonen3.7K1:05:01BrokennessGEN 32:24PRO 16:18MAT 6:331CO 8:12CO 12:71TH 5:23JAS 4:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of God breaking us in order to use us effectively. He uses the example of Jacob being broken for twenty years in his father-in-law's house and Moses being broken in the wilderness for forty years. The speaker highlights that even though believers may have great knowledge and gifts, without being broken by God, their lives will be wasted. He encourages listeners to embrace the circumstances God allows in their lives and to become weak before Him, so that His power can be released through them.
What Is Sanctification?
By J.I. Packer3.4K1:12:19MAT 22:371TH 5:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes four important reminders for believers regarding their sanctification. The first reminder is that believers are human beings created with a mind, will, and affections. The mind is the leading faculty of the soul, guiding and directing the will and affections. The second reminder is that believers must recognize the ongoing presence of indwelling sin in their hearts and the need to continually put it to death. The preacher warns against the danger of claiming perfection and emphasizes the need for daily self-denial. The third reminder is that in order for divine truth to effectively impact believers, it must first be communicated to the mind before appealing to the emotions. The preacher emphasizes the importance of starting with exposition and understanding of truth before engaging the affections. The fourth reminder is that the Christian minister and preacher must begin with the exposition of God's word and the declaration of truth, and then call believers to react to it with their affections and will. The preacher highlights the Puritan tradition's condemnation of emotionalism and the importance of using the power of will to respond to truth.
(Godly Home) Part 19 - Children - a Dwelling Place for the Living God
By Denny Kenaston3.4K41:46Godly Home SeriesPSA 127:3ISA 66:11CO 6:192CO 6:16EPH 2:10EPH 6:41TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of creating a nurturing environment for children in our homes. He encourages parents to be vigilant in monitoring what influences their children's minds, wills, emotions, and bodies. The speaker uses a diagram to explain that God created humans as tri-part beings, consisting of a physical body, a soul (mind, will, and emotions), and a spirit. He highlights the significance of parents guiding their children's minds, wills, and emotions, and shares examples of individuals who experienced a powerful transformation when the Holy Spirit entered their lives. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's wisdom in raising children.
Thessalonians - Understanding the Mixture
By Jacob Prasch3.2K1:04:47MixtureMAT 6:331TH 1:11TH 2:21TH 5:232PE 2:1In this sermon, the speaker criticizes the use of motivational psychology in churches, referring to it as "pop psychology" and "masturbating as biblical doctrine." He specifically mentions instances where people imitate animals or act drunk in the name of spirituality, warning against the mixing of psychology and spirituality. The speaker also discusses the unethical nature of hypnotic induction used by certain religious figures, citing examples of Rodney Howard Brown and Benny Hinn. Additionally, the sermon touches on the theological beliefs of E.W. Kenyon and his followers, who claim that Jesus died spiritually and was tortured in hell before being born again and rising from the dead.
Sanctification
By J. Sidlow Baxter3.0K1:02:03Sanctification1TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of sanctification and its importance in our lives. He compares our physical bodies to the outer court of the tabernacle, which can be taken down and wrapped up for travel without affecting the sanctuary. Our soul is likened to the holy place, where our intellect, volition, emotion, and spirit operate. The speaker emphasizes that true sanctification occurs when we fully surrender ourselves to God, setting ourselves apart for Him. This process may be lengthy and winding, but once we wholeheartedly give ourselves to Jesus, we become truly set apart and experience a living communion with God.
Holiness of God
By Leonard Ravenhill2.7K58:39Holiness1CH 16:29EPH 5:271TH 1:21TH 3:101TH 3:131TH 5:23REV 4:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a revelation of God's holiness and majesty. He challenges the congregation to examine their priorities and idols, urging them to turn from worldly pursuits and serve the living God. The preacher highlights the need for sanctification and a missionary heart, as well as the expectation of the return of Jesus Christ. He also emphasizes the significance of worshiping God in the beauty of holiness, drawing inspiration from the example of the disciples and the elders in the book of Revelation.
(Names of Jehovah) 3. Jehovah Nissi
By Roy Hession2.7K51:21Spiritual WarfareVictory in ChristJehovah NissiEXO 17:15PSA 60:4ISA 59:19JHN 16:33ROM 8:371CO 15:572CO 2:14GAL 5:171TH 5:23HEB 7:25Roy Hession explores the name Jehovah Nissi, emphasizing that God is our banner and source of victory in spiritual battles. He recounts the story of Israel's battle against Amalek, illustrating how Moses' intercession and the support of Aaron and Hur led to Israel's triumph. Hession highlights the internal conflict between the flesh and the spirit, urging believers to recognize and combat the flesh with the help of the Holy Spirit. He reassures that with Jehovah as our banner, we can overcome our struggles and experience God's provision and victory in all aspects of life. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to trust in Jehovah Nissi for their battles, both internal and external.
Christ Magnified - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill2.6K09:42ROM 12:12CO 5:8PHP 4:61TH 5:23
This sermon delves into the motivation and dedication of the Apostle Paul in magnifying Christ through his life, emphasizing the love of Christ as his driving force. It explores the joy and grace found in suffering and the boundless joy that can be experienced even in the midst of great trials. The focus is on presenting our bodies as living sacrifices to God, offering all aspects of our being to Him for His glory.
The Divine Purpose and Principles of the Christian Life
By T. Austin-Sparks2.2K58:44Principles Of Christian LifePRO 4:23JHN 3:31CO 13:22CO 6:14EPH 4:3COL 1:181TH 5:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance and energy of life. He compares life to an incredible energy that opens up new worlds for those who experience it. The Christian life is described as a large and expansive journey, filled with liberty and release. The preacher also highlights the idea that life often requires difficulty to truly demonstrate its energy. Overall, the sermon focuses on the significance and vastness of the Christian life.
Youth Convention at Fairhaven 1964-01 Returning to the Principles
By Major Ian Thomas2.2K51:38Principles1TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his own journey of understanding the true meaning of the Christian life. He admits that despite preaching for years, he realized that he had missed the point and lacked a deep understanding of the divine nature. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing that it is God's divine power that enables believers to live a godly life. He also highlights the tragic reality of many churches playing church without truly understanding the essence of Christianity. The sermon concludes with a reference to Peter's denial of Jesus and the speaker's realization that true dedication to God requires surrendering our own desires and embracing God's plan.
Sanctification : 3. a Disciplined Body
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:00:17SanctificationEXO 32:6MAT 6:331CO 9:271CO 10:61CO 10:111TH 5:23JAS 1:26In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a disciplined body as part of the process of entire sanctification. He highlights that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and should be respected accordingly. The speaker encourages believers to ask themselves four questions when it comes to their actions and behaviors: Did Jesus do it? Did Jesus teach it? Did the apostles do it? Did the apostles teach it? The speaker warns against hypocrisy and the danger of preaching powerful messages while failing to discipline one's own body. He references 1 Corinthians 9:27, where Paul urges believers to control their eyes and make them their slaves to avoid disqualification in their ministry. The speaker also mentions the example of the Israelites who left Egypt but were disqualified by God due to their indulgence in lustful desires.
Sanctification: 1. a Pure Spirit
By Zac Poonen2.1K51:35Worship in SpiritSanctificationPRO 3:5MAT 5:8MAT 15:13JHN 4:24ROM 8:21CO 3:132CO 7:11TH 4:31TH 5:231JN 2:27Zac Poonen emphasizes the significance of sanctification, particularly the need for a pure spirit in our relationship with God. He highlights that true worship must come from the spirit, not merely from outward actions, and that maintaining a pure spirit is essential for experiencing God's presence and guidance. Poonen warns against the dangers of prioritizing work over worship and stresses that sanctification is God's work in us, requiring our submission. He encourages believers to cultivate a deep, intimate relationship with God, which will lead to discernment and a life that reflects His holiness.
Sanctification : 2. a Renewed Soul
By Zac Poonen2.0K51:20SanctificationMAT 6:33JHN 5:14JHN 7:382CO 3:141TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of renewing our minds in order to be transformed into the likeness of Christ. The mind is emphasized as a crucial part of our soul, even more important than our emotions. The process of renewing our minds may initially be a struggle, but with time and discipline, it becomes almost automatic. The speaker encourages us to submit to the Holy Spirit and seek to understand God's ways, even if there are things we cannot fully explain.
(Through the Bible) 1 Thessalonians 1-3
By Chuck Smith2.0K1:18:231TH 1:101TH 2:121TH 3:131TH 4:161TH 5:232TH 1:72TH 3:7In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of studying the Word of God and the hope of the coming of Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes the love and dedication of the apostle Paul in preaching the gospel to the Thessalonians, working tirelessly and not seeking personal gain. The speaker also highlights the contrast between the idols worshipped by the Thessalonians and their turning to the true and living God. Throughout the sermon, the speaker emphasizes the significance of the coming again of Jesus Christ and the hope it brings to believers.
Our Walk With God
By Zac Poonen2.0K58:03Walking With GodMAT 6:33MAT 12:18LUK 16:111TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being faithful with our words and our money. He highlights Luke 16:11, which states that if we are not faithful with money, we will not receive true riches. The speaker encourages the audience to go beyond studying and preparing messages from external sources, and instead develop a personal relationship with God to discern His will. He also addresses the issue of young people earning large amounts of money and emphasizes the need for faithfulness in handling finances.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
By Paul Washer1.8K48:09ExpositionalMRK 1:35LUK 18:11TH 5:151TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the importance of prayer and rejoicing always. He emphasizes that even in difficult circumstances, believers should find joy because it is God's will for them. The speaker also highlights the need to be devoted to prayer and to have a discerning attitude through careful study of the Word. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of praying at all times and not losing heart.
(South West Baptist Church 2008) Disecting the Burden of Prayer
By Gerhard Du Toit1.8K1:05:10Burden Of PrayerMAT 7:7ROM 8:1EPH 2:61TH 5:23HEB 12:141PE 1:161JN 5:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of personal growth as Christians through reading and studying the Bible. He shares his personal experience growing up in a country with apartheid and serving as a chaplain. The speaker then discusses the journey of the Israelites from Egypt to Mount Sinai, where the will of God was revealed through the law and worship was established through the tabernacle. He transitions to the New Testament, highlighting Jesus' teaching on worshiping God in spirit and truth and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, resulting in the salvation of 3000 people. The speaker also shares a personal anecdote about a trip to Balakula and emphasizes the importance of receiving and sharing valuable spiritual material.
Christians Under Law
By Major Ian Thomas1.7K35:42LawJHN 1:1ROM 11:361TH 5:23HEB 1:1In this sermon, the speaker explores the nature of man and how God created him. The purpose of man's creation is to be inhabited by God and used for His purposes. The speaker emphasizes the tripartite nature of man, consisting of spirit, soul, and body. He explains that the mind and emotions play a significant role in influencing the will of man. Additionally, the speaker highlights that all forms of created life have a body, which helps us recognize and distinguish different beings. The sermon references the Bible verse from the fifth chapter of the Epistles of the Testilons, where it mentions the sanctification of the whole spirit, soul, and body.
Wholly Sanctified #4 - Body
By Stephen Kaung1.7K53:32Sanctification1TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of offering our bodies as a living sacrifice to God. He explains that our bodies are not our own, but belong to God, and therefore, we should use them to serve and glorify Him. The speaker shares a story from World War I to illustrate the concept of fully utilizing our bodies for God's purpose. He also highlights the need to take care of our bodies for the Lord's sake, while also ensuring that our bodies remain under our control and not ruled by our fleshly desires. The sermon references passages from the Bible, such as 1 Corinthians 9:17 and Romans 6 and 7, to support these teachings.
Wholly Sanctified #1
By Stephen Kaung1.7K1:08:50Sanctification1TH 5:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sanctification in every aspect of our being - spirit, soul, and body. He explains that when God created man, He formed the body from the dust of the earth and breathed the breath of life into it, creating a living being. The speaker uses the analogy of a master, steward, and servant to illustrate the relationship between our spirit, soul, and body. He also highlights that our soul and body need to be saved and sanctified, not just our spirit. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that God desires for us to be wholly sanctified, not just saved.
Prayer of Love Is Our Witness
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K41:51PrayerLoveHoliness1TH 5:23Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the transformative power of love and prayer in the life of a believer, contrasting the outward appearances of wealth and satisfaction with the inner spiritual poverty that many face. He reflects on the plight of those in prison and the marginalized, suggesting that their worship may be more genuine than that of the affluent. Ravenhill calls for a radical awakening within the church, urging believers to embrace a life of sacrificial love and to recognize the urgency of sharing the Gospel with a world in darkness. He challenges the church to move beyond mere religious activity and to embody the love of Christ in their lives, becoming true witnesses of His grace and power. Ultimately, he stresses the need for holiness and a deep, abiding relationship with God through prayer.
The Principle of Behaviour
By Major Ian Thomas1.6K1:10:44BehaviourGEN 1:27MAT 6:33JHN 5:39JHN 14:61TH 5:232TI 3:16REV 22:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus as the central figure in Christianity. He compares the relationship between a bee and a television to illustrate the difference between a machine and a being with free will. The speaker highlights that just as a television cannot have a personal relationship with its user, a dead religion detached from Christ lacks true life and meaning. The sermon emphasizes that Jesus is the truth of the truth and that Christianity is only meaningful when we allow Him to move redemptively and regeneratively in our lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
And the very God of peace - That same God who is the author of peace, the giver of peace; and who has sent, for the redemption of the world, the Prince of peace; may that very God sanctify you wholly; leave no more evil in your hearts than his precepts tolerate evil in your conduct. The word wholly, ὁλοτελεις means precisely the same as our phrase, to all intents and purposes. May he sanctify you to the end and to the uttermost, that, as sin hath reigned unto death, even so may grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our Lord. Your whole spirit and soul and body - Some think that the apostle alludes to the Pythagorean and Platonic doctrine, which was acknowledged among the Thessalonians. I should rather believe that he refers simply to the fact, that the creature called man is a compound being, consisting, 1. Of a body, σωμα, an organized system, formed by the creative energy of God out of the dust of the earth; composed of bones, muscles, and nerves; of arteries, veins, and a variety of other vessels, in which the blood and other fluids circulate. 2. Of a soul, ψυχη, which is the seat of the different affections and passions, such as love, hatred, anger, etc., with sensations, appetites, and propensities of different kinds. 3. Of spirit, πνευμα, the immortal principle, the source of life to the body and soul, without which the animal functions cannot be performed, how perfect soever the bodily organs may be; and which alone possesses the faculty of intelligence, understanding, thinking, and reasoning, and produces the faculty of speech wherever it resides, if accident have not impaired the organs of speech. The apostle prays that this compound being, in all its parts, powers, and faculties, which he terms ὁλοκληρον, their whole, comprehending all parts, every thing that constitutes man and manhood, may be sanctified and preserved blameless till the coming of Christ; hence we learn, 1. That body, soul, and spirit are debased and polluted by sin. 2. That each is capable of being sanctified, consecrated in all its powers to God, and made holy. 3. That the whole man is to be preserved to the coming of Christ, that body, soul, and spirit may be then glorified for ever with him. 4. That in this state the whole man may be so sanctified as to be preserved blameless till the coming of Christ. And thus we learn that the sanctification is not to take place in, at, or after death. On the pollution and sanctification of flesh and spirit, see the note on Co2 7:1.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
the very God--rather as the Greek, "the God of peace Himself"; who can do for you by His own power what I cannot do by all my monitions, nor you by all your efforts (Rom 16:20; Heb 13:20), namely, keep you from all evil, and give you all that is good. sanctify you--for holiness is the necessary condition of "peace" (Phi 4:6-9). wholly--Greek, "(so that you should be) perfect in every respect" [TITTMANN]. and--that is, "and so (omit 'I pray God'; not in the Greek) may your . . . spirit and soul and body be preserved," &c. whole--A different Greek word from "wholly." Translate, "entire"; with none of the integral parts wanting [TITTMANN]. It refers to man in his normal integrity, as originally designed; an ideal which shall be attained by the glorified believer. All three, spirit, soul, and body, each in its due place, constitute man "entire." The "spirit" links man with the higher intelligences of heaven, and is that highest part of man which is receptive of the quickening Holy Spirit (Co1 15:47). In the unspiritual, the spirit is so sunk under the lower animal soul (which it ought to keep under) that such are termed "animal" (English Version. "sensual," having merely the body of organized matter, and the soul the immaterial animating essence), having not the Spirit (compare Co1 2:14; see on Co1 15:44; Co1 15:46-48; Joh 3:6). The unbeliever shall rise with an animal (soul-animated) body, but not like the believer with a spiritual (spirit-endued) body like Christ's (Rom 8:11). blameless unto--rather as Greek, "blamelessly (so as to be in a blameless state) at the coming of Christ." In Hebrew, "peace" and "wholly" (perfect in every respect) are kindred terms; so that the prayer shows what the title "God of peace" implies. BENGEL takes "wholly" as collectively, all the Thessalonians without exception, so that no one should fail. And "whole (entire)," individually, each one of them entire, with "spirit, soul, and body." The mention of the preservation of the body accords with the subject (Th1 4:16). TRENCH better regards "wholly" as meaning, "having perfectly attained the moral end," namely, to be a full-grown man in Christ. "Whole," complete, with no grace which ought to be wanting in a Christian.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Brethren, pray for us. Which is added with great beauty and propriety, after the apostle had so earnestly and affectionately prayed for them; and this is directed, not to the pastors of the church only, but to all the members of it, whom the apostle styles "brethren" in a spiritual relation, as he often does; and of whom he requests, that they would pray for him, and the rest of his fellow ministers and labourers in the word, that God would more and more qualify and fit them for their work, assist in private studies and meditations, give them freedom of thought, liberty of expression, and a door of utterance, and follow their ministrations with a divine blessing and success, and deliver them out of the hands of unreasonable men; See Gill on Heb 13:18. . 1 Thessalonians 5:26 th1 5:26 th1 5:26 th1 5:26Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. In opposition, to an unchaste and hypocritical one. His meaning is, that they would salute the members of the church in his name, and give his Christian love and affections to them. And his view is to recommend to them brotherly love to each other, and to stir them up to the mutual exercise of it more and more.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these words, which conclude this epistle, observe, I. Paul's prayer for them, Th1 5:23. He had told them, in the beginning of this epistle, that he always made mention of them in his prayers; and, now that he is writing to them, he lifts up his heart to God in prayer for them. Take notice, 1. To whom the apostle prays, namely, The very God of peace. He is the God of grace, and the God of peace and love. He is the author of peace and lover of concord; and by their peaceableness and unity, from God as the author, those things would best be obtained which he prays for. 2. The things he prays for on behalf of the Thessalonians are their sanctification, that God would sanctify them wholly; and their preservation, that they might be preserved blameless. He prays that they may be wholly sanctified, that the whole man may be sanctified, and then that the whole man, spirit, soul, and body, may be preserved: or, he prays that they may be wholly sanctified, that is, more perfectly, for the best are sanctified but in part while in this world; and therefore we should pray for and press towards complete sanctification. Where the good work of grace is begun, it shall be carried on, be protected and preserved; and all those who are sanctified in Christ Jesus shall be preserved to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. And because, if God did not carry on his good work in the soul, it would miscarry, we should pray to God to perfect his work, and preserve us blameless, free from sin and impurity, till at length we are presented faultless before the throne of his glory with exceeding joy. II. His comfortable assurance that God would hear his prayer: Faithful is he who calleth you, who will also do it, Th1 5:24. The kindness and love of God had appeared to them in calling them to the knowledge of his truth, and the faithfulness of God was their security that they should persevere to the end; and therefore, the apostle assures them, God would do what he desired; he would effect what he had promised; he would accomplish all the good pleasure of his goodness towards them. Note, Our fidelity to God depends upon his faithfulness to us. III. His request of their prayers: Brethren, pray for us, Th1 5:25. We should pray for one another; and brethren should thus express brotherly love. This great apostle did not think it beneath him to call the Thessalonians brethren, nor to request their prayers. Ministers stand in need of their people's prayers; and the more people pray for their ministers the more good ministers may have from God, and the more benefit people may receive by their ministry. IV. His salutation: Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss, Th1 5:26. Thus the apostle sends a friendly salutation from himself, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, and would have them salute each other in their names; and thus he would have them signify their mutual love and affection to one another by the kiss of charity (Pe1 5:14), which is here called a holy kiss, to intimate how cautious they should be of all impurity in the use of this ceremony, then commonly practised; as it should not be a treacherous kiss like that of Judas, so not a lascivious kiss like that of the harlot, Pro 7:13. V. His solemn charge for the reading of this epistle, Th1 5:27. This is not only an exhortation, but an adjuration by the Lord. And this epistle was to be read to all the holy brethren. It is not only allowed to the common people to read the scriptures, and what none should prohibit, but it is their indispensable duty, and what they should be persuaded to do. In order to this, these holy oracles should not be kept concealed in an unknown tongue, but translated into the vulgar languages, that all men, being concerned to know the scriptures, may be able to read them, and be acquainted with them. The public reading of the law was one part of the worship of the sabbath among the Jews in their synagogues, and the scriptures should be read in the public assemblies of Christians also. VI. The apostolical benediction that is usual in other epistles: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen, Th1 5:28. We need no more to make us happy than to know that grace which our Lord Jesus Christ has manifested, be interested in that grace which he has purchased, and partake of that grace which dwells in him as the head of the church. This is an ever-flowing and overflowing fountain of grace to supply all our wants.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:23-28 Greek and Roman letters ended with a wish for the good health of the recipient. Jewish letters concluded with a peace blessing. Paul closes with a Christian variation on these practices. 5:23 God enables Christians to live a holy life (3:11-13). His sanctifying work extends to the spirit and soul and body, the totality of human life (cp. Matt 10:28; Mark 12:30; 1 Cor 7:34).