1 Thessalonians 5:9
Verse
Context
The Day of the Lord
8But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of our hope of salvation.9For God has not appointed us to suffer wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.10He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with Him.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For God hath not appointed us to wrath - So then it appears that some were appointed to wrath, εις οργην, to punishment; on this subject there can be no dispute. But who are they? When did this appointment take place? And for what cause? These are supposed to be "very difficult questions, and such as cannot receive a satisfactory answer; and the whole must be referred to the sovereignty of God." If we look carefully at the apostle's words, we shall find all these difficulties vanish. It is very obvious that, in the preceding verses, the apostle refers simply to the destruction of the Jewish polity, and to the terrible judgments which were about to fall on the Jews as a nation; therefore, they are the people who were appointed to wrath; and they were thus appointed, not from eternity, nor from any indefinite or remote time, but from that time in which they utterly rejected the offers of salvation made to them by Jesus Christ and his apostles; the privileges of their election were still continued to them, even after they had crucified the Lord of glory; for, when he gave commandment to his disciples to go into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature, he bade them begin at Jerusalem. They did so, and continued to offer salvation to them, till at last, being everywhere persecuted, and the whole nation appearing with one consent to reject the Gospel, the kingdom of God was wholly taken away from them, and the apostles turned to the Gentiles. Then God appointed them to wrath; and the cause of that appointment was their final and determined rejection of Christ and his Gospel. But even this appointment to wrath does not signify eternal damnation; nothing of the kind is intended in the word. Though we are sure that those who die in their sins can never see God, yet it is possible that many of those wretched Jews, during their calamities, and especially during the siege of their city, did turn unto the Lord who smote them, and found that salvation which he never denies to the sincere penitent. When the Jews were rejected, and appointed to wrath, then the Gentiles were elected, and appointed to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, whose Gospel they gladly received, and continue to prize; while the remnant of the Jews continue, in all places of their dispersion, the same irreconcilable and blasphemous opponents of the Gospel of Christ. On these accounts the election of the Gentiles and the reprobation of the Jews still continue.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--assigning the ground of our "hopes" (Th1 5:8). appointed us--Translate, "set" (Act 13:47), in His everlasting purpose of love (Th1 3:3; Ti2 1:9). Contrast Rom 9:22; Jde 1:4. to--that is, unto wrath. to obtain--Greek, "to the acquisition of salvation"; said, according to BENGEL, Of One saved out of a general wreck, when all things else have been lost: so of the elect saved out of the multitude of the lost (Th2 2:13-14). The fact of God's "appointment" of His grace "through Jesus Christ" (Eph 1:5), takes away the notion of our being able to "acquire" salvation of ourselves. Christ "acquired (so the Greek for 'purchased') the Church (and its salvation) with His own blood" (Act 20:28); each member is said to be appointed by God to the "acquiring of salvation." In the primary sense, God does the work; in the secondary sense, man does it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God hath not appointed us to wrath,.... To destruction and ruin, the effect of wrath; though there are some that are vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction, of old ordained to condemnation, and who are reserved for the day of evil; but there are others who are equally children of wrath, as deserving of the wrath of God in themselves as others, who are not appointed to it; which is an instance of wonderful and distinguishing grace to them: but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ; salvation is alone by Christ, he alone has wrought it out; it is in him, and in no other; he was appointed to this work, was called and sent, and came to do it, and has done it; and God's elect, who were chosen in him, are appointed in the counsel and purpose of God, to obtain, possess, and enjoy this salvation; and which, as this appointment may be known, as it was by these Thessalonians; the Gospel having come to them, not in word only, but in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as it is an encouragement to faith and hope, so it excites to sobriety and watchfulness, and the discharge of every duty. The doctrine of predestination does not lead to despair, but encourages the hope of salvation; and it is no licentious doctrine, for election to salvation by Christ is through sanctification of the Spirit, and unto holiness; and good works are the fruits of it, and are what God has foreordained his people should walk in.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:9 God’s anger (1:10; 2:16; Rom 5:9; cp. 2 Thes 1:6-10; 2:8) represents the carrying out of his judgment against evil. However, God destined believers for salvation, not wrath (2 Thes 2:13-14), and they will escape the terrors of the day of the Lord (1 Thes 5:1-3).
1 Thessalonians 5:9
The Day of the Lord
8But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of our hope of salvation.9For God has not appointed us to suffer wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.10He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with Him.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Life of Elijah - Part 5
By Major Ian Thomas5.1K1:06:15Elijah1TH 5:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding our spiritual condition. He starts by sharing a story about a man who believed he was dead, despite all evidence to the contrary. The speaker then draws a parallel between this man's delusion and the danger of believing we are spiritually alive when we are actually spiritually dead. He highlights the consequences of this misunderstanding and emphasizes that Jesus died not just to save us from hell, but to bring God's presence into our lives. The sermon encourages listeners to truly grasp the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and live in the power of his indwelling.
Letter to the Thessalonians - Part 2
By Stephen Kaung9451:11:08PSA 46:41TH 5:91TH 5:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the coming judgment of God upon the earth. He describes how one day, seven angels will pour out the fury of God upon the earth, bringing about the wrath of God. However, the preacher also highlights the hope and deliverance found in Jesus Christ. He explains that Jesus took upon himself the wrath of God when he was crucified on the cross, becoming our substitute. Through faith in Jesus, believers are delivered from the coming judgment and enter into the full salvation of God. The preacher concludes by emphasizing the great family reunion that will occur when the Lord returns, where believers will be received by the Lord and be together with him forever.
Praise for the Redeemed Part 2
By Chuck Smith87925:04RedeemedPSA 24:1PSA 116:12PSA 118:1MAT 28:191TH 5:9In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses the question of what we can give to God for all His benefits towards us. He emphasizes that there is nothing material that we can give to God that isn't already His. The Psalm being discussed praises the Lord for His merciful kindness and the enduring truth of the Lord. Pastor Chuck also mentions the importance of recognizing God's mercy and kindness in not bringing judgment upon mankind, despite our deserving it. He warns that the day of God's wrath is coming and points out the presence of scoffers who question the promise of His coming.
The Divine Logic
By Major Ian Thomas91:05:57Living in ChristDivine Logic1TH 5:9Major Ian Thomas emphasizes the concept of 'The Divine Logic,' illustrating how Jesus, while fully God, lived as a perfect man to demonstrate what humanity should be. He explains that God's demands on man are logical from His perspective, as He empowers us to fulfill them through His presence within us. Thomas argues that true Christianity is not merely about being redeemed but about allowing Christ to live through us, restoring the intended relationship between God and man. He highlights that the essence of the Christian life is to let God be God in us, enabling us to express His character and purpose in our lives. Ultimately, the sermon calls believers to recognize the transformative power of Christ within them, which is essential for living a fulfilling Christian life.
Of the Anger and Wrath of God.
By John Gill0Divine JusticeGod's AngerDEU 29:24PSA 7:11PSA 90:11ISA 54:9MAT 3:7JHN 3:36ROM 1:18EPH 4:261TH 5:9REV 22:3John Gill addresses the anger and wrath of God, emphasizing that while God is loving and merciful, He also possesses anger and wrath as responses to sin. He distinguishes between God's anger, which is a displeasure with sin, and His wrath, which is the execution of justice against sin. Gill explains that God's anger is directed towards both the wicked and His own people when they sin, but His anger towards His people is temporary and rooted in love. He warns that God's wrath is serious and will ultimately be executed against unrepentant sinners, while also highlighting the grace available through Christ for those who believe. The sermon serves as a reminder of the seriousness of sin and the need for repentance.
The Divine Tension
By Allan Halton0MAT 11:28EPH 1:11PHP 2:121TH 5:91PE 1:10Allan Halton delves into the divine tension present in the Christian life, emphasizing the balance between God's sovereignty and man's responsibility. While Scriptures assure believers of their secure salvation and predestination, there is also a call for diligent discipline and active participation in working out one's salvation. The sermon highlights the importance of maintaining this tension to avoid spiritual ruin, drawing parallels to tending a garden that requires continual care and cultivation.
The Day of Seven Troubles
By Allan Halton0JOB 5:19PSA 91:151TH 1:31TH 3:31TH 5:9Allan Halton preaches on the importance of enduring hardships and persecution as Christians, drawing inspiration from George Fox and the early Friends who faced trials with faith and patience. Just like Job and the early Quakers, believers are tested and refined by God in times of trouble, with the promise of deliverance and salvation sustaining them. Paul's words to the Thessalonians emphasize the necessity of enduring tribulations with faith and love, as a testament to God's righteous judgment and the eventual recompense for those who trouble God's people.
The Hell of Hell
By Thomas Brooks0Salvation through ChristEternal PunishmentMAT 25:41MAT 25:461TH 5:9Thomas Brooks delivers a sobering sermon titled 'The Hell of Hell,' emphasizing the eternal nature of the torments faced by the damned. He illustrates that the suffering in hell is not only diverse and grievous but, most importantly, everlasting, which adds to the horror of their plight. Brooks uses vivid imagery to convey that even the thought of a potential end to suffering would provide some comfort, but the reality of eternal punishment is a source of unending despair. He contrasts the fate of the reprobate with the salvation offered through Christ, urging listeners to exalt the Savior who rescues them from such eternal wrath.
Posttribulational Denial of Imminency and Wrath
By John F. Walvoord0JER 30:7MAT 24:21MAT 24:44JHN 14:31CO 15:521TH 5:92TH 2:1REV 6:9REV 7:14REV 12:12John F. Walvoord addresses Robert Gundry's attempt to deny the imminency of the rapture by redefining the term 'imminent,' emphasizing that the rapture could occur at any moment without necessary intervening events. Walvoord highlights the importance of understanding the concept of imminence in relation to the hope of the rapture before the tribulation, not survival through it, and refutes Gundry's redefinition of imminence to fit his posttribulational view. Additionally, Walvoord challenges Gundry's denial of divine wrath in the great tribulation, pointing out that the tribulation is a time of both satanic and divine wrath, and that the church cannot escape severe trials during this period. Lastly, Walvoord examines Gundry's exegetical premises of dispensational posttribulationism, focusing on key passages like the Olivet Discourse and the Upper Room Discourse to address the theological issues involved.
The Mystery of Iniquity
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0ISA 14:14MAT 24:21LUK 4:5ROM 11:25EPH 3:11TH 5:92TH 2:71TI 3:16REV 13:4Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the concept of the 'kingdom of heaven' and its various stages throughout history, from God ruling through patriarchs, judges, and kings of Israel to the rejection and crucifixion of the rightful King, leading to the new age of blessings. He emphasizes the foreknowledge and plan of God in the rejection and delay of the earthly kingdom, as well as the mysteries surrounding the present divine government and purposes on earth, including the church's role and the manifestation of the 'mystery of iniquity.' Chafer also discusses the tribulation period, the 'Man of Sin,' and the distinct divine purposes during that time, highlighting the importance of understanding these prophecies for a comprehensive view of the end times.
Doing What Christ Demands
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 16:8MAT 16:24PHP 1:211TH 5:9REV 12:11Mary Wilder Tileston, in her sermon, emphasizes the importance of self-surrender to God, inspired by the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ. She highlights the need for Christians to be willing to make sacrifices, whether big or small, in response to all that Christ has done for them. Tileston points out that true strength and nobility in life come from this self-surrender, as exemplified by the life of St. Stephen, and that death, when faced with this surrender, is akin to peacefully falling asleep in Christ.
The Tribulation, and Those Who Are to Pass Through It.
By William Kelly0ISA 30:30DAN 12:1MAT 24:21LUK 21:20ROM 8:171TH 5:9REV 17:1William Kelly preaches about the great tribulation, emphasizing the distinction between the tribulation that the Christian must endure in this world and the specific trouble at the end of the age that the prophets speak of. He highlights the importance of understanding the unerring testimony of God regarding the final tribulation, which is solely for the Jewish people and not for Christians. Kelly explains the significance of the tribulation falling upon the Jews in the future, the role of Michael the archangel in standing for the children of Daniel's people, and the necessity for the faithful Jewish remnant to escape the impending tribulation by following the Lord's instructions.
Wrath and Mercy
By Christopher Love0ISA 1:9LUK 10:20JHN 10:28ROM 8:30EPH 1:51TH 5:9JAS 1:171PE 1:22PE 1:10REV 2:17Christopher Love preaches on the doctrine of predestination, emphasizing that those appointed by God for salvation can be assured of their election and should strive to make it sure through sanctification and obedience. He refutes the idea that a person can be certain of damnation, highlighting God's unchangeable decrees and the assurance of salvation for the elect. Love explains that God's decrees are limited to a small number of mankind, yet this does not make Him cruel, but rather showcases His sovereignty and mercy. He concludes by encouraging believers to pray for sanctification and the fruits of predestination, as the work of election is already completed.
The Church and the Great Tribulation
By Arno Clemens Gaebelein0JER 30:7MAT 16:18ACT 14:22ROM 8:35ROM 12:12EPH 3:11TH 5:92TH 1:4REV 3:10Arno Clemens Gaebelein preaches about the blessed hope of the coming of our Lord, emphasizing the revival of the study of prophecy and the separation of believers based on sound doctrine. He delves into the distinction between the Coming of the Lord for His Saints and with His Saints, addressing the controversy surrounding the church's relation to the great tribulation. Gaebelein explores the origin and destiny of the church, highlighting its heavenly calling and the love-relation as the bride of Christ. He also discusses the nature of tribulation, distinguishing between personal tribulations faced by believers and the future punitive tribulation upon the world and Israel.
Concerning the Spiritual Warfare
By George Fox0EPH 1:141TH 5:92TH 2:14HEB 10:391PE 2:9The preacher delves into the concept of 'possession' (peripoiesis) in the Bible, emphasizing the idea of acquiring, preserving, and securing something, particularly salvation and glory. The term signifies God's people as His own possession, acquired through the precious blood of Jesus, and set apart to proclaim His excellencies. Through various verses in the New Testament and the Septuagint, the sermon highlights how Christians are a treasured possession of God, called to live in His marvelous light and declare His praises to the world.
Turned Into Beasts, Birds, Stones, Trees, or Air
By Thomas Brooks0SalvationJudgmentPSA 9:17MAT 25:41MRK 9:48LUK 16:23JHN 3:36ROM 2:61TH 5:92TH 1:9HEB 12:29REV 20:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the terrifying reality of God's judgment, portraying Him as a consuming fire that will expose the ungodly to their sins and divine justice. He vividly describes the horror and despair that will engulf those who have turned away from God, as they face the consequences of their actions and the reality of hell. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the urgency for repentance and the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ, contrasting the fate of the ungodly with the promise of salvation for believers.
A Misery Beyond All Expression!
By Thomas Brooks0RepentanceEternal JudgmentISA 33:14MAT 13:50MAT 25:41MRK 9:43LUK 16:231TH 1:101TH 5:92TH 1:9HEB 10:31REV 20:10Thomas Brooks delivers a powerful sermon on the dire consequences of rejecting Christ, emphasizing the eternal torment awaiting the ungodly as depicted in Matthew 25:41. He describes the horror of being cast away from God's presence, highlighting the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels, and the unending curses that will befall those who scorn the gospel. Brooks warns that the agony of hell is not only in its severity but also in its permanence, as the damned will suffer without relief forever. He urges listeners to consider the weight of their choices and the importance of repentance to avoid such a fate. Ultimately, he reminds us of the hope found in Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath.
The Very Place in Which the Wicked Shall Lodge
By Thomas Brooks0Salvation through ChristEternal JudgmentPSA 9:17MAT 25:41MRK 9:43LUK 16:23JHN 3:36ROM 6:231TH 1:101TH 5:92TH 1:9REV 20:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes the certainty and severity of hell for the wicked, describing it as a place of eternal torment where divine justice holds them captive. He vividly illustrates the horrors of hell, likening it to a bottomless pit and a fiery furnace, and questions why anyone would choose to dwell there even for a moment. Brooks highlights the contrast of this dreadful fate with the salvation offered through Jesus Christ, who rescues believers from impending wrath. He calls for gratitude and exaltation of Christ, who endured hellish sorrows to free us from sin and its consequences. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the eternal stakes involved in our choices regarding faith and righteousness.
Day 245, Revelation 7
By David Servant0EPH 2:71TH 5:9REV 7:3REV 14:1REV 22:4David Servant delves into the intricate details of the seventh-chapter interlude in the 'seal judgments' in Revelation, exploring the significance of the mark on the foreheads of the 144,000 bond-servants of God, possibly representing all believers marked with the names of the Lamb and His Father. He raises thought-provoking questions about the lineage of the 144,000 and the timing of events such as the rapture and the torment of non-believers during the tribulation. Despite the uncertainties and mysteries surrounding these prophecies, believers are assured that they are not destined for God's wrath but for eternal blessings and grace in Christ Jesus.
Part 27: Posttribulationism
By John F. Walvoord0JER 30:7DAN 12:1MAT 24:21LUK 21:36JHN 16:33ACT 14:22ROM 2:91TH 5:9REV 2:10REV 3:10John F. Walvoord discusses the contrasting views of Posttribulationism and Pretribulationism within the church, highlighting the majority acceptance of Pretribulationism among premillenarians. Posttribulationism is described as the belief that the church will go through the predicted tribulation, embraced by various denominations. The variations within Posttribulationism are explored, with some viewing the entire present age as the tribulation while others see it as a future period. The arguments for Posttribulationism are examined, including the ad hominem approach and the historical perspective, with a focus on the nature of the tribulation and the church.
Salvation
By Hyman Appelman0JHN 14:6ACT 2:38ROM 10:9EPH 2:81TH 5:9Hyman Appelman preaches on the valuable, desirable, and obtainable nature of salvation through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that salvation includes the forgiveness of sins, adoption into God's family, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and the promise of a heavenly home. Appelman highlights the importance of faith in Christ for salvation, explaining that it is a free gift from God's love, but it requires surrendering everything to follow Christ wholeheartedly.
Day 244, Revelation 6
By David Servant0MAT 24:51TH 5:9REV 6:2David Servant preaches on the Book of Revelation, highlighting the perilous days that precede Christ's return. The chapter reveals the antichrist, symbolized by the first horseman of the apocalypse, who deceives the world by portraying himself as the Messiah. The earth will face war, famine, death, and disease during the antichrist's reign, leading to widespread judgment. Believers will experience martyrdom, with a reminder that forgiveness is not always immediate or required. The chapter concludes with a description of the events preceding Jesus' return, emphasizing the need for believers to be prepared and faithful.
Trusting When We Cannot See
By Alan Redpath0JHN 11:25ACT 17:31ROM 1:41TH 1:101TH 5:9The preacher delves into the Greek word 'anemeno' which conveys the concept of expectant waiting, emphasizing sustained, patient, and trusting waiting for the imminent return of Jesus Christ. This word is used figuratively in 2Clement 19:4 to describe a blessed time awaiting the devout and debtors who are to pay up promptly. 'Anemeno' is used in the New Testament only once and in the Septuagint four times, highlighting the eager anticipation for justice and hope. The preacher emphasizes that 'anemeno' means more than just waiting; it signifies an active attempt to live for God's glory while expectantly awaiting the fulfillment of messianic promises in Christ's second coming.
The Rapture!
By Chuck Smith0The RaptureReadiness for Christ's ReturnMAT 24:32LUK 21:281CO 15:512CO 5:2PHP 1:21PHP 3:201TH 4:131TH 5:9JAS 5:7REV 4:1Chuck Smith emphasizes the profound difference between death for Christians and non-Christians, describing it as a transition to be with Christ, which is far better. He explains the concept of the Rapture, where believers will be suddenly taken up to meet the Lord, and reassures that this event is distinct from the Second Coming. Smith encourages believers to be watchful and ready for the Rapture, highlighting the signs of the times, particularly the re-establishment of Israel. He warns against complacency and urges individuals to prepare their hearts for Christ's return, emphasizing the urgency of accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior. The sermon concludes with a call to readiness, reminding listeners of the hope and joy found in being part of the Church at the time of the Rapture.
Perpetual Fuel to the Flames of Hell!
By Thomas Brooks0SalvationEternal JudgmentISA 27:111TH 1:101TH 5:9REV 9:6Thomas Brooks delivers a sobering sermon on the nature of hell, emphasizing that unlike earthly fire, the flames of hell do not consume but perpetually torment the damned. He illustrates the eternal suffering of those in hell, who will long for death but find it elusive, enduring a state of perpetual anguish without annihilation. Brooks highlights the despair of being eternally burned yet never consumed, a fate that underscores the severity of divine judgment. He contrasts this with the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ, who rescues believers from such wrath. The sermon serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of sin and the importance of seeking redemption.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For God hath not appointed us to wrath - So then it appears that some were appointed to wrath, εις οργην, to punishment; on this subject there can be no dispute. But who are they? When did this appointment take place? And for what cause? These are supposed to be "very difficult questions, and such as cannot receive a satisfactory answer; and the whole must be referred to the sovereignty of God." If we look carefully at the apostle's words, we shall find all these difficulties vanish. It is very obvious that, in the preceding verses, the apostle refers simply to the destruction of the Jewish polity, and to the terrible judgments which were about to fall on the Jews as a nation; therefore, they are the people who were appointed to wrath; and they were thus appointed, not from eternity, nor from any indefinite or remote time, but from that time in which they utterly rejected the offers of salvation made to them by Jesus Christ and his apostles; the privileges of their election were still continued to them, even after they had crucified the Lord of glory; for, when he gave commandment to his disciples to go into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature, he bade them begin at Jerusalem. They did so, and continued to offer salvation to them, till at last, being everywhere persecuted, and the whole nation appearing with one consent to reject the Gospel, the kingdom of God was wholly taken away from them, and the apostles turned to the Gentiles. Then God appointed them to wrath; and the cause of that appointment was their final and determined rejection of Christ and his Gospel. But even this appointment to wrath does not signify eternal damnation; nothing of the kind is intended in the word. Though we are sure that those who die in their sins can never see God, yet it is possible that many of those wretched Jews, during their calamities, and especially during the siege of their city, did turn unto the Lord who smote them, and found that salvation which he never denies to the sincere penitent. When the Jews were rejected, and appointed to wrath, then the Gentiles were elected, and appointed to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, whose Gospel they gladly received, and continue to prize; while the remnant of the Jews continue, in all places of their dispersion, the same irreconcilable and blasphemous opponents of the Gospel of Christ. On these accounts the election of the Gentiles and the reprobation of the Jews still continue.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--assigning the ground of our "hopes" (Th1 5:8). appointed us--Translate, "set" (Act 13:47), in His everlasting purpose of love (Th1 3:3; Ti2 1:9). Contrast Rom 9:22; Jde 1:4. to--that is, unto wrath. to obtain--Greek, "to the acquisition of salvation"; said, according to BENGEL, Of One saved out of a general wreck, when all things else have been lost: so of the elect saved out of the multitude of the lost (Th2 2:13-14). The fact of God's "appointment" of His grace "through Jesus Christ" (Eph 1:5), takes away the notion of our being able to "acquire" salvation of ourselves. Christ "acquired (so the Greek for 'purchased') the Church (and its salvation) with His own blood" (Act 20:28); each member is said to be appointed by God to the "acquiring of salvation." In the primary sense, God does the work; in the secondary sense, man does it.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God hath not appointed us to wrath,.... To destruction and ruin, the effect of wrath; though there are some that are vessels of wrath, fitted for destruction, of old ordained to condemnation, and who are reserved for the day of evil; but there are others who are equally children of wrath, as deserving of the wrath of God in themselves as others, who are not appointed to it; which is an instance of wonderful and distinguishing grace to them: but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ; salvation is alone by Christ, he alone has wrought it out; it is in him, and in no other; he was appointed to this work, was called and sent, and came to do it, and has done it; and God's elect, who were chosen in him, are appointed in the counsel and purpose of God, to obtain, possess, and enjoy this salvation; and which, as this appointment may be known, as it was by these Thessalonians; the Gospel having come to them, not in word only, but in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as it is an encouragement to faith and hope, so it excites to sobriety and watchfulness, and the discharge of every duty. The doctrine of predestination does not lead to despair, but encourages the hope of salvation; and it is no licentious doctrine, for election to salvation by Christ is through sanctification of the Spirit, and unto holiness; and good works are the fruits of it, and are what God has foreordained his people should walk in.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:9 God’s anger (1:10; 2:16; Rom 5:9; cp. 2 Thes 1:6-10; 2:8) represents the carrying out of his judgment against evil. However, God destined believers for salvation, not wrath (2 Thes 2:13-14), and they will escape the terrors of the day of the Lord (1 Thes 5:1-3).