V
*
1. the greeting
1:1
 
Chapter 1
1 Paul and Sylvanus and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians: in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ.
V
>
2. the message, at we give thanks to God always for you all
1:2
7
Chapter 1
2 Grace be to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for you all: making a remembrance of you in our prayers without ceasing,
3 Being mindful of the work of your faith and labour and charity: and of the enduring of the hope of our Lord Jesus Christ before God and our Father.
4 Knowing, brethren, beloved of God, your election:
5 For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness, as you know what manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.
6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord: receiving the word in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
7 So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.
8 For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.
9 For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
Chapter 2
For yourselves know, brethren, our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
2 But having suffered many things before and been shamefully treated, (as you know) at Philippi, we had confidence in our God, to speak unto you the gospel of God in much carefulness.
3 For our exhortation was not of error, nor of uncleanness, nor in deceit.
4 But as we were approved by God that the gospel should be committed to us: even so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who proveth our hearts.
5 For neither have we used at any time the speech of flattery, as you know: nor taken an occasion of covetousness (God is witness):
6 Nor sought we glory of men, neither of you, nor of others.
7 Whereas we might have been burdensome to you, as the apostles of Christ: but we became little ones in the midst of you, as if a nurse should cherish her children:
8 So desirous of you, we would gladly impart unto you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls: because you were become most dear unto us.
9 For you remember, brethren, our labour and toil: working night and day, lest we should be chargeable to any of you, we preached among you the gospel of God.
10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and without blame we have been to you that have believed:
11 As you know in what manner, entreating and comforting you (as a father doth his children),
12 We testified to every one of you that you would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.
13 Therefore, we also give thanks to God without ceasing: because that when you had received of us the word of the hearing of God, you received it not as the word of men, but (as it is indeed) the word of God, who worketh in you that have believed.
14 For you, brethren, are become followers of the churches of God which are in Judea, in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered the same things from your own countrymen, even as they have from the Jews:
15 Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and the prophets, and have persecuted us, and please not God, and are adversaries to all men;
16 Prohibiting us to speak to the Gentiles, that they may be saved, to fill up their sins always: for the wrath of God is come upon them to the end.
17 But we, brethren, being taken away from you for a short time, in sight, not in heart, have hastened the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.
18 For we would have come unto you, I Paul indeed, once and again: but Satan hath hindered us.
19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of glory? Are not you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
20 For you are our glory and joy.
Chapter 3
For which cause, forbearing no longer, we thought it good to remain at Athens alone.
2 And we sent Timothy, our brother and the minister of God in the gospel of Christ, to confirm you and exhort you concerning your faith:
3 That no man should be moved in these tribulations: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.
4 For even when we were with you, we foretold you that we should suffer tribulations: as also it is come to pass, and you know.
5 For this cause also, I, forbearing no longer, sent to know your faith: lest perhaps he that tempteth should have tempted you: and our labour should be made vain.
6 But now when Timothy came to us from you and related to us your faith and charity, and that you have a good remembrance of us always, desiring to see us as we also to see you:
7 Therefore we were comforted, brethren, in you, in all our necessity and tribulation, by your faith.
8 Because now we live, if you stand in the Lord.
9 For what thanks can we return to God for you, in all the joy wherewith we rejoice for you before our God,
10 Night and day more abundantly praying that we may see your face and may accomplish those things that are wanting to your faith?
11 Now God himself and our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.
12 And may the Lord multiply you and make you abound in charity towards one another and towards all men: as we do also towards you,
13 To confirm your hearts without blame, in holiness, before God and our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, with all his saints. Amen.
Chapter 4
1 For the rest therefore, brethren, pray and beseech you in the Lord Jesus that, as you have received from us, how you ought to walk and to please God, so also you would walk, that you may abound the more.
2 For you know what precepts I have given to you by the Lord Jesus.
3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: That you should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
6 And that no man overreach nor circumvent his brother in business: because the Lord is the avenger of all these things, as we have told you before and have testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
9 But as touching the charity of brotherhood, we have no need to write to you: for yourselves have learned of God to love one another.
10 For indeed you do it towards all the brethren in all Macedonia. But we entreat you, brethren, that you abound more:
11 And that you use your endeavour to be quiet: and that you do your own business and work with your own hands, as we commanded you: and that you walk honestly towards them that are without: and that you want nothing of any man’s.
12 And we will not have you ignorant brethren, concerning them that are asleep, that you be not sorrowful, even as others who have no hope.
13 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again: even so them who have slept through Jesus, will God bring with him.
14 For this we say unto you in the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them who have slept.
15 For the Lord himself shall come down from heaven with commandment and with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God: and the dead who are in Christ shall rise first.
16 Then we who are alive, who are left, shall be taken up together with them in the clouds to meet Christ, into the air: and so shall we be always with the Lord.
17 Wherefore, comfort ye one another with these words.
Chapter 5
But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not, that we should write to you:
2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord shall so come as a thief in the night.
3 For when they shall say: Peace and security; then shall sudden destruction come upon them, as the pains upon her that is with child, and they shall not escape.
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief.
5 For all you are the children of light and children of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness.
6 Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch, and be sober.
7 For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that are drunk, are drunk in the night.
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, having on the breast plate of faith and charity and, for a helmet, the hope of salvation.
9 For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
10 Who died for us: that, whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him.
11 For which cause comfort one another and edify one another, as you also do.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you;
13 That you esteem them more abundantly in charity, for their work’s sake. Have peace with them.
14 And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet: comfort the feeble minded: support the weak: be patient towards all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil to any man: but ever follow that which is good towards each other and towards all men.
16 Always rejoice.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all.
19 Extinguish not the spirit.
20 Despise not prophecies.
21 But prove all things: hold fast that which is good.
22 From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves.
23 And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
24 He is faithful who hath called you, who also will do it.
25 Brethren, pray for us.
26 Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss.
27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.
28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
V
>
1. first, he commends them for their past perseverance
 
 
Chapter 1
2 Grace be to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for you all: making a remembrance of you in our prayers without ceasing,
3 Being mindful of the work of your faith and labour and charity: and of the enduring of the hope of our Lord Jesus Christ before God and our Father.
4 Knowing, brethren, beloved of God, your election:
5 For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness, as you know what manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.
6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord: receiving the word in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
7 So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.
8 For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.
9 For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
Chapter 2
For yourselves know, brethren, our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
2 But having suffered many things before and been shamefully treated, (as you know) at Philippi, we had confidence in our God, to speak unto you the gospel of God in much carefulness.
3 For our exhortation was not of error, nor of uncleanness, nor in deceit.
4 But as we were approved by God that the gospel should be committed to us: even so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who proveth our hearts.
5 For neither have we used at any time the speech of flattery, as you know: nor taken an occasion of covetousness (God is witness):
6 Nor sought we glory of men, neither of you, nor of others.
7 Whereas we might have been burdensome to you, as the apostles of Christ: but we became little ones in the midst of you, as if a nurse should cherish her children:
8 So desirous of you, we would gladly impart unto you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls: because you were become most dear unto us.
9 For you remember, brethren, our labour and toil: working night and day, lest we should be chargeable to any of you, we preached among you the gospel of God.
10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and without blame we have been to you that have believed:
11 As you know in what manner, entreating and comforting you (as a father doth his children),
12 We testified to every one of you that you would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.
13 Therefore, we also give thanks to God without ceasing: because that when you had received of us the word of the hearing of God, you received it not as the word of men, but (as it is indeed) the word of God, who worketh in you that have believed.
14 For you, brethren, are become followers of the churches of God which are in Judea, in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered the same things from your own countrymen, even as they have from the Jews:
15 Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and the prophets, and have persecuted us, and please not God, and are adversaries to all men;
16 Prohibiting us to speak to the Gentiles, that they may be saved, to fill up their sins always: for the wrath of God is come upon them to the end.
17 But we, brethren, being taken away from you for a short time, in sight, not in heart, have hastened the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.
18 For we would have come unto you, I Paul indeed, once and again: but Satan hath hindered us.
19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of glory? Are not you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
20 For you are our glory and joy.
Chapter 3
For which cause, forbearing no longer, we thought it good to remain at Athens alone.
2 And we sent Timothy, our brother and the minister of God in the gospel of Christ, to confirm you and exhort you concerning your faith:
3 That no man should be moved in these tribulations: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.
4 For even when we were with you, we foretold you that we should suffer tribulations: as also it is come to pass, and you know.
5 For this cause also, I, forbearing no longer, sent to know your faith: lest perhaps he that tempteth should have tempted you: and our labour should be made vain.
6 But now when Timothy came to us from you and related to us your faith and charity, and that you have a good remembrance of us always, desiring to see us as we also to see you:
7 Therefore we were comforted, brethren, in you, in all our necessity and tribulation, by your faith.
8 Because now we live, if you stand in the Lord.
9 For what thanks can we return to God for you, in all the joy wherewith we rejoice for you before our God,
10 Night and day more abundantly praying that we may see your face and may accomplish those things that are wanting to your faith?
11 Now God himself and our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.
12 And may the Lord multiply you and make you abound in charity towards one another and towards all men: as we do also towards you,
13 To confirm your hearts without blame, in holiness, before God and our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, with all his saints. Amen.
V
>
1. first, he gives thanks in general for their blessings
 
 
Chapter 1
2 Grace be to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for you all: making a remembrance of you in our prayers without ceasing,
3 Being mindful of the work of your faith and labour and charity: and of the enduring of the hope of our Lord Jesus Christ before God and our Father.
>
1. first, he offers a thanksgiving
 
 
>
1. first, he gives thanks for them, and he mentions three things that ought to be present in thanksgiving
 
8
*
1. first, thanksgiving should be directed to God, at we give thanks to God
 
 
*
2. second, thanksgiving should be unceasing, at always
 
 
*
3. third, it should be universal, at for you all
 
 
*
2. second, Paul prays for them, at making a remembrance
 
9
>
2. second, he indicates the reason for the thanksgiving, at being mindful
1:3
10
>
1. first, he mentions the blessings for which he offers thanks
 
 
*
1. first, he mentions faith because it is an essential condition for obtaining the things to be hoped for, a means of revelation not based on appearances
 
 
*
2. charity
 
 
*
3. hope
 
 
V
>
2. second, he remarks upon their blessings in particular matters, at knowing, brethren
1:4
11
Chapter 1
4 Knowing, brethren, beloved of God, your election:
5 For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness, as you know what manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.
6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord: receiving the word in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
7 So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.
8 For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.
9 For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
Chapter 2
For yourselves know, brethren, our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
2 But having suffered many things before and been shamefully treated, (as you know) at Philippi, we had confidence in our God, to speak unto you the gospel of God in much carefulness.
3 For our exhortation was not of error, nor of uncleanness, nor in deceit.
4 But as we were approved by God that the gospel should be committed to us: even so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who proveth our hearts.
5 For neither have we used at any time the speech of flattery, as you know: nor taken an occasion of covetousness (God is witness):
6 Nor sought we glory of men, neither of you, nor of others.
7 Whereas we might have been burdensome to you, as the apostles of Christ: but we became little ones in the midst of you, as if a nurse should cherish her children:
8 So desirous of you, we would gladly impart unto you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls: because you were become most dear unto us.
9 For you remember, brethren, our labour and toil: working night and day, lest we should be chargeable to any of you, we preached among you the gospel of God.
10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and without blame we have been to you that have believed:
11 As you know in what manner, entreating and comforting you (as a father doth his children),
12 We testified to every one of you that you would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.
13 Therefore, we also give thanks to God without ceasing: because that when you had received of us the word of the hearing of God, you received it not as the word of men, but (as it is indeed) the word of God, who worketh in you that have believed.
14 For you, brethren, are become followers of the churches of God which are in Judea, in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered the same things from your own countrymen, even as they have from the Jews:
15 Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and the prophets, and have persecuted us, and please not God, and are adversaries to all men;
16 Prohibiting us to speak to the Gentiles, that they may be saved, to fill up their sins always: for the wrath of God is come upon them to the end.
17 But we, brethren, being taken away from you for a short time, in sight, not in heart, have hastened the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.
18 For we would have come unto you, I Paul indeed, once and again: but Satan hath hindered us.
19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of glory? Are not you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
20 For you are our glory and joy.
Chapter 3
For which cause, forbearing no longer, we thought it good to remain at Athens alone.
2 And we sent Timothy, our brother and the minister of God in the gospel of Christ, to confirm you and exhort you concerning your faith:
3 That no man should be moved in these tribulations: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.
4 For even when we were with you, we foretold you that we should suffer tribulations: as also it is come to pass, and you know.
5 For this cause also, I, forbearing no longer, sent to know your faith: lest perhaps he that tempteth should have tempted you: and our labour should be made vain.
6 But now when Timothy came to us from you and related to us your faith and charity, and that you have a good remembrance of us always, desiring to see us as we also to see you:
7 Therefore we were comforted, brethren, in you, in all our necessity and tribulation, by your faith.
8 Because now we live, if you stand in the Lord.
9 For what thanks can we return to God for you, in all the joy wherewith we rejoice for you before our God,
10 Night and day more abundantly praying that we may see your face and may accomplish those things that are wanting to your faith?
11 Now God himself and our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.
12 And may the Lord multiply you and make you abound in charity towards one another and towards all men: as we do also towards you,
13 To confirm your hearts without blame, in holiness, before God and our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, with all his saints. Amen.
V
>
1. first, he congratulates them for having received the gospel devoutly and willingly in spite of tribulations
 
 
Chapter 1
4 Knowing, brethren, beloved of God, your election:
5 For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness, as you know what manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.
6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord: receiving the word in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
7 So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.
8 For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.
9 For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
V
>
1. first, he points out the kind of preaching that had been given to them
 
 
Chapter 1
4 Knowing, brethren, beloved of God, your election:
5 For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness, as you know what manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.
V
>
1. first, he tells what he knew about them
 
12
Chapter 1
4 Knowing, brethren, beloved of God, your election:
>
1. first, so Paul says, brethren, beloved of God, not only generally, insofar as God gives existence to all of nature, but specifically, insofar as you are each called to an eternal reward
 
 
*
1. first, yet I have loved Jacob (Mal 1:3)
 
 
*
2. second, all those consecrated to him were in his hand (Deut 33:3)
 
 
>
2. second, your election, as if implying: I am certain that you are among the elect
 
 
*
1. first, although you did not merit this election
 
 
>
2. second, rather you are freely chosen by God; and I know this because God granted me abundant evidence of this in preaching
 
 
*
1. first, that is, that those to whom I preach are chosen by God, for God gives them the grace to listen profitably to the word preached to them
 
 
*
2. second, or else, God gives me the grace to preach rewardingly to them; what is said in Ezekiel would seem to contradict this: and I will make your tongue cleave to the roof of your mouth, so that you shall be dumb (Ezek 3:26).
 
 
V
>
2. second, to counter this, he indicates the manner of his preaching, at for our gospel
1:5
13
Chapter 1
5 For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness, as you know what manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.
V
>
1. first, powerfully, because he came not in loftiness of speech, but in power
 
 
5a For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness,
>
1. first, and Paul first calls to mind how powerfully he preached to them
 
 
*
1. first, and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and power (1 Cor 2:4)
 
 
*
2. second, for the kingdom of God does not consist in talk but in power (1 Cor 4:20)
 
 
>
2. second, now this may have reference either to the authentication of his preaching or to the manner of his preaching
 
 
>
1. first, if it is the first alternative, then Paul’s preaching to them was authenticated not by arguments but by two things
 
 
*
1. first, but by the power of signs, and so it is said: the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by the signs that attended it (Mark 16:20)
 
 
>
2. second, and by the giving of the Holy Spirit; so Paul says, and in the Holy Spirit
 
 
*
1. first, while Peter was still saying this, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word (Acts 10:44)
 
 
*
2. second, while God also bore witness by signs and wonders and various miracles and by gifts of the Holy Spirit (Heb 2:4)
 
 
>
3. third, and in much fullness; Paul adds this so that they would not believe that they received less than the Jews, indicating that the Holy Spirit does not discriminate among persons
 
 
*
1. first, but that the preaching was in the same fullness among them as among the Jews
 
 
*
2. second, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4)
 
 
>
2. second, but if it is the second alternative, then in power seems to mean showing you a virtuous life
 
 
*
1. first, Jesus began to do and teach (Acts 1:1)
 
 
*
2. second, and in the Holy Spirit who brings things to mind; for it is not you who speak but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you (Matt 10:20)
 
 
*
3. third, and in much fullness, because I have instructed you in everything necessary for the faith
 
 
V
>
2. second, and he appeals to their testimony on this point when he says: as you know what manner of men we have been among you
 
14
Chapter 1
5b as you know what manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.
*
1. first, that is, what kind of gifts and powers we have exhibited among you
 
 
*
2. second, I hope it is known also to your conscience (2 Cor 5:11)
 
 
V
>
2. second, he points out how this preaching was received by them, that it was creditably received his preaching and did not fall away in time of trial, at and you became followers
1:6
15
Chapter 1
6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord: receiving the word in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
7 So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.
8 For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.
9 For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
V
>
1. first, he shows their excellence in that they have imitated others
 
16
Chapter 1
6 And you became followers of us and of the Lord: receiving the word in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
V
*
1. first, he shows whom they have imitated
 
 
Chapter 1
6a And you became followers of us and of the Lord:
V
*
2. second, he shows in what things they have imitated them, at receiving
 
 
Chapter 1
6b receiving the word in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:
V
>
2. second, because they made themselves an example to others, at so that you were made
1:7
17
Chapter 1
7 So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.
8 For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.
9 For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
V
*
1. first, he shows that they can be imitated
1:7
18
Chapter 1
7 So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia and in Achaia.
V
*
2. second, he shows how their fame has spread, at for from you has spead
1:8
19
Chapter 1
8 For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.
V
>
3. third, he shows how they were praised by all peoples, at for they themselves relate
1:9
20
Chapter 1
9 For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
V
*
1. first, he remarks on the praise which they had received from others
 
 
Chapter 1
9a For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we had unto you:
V
>
2. second, he makes known how, from whom, and to what they have been converted
 
21
V
>
1. first, he makes known how they have been converted
 
 
Chapter 1
9b1 and how you turned to God
*
1. first, that is, how readily and completely
 
 
*
2. second, return to me with all your heart (Joel 2:12)
 
 
*
3. third, do not delay to turn to the Lord, nor postpone it from day to day (Sir 5:7)
 
 
V
*
2. second, he makes known from whom they have been converted, you know that when you were heathens, you were led astray to dumb idols (1 Cor 12:2)
 
 
Chapter 1
9b2 from idols
V
>
3. third, he makes to known to what they have been converted
 
 
Chapter 1
9b3 to serve the living and true God.
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
V
>
1. first, in regard to the third point he says, to serve the living and true God by the practice of adoration, not of creatures, but of God, which is in contrast with what is said: they worshipped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever (Rom 1:25)
 
 
Chapter 1
9b3i to serve the living
*
1. first, and Paul says, living, in order to exclude the cult of idolatry, because the idolators worshipped certain dead people whose souls they regarded as deified, such as Romulus and Hercules
 
 
*
2. second, and so Paul insists on living; as I live forever (Deut 32:40)
 
 
V
*
2. second, also, since the Platonists considered some separate substances to be gods by participation, he says true, meaning, not by participation in the divine nature
 
 
Chapter 1
9b3ii to serve the living and true God.
V
>
3. third, since those who serve him deserve a reward, and because this is the case with the Thessalonians, it remains for them to expect a reward
 
22
Chapter 1
10 And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
V
>
1. first, so Paul says to them, and to wait for his Son, that is, the Son of God, descending from heaven
 
 
Chapter 1
10a And to wait for his Son from heaven
*
1. first, be like men who are waiting for their master to come home from the marriage feast (Luke 12:36)
 
 
*
2. second, blessed are all those who wait for him (Isa 30:18); these, however, are the men who girded their loins
 
 
V
>
2. second, we, however, are waiting for two things
 
 
Chapter 1
10b (whom he raised up from the dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
V
>
1. first, for the resurrection, in order that we may clearly conform to Christ; hence Paul says: whom he raised up from the dead
 
 
Chapter 1
10b1 (whom he raised up from the dead),
*
1. first, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies (Rom 8:11)
 
 
*
2. second, who will change our lowly body to be like his glorious body (Phil 3:21).
 
 
V
>
2. second, to be freed from the punishment which awaits the guilty, for we shall be freed by Christ from sin, the cause of punishment, so Paul says: Jesus, who has delivered us from the wrath to come
 
 
Chapter 1
10b2 Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.
*
1. first, hide us from the face of him who is seated on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb (Rev 6:16)
 
 
*
2. second, no one can free us from this wrath but Christ: who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (Matt 3:7)
 
 
V
*
2. second, he congratulates them because they did not fall away from the gospel in time of trial, at for you yourselves know
2:1
23
Chapter 2
1 For yourselves know, brethren, our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:
2 But having suffered many things before and been shamefully treated, (as you know) at Philippi, we had confidence in our God, to speak unto you the gospel of God in much carefulness.
3 For our exhortation was not of error, nor of uncleanness, nor in deceit.
4 But as we were approved by God that the gospel should be committed to us: even so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who proveth our hearts.
5 For neither have we used at any time the speech of flattery, as you know: nor taken an occasion of covetousness (God is witness):
6 Nor sought we glory of men, neither of you, nor of others.
7 Whereas we might have been burdensome to you, as the apostles of Christ: but we became little ones in the midst of you, as if a nurse should cherish her children:
8 So desirous of you, we would gladly impart unto you not only the gospel of God but also our own souls: because you were become most dear unto us.
9 For you remember, brethren, our labour and toil: working night and day, lest we should be chargeable to any of you, we preached among you the gospel of God.
10 You are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and without blame we have been to you that have believed:
11 As you know in what manner, entreating and comforting you (as a father doth his children),
12 We testified to every one of you that you would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.
13 Therefore, we also give thanks to God without ceasing: because that when you had received of us the word of the hearing of God, you received it not as the word of men, but (as it is indeed) the word of God, who worketh in you that have believed.
14 For you, brethren, are become followers of the churches of God which are in Judea, in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered the same things from your own countrymen, even as they have from the Jews:
15 Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and the prophets, and have persecuted us, and please not God, and are adversaries to all men;
16 Prohibiting us to speak to the Gentiles, that they may be saved, to fill up their sins always: for the wrath of God is come upon them to the end.
17 But we, brethren, being taken away from you for a short time, in sight, not in heart, have hastened the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.
18 For we would have come unto you, I Paul indeed, once and again: but Satan hath hindered us.
19 For what is our hope or joy or crown of glory? Are not you, in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?
20 For you are our glory and joy.
Chapter 3
For which cause, forbearing no longer, we thought it good to remain at Athens alone.
2 And we sent Timothy, our brother and the minister of God in the gospel of Christ, to confirm you and exhort you concerning your faith:
3 That no man should be moved in these tribulations: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto.
4 For even when we were with you, we foretold you that we should suffer tribulations: as also it is come to pass, and you know.
5 For this cause also, I, forbearing no longer, sent to know your faith: lest perhaps he that tempteth should have tempted you: and our labour should be made vain.
6 But now when Timothy came to us from you and related to us your faith and charity, and that you have a good remembrance of us always, desiring to see us as we also to see you:
7 Therefore we were comforted, brethren, in you, in all our necessity and tribulation, by your faith.
8 Because now we live, if you stand in the Lord.
9 For what thanks can we return to God for you, in all the joy wherewith we rejoice for you before our God,
10 Night and day more abundantly praying that we may see your face and may accomplish those things that are wanting to your faith?
11 Now God himself and our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you.
12 And may the Lord multiply you and make you abound in charity towards one another and towards all men: as we do also towards you,
13 To confirm your hearts without blame, in holiness, before God and our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, with all his saints. Amen.
V
>
2. second, he urges them to act well even in the future, at for the rest
4:1
 
Chapter 4
1 For the rest therefore, brethren, pray and beseech you in the Lord Jesus that, as you have received from us, how you ought to walk and to please God, so also you would walk, that you may abound the more.
2 For you know what precepts I have given to you by the Lord Jesus.
3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: That you should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
6 And that no man overreach nor circumvent his brother in business: because the Lord is the avenger of all these things, as we have told you before and have testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
9 But as touching the charity of brotherhood, we have no need to write to you: for yourselves have learned of God to love one another.
10 For indeed you do it towards all the brethren in all Macedonia. But we entreat you, brethren, that you abound more:
11 And that you use your endeavour to be quiet: and that you do your own business and work with your own hands, as we commanded you: and that you walk honestly towards them that are without: and that you want nothing of any man’s.
12 And we will not have you ignorant brethren, concerning them that are asleep, that you be not sorrowful, even as others who have no hope.
13 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again: even so them who have slept through Jesus, will God bring with him.
14 For this we say unto you in the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them who have slept.
15 For the Lord himself shall come down from heaven with commandment and with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God: and the dead who are in Christ shall rise first.
16 Then we who are alive, who are left, shall be taken up together with them in the clouds to meet Christ, into the air: and so shall we be always with the Lord.
17 Wherefore, comfort ye one another with these words.
Chapter 5
But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not, that we should write to you:
2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord shall so come as a thief in the night.
3 For when they shall say: Peace and security; then shall sudden destruction come upon them, as the pains upon her that is with child, and they shall not escape.
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief.
5 For all you are the children of light and children of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness.
6 Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch, and be sober.
7 For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that are drunk, are drunk in the night.
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, having on the breast plate of faith and charity and, for a helmet, the hope of salvation.
9 For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
10 Who died for us: that, whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him.
11 For which cause comfort one another and edify one another, as you also do.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you;
13 That you esteem them more abundantly in charity, for their work’s sake. Have peace with them.
14 And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet: comfort the feeble minded: support the weak: be patient towards all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil to any man: but ever follow that which is good towards each other and towards all men.
16 Always rejoice.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all.
19 Extinguish not the spirit.
20 Despise not prophecies.
21 But prove all things: hold fast that which is good.
22 From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves.
23 And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
24 He is faithful who hath called you, who also will do it.
25 Brethren, pray for us.
26 Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss.
27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.
28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
V
>
1. first, the Apostle presents a general warning
 
73
Chapter 4
1 For the rest therefore, brethren, pray and beseech you in the Lord Jesus that, as you have received from us, how you ought to walk and to please God, so also you would walk, that you may abound the more.
2 For you know what precepts I have given to you by the Lord Jesus.
3a For this is the will of God, your sanctification:
V
>
1. first, he presents what he is intent upon
 
74
Chapter 4
1a For the rest therefore, brethren, pray and beseech you in the Lord Jesus that, as you have received from us, how you ought to walk and to please God, so also you would walk,
V
>
1. first, he says that in the past he had heard about their good practices, but that in the future he will exhort them
 
 
Chapter 4
1a1 For the rest therefore, brethren, pray and beseech you in the Lord Jesus that,
V
*
1. first, he prevails upon them on his own behalf
 
 
Chapter 4
1a1 For the rest therefore, brethren, pray
V
*
2. second, he prevails upon them on behalf of Christ
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 beseech you in the Lord Jesus that,
V
>
2. second, but what does he ask them?
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 as you have received from us, how you ought to walk and to please God, so also you would walk,
>
1. first, he reminds them of what he had taught them, and there are two interpretations
 
 
V
>
1. first, concerning the precepts and the counsels
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 as you have received from us how you ought to walk and to please God,
V
*
1. first, the Apostle had taught them how they should conduct themselves in the practice of common justice, which is by keeping the precepts
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 as you have received from us how you ought to walk
V
*
2. second, he had also taught them how they might be pleasing to God in the practice of the counsels
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 and to please God,
V
>
2. second, concerning virtuous actions and intentions
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 as you have received from us how you ought to walk and to please God,
V
*
1. first, by virtuous actions
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 as you have received from us how you ought to walk
V
*
2. second, and by the forming of good intentions
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 and to please God,
V
*
3. third, then that they might remain steadfast in the original teaching, without falling away from it
 
 
Chapter 4
1a2 so also you would walk,
V
>
2. secondly, he indicates a reason for the warning
4:1b
75
Chapter 4
1b that you may abound the more.
2 For you know what precepts I have given to you by the Lord Jesus.
3a For this is the will of God, your sanctification:
V
*
1. first, on the benefit to be derived from heeding the warning
 
76
Chapter 4
1b that you may abound the more.
V
*
2. second, from the warning itself, at for you know
 
77
Chapter 4
2 For you know what precepts I have given to you by the Lord Jesus.
3a For this is the will of God, your sanctification:
V
>
2. second, he makes it more specific
4:3b
78
Chapter 4
3 For this is the will of God, your sanctification: That you should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
6 And that no man overreach nor circumvent his brother in business: because the Lord is the avenger of all these things, as we have told you before and have testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
9 But as touching the charity of brotherhood, we have no need to write to you: for yourselves have learned of God to love one another.
10 For indeed you do it towards all the brethren in all Macedonia. But we entreat you, brethren, that you abound more:
11 And that you use your endeavour to be quiet: and that you do your own business and work with your own hands, as we commanded you: and that you walk honestly towards them that are without: and that you want nothing of any man’s.
12 And we will not have you ignorant brethren, concerning them that are asleep, that you be not sorrowful, even as others who have no hope.
13 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again: even so them who have slept through Jesus, will God bring with him.
14 For this we say unto you in the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them who have slept.
15 For the Lord himself shall come down from heaven with commandment and with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God: and the dead who are in Christ shall rise first.
16 Then we who are alive, who are left, shall be taken up together with them in the clouds to meet Christ, into the air: and so shall we be always with the Lord.
17 Wherefore, comfort ye one another with these words.
Chapter 5
But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not, that we should write to you:
2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord shall so come as a thief in the night.
3 For when they shall say: Peace and security; then shall sudden destruction come upon them, as the pains upon her that is with child, and they shall not escape.
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief.
5 For all you are the children of light and children of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness.
6 Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch, and be sober.
7 For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that are drunk, are drunk in the night.
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, having on the breast plate of faith and charity and, for a helmet, the hope of salvation.
9 For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
10 Who died for us: that, whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him.
11 For which cause comfort one another and edify one another, as you also do.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you;
13 That you esteem them more abundantly in charity, for their work’s sake. Have peace with them.
14 And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet: comfort the feeble minded: support the weak: be patient towards all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil to any man: but ever follow that which is good towards each other and towards all men.
16 Always rejoice.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all.
19 Extinguish not the spirit.
20 Despise not prophecies.
21 But prove all things: hold fast that which is good.
22 From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves.
23 And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
24 He is faithful who hath called you, who also will do it.
25 Brethren, pray for us.
26 Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss.
27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.
28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.
V
>
1. first, he corrects them in regard to certain inordinate practices prevalent among them
 
 
Chapter 4
3b That you should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
6 And that no man overreach nor circumvent his brother in business: because the Lord is the avenger of all these things, as we have told you before and have testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
9 But as touching the charity of brotherhood, we have no need to write to you: for yourselves have learned of God to love one another.
10 For indeed you do it towards all the brethren in all Macedonia. But we entreat you, brethren, that you abound more:
11 And that you use your endeavour to be quiet: and that you do your own business and work with your own hands, as we commanded you: and that you walk honestly towards them that are without: and that you want nothing of any man’s.
12 And we will not have you ignorant brethren, concerning them that are asleep, that you be not sorrowful, even as others who have no hope.
13 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again: even so them who have slept through Jesus, will God bring with him.
14 For this we say unto you in the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them who have slept.
15 For the Lord himself shall come down from heaven with commandment and with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God: and the dead who are in Christ shall rise first.
16 Then we who are alive, who are left, shall be taken up together with them in the clouds to meet Christ, into the air: and so shall we be always with the Lord.
17 Wherefore, comfort ye one another with these words.
V
>
1. first, carnal vices among a certain number of them
 
 
Chapter 4
3b That you should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
6 And that no man overreach nor circumvent his brother in business: because the Lord is the avenger of all these things, as we have told you before and have testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
V
>
1. first, he instructs them to refrain from the inordinate desire for carnal things, and he always associates these two, for each one has reference to a corporeal object, although the latter culminates in spiritual delight
 
 
Chapter 4
3b That you should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
6a And that no man overreach nor circumvent his brother in business:
V
>
1. first, he forbids lust
 
 
Chapter 4
3b That you should abstain from fornication:
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
V
>
1. first, he teaches them to beware of lust in regard to a woman who is not their wife
 
79
Chapter 4
3b That you should abstain from fornication:
*
1. first, it is God’s will to abstain from immorality
 
 
*
2. second, therefore it is a mortal sin because it is against the commandment and the will of God
 
 
V
>
2. second, he teaches them to beware of lust in regard to one’s own wife, and deny yourself honorably
 
80
Chapter 4
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
5 Not in the passion of lust, like the Gentiles that know not God:
V
*
1. first, denying yourself pleasure for a time
 
 
Chapter 4
4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour,
V
*
2. second, that is, do not let passion be the stimulus
 
 
Chapter 4
5a Not in the passion of lust,
V
*
3. third, for it is characteristic of the heathens to desire immediate pleasures instead of those of the future life
 
 
Chapter 4
5b like the Gentiles that know not God:
V
>
2. second, he forbids greed
4:6a
81
Chapter 4
6a And that no man overreach nor circumvent his brother in business:
V
*
1. first, he says that no one should exert violence by taking another’s property through brute strength
 
 
Chapter 4
6a1 And that no man overreach
V
*
2. second, nor through fraud
 
 
Chapter 4
6a2 nor circumvent his brother in business:
V
>
2. second, he provides a reason for this warning
4:6b
82
Chapter 4
6b because the Lord is the avenger of all these things, as we have told you before and have testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
V
*
1. first, he attributes it to the divine vengeance
 
83
Chapter 4
6b because the Lord is the avenger of all these things, as we have told you before and have testified.
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
V
>
2. second, he shows that this vengeance is justifiable, at for God has not called
 
84
Chapter 4
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8 Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God, who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
V
>
1. first, one reason for this is that God has called us;
 
 
Chapter 4
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
8a Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God,
V
*
1. first, if the Lord calls you to one thing and you do something contrary, then punishment is due
 
 
Chapter 4
7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto sanctification.
V
*
2. second, he concludes as if saying, this is the one special reason that I mentioned
 
 
Chapter 4
8a Therefore, he that despiseth these things, despiseth not man, but God,
V
>
2. second, and another reason is that such actions are contrary to God’s gift to us
 
 
Chapter 4
8b who also hath given his holy Spirit in us.
*
1. first, these vices are opposed to the Spirit who was given to us
 
 
*
2. second, and he who does these things offends the Holy Spirit
 
 
V
*
2. second, curiosity
4:9
85
Chapter 4
9 But as touching the charity of brotherhood, we have no need to write to you: for yourselves have learned of God to love one another.
10 For indeed you do it towards all the brethren in all Macedonia. But we entreat you, brethren, that you abound more:
11 And that you use your endeavour to be quiet: and that you do your own business and work with your own hands, as we commanded you: and that you walk honestly towards them that are without: and that you want nothing of any man’s.
12 And we will not have you ignorant brethren, concerning them that are asleep, that you be not sorrowful, even as others who have no hope.
V
*
3. third, an inordinate grief for the dead
4:13
 
Chapter 4
13 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again: even so them who have slept through Jesus, will God bring with him.
14 For this we say unto you in the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them who have slept.
15 For the Lord himself shall come down from heaven with commandment and with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God: and the dead who are in Christ shall rise first.
16 Then we who are alive, who are left, shall be taken up together with them in the clouds to meet Christ, into the air: and so shall we be always with the Lord.
17 Wherefore, comfort ye one another with these words.
V
*
2. second, he urges them to maintain their virtuous actions
5:1
 
Chapter 5
But of the times and moments, brethren, you need not, that we should write to you:
2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord shall so come as a thief in the night.
3 For when they shall say: Peace and security; then shall sudden destruction come upon them, as the pains upon her that is with child, and they shall not escape.
4 But you, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief.
5 For all you are the children of light and children of the day: we are not of the night nor of darkness.
6 Therefore, let us not sleep, as others do: but let us watch, and be sober.
7 For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that are drunk, are drunk in the night.
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, having on the breast plate of faith and charity and, for a helmet, the hope of salvation.
9 For God hath not appointed us unto wrath: but unto the purchasing of salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,
10 Who died for us: that, whether we watch or sleep, we may live together with him.
11 For which cause comfort one another and edify one another, as you also do.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them who labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you;
13 That you esteem them more abundantly in charity, for their work’s sake. Have peace with them.
14 And we beseech you, brethren, rebuke the unquiet: comfort the feeble minded: support the weak: be patient towards all men.
15 See that none render evil for evil to any man: but ever follow that which is good towards each other and towards all men.
16 Always rejoice.
17 Pray without ceasing.
18 In all things give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you all.
19 Extinguish not the spirit.
20 Despise not prophecies.
21 But prove all things: hold fast that which is good.
22 From all appearance of evil refrain yourselves.
23 And may the God of peace himself sanctify you in all things: that your whole spirit and soul and body may be preserved blameless in the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
24 He is faithful who hath called you, who also will do it.
25 Brethren, pray for us.
26 Salute all the brethren with a holy kiss.
27 I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.
28 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.