1 Thessalonians 4:1 is about the apostle Paul urging the Thessalonian believers to live in a way that pleases God and to excel even more in their walk of faith.
1 Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more.
Setting the Scene for 1 Thessalonians 4:1
In 1 Thessalonians chapter 4, the scene is set in the bustling city of Thessalonica, where a group of early Christians has gathered for a bible study session. The room is dimly lit by oil lamps, casting a warm glow on the faces of those present. The air is filled with the scent of incense burning in the background, creating a sense of reverence and peace.
Among the attendees are Paul, Silas, and Timothy, who have come to teach and encourage the new believers in their faith. The group is a mix of men and women, young and old, from various backgrounds and walks of life. They sit attentively, eager to learn and grow in their understanding of the gospel.
As Paul begins to speak, his voice is filled with passion and conviction, urging the Thessalonian believers to continue living lives that are pleasing to God. He encourages them to excel even more in their faith, to love one another deeply, and to live in a way that honors God. The room is filled with a sense of unity and purpose as the group listens intently, eager to apply these teachings to their daily lives.
What is 1 Thessalonians 4:1 about?
When we read this verse, it calls us to reflect on our relationship with God. It encourages us to prioritize living a life that brings honor and glory to Him. Pleasing God means aligning our actions, thoughts, and decisions with His will. It means leading a life that reflects His love, compassion, and righteousness.
Growing in holiness is a lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ. It involves constantly striving to improve ourselves, to deepen our understanding of God’s Word, and to practice virtues such as humility, patience, and love. It challenges us to be intentional about our spiritual growth and to allow God to transform us from the inside out. Let’s ask ourselves: How can we live our lives in a way that pleases God as we ponder upon this verse? What areas of our lives need to change in order to grow in holiness? Let’s embrace this call to live a life that reflects God’s character and seek to continually grow in our walk with Him.
Understanding what 1 Thessalonians 4:1 really means
Structure for Commentary:
- Introduction to the Verse
- Explanation of Key Phrases
- Cross-References to Other Biblical Passages
- Relevance to Contemporary Life
- Anecdote for Illustration
- Paul is addressing the Thessalonian believers in this verse, encouraging them to continue living in a manner that pleases God. This message is not just for them, but it resonates with us today as a call to continual spiritual growth and dedication.
Explanation of Key Phrases:
When Paul urges the Thessalonians to “live in order to please God,” he emphasizes the ongoing nature of this pursuit. Pleasing God isn’t a one-time event but a continuous effort. The phrase “as in fact you are living” acknowledges their current faithfulness but also implies there is always room for improvement. This duality of commendation and exhortation is crucial in our spiritual walk.
Cross-References to Other Biblical Passages:
Paul’s encouragement in this verse echoes his words in Philippians 1:27, where he urges believers to “conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Similarly, in Colossians 1:10, he prays for the believers to “live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way.” These cross-references reinforce the theme of living a life that consistently honors God.
Relevance to Contemporary Life:
Today, people face numerous distractions and challenges that can divert their focus from God. Yet, this verse serves as a timeless reminder that our primary aim should be to live in a way that pleases Him. Whether it’s in our workplaces, homes, or communities, the call to ongoing spiritual growth remains relevant. A young professional, despite a busy schedule, sets aside time daily for prayer and Bible study. Initially, it seemed almost impossible to fit this into her routine, but she persisted. Over time, she noticed that these moments of devotion not only helped her grow spiritually but also positively impacted her interactions and decisions at work. This illustrates the transformative power of striving to please God continuously.
Conclusion and Reflection:
Reflecting on this verse, we are reminded that our journey with God is ongoing. It’s not about having reached a final destination but about continually seeking to grow and improve. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to heed this call, examining their lives and striving to please God in all that they do. How can you incorporate this mindset into your daily routine? What steps can you take today to ensure your life aligns more closely with this divine directive?
How can we live to please God more?
Living to please God more involves striving to live a life that is holy and honorable. This means making conscious choices and decisions that align with God’s principles and teachings, seeking to reflect His character in our thoughts, words, and actions. We show reverence for God and acknowledge His importance in our lives by pursuing a life of holiness and honor.
Additionally, living to please God more involves continuously growing in our relationship with Him. This includes spending time in prayer, reading and studying scripture, and seeking His guidance in all aspects of our lives. We demonstrate our desire to live in a way that brings God glory and honor by prioritizing our connection with Him and seeking His will. A heart that is truly dedicated to following Him ultimately requires living to please God more. This involves surrendering our own desires and ambitions to God’s will, allowing His love and grace to transform us from the inside out. Choosing to orient our lives towards pleasing God will lead us to find fulfillment and purpose in knowing that we are living in alignment with His perfect plan for us.
Application
Think of 1 Thessalonians 4:1 like a blueprint for a successful life. Just like you work hard to support your family and advance in your career, God asks for your best effort in living a holy life. This isn’t just a suggestion—it’s your clear mission. Every decision, big or small, should align with this higher purpose. Are you ready to commit to a path that truly honors God’s call?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.