1 Thessalonians 5 Commentary
Verses 1 to 3 provide a nice throwback to the teachings of the LORD Jesus as recorded in the Gospels. It’s like Paul was there in person! The date for the big day remains unknown. The day of the LORD comes with destruction…whatever the LORD didn’t plant will be uprooted.
But the saint doesn’t have to worry. He is not listed for destruction.
The armor of God isn’t an exclusive item for Ephesians. The Thessalonians have it as well. Verse 8. Soberness is one important part of the armory. Of course, soberness refers to everything normal (godly), walking a straight path (Jesus the Way), and maintaining a sound mind. Drunkenness refers to everything out of order, represented by a failure to keep to a straight line (Jesus the Way).
Substances and technology help the devil greatly in keeping the human mind unsound and out of godly order. Beer is but just one of them. There are countless substances, events, spaces, and abstract objects like music, videos, virtual reality… The saint is commanded to be sober. You aren’t a child of darkness!
Faith and love serve as the breastplate. They protect your heart! See how faith protects you from fear and anxiety! It drives depression away. Love protects you from greediness and a host of other undesirables.
There is no wrath coming for the saint. Compare verses 9 and 3 for different outcomes depending on the “Jesus decision”.
Then follows critical one-liner instructions. Respect your leaders, warn the idle and disruptive, and be patient with everyone. No revenge. Do good. Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in all circumstances. Don’t quench the Spirit.
So, when should we pray? There you have it, continually! Always.
The book closes with neatly arranged instructions for daily living. You can never go wrong with these!
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