1 Thessalonians 4:1

Introduction

The apostle exhorts them to attend to the directions which he had already given them, that they might know how to walk and please God, 1Thes 4:1, 1Thes 4:2. Gives them exhortations concerning continence, chastity, and matrimonial fidelity, 1Thes 4:3-8. Speaks concerning their love to each other, and love to the Churches of Christ; and exhorts them to continue and increase in it, 1Thes 4:9, 1Thes 4:10. Counsels them to observe an inoffensive conduct, to mind their own affairs, to do their own business, and to live honestly, 1Thes 4:11, 1Thes 4:12. Not to sorrow for the dead, as persons who have no hope of a resurrection; because to Christians the resurrection of Christ is a proof of the resurrection of his followers, 1Thes 4:13, 1Thes 4:14. Gives a short but awful description of the appearing of Christ to judge the world, 1Thes 4:15.

Verse 1

We beseech you, brethren, and exhort - We give you proper instructions in heavenly things, and request you to attend to our advice. The apostle used the most pressing entreaties; for he had a strong and affectionate desire that this Church should excel in all righteousness and true holiness.

Please God more and more - God sets no bounds to the communications of his grace and Spirit to them that are faithful. And as there are no bounds to the graces, so there should be none to the exercise of those graces. No man can ever feel that he loves God too much, or that he loves man too much for God's sake.
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