1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 Furthermore then we beseech you, brothers, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus… A superstructure is nothing without a foundation; neither is a foundation anything without a superstructure. Each, indeed, has its appropriate place, but both are alike important; for if, on the one hand, the superstructure will fall without a foundation, so, on the other hand, it is for the sake of the superstructure alone that the foundation is laid. St. Paul, "as a wise master builder," was careful at all times to lay his foundation deep and strong; but, having done this, he was careful also to raise upon it a beauteous edifice, such as God Himself would delight to inhabit. This is evident in all his letters; and hence in this to the Thessalonians, having been the instrument of their conversion, he would excite them to the highest possible attainments in universal holiness. I. HIS APPEAL He had not sought to amuse them by curious speculations; nor had he given them maxims whereby they might please and gratify their fellow creatures. His object had been to bring them to such a holy and consistent "walk" as would be pleasing and acceptable to their God. What kind of a walk that is it will be profitable for us to inquire. 1. Walk in Christ by a living faith. 2. Walk after Christ by a holy conversation. II. HIS ENTREATY. In this the apostle acknowledges that the Thessalonians had already done well; but he wishes them to redouble their exertions in their heavenly path. Let us notice here — 1. The fact conceded. 2. The duty urged. He might well have enjoined these things in an authoritative manner, but "for love's sake he rather besought them." He calls them "brethren," and as brethren he entreats them — (1) By the consideration of all that Christ has done and suffered for them. (2) By the consideration of all the interest He yet took in their welfare. (3) By the consideration of the honour He would derive from them. (4) By the consideration of the glory that will accrue to Him in the day of judgment. (C. Simeon, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more. |
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