Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Thessalonians 4:1

"Finally then, brethren, we beseech and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that, as ye received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, even as ye do walk, --that ye abound more and more." — 1 Thessalonians 4:1 (ASV)

Paul now urges the Thessalonians on to greater spiritual attainments outlined in 3:10–13. His exhortations, introduced by “finally,” are logically based on more than 3:10–13. The drastic change to a new line of thought implies that all of chs. 2–3 are in view. “Finally” also shows that the series of admonitions launched here will be the final part of the letter. With Paul a final word may be brief (2 Corinthians 13:11; 2 Timothy 4:8) or extended (2 Thessalonians 3:1). “Brothers” again shows his tenderness in approaching delicate subjects.

The nature of Paul’s appeal is conveyed in “ask” (GK 2263) and “urge” (GK 4151). The former word is a gentle, friendly request and the latter an authoritative apostolic plea—more than a request, but less than a command. The words “in the Lord Jesus” form the context of the exhortations that are to follow.

The Thessalonians had already been given instruction about how they must “live in order to please God.” Paul again views the Christian life as a “walk” (GK 4344). He might have immediately requested compliance with earlier instruction, but he first interrupts himself, lest he appear to be condemnatory. He gives credit where it is due, in this case recognizing the substantial progress that the Thessalonian Christians have already made (similarly 1:3, 6–10; 3:6, 8). Yet the realization of the ultimate goal of pleasing God and receiving his commendation entailed continual improvement (cf. 3:12; 4:10).