Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Thessalonians 5:3

"When they are saying, Peace and safety, then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall in no wise escape." — 1 Thessalonians 5:3 (ASV)

The surprise beginning of the day of the Lord has a twofold impact. For those who are not in Christ and therefore unprepared, the consequences will be far from cheerful. “People,” “them,” and “they” are identified only when v.4 contrasts them with the “brothers” who are the addressees. These “nonbrothers” compose an unbelieving world against whom the devastation of the coming day will be unleashed. Just as disaster overtakes the unsuspecting householder when set upon by a robber, so catastrophe will overcome the living who are spiritual outsiders.

Such people will be priding themselves on their secure lifestyles. “Peace” characterizes their inward repose, while “safety” reveals their freedom from outward interference. Yet when that tranquility seemingly reaches its peak, “destruction will come on them.” “Destruction” (GK 3897) means utter and hopeless ruin, a loss of everything worthwhile, causing the victims to despair of life itself (Revelation 9:6). Without being totally annihilated, they are assigned to wrath and denied the privileges of salvation (v.9).

Comparing the beginning of this period with a period of labor pains just before childbirth makes vivid the unexpectedness with which this day comes (cf. Isaiah 13:8–9; Jeremiah 4:31; Hosea 13:13; Micah 4:9). Pain is certainly involved in both (Isaiah 66:7) as are certainty and nearness, but “suddenly” points most prominently to the absence of any forewarning. Tribulation will become worldwide, rendering it impossible for non-Christians to escape.