Free Bible Commentary
“1 Thessalonians 2:13-16”
Categories: 1 Thessalonians“For this reason we also constantly thank God that when you received the word of God which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but for what it really is, the word of God, which also performs its work in you who believe. For you, brethren, became imitators of the churches of God in Christ Jesus that are in Judea, for you also endured the same sufferings at the hands of your own countrymen, even as they did from the Jews, who both killed the Lord Jesus and the prophets, and drove us out. They are not pleasing to God, but hostile to all men, hindering us from speaking to the Gentiles so that they may be saved; with the result that they always fill up the measure of their sins. But wrath has come upon them to the utmost.”
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The word of God “performs its work” (verse 13). The inspired word of God has inherent, abiding power that resides within it. Hebrews 4:12 says that it is “living and active and sharp” and that it has a “piercing” power which can cut people to the quick and convict them of their sins (Acts 2:37). God designed His word to cut us down but also to remake us and build us up and equip us for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). “Now to Him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us, to Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20-21).
The word of God helps us endure sufferings (verse 14). When we fill ourselves “with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding” (Colossians 1:9), we will be “strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience (Colossians 1:11). When we read how Jesus maintained His righteousness and faithfulness under the continual assaults of evil and perverse people, He encourages us and shows us how to withstand the storms of life ourselves. “For you have been called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example for you to follow in His steps, WHO COMMITTED NO SIN, NOR WAS ANY DECEIT FOUND IN HIS MOUTH; and while being reviled, He did not revile in return; while suffering, He uttered no threats, but kept entrusting Himself to Him who judges righteously.” (1 Peter 2:21-23)
The word of God saves (verse 16). People cannot be saved eternally or maintain their salvation without hearing (learning from others) and reading (even if with the help of others) the inspiration contained within the book we call the Bible. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is God’s power to save (Romans 1:16-17). Within its pages we learn what we need to do to be saved, and what we need to do to be pleasing to God after we have been translated into His kingdom. It is our responsibility to learn the Truth, obey the Truth, and live the Truth. “Therefore, putting aside all filthiness and all that remains of wickedness, in humility receive the word implanted, which is able to save your souls. But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.” (James 1:21-22)
Please read 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20 for tomorrow.
Have a great day!
- Louie Taylor
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