1 Thessalonians 4:5

not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God;

Study Bible

not in lustful passion
The phrase "not in lustful passion" calls believers to a standard of purity and self-control. The Greek word for "lustful" is "pathos," which can denote a strong emotion or passion, often with a negative connotation when it leads to sin. In the context of the Greco-Roman world, where sexual immorality was rampant and often even celebrated, this command stands in stark contrast. The Apostle Paul is urging the Thessalonian Christians to live differently from the surrounding culture, emphasizing that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This call to holiness is not merely about abstaining from physical acts but also about cultivating a heart and mind that honors God.

like the Gentiles
The term "Gentiles" here refers to those who are outside the covenant community of Israel and, by extension, those who do not follow the teachings of Christ. In the first-century context, Gentiles were often associated with pagan practices and idolatry, which frequently included sexual immorality as part of their religious rituals. Paul is drawing a clear line between the behavior expected of believers and that of the non-believing world. This distinction is not meant to foster a sense of superiority but to remind Christians of their calling to be set apart, a holy nation (1 Peter 2:9), living lives that reflect the character of God.

who do not know God
The phrase "who do not know God" highlights the root cause of the behavior Paul is admonishing. To "know God" in the biblical sense is not merely intellectual acknowledgment but involves a relational and experiential understanding of His nature and will. The lack of this knowledge among the Gentiles results in a lifestyle that is contrary to God's design. In the Hebrew tradition, to know God is to walk in His ways, to live in obedience to His commandments, and to reflect His holiness. Paul is reminding the Thessalonians that their knowledge of God should manifest in their conduct, setting them apart from those who live without this divine relationship. This knowledge is transformative, leading believers to live in a way that honors God and aligns with His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the letter to the Thessalonians, providing guidance and instruction to the early Christian community.

2. Thessalonica
A city in Macedonia where the church to whom Paul is writing is located. It was a significant urban center in the Roman Empire.

3. Gentiles
Non-Jewish people, often referenced in the New Testament as those who do not follow the God of Israel or His laws.

4. Thessalonian Church
The recipients of Paul's letter, a group of early Christians navigating their faith in a predominantly pagan society.

5. God
The central figure in Christian theology, whom the Thessalonians are encouraged to know and follow, in contrast to the Gentiles.

Teaching Points

Understanding Lustful Passion
The Greek word for "lustful passion" (pathos) refers to uncontrolled desires. Christians are called to live with self-control, a fruit of the Spirit.

Knowing God
The phrase "who do not know God" highlights the importance of a personal relationship with God, which transforms desires and actions.

Contrast with the World
Believers are to live distinctively from the world, reflecting God's holiness in their conduct.

Sanctification Process
This verse is part of a larger call to sanctification, urging believers to grow in holiness and purity.

Cultural Influence
Recognize the cultural pressures that may lead to conforming to worldly standards and seek strength in God to resist them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the original Greek word for "lustful passion" deepen our comprehension of this verse?

2. In what ways can knowing God transform our desires and actions, according to 1 Thessalonians 4:5?

3. How can we practically live out the call to be distinct from the world in our daily lives?

4. What are some modern-day "lustful passions" that Christians might struggle with, and how can we overcome them?

5. How do the additional scriptures connected to this verse help us understand the broader biblical teaching on purity and holiness?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 1:24-25
Paul discusses how God gave people over to sinful desires because they exchanged the truth of God for a lie, similar to the "lustful passion" mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 4:5.

Ephesians 4:17-19
Paul contrasts the life of the Gentiles, who live in the futility of their thinking, with the life of believers who are called to live differently.

1 Peter 4:3-4
Peter speaks about the past life of believers, which was characterized by living like the Gentiles, indulging in sinful desires.

1 Corinthians 6:18-20
Paul urges believers to flee from sexual immorality, emphasizing that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit.

Colossians 3:5-7
Paul instructs believers to put to death earthly nature, including sexual immorality and evil desires, which were part of their former way of life.