1 Thessalonians 5:24

The One who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.

Study Bible

The One who calls you
This phrase emphasizes the divine initiative in the Christian life. The Greek word for "calls" is "καλέω" (kaleō), which implies a summons or invitation. In the context of the New Testament, this calling is not merely an invitation but a powerful, effectual call that brings believers into a relationship with God. Historically, this reflects the understanding that God is the initiator of salvation, reaching out to humanity. The calling is personal and specific, indicating that God knows each believer intimately and has a purpose for their life.

is faithful
The Greek word for "faithful" is "πιστός" (pistos), which conveys reliability, trustworthiness, and steadfastness. In the biblical context, God's faithfulness is a central theme, underscoring His unchanging nature and His commitment to His promises. Throughout Scripture, God's faithfulness is demonstrated in His covenant relationships with His people, from the promises made to Abraham to the fulfillment of those promises in Christ. This assurance of God's faithfulness provides believers with confidence and hope, knowing that He will never abandon them.

and He will do it
This phrase assures believers of God's active role in fulfilling His promises. The Greek verb "ποιήσει" (poiēsei) is in the future tense, indicating certainty and determination. It reflects the biblical theme that God not only initiates His work in believers but also brings it to completion. This is reminiscent of Philippians 1:6, where Paul expresses confidence that God will complete the good work He began in believers. Historically, this assurance would have been particularly comforting to the Thessalonian church, which faced persecution and challenges. It reminds all believers that God's purposes will be accomplished, not by human effort, but by His sovereign power and grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
- The apostle who authored the letter to the Thessalonians, providing guidance and encouragement 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. The Thessalonian Church
- The recipients of Paul's letter, a group of early Christians facing persecution and needing reassurance of their faith.

4. God
- Referred to as "The One who calls you," emphasizing His role in initiating and sustaining the believers' faith journey.

5. Faithfulness
- A key attribute of God highlighted in this verse, underscoring His reliability and trustworthiness in fulfilling His promises.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Calling
Recognize that God initiates the call to salvation and is committed to seeing it through. This assurance should bring comfort and confidence in our spiritual journey.

Trust in God's Promises
Reflect on the reliability of God's promises. Just as He is faithful, we are called to trust Him fully, knowing He will accomplish His purposes in our lives.

Perseverance in Faith
In times of doubt or difficulty, remember that God's faithfulness is unwavering. This truth should encourage us to persevere in our faith, relying on His strength.

Active Participation in God's Work
While God is faithful to complete His work, we are invited to actively participate in His plans through obedience and faithfulness in our daily lives.

Encouragement in Community
Share the assurance of God's faithfulness with others in your community. Encourage fellow believers by reminding them of God's steadfast commitment to His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding God's faithfulness in calling us impact your daily walk with Him?

2. In what ways can you actively participate in the work God is doing in your life, knowing He is faithful to complete it?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness. How can this memory encourage you in current challenges?

4. How can you encourage others in your community with the truth of God's faithfulness as described in 1 Thessalonians 5:24?

5. What other scriptures reinforce the message of God's faithfulness, and how can they deepen your understanding of this attribute?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Philippians 1:6
- This verse also speaks of God's faithfulness in completing the good work He has begun in believers, reinforcing the theme of divine reliability.

1 Corinthians 1:9
- Paul emphasizes God's faithfulness in calling believers into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ, which parallels the assurance given in 1 Thessalonians 5:24.

Hebrews 10:23
- Encourages believers to hold fast to their hope without wavering, for God who promised is faithful, echoing the assurance of God's faithfulness.

Romans 8:28-30
- Discusses God's purpose and calling, highlighting His sovereign plan and faithfulness in bringing it to completion.

2 Thessalonians 3:3
- Assures believers of the Lord's faithfulness in establishing and guarding them against evil, similar to the promise of God's faithfulness in 1 Thessalonians 5:24.