How does 1 Thessalonians 4:3 define God's will for our sanctification? Setting the Scene Paul writes 1 Thessalonians to believers eager to grow. After commending their faith (4:1–2), he pinpoints exactly what pleases God. The Core Statement: 1 Thessalonians 4:3 “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality.” • God’s will is not vague—He states it plainly. • “Your sanctification” places the emphasis on every believer, not a select few. • The first arena Paul names is sexual purity: “that you abstain from sexual immorality.” What Sanctification Means • “Sanctification” (hagiasmos) = being set apart for God’s exclusive use. • Two sides: – Positional: God declares us holy in Christ (Hebrews 10:10). – Progressive: the ongoing work of becoming like Christ (2 Corinthians 3:18). • Here Paul stresses the progressive side—daily choices that match our holy calling. Why Sexual Purity Takes Center Stage • Sexual immorality (porneia) covers any sexual activity outside the covenant of marriage (Matthew 19:4–6; Hebrews 13:4). • Our bodies are God’s temple (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). • Purity protects fellowship with God and witnesses to the watching world (Ephesians 5:3-8). Scripture Echoes That Reinforce the Point • 1 Corinthians 6:18 – “Flee from sexual immorality.” • Ephesians 5:3 – “Among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality.” • Hebrews 12:14 – “Pursue holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” • Romans 12:1-2 – Offer bodies as living sacrifices, “holy and pleasing to God.” Practical Ways to Walk in Sanctification • Flee, don’t flirt, with temptation (2 Timothy 2:22). • Guard the mind—what we watch or click shapes desires (Philippians 4:8). • Cultivate accountability with trusted believers (Galatians 6:1-2). • Regularly renew commitments through Scripture and obedience (Psalm 119:9-11). • Depend on the Spirit’s power; sanctification is His ongoing work (Galatians 5:16-25). The Promise and Motivation • God’s commands come with grace: “Faithful is He who calls you, and He will also do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). • Pursuing purity is not merely avoiding sin; it is stepping into the joyful purpose for which God saved us—lives that shine His holiness in a dark world. |
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