What does it mean to "excel still more" in our faith journey? Setting the scene in Thessalonica Paul, Silas, and Timothy wrote to believers whose faith was already vibrant. They praised the church, yet urged continued growth: “Finally then, brothers, we ask and encourage you in the Lord Jesus, that as you have received from us instruction on how you are to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, you must excel still more.” (1 Thessalonians 4:1) The phrase “excel still more” unpacked • Greek verb: perisseuō — to overflow, abound, exceed the ordinary • Picture: a cup constantly refilled until it spills over, never settling for half full • Paul called for ongoing, measurable progress, not a one-time spiritual peak The pattern of progress in Scripture • Philippians 1:9-11 — love that “may abound more and more” • Colossians 1:9-10 — believers “bearing fruit in every good work and growing” • Hebrews 6:1 — “let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity” • 2 Peter 1:5-8 — adding virtues so believers remain effective and fruitful Areas where God calls us to abound 1. Personal holiness (1 Thessalonians 4:3-8) • Sexual purity, honorable conduct, obedience to God’s commands 2. Brotherly love (4:9-10) • Already evident in Thessalonica, yet Paul said to “excel still more” in practical care, generosity, unity 3. Quiet diligence and integrity (4:11-12) • Peaceful living, hard work, credible witness before outsiders 4. Hope-filled expectation (4:13-18) • Steadfast assurance in Christ’s return, comforting one another with this truth Motivations for continual growth • Pleasing the Father (4:1) — supreme privilege of bringing delight to God • Obedience to inspired instruction (4:2) — commands carry Christ’s authority • Testimony before the watching world (4:12) — a life that validates the gospel • Eternal reward (1 Corinthians 15:58) — labor in the Lord is never in vain • Nearness of Christ’s coming (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24) — readiness for His appearing Practical steps to “excel still more” • Daily intake of God’s Word — allowing Scripture’s literal truth to renew mind and actions • Persistent prayer — cultivating dependence on the Spirit’s power • Fellowship and accountability — sharpening one another toward greater faithfulness (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Intentional service — using gifts to build up the body (Ephesians 4:15-16) • Vigilant self-examination — confessing sin quickly, pursuing deeper repentance • Perseverance through trials — viewing hardships as God’s training ground (James 1:2-4) Encouragement from the apostles Paul never dismissed early victories; he celebrated them while urging further strides. Growth remains normal, expected, and possible because “He who calls you is faithful, and He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24) A life that overflows To excel still more means ongoing overflow of Christlike character. The literal, trustworthy words of Scripture call every believer beyond complacency into abounding holiness, love, diligence, and hope until the Lord returns or calls us home. |
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