1 Thessalonians 4:1-2
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Paul doesn't just want them to continue doing what's right, but to actively increase their obedience. The phrase "more and more" points to a dynamic faith that's always growing, not a static one that's just coasting.
Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is transitioning from encouraging the Thessalonians about their faith and love to giving them practical instructions for holy living. Having already taught them how to live in a way that pleases God, he now urges them to actively pursue that kind of life, especially as they await Christ's return. This instruction follows his discussion on sexual purity and the importance of living righteously.
Paul doesn't just offer advice; he pleads and urges. What makes this message so critical that it demands such intense appeal?
The word "urge" here carries a strong sense of encouragement and exhortation. Paul isn't just lightly suggesting a course of action; he's passionately imploring the Thessalonians to live in a way that honors God. This isn't about casual observance but about a deeply committed life, a path that has real consequences and is foundational to their faith journey.
The Thessalonians already received instruction on 'how you ought to walk.' What does it mean to walk in a way that pleases God, and how do we learn it?
Paul refers back to teaching they had already received, emphasizing that pleasing God isn't a new revelation but a continuation of established instruction. This 'walking' involves their conduct, their daily choices, and their overall lifestyle. It's about aligning their actions with God's will, not as a means to earn salvation, but as a response of gratitude and love for what Christ has done. This instruction wasn't just theoretical; it was practical guidance for godly living.
Paul commends their current walk but urges them to do 'so more and more.' What does this pursuit of increasing godliness look like?
The Christian life is a journey of continuous growth, not a destination. Paul acknowledges their existing walk but calls them to a deeper, more fervent commitment. This 'more and more' signifies a life of ongoing repentance, learning, and striving to better reflect Christ's character. It's about actively pursuing spiritual maturity, allowing the Holy Spirit to transform them progressively, and ensuring their commitment doesn't stagnate but deepens over time.
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Understand the original words
adelphos · Greek Noun
A term of endearment used among believers to denote their shared identity as children of God, highlighting the equality and spiritual family bond within the body of Christ.
peripateo · Greek Verb
Metaphorical expression for the conduct of one's life, daily behavior, or the ongoing process of living out one's faith in alignment with divine truth.
aresko theo · Greek Verb
To act in a manner that aligns with God's character and requirements, seeking to bring Him joy and satisfaction through obedience and faith.
parangelia · Greek Noun
Authoritative directions or charges given to believers for the purpose of guiding their behavior and doctrine, rooted in the command of Christ.
The church in Thessalonica was young and faced significant opposition, making Paul's encouragement to live a life that pleases God particularly vital for their spiritual growth and witness.
c. AD 48-49
Paul's First Missionary Journey
Paul and Barnabas travel throughout Asia Minor, preaching the gospel and establishing churches, including one in Thessalonica.
c. AD 49-50
Council of Jerusalem
A significant meeting of apostles addresses the inclusion of Gentiles in the early church, establishing guidelines that impact missionary work.
c. AD 50-51
Paul's Second Missionary Journey
Paul, accompanied by Silas and Timothy, revisits churches in Asia Minor and travels into Macedonia and Achaia, including Corinth.
c. AD 51— this verse
Founding of the Thessalonian Church
Paul and Silas establish the church in Thessalonica during their second missionary journey. They stay for a short time before being forced to leave due to opposition.
c. AD 51-52
Paul Writes 1 & 2 Thessalonians
While in Corinth, Paul sends his first letter (1 Thessalonians) to the church he founded, seeking to encourage them and address issues, followed shortly by a second letter.
c. AD 52-57
Paul's Third Missionary Journey
Paul continues his ministry, visiting and strengthening churches throughout Asia Minor and Greece.
This passage echoes the call to an unwavering commitment and abundant service to the Lord, reinforcing the idea that our efforts are never in vain when rooted in Christ.
Colossians 1:9-10It highlights the prayer for believers to be filled with knowledge and wisdom, so they may live a life worthy of the Lord and pleasing to Him, which directly relates to the Thessalonians' call to walk in a manner pleasing to God.
Romans 12:1-2This scripture calls for a transformed life, presenting our bodies as living sacrifices and urging believers not to conform to the world, but to discern God's will—a profound call to 'walk and to please God' that resonates deeply with Paul's exhortation.
Philippians 1:9-11Paul's prayer for the Philippians to abound in love and discernment, so they can approve what is excellent and be pure, connects to the Thessalonians' ongoing spiritual growth and desire to please God.
Paul doesn't just want them to continue doing what's right, but to actively increase their obedience. The phrase "more and more" points to a dynamic faith that's always growing, not a static one that's just coasting.
Paul is transitioning from encouraging the Thessalonians about their faith and love to giving them practical instructions for holy living. Having already taught them how to live in a way that pleases God, he now urges them to actively pursue that kind of life, especially as they await Christ's return. This instruction follows his discussion on sexual purity and the importance of living righteously.
Paul is transitioning from encouraging the Thessalonians about their faith and love to giving them practical instructions for holy living. Having already taught them how to live in a way that pleases God, he now urges them to actively pursue that kind of life, especially as they await Christ's return. This instruction follows his discussion on sexual purity and the importance of living righteously.
"Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you through t…" — Paul doesn't just want them to continue doing what's right, but to actively increase their obedience. The phrase "more and more" points to a dynamic faith that's always growing, not a static one…
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Last reviewed October 2026
