Paul urges the Thessalonian believers to please God and follow basic Christian principles to live by. He encourages them to do so all the more, not out of habit, but out of respect for Jesus. They should grow in holiness and live with Jesus' authority.

Firstly, he teaches them how to be sanctified. The number one way is to avoid sexual immorality. This is how many Christians fall. Sexual immorality pierces a person's heart, mind, and soul and makes them unhealthy in every way. Moreover, an unholy sexual appetite leads believers to take advantage of others, with no remorse. We need the Holy Spirit to win the victory over our earthly nature (Col 3:5).

The world around them was filled with sexual immorality promoted by a polytheistic worship that included prostitution. Like them, we need to renounce ungodly cultural norms and decide by faith to be holy, with the help of the Holy Spirit. Then we can escape God's wrath, grow in holiness, and make a strong, godly community.

Secondly, they should continue to love each other with God's help. This includes minding your own business and working hard, not depending on others. Such a quiet life distinguishes us from unbelievers who get entangled in fights.


Application: Father, thank you for the Holy Spirit who sanctifies us to be holy and loving Christians.
One Word: Live to please God, not myself