1 Thessalonians 4:2 – “For you know what instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Paul reminds the Thessalonian believers that the instructions they received were not just his personal opinions but were given with the authority of Jesus Christ. This is a strong statement. Paul is making it clear that the teachings he and his fellow missionaries shared were not just human wisdom or cultural suggestions-they were divine commands meant to shape the way believers lived.
The word “instructions” in this verse refers to authoritative commands, much like orders given by a leader to his followers. Paul is reminding them that their obedience to these teachings is not optional; it is a response to the authority of Christ.
This verse also serves as a bridge between encouragement and instruction. In the previous verse (1 Thessalonians 4:1), Paul urges them to live in a way that pleases God. Now, he reinforces that the way to do this is by following what they have been taught through Jesus‘ authority.
Historical Context
The Thessalonian church was young, and its members were surrounded by a culture that did not share Christian values. Thessalonica was a major Roman city filled with idol worship, immorality, and opposition to the Christian faith. These believers needed clear guidance on how to live differently from the world around them.
Paul had only been able to stay in Thessalonica for a short time before facing intense persecution (Acts 17:1-9). Because of this, he wrote this letter to encourage and instruct them in their faith. He wanted them to remember that the Christian life is built on the authority of Christ, not human traditions.
The phrase “by the authority of the Lord Jesus” is important because, in the Roman world, authority was highly valued. Emperors ruled with absolute power, and their decrees were final. Paul makes it clear that Jesus is the ultimate authority-not any earthly ruler or philosopher.
Theological Implications
This verse reminds us that Christian teachings are not just good advice; they are authoritative truths given by God. When we follow biblical instruction, we are not merely agreeing with a religious philosophy-we are submitting to the lordship of Jesus Christ.
It also speaks to the nature of discipleship. Following Jesus means obeying His teachings, not picking and choosing what we prefer. The Christian faith is built on the foundation of God’s truth, and this truth shapes the way we live.
Additionally, this verse affirms that the apostles were speaking on behalf of Christ. Paul was not claiming his own authority but pointing to Jesus as the true source of all Christian teaching. This aligns with other parts of Scripture where Jesus commissioned His disciples to teach in His name (Matthew 28:18-20).
Literary Analysis
Paul’s wording in this verse is firm yet relational. He starts by saying, “For you know,” which suggests that the Thessalonians were already familiar with what he was talking about. He is not introducing new ideas but reinforcing what they had already been taught.
The phrase “by the authority of the Lord Jesus” is crucial. It emphasizes that the foundation of Christian teaching is Christ Himself, not human reasoning. This is a theme throughout Paul’s letters-he consistently points back to Jesus as the source of truth.
The Greek word for “instructions” (parangelia) is a military term that implies commands given by a superior officer. This suggests that the teachings of Christ are not suggestions but directives that should be followed with seriousness and commitment.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 28:18-20 – “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.’”
- John 14:15 – “If you love me, keep my commands.”
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”
- Acts 17:11 – “Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, this verse is a reminder that following Christ means submitting to His authority. In a world that values individual opinions and personal preferences, it is easy to treat Christian teachings as just another set of beliefs. But Paul’s words challenge us to recognize that the Bible is not just another book-it is God’s revealed truth.
It also encourages us to take biblical instruction seriously. We are not called to follow Jesus on our own terms but to obey what He has commanded. This means aligning our thoughts, actions, and decisions with His Word.
Additionally, this verse calls us to trust in the authority of Christ rather than being swayed by culture. In an age where truth is often redefined, we must hold firmly to the unchanging truth of Jesus.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s authority is not oppressive; it is rooted in love. He gives us commands because He knows what is best for us. His instructions are not meant to control or burden us but to lead us into a life of joy, peace, and righteousness.
Just as a loving parent guides a child for their good, God’s commands are given to protect and bless His people. His authority is not about forcing submission but about inviting us into a relationship where we trust Him fully.
This verse reminds us that when God gives instructions, they are for our benefit. He does not leave us to figure life out on our own-He provides clear guidance through His Word.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse directly connects to Jesus by affirming His authority over all things. Throughout His ministry, Jesus made it clear that He spoke with the authority of the Father (John 12:49-50). He did not teach human ideas but the very words of God.
Paul’s statement in this verse echoes Jesus’ own teachings. In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus compares those who follow His words to a wise man who builds his house on a rock. Those who ignore His words are like a foolish man building on sand. The message is clear-Christ’s teachings are the foundation for life.
Furthermore, Jesus Himself is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s Word. John 1:14 says, “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” Everything Paul taught was rooted in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. Without Christ, there would be no authority behind the message.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you personally respond to the idea of Jesus‘ authority over your life?
- Are there areas in your life where you struggle to obey God’s instructions? Why?
- How can you grow in your understanding of God’s commands and apply them more faithfully?
- In what ways do you see culture influencing how Christians approach biblical authority?
- How does trusting in Jesus‘ authority bring peace and confidence to your faith?
This verse reminds us that the Christian life is not about following personal preferences but about living in obedience to the truth of Jesus Christ. It is an encouragement to take God’s Word seriously and to walk in the confidence that His authority is for our good.