1:3 1:3

1 Thessalonians 1:4

1:5 1:5

Bible Versions

Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.
Knowing {G1492}, brethren {G80} beloved {G25}, your {G5216} election {G1589} of {G5259} God {G2316}.
We know, brothers, that God has loved and chosen you;
Brothers who are beloved by God, we know that He has chosen you,
knowing, brethren beloved of God, your election,

1 Thessalonians 1:4 is a profound statement of assurance and divine grace, where the Apostle Paul expresses his deep conviction regarding the spiritual status of the Thessalonian believers. This verse is part of Paul's opening thanksgiving in his first letter to them, highlighting the foundational truth of God's initiative in their salvation.

Context

This verse is found within the opening salutation and thanksgiving of Paul's First Epistle to the Thessalonians. Paul, Silas, and Timothy are writing to a relatively new church, established amidst significant opposition in Thessalonica (see Acts 17:5-9 for historical context). Despite their recent conversion and trials, Paul observes undeniable evidence of God's work among them, which leads him to the confident declaration in verse 4. The subsequent verses (1 Thessalonians 1:5-10) elaborate on the signs of their genuine faith, such as their reception of the Gospel, their imitation of Paul and the Lord, and their impactful witness to others.

Key Themes

  • God's Sovereign Election: The core message here is the concept of "election of God." This refers to God's gracious and sovereign choice of individuals for salvation before the foundation of the world. It underscores that salvation is not merely a human decision but primarily a divine initiative, flowing from God's eternal purpose and love. This truth provides immense security and comfort to believers, assuring them that their faith is not accidental but part of God's deliberate plan.
  • Divine Love and Assurance: The phrase "brethren beloved" emphasizes the deep affection Paul held for the Thessalonians and, more importantly, signifies their status as those loved by God. Paul's "knowing" their election implies that the evidence of their faith, love, and perseverance (as seen in 1 Thessalonians 1:3) was so compelling that it served as a confirmation of God's prior choice. This assurance is a significant theme throughout Paul's writings, offering stability in the face of doubt or persecution.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "election" is eklogē (ἐκλογή), which literally means "a picking out," "a choice," or "selection." It denotes a divine act of choosing. The term "beloved" is from ēgapēmenoi (ἠγαπημένοι), a perfect passive participle of agapaō, meaning "to love." This emphasizes that they are those who have been, and continue to be, loved by God, highlighting God's active, initiating love toward them.

Related Scriptures

The doctrine of election is a significant biblical theme. Paul expounds on it further in passages like Romans 8:29-30, where he links foreknowledge, predestination, calling, justification, and glorification. Similarly, Ephesians 1:4-5 speaks of believers being chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world, emphasizing God's holy and blameless purpose. The evidence of election is often seen in one's faith and good works, as encouraged in 2 Peter 1:10, which urges believers to "make your calling and election sure."

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Thessalonians 1:4 offers profound comfort and a basis for humility. Knowing that one's salvation is ultimately "of God" fosters deep gratitude and trust, removing the burden of earning divine favor. It encourages perseverance in faith, even amidst trials, because one's standing is rooted in God's unchanging character and choice. This verse also serves as a reminder that the true marks of election are visible in a transformed life—in faith, love, and hope, which then become a powerful testimony to the world, much like the Thessalonians' example.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Thessalonians 2:13

    ¶ But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:

  • Titus 3:4

    But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared,

  • Titus 3:5

    Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

  • 2 Peter 1:10

    Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:

  • Romans 9:25

    ¶ As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.

  • Colossians 3:12

    ¶ Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

  • Ephesians 1:4

    According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
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