1 Thessalonians 4:10

KJV

And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G2532} indeed {G1063} ye do {G4160} it {G846} toward {G1519} all {G3956} the brethren {G80} which {G3588} are in {G1722} all {G3650} Macedonia {G3109}: but {G1161} we beseech {G3870} you {G5209}, brethren {G80}, that ye increase {G4052} more and more {G3123};

Complete Jewish Bible

and you do love all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to do it even more.

Berean Standard Bible

And you are indeed showing this love to all the brothers throughout Macedonia. But we urge you, brothers, to excel more and more

American Standard Version

for indeed ye do it toward all the brethren that are in all Macedonia. But we exhort you, brethren, that ye abound more and more;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Paul's commendation to the Thessalonian believers serves as both an affirmation and a powerful exhortation, acknowledging their active and widespread love for fellow believers throughout Macedonia while simultaneously urging them to intensify and expand this vital Christian virtue even further. This verse highlights the dynamic nature of spiritual growth, emphasizing that Christian love, though already present and effective, is always capable of deeper expression and broader reach.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the practical and ethical section of Paul's first epistle to the Thessalonians, following his foundational theological teachings. Specifically, [1 Thessalonians 4:10](/1_thessalonians/4-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:10 - Paul's Commendation and Exhortation") immediately follows Paul's explicit instruction in [1 Thessalonians 4:9](/1_thessalonians/4-9 "1 Thessalonians 4:9 - Taught by God to Love") regarding brotherly love, where he states, "But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another." Verse 10 then provides concrete evidence that the Thessalonians were indeed living out this divine teaching. It acts as a bridge, affirming their current obedience before launching into further exhortations regarding the coming of the Lord and the resurrection in [1 Thessalonians 4:13-18](/1_thessalonians/4-13-18 "1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 - The Coming of the Lord"). The commendation serves to build rapport and encourage them before challenging them to greater spiritual maturity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Thessalonica was a bustling port city and the capital of the Roman province of Macedonia. It was a diverse metropolis, making the unity and love among believers, transcending social and ethnic divides, particularly noteworthy. Paul had a relatively short but impactful ministry there, as detailed in [Acts 17:1-9](/acts/17-1-9 "Acts 17:1-9 - Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica"), before being forced to leave due to persecution. The church was young, likely composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts, and faced ongoing opposition. Paul's letter, written from Corinth, aimed to strengthen their faith, correct misunderstandings, and encourage them in their walk. The mention of their love extending "toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia" (a region encompassing cities like Philippi and Berea) underscores the interconnectedness of early Christian communities and the practical expression of their shared faith across geographical boundaries, likely involving financial support or hospitality.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Thessalonians 4:10](/1_thessalonians/4-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:10 - Paul's Commendation and Exhortation") significantly contributes to several key themes within the epistle and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Christian Love (Agape)** as a practical, demonstrable virtue, not merely an abstract concept. Paul emphasizes that this love is "taught of God" ([1 Thessalonians 4:9](/1_thessalonians/4-9 "1 Thessalonians 4:9 - Taught by God to Love")) and is a hallmark of genuine faith. Secondly, the verse underscores the theme of **Spiritual Growth and Progress**. Despite their commendable efforts, Paul calls them to "increase more and more," indicating that Christian maturity is a continuous process of abounding in virtues, not a static state. This aligns with Paul's consistent emphasis on believers pressing on towards the prize, as seen in [Philippians 3:12-14](/philippians/3-12-14 "Philippians 3:12-14 - Pressing Toward the Goal"). Lastly, it reinforces the theme of **Christian Unity and Fellowship**, demonstrating that the "brethren" extended beyond their local congregation to a wider network of believers throughout the entire region of Macedonia, embodying the early church's sense of being one body in Christ ([Ephesians 4:1-6](/ephesians/4-1-6 "Ephesians 4:1-6 - Unity in the Body of Christ")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Indeed (Greek, _gár'_):** This particle, often translated as "for" or "because," here serves to confirm or emphasize the preceding statement. In the context of [1 Thessalonians 4:10](/1_thessalonians/4-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:10 - Paul's Commendation and Exhortation"), Paul uses it to affirm the truth of their loving actions, validating his earlier statement in [1 Thessalonians 4:9](/1_thessalonians/4-9 "1 Thessalonians 4:9 - Taught by God to Love") that they were "taught of God to love one another." It reinforces the reality of their existing obedience.
* **Beseech (Greek, _parakaléō'_):** This verb means "to call near," and by extension, "to invite, invoke, implore, exhort, or comfort." Paul's use of _parakaléō_ here is not a harsh command but a tender, earnest appeal or encouragement. It conveys a pastoral tone, reflecting his deep care for the Thessalonians and his desire for their continued spiritual flourishing, rather than a reprimand for deficiency. It's a gentle yet firm urging towards greater maturity.
* **Increase (Greek, _perisseúō'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to be in excess" or "to superabound," _perisseúō_ signifies an overflowing abundance, going beyond what is merely sufficient or expected. It implies growth in quantity, quality, and intensity. When Paul urges them to "increase more and more," he is calling them to excel, to have an overabundance of love, suggesting an ever-expanding generosity and affection that is not limited by previous achievements. This isn't just about doing more, but about the very nature of their love becoming richer and more pervasive.
* **More and more (Greek, _mâllon'_):** This adverb is the neuter comparative form meaning "more" or "rather," often implying a greater degree or intensity. Coupled with _perisseúō_ ("increase"), it creates a strong emphasis on continuous, progressive growth. It underscores that spiritual virtues, particularly love, are not static but dynamic, requiring ongoing effort and expansion. This phrase highlights the limitless potential for growth in Christian love.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia:"** This opening clause serves as a powerful commendation. Paul affirms that the Thessalonians are actively practicing the brotherly love he just mentioned in [1 Thessalonians 4:9](/1_thessalonians/4-9 "1 Thessalonians 4:9 - Taught by God to Love"). The phrase "ye do it" indicates their practical, ongoing actions. Crucially, their love is not confined to their local assembly but extends "toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia," demonstrating a wide sphere of influence and a deep sense of Christian solidarity across the entire Roman province. This would have involved acts of hospitality, financial support, and mutual encouragement among the scattered Christian communities.
* **"but we beseech you, brethren,"** Following the commendation, Paul introduces a gentle yet firm exhortation. The conjunction "but" (Greek, _dé_) signals a transition from affirmation to appeal. The term "beseech" (Greek, _parakaléō_) conveys a heartfelt plea, reflecting Paul's pastoral care rather than a harsh command. Addressing them as "brethren" (Greek, _adelphoi_) reinforces the familial bond within the Christian community, softening the exhortation and emphasizing the shared spiritual journey.
* **"that ye increase more and more;"** This final clause contains the core of Paul's exhortation. Despite their already commendable actions, Paul urges them to "increase" (Greek, _perisseúō_) in their love. The repetition of "more and more" (Greek, _mâllon_) intensifies this call, emphasizing not just continued growth, but an escalating, superabundant expression of love. It implies a limitless horizon for spiritual development, where Christian virtues are never fully perfected but always capable of deeper and broader manifestation. This is a call to excel and abound in love, pushing beyond existing boundaries.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in [1 Thessalonians 4:10](/1_thessalonians/4-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:10 - Paul's Commendation and Exhortation") to achieve his pastoral aims. He begins with **Commendation**, affirming their current praiseworthy actions ("And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren..."). This positive reinforcement builds rapport and encourages the believers, demonstrating Paul's genuine appreciation for their faithfulness. Following this, he transitions to **Exhortation**, using the tender yet earnest verb "beseech" (Greek: _parakaléō_) to urge them forward. The phrase "increase more and more" is a form of **Intensification** or **Hyperbole**, using the Greek _perisseúō_ (to superabound) combined with _mâllon_ (more, in a greater degree) to powerfully convey the idea of limitless growth and an overflowing abundance of love. This is not merely a call for more acts of love, but for love to become ever deeper, richer, and more pervasive in their lives. The consistent use of "brethren" (Greek: _adelphoi_) throughout the letter, and specifically twice in this verse, employs **Familial Language**, reinforcing the strong bond and shared identity among believers, which naturally undergirds the call to brotherly love.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The theological significance of [1 Thessalonians 4:10](/1_thessalonians/4-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:10 - Paul's Commendation and Exhortation") lies in its affirmation of love as the quintessential Christian virtue and its dynamic nature. It teaches that genuine faith is active and expressed through love for fellow believers, extending beyond local congregations to the wider body of Christ. Furthermore, it underscores the principle of progressive sanctification, where believers are continually called to grow and abound in spiritual fruit, never reaching a point of static perfection but always pressing forward in Christ-likeness. This abounding love is not merely human effort but a divine enablement, as they are "taught of God to love one another" ([1 Thessalonians 4:9](/1_thessalonians/4-9 "1 Thessalonians 4:9 - Taught by God to Love")). The extensive reach of their love across Macedonia also highlights the early church's understanding of itself as a unified, interconnected family, transcending geographical and social barriers.

* [Romans 12:10](/romans/12-10 "Romans 12:10 - Brotherly Love and Honor")
* [Philippians 1:9](/philippians/1-9 "Philippians 1:9 - Love Abounding in Knowledge")
* [2 Peter 3:18](/2_peter/3-18 "2 Peter 3:18 - Grow in Grace and Knowledge")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Thessalonians 4:10](/1_thessalonians/4-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:10 - Paul's Commendation and Exhortation") offers profound insights for contemporary believers. First, it reminds us of the power of affirmation. Paul begins by commending the Thessalonians, validating their existing faithfulness before challenging them further. This teaches us the importance of acknowledging and celebrating the good we see in others, fostering an environment of encouragement rather than constant critique. Second, the exhortation to "increase more and more" in love is a timeless call to continuous spiritual growth. Christian love is not a static achievement but a dynamic, ever-expanding virtue. We are challenged to actively seek opportunities to deepen our affection, extend our compassion, and broaden our sphere of care, moving beyond our comfort zones and immediate circles. This involves intentional acts of service, forgiveness, patience, and generosity, striving for an overflowing abundance of love that reflects the heart of God. Our love should not be limited by convenience or familiarity but should reach out to the "brethren" near and far, demonstrating the unity of the global church.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific ways am I currently demonstrating love for my fellow believers?**
* **What does "increasing more and more" in love look like in my daily life and relationships?**
* **How can I intentionally broaden the reach of my love beyond my immediate Christian community to the wider body of Christ?**
* **Am I quick to affirm others' good works and spiritual growth, or do I tend to focus on their shortcomings?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "increase more and more" in love?**

Answer: When Paul urges the Thessalonians to "increase more and more" (Greek: _perisseúō mâllon_), he is calling them to a continuous and escalating abundance in their brotherly love. It's not merely about doing more acts of love, but about the quality, depth, and intensity of their affection becoming richer and more pervasive. It implies a love that overflows, exceeds expectations, and is never content with its current level but always seeks to grow and abound. This concept of spiritual growth is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, emphasizing that Christian virtues are dynamic and require ongoing development, as seen in his prayer for the Philippians that their love might "abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment" ([Philippians 1:9](/philippians/1-9 "Philippians 1:9 - Love Abounding in Knowledge")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Thessalonians 4:10](/1_thessalonians/4-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:10 - Paul's Commendation and Exhortation"), while a direct command to the Thessalonian believers, finds its ultimate fulfillment and enablement in Jesus Christ. The "love one another" that Paul commends and calls to "increase more and more" is the very love that flows from Christ and is empowered by His Spirit. Jesus Himself is the supreme example of this abounding love, demonstrated in His self-sacrificial life and death for humanity ([John 15:13](/john/15-13 "John 15:13 - Greater Love Has No One Than This")). He commanded His disciples, "A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another" ([John 13:34](/john/13-34 "John 13:34 - The New Commandment to Love")). Thus, the Thessalonians' existing love, and the call for its increase, is a reflection of Christ's indwelling presence and His ongoing work in their hearts. As believers are united with Christ, they are transformed into His likeness, enabling them to manifest the divine love (agape) that is characteristic of God Himself ([1 John 4:7-8](/1_john/4-7-8 "1 John 4:7-8 - God is Love")). The church's love for one another, extending throughout Macedonia and beyond, becomes a tangible witness to the world of the reality of Christ's transforming power and the unity found in Him ([John 13:35](/john/13-35 "John 13:35 - Love Identifies Disciples")).

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.

Cross-References

Philippians 1:9

¶ And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all judgment;

1 Thessalonians 3:12

And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all [men], even as we [do] toward you:

2 Thessalonians 1:3

We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

1 Thessalonians 1:7

So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

2 Corinthians 8:8

I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.

2 Corinthians 8:10

And herein I give [my] advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.

Philippians 3:13

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but [this] one thing [I do], forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,