1 Thessalonians 4:2

KJV

For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} ye know {G1492} what {G5101} commandments {G3852} we gave {G1325} you {G5213} by {G1223} the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For you know what instructions we gave you on the authority of the Lord Yeshua.

Berean Standard Bible

For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.

American Standard Version

For ye know what charge we gave you through the Lord Jesus.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Thessalonians 4:2 serves as a foundational reminder to the believers in Thessalonica, emphasizing the divine origin and authoritative nature of the ethical and moral instructions they had previously received from the Apostle Paul and his companions. This verse acts as a critical preface, establishing the non-negotiable basis for the specific exhortations regarding Christian conduct that immediately follow in the chapter, particularly concerning sexual purity, brotherly love, and diligent work.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Paul's earnest exhortation in [1 Thessalonians 4:1](/1-thessalonians/4-1 "1 Thessalonians 4:1 - Walking to Please God"), where he urges the Thessalonians to "walk and to please God, as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk, and to abound more and more." Verse 2 then provides the authoritative ground for the specific instructions that follow, which include admonitions concerning sexual purity ([1 Thessalonians 4:3-8](/1-thessalonians/4-3-8 "1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 - God's Will for Sanctification and Purity")) and brotherly love ([1 Thessalonians 4:9-10](/1-thessalonians/4-9-10 "1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 - Exhortation to Brotherly Love")). The structure of the letter shifts from primarily commendation and encouragement in the earlier chapters to more direct ethical instruction, with this verse serving as the bridge that validates the upcoming commands.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Thessalonica was relatively young, having been founded by Paul during his second missionary journey (recorded in [Acts 17:1-9](/acts/17-1-9 "Acts 17:1-9 - Paul's Ministry in Thessalonica")). The city was a bustling Roman provincial capital, steeped in paganism, idol worship, and pervasive sexual immorality. Converts to Christianity from such a background needed clear, authoritative guidance to distinguish their new lifestyle from the surrounding culture. The "commandments" given by Paul were not merely moral suggestions but divine directives, crucial for establishing a distinct Christian identity and practice in a morally compromised environment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several key themes within 1 Thessalonians and Pauline theology. It underscores the **Divine Authority of Apostolic Teaching**, asserting that the instructions imparted by Paul, Silvanus (Silas), and Timothy were not human opinions but carried the full weight and authority of Jesus Christ Himself. This theme is echoed throughout Paul's letters, as seen in [Galatians 1:11-12](/galatians/1-11-12 "Galatians 1:11-12 - Paul's Gospel Not from Man") where he emphasizes the divine origin of his gospel. Furthermore, it highlights the **Importance of Prior Instruction and Remembrance**, indicated by "For ye know," suggesting these were not new revelations but a reinforcement of foundational truths already taught during their initial evangelism and discipleship. This emphasis on remembering and adhering to past teaching is vital for spiritual growth, as also seen in [2 Peter 1:12-15](/2-peter/1-12-15 "2 Peter 1:12-15 - Peter's Reminder of Truth"). Finally, the verse lays the **Foundation for Christian Conduct**, providing the ethical and moral framework for the Thessalonians' walk. Their integrity of faith was to be demonstrated through obedience to these Christ-given directives, reflecting the broader biblical call to live a life worthy of the gospel, as encouraged in [Philippians 1:27](/philippians/1-27 "Philippians 1:27 - Conduct Worthy of the Gospel").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Greek, _eídō'_):** G1492, a primary verb meaning properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by implication, (in the perfect tense only) to know. In this context, it signifies a deep, experiential understanding or recognition of the instructions previously given. It’s not merely intellectual assent but an awareness rooted in their past reception of Paul’s teaching.
* **commandments (Greek, _parangelía'_):** G3852, from παραγγέλλω; a mandate, charge, or command. This term denotes authoritative instructions or directives, not mere suggestions or advice. It emphasizes the binding nature of the ethical teachings Paul delivered, indicating they were given with divine authority.
* **by (Greek, _diá'_):** G1223, a primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional). Here, it specifies the means or agency through which the commandments were conveyed. It clarifies that while Paul and his companions were the human agents, the ultimate source and authority of these commands originated from the Lord Jesus.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For ye know":** This opening phrase serves as an appeal to the Thessalonians' existing knowledge and memory. Paul is not introducing new concepts but reminding them of foundational truths and directives they had already received and understood during his initial ministry among them. This implies a prior, effective teaching ministry and assumes the believers' comprehension and acceptance of those teachings.
* **"what commandments we gave you":** This clause specifies the content of their prior knowledge: "commandments." These were not suggestions or opinions but authoritative instructions delivered by Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. The use of "we gave" (plural) highlights the unified apostolic testimony and teaching, reinforcing its authenticity and weight. These commandments pertained to their practical Christian living, encompassing moral and ethical conduct.
* **"by the Lord Jesus":** This crucial phrase identifies the ultimate source and authority behind the "commandments." The Greek preposition _diá_ (by/through) indicates that while the apostles were the human instruments of delivery, the divine authority and origin of these mandates resided in the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. This elevates the instructions beyond human wisdom, making them binding divine imperatives for the believers.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The phrase "For ye know" functions as a form of **Apostolic Appeal**, drawing upon the shared history and established relationship between Paul and the Thessalonian believers. It sets a tone of shared understanding and mutual recognition of truth. The use of "commandments" (parangelía) highlights **Authoritative Declaration**, signifying that the instructions are not mere suggestions but binding directives. The emphatic statement that these commands were given "by the Lord Jesus" serves as a powerful **Understatement** of divine authority, subtly but profoundly asserting that the apostles were not speaking on their own behalf but as Christ's authorized representatives. This also functions as an appeal to **Divine Sanction**, grounding the ethical demands in the ultimate authority of Christ Himself.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Thessalonians 4:2 powerfully articulates the theological truth that genuine Christian ethics are not merely human constructs or cultural adaptations, but divinely revealed mandates originating from the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. This verse establishes that the apostles functioned as conduits of Christ's authority, ensuring that the moral and practical instructions given to the early church carried the full weight of God's will. It underscores the foundational principle that obedience to these "commandments" is not optional but is integral to living a life that truly pleases God, reflecting the character of Christ in a fallen world. This divine origin of Christian conduct elevates it above mere philosophy or societal norms, rooting it firmly in the person and authority of our Savior.

* [John 14:15](/john/14-15 "If you love me, keep my commandments")
* [2 Peter 3:2](/2-peter/3-2 "Remembering the words spoken by the holy prophets and the commandment of the Lord and Savior through your apostles")
* [Hebrews 12:14](/hebrews/12-14 "Pursue peace and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
First Thessalonians 4:2 serves as a profound reminder for contemporary believers that our Christian walk is not based on personal preferences, fleeting cultural trends, or even well-intentioned human traditions, but on the enduring and authoritative "commandments" given through God's inspired Word, which ultimately originate from our Lord Jesus Christ. This verse calls us to diligently engage with biblical teaching, recognizing that true spiritual guidance and the blueprint for a life pleasing to God flow directly from divine revelation. It challenges us to examine whether our daily conduct, from our personal purity and integrity to our relationships and work ethic, genuinely reflects these divine standards. Our response to these Christ-given directives is a tangible expression of our love and devotion to Him, empowering us to live a life that honors God and serves as a compelling witness to the world around us.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I tend to rely on personal preferences or cultural norms rather than the clear "commandments" of the Lord Jesus?**
* **How does understanding the divine origin of biblical commands (i.e., "by the Lord Jesus") deepen my commitment to obey them?**
* **Am I actively learning and remembering the foundational truths and ethical instructions of Scripture, or have I become complacent in my understanding?**
* **How can I better demonstrate my love for Christ through my obedience to His commands in my daily life?**

### FAQ
**What does "commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus" specifically refer to?**

Answer: This phrase refers to the authoritative ethical and moral instructions that Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy had previously taught the Thessalonian believers during their initial evangelistic and discipleship ministry. These were not merely human suggestions but divine directives, given with the full authority of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. While the letter doesn't list every single command, the immediate context of [1 Thessalonians 4:3-12](/1-thessalonians/4-3-12 "1 Thessalonians 4:3-12 - Exhortations on Purity, Love, and Work") indicates they included mandates concerning sexual purity, brotherly love, and diligent work, all crucial for living a life distinct from the surrounding pagan culture and pleasing to God.

**Why is it important that these commandments were given "by the Lord Jesus" and not just by Paul?**

Answer: The phrase "by the Lord Jesus" is critical because it establishes the ultimate divine authority behind the apostles' teaching. It clarifies that Paul and his companions were not simply sharing their own opinions or human wisdom, but were acting as authorized messengers and conduits of Christ's will. This ensures that the "commandments" are binding and carry the weight of divine imperative, not just human advice. It grounds Christian ethics in the person and authority of Jesus, making obedience to these commands an act of obedience to Christ Himself, as seen in [John 13:20](/john/13-20 "John 13:20 - Receiving those sent by Christ").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Thessalonians 4:2, by asserting that the commandments given to the believers originated "by the Lord Jesus," points profoundly to Christ as the ultimate source of all divine authority and ethical truth. Jesus Himself is the embodiment of God's perfect will and the living Word through whom all things were created and sustained ([John 1:1-3](/john/1-1-3 "John 1:1-3 - The Word Was God")). His earthly ministry was characterized by authoritative teaching that transcended the traditions of men ([Matthew 7:28-29](/matthew/7-28-29 "Matthew 7:28-29 - Jesus Teaches with Authority")). As the resurrected and ascended Lord, Christ continues to rule His church, and His Spirit empowers His apostles to deliver His commands, ensuring that the church is built upon His foundational truth ([Ephesians 2:20](/ephesians/2-20 "Ephesians 2:20 - Built on the Foundation of the Apostles and Prophets")). Therefore, the "commandments" in 1 Thessalonians 4:2 are not merely abstract rules but expressions of the very character and will of Christ, enabling believers to walk in a manner worthy of Him ([Colossians 1:10](/colossians/1-10 "Colossians 1:10 - Walking Worthy of the Lord")). Ultimately, obedience to these commands is a Christ-centered act of love and worship, reflecting our desire to honor the One who gave His life to redeem us and now calls us to live in His likeness ([1 John 2:3-6](/1-john/2-3-6 "1 John 2:3-6 - Knowing God by Keeping His Commandments")).

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

Matthew 28:20

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

Ezekiel 3:17

Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me.

2 Thessalonians 3:6

¶ Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.

1 Corinthians 9:21

To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law.

2 Thessalonians 3:10

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.