1 Thessalonians 4:3

KJV

For this is the will of God, [even] your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} this {G5124} is {G2076} the will {G2307} of God {G2316}, even your {G5216} sanctification {G38}, that ye {G5209} should abstain {G567} from {G575} fornication {G4202}:

Complete Jewish Bible

What God wants is that you be holy, that you keep away from sexual immorality,

Berean Standard Bible

For it is God’s will that you should be holy: You must abstain from sexual immorality;

American Standard Version

For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye abstain from fornication;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul, addressing the nascent church in Thessalonica, unequivocally declares that God's express and non-negotiable will for every believer is their sanctification, which he immediately and practically defines as abstaining from all forms of sexual immorality. This verse serves as a foundational ethical mandate, setting a clear standard for Christian conduct that stands in stark contrast to the prevailing pagan culture and remains profoundly relevant for believers today.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - The Will of God for Sanctification") marks a significant transition in Paul's letter from theological instruction and pastoral encouragement (chapters 1-3) to practical ethical exhortation (chapters 4-5). Having affirmed their faith, love, and endurance in the face of persecution, Paul now moves to specific directives on how the Thessalonian believers are to live out their Christian calling. This verse initiates a crucial section (verses 3-8) that focuses intensely on sexual purity, followed by exhortations regarding brotherly love, industriousness, and living quietly, culminating in teaching about the Lord's return. The placement of sexual ethics at the forefront of his practical instructions underscores its critical importance to Paul and to God's will for His people.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Thessalonica was a bustling port and a major commercial center in the Roman province of Macedonia. As with many Greco-Roman cities of the era, sexual morality was vastly different from biblical standards. Prostitution, concubinage, and various forms of illicit sexual activity were common, often integrated into religious practices (e.g., temple prostitution) and generally not considered morally reprehensible by pagan society. Many of the Thessalonian converts would have come directly out of this pagan background, where such practices were normalized. Therefore, Paul’s explicit command to "abstain from fornication" was not merely a general moral guideline but a radical call to counter-cultural living, demanding a complete break from deeply ingrained societal norms and personal habits. This instruction was vital for the new believers to understand what it meant to live as a distinct, holy community set apart for God in a sexually permissive world.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - The Will of God for Sanctification") powerfully encapsulates several core themes central to Paul's theology and the broader Christian life. First, it highlights **The Will of God** as a clear, discernible, and authoritative directive for believers. Paul presents sanctification, specifically sexual purity, not as a suggestion or an optional spiritual discipline, but as God's express desire and command for His children, echoing the call to transformation found in [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind"). Second, the verse introduces the pivotal theme of **Sanctification**, which refers to the process by which believers are set apart from sin and consecrated to God, growing in holiness and becoming increasingly conformed to the image of Christ. This is both a definitive act of God (positional holiness) and an ongoing, lifelong process of spiritual transformation (progressive holiness), a pursuit that [Hebrews 12:14](/hebrews/12-14 "Hebrews 12:14 - Pursue Peace and Holiness") also emphasizes. Finally, the verse directly addresses **Sexual Purity**, making it a concrete and immediate application of sanctification. By commanding abstinence from "fornication," Paul establishes sexual integrity as a fundamental hallmark of Christian living and a visible demonstration of one's commitment to God's will, a theme he reiterates forcefully in passages like [1 Corinthians 6:18-20](/1_corinthians/6-18-20 "1 Corinthians 6:18-20 - Fleeing Sexual Immorality and Glorifying God").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **will (Greek, _thélēma'_):** This term, derived from the verb meaning "to wish" or "to desire," signifies a determination, purpose, or decree. In this context, it is not merely a passive inclination but an active, sovereign choice and command from God. It denotes what God has purposed and what He desires to see accomplished in the lives of His people.
* **sanctification (Greek, _hagiasmós'_):** From the root meaning "to make holy" or "to set apart," _hagiasmós_ refers to the state of purity and consecration, as well as the process by which one is made holy. It implies being separated from the common or profane and dedicated exclusively to God's service and purposes. It is both a gift from God (being set apart by Him) and a call to live a life that reflects that setting apart.
* **fornication (Greek, _porneía'_):** This is a broad and comprehensive term encompassing all forms of unlawful sexual intercourse outside the God-ordained covenant of marriage. It includes premarital sex, adultery, prostitution, incest, homosexual acts, and any other illicit sexual activity. Its breadth indicates Paul's intention to condemn all forms of sexual immorality that deviate from God's design for human sexuality. The English word "pornography" is directly derived from this Greek root.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For this is the will of God":** Paul begins with a strong declarative statement, asserting divine authority for the instruction that follows. "This" (G5124, _toûto_) points forward to the subsequent clause, emphasizing that what is about to be stated is not a human suggestion or a cultural norm, but an explicit and non-negotiable decree from God Himself. The use of "is" (G2076, _estí_) underscores the present and enduring nature of this divine will.
* **"even your sanctification":** This clause directly identifies the content of God's will. The word "even" serves as an explanatory or appositional particle, clarifying that God's will *is* their sanctification. It signifies the process and state of being set apart for God, purified from sin, and consecrated to Him. This is the overarching goal of God for His people, a transformation into holiness that reflects His own character.
* **"that ye should abstain from fornication":** This final clause provides the immediate and most crucial practical application of sanctification in the Thessalonians' context. The phrase "that ye should abstain" (G567, _apéchomai_) is a strong imperative, commanding a decisive turning away or holding oneself off from. "Fornication" (G4202, _porneía_) is the specific sin from which they are to abstain, serving as a primary example of the kind of unholy behavior that is incompatible with God's will for their sanctification. This makes the abstract concept of holiness concrete and actionable.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - The Will of God for Sanctification") to convey his message with clarity and authority. The verse opens with a **Declarative Statement**, "For this is the will of God," which immediately establishes the divine origin and non-negotiable nature of the command. This authoritative tone leaves no room for ambiguity regarding the source or importance of the instruction. Following this, Paul uses **Explication** or **Apposition** with the phrase "even your sanctification," which clarifies and defines "this" (the will of God). This structure highlights that sanctification is not merely *part* of God's will, but *is* His will itself. Finally, the verse culminates in an **Ethical Imperative**, "that ye should abstain from fornication," which provides a direct, practical, and actionable command. This imperative functions as a concrete example and primary expression of the broader call to sanctification, demonstrating how abstract theological concepts are to be lived out in daily conduct. Implicitly, there is also a **Contrast** drawn between the prevailing pagan sexual norms and the distinctive, holy lifestyle expected of believers.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - The Will of God for Sanctification") is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of God's character and His relationship with His people. God is inherently holy, and His call for His people to be holy is a consistent theme throughout Scripture, from the Old Testament command "Be holy, for I am holy" ([Leviticus 11:44](/leviticus/11-44 "Leviticus 11:44 - Be Holy as I Am Holy")) to the New Testament's emphasis on living a life worthy of the calling. Sanctification, as God's will, is not merely about avoiding sin, but about being set apart for God's purposes, reflecting His purity and righteousness. Sexual purity is presented as a fundamental aspect of this sanctification because human sexuality, created by God, is intended to reflect His design for intimacy, covenant, and procreation within the sanctity of marriage. Deviations from this design defile the body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit, and dishonor God. Therefore, abstaining from fornication is a direct act of obedience and worship, demonstrating a commitment to God's will and a desire to glorify Him in every aspect of life.

* [Hebrews 12:14](/hebrews/12-14 "Hebrews 12:14 - Pursue Peace and Holiness"): "Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord."
* [1 Corinthians 6:18-20](/1_corinthians/6-18-20 "1 Corinthians 6:18-20 - Fleeing Sexual Immorality and Glorifying God"): "Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God’s."
* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind"): "And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a contemporary world increasingly saturated with sexualized media, fluid moral boundaries, and pervasive sexual immorality, [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - The Will of God for Sanctification") stands as an urgent and unwavering call to distinctiveness for every follower of Christ. This verse challenges us to recognize that sexual purity is not an antiquated cultural standard or an optional add-on to our faith, but an explicit divine mandate central to our sanctification. Living out this truth requires intentionality, self-control, and a profound reliance on the Holy Spirit. It means actively choosing to guard our eyes, minds, and bodies from anything that defiles, and to cultivate a lifestyle that honors God in our relationships, thoughts, and actions. Our pursuit of holiness, particularly in the realm of sexuality, serves as a powerful witness to a watching world, demonstrating the transformative power of the Gospel and the reality of God's perfect will for human flourishing. It is a lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ, empowered by His grace and driven by our love for Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding God's explicit will for your sanctification impact your view of sexual purity, moving it beyond mere morality to a matter of divine purpose?**
* **In what specific areas of your life—thoughts, media consumption, relationships—might you need to "abstain" more fully to align with God's will for your sanctification?**
* **Considering the cultural climate, how can the church better equip believers, especially younger generations, to embrace and pursue holiness and sexual purity as a joyful and essential aspect of their faith?**

### FAQ
**Is sexual purity really that important to God, or is it just a cultural hang-up from ancient times?**

Answer: [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - The Will of God for Sanctification") makes it unequivocally clear that sexual purity is not a cultural relic but "the will of God" for believers' sanctification. Throughout Scripture, God consistently emphasizes sexual integrity as foundational to holiness. Passages like [1 Corinthians 6:18](/1_corinthians/6-18 "1 Corinthians 6:18 - Flee Sexual Immorality") command believers to "flee sexual immorality" because it is a sin against one's own body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit. God's concern for sexual purity stems from His own holy character and His design for human sexuality, which He created to be expressed within the covenant of marriage ([Hebrews 13:4](/hebrews/13-4 "Hebrews 13:4 - Marriage is Honorable")). Therefore, it is of paramount importance to Him.

**What does "sanctification" mean in practice, and how does abstaining from fornication relate to it?**

Answer: "Sanctification" refers to the process by which believers are set apart for God and progressively made more like Christ. It has two main aspects: positional sanctification (being declared holy by God at conversion) and progressive sanctification (the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit to transform us into holiness). Abstaining from fornication is a direct and concrete expression of progressive sanctification. It means actively choosing to refrain from all forms of sexual activity outside of biblical marriage, including premarital sex, adultery, pornography, and other illicit acts. By doing so, believers demonstrate their commitment to live according to God's holy standards, honoring Him with their bodies and minds, and reflecting the purity to which they have been called by God's will ([1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy as God is Holy")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The command for sanctification and abstinence from fornication in [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - The Will of God for Sanctification") finds its ultimate fulfillment and empowerment in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of perfect holiness, the one who lived a life completely set apart for God, untainted by sin, including sexual impurity. Our sanctification is first and foremost a gift made possible by His atoning sacrifice on the cross, through which we are justified and positionally declared holy in God's sight ([Hebrews 10:10](/hebrews/10-10 "Hebrews 10:10 - Sanctified Through Christ's Offering")). Furthermore, Christ, through the indwelling Holy Spirit, empowers believers to live out this progressive sanctification. The Spirit provides the strength to "abstain from fornication" and to cultivate purity of heart and action, transforming us into the likeness of Christ ([2 Corinthians 3:18](/2_corinthians/3-18 "2 Corinthians 3:18 - Transformed into His Image")). Our union with Christ means we are called to walk as He walked, reflecting His purity and dedication to the Father's will. Ultimately, Christ's work ensures that His church will be presented to Him "holy and blameless and above reproach" at His glorious return, fulfilling the very purpose of our sanctification ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ Sanctifies the Church") and [Colossians 1:21-22](/colossians/1-21-22 "Colossians 1:21-22 - Reconciled to be Holy")).

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

1 Peter 4:2

That he no longer should live the rest of [his] time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.

1 Thessalonians 5:23

¶ And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Romans 12:2

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Hebrews 13:4

Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.

Ephesians 5:17

Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord [is].

Colossians 3:5

¶ Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

Ephesians 5:3

¶ But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints;