1 Thessalonians 4:5

KJV

Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:

KJV (with Strong's)

Not {G3361} in {G1722} the lust {G3806} of concupiscence {G1939}, even {G2532} as {G2509} the Gentiles {G1484} which {G3588} know {G1492} not {G3361} God {G2316}:

Complete Jewish Bible

without giving in to lustful desires, like the pagans who don’t know God.

Berean Standard Bible

not in lustful passion like the Gentiles who do not know God;

American Standard Version

not in the passion of lust, even as the Gentiles who know not God;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Thessalonians 4:5 serves as a powerful exhortation to believers, urging them to live a life of sexual purity and self-control, fundamentally distinct from the unrestrained desires and moral degradation characteristic of those who do not possess a true knowledge of God. This verse underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, calling Christians to embody holiness as a direct reflection of their relationship with the living God, thereby setting them apart from the surrounding pagan culture.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is embedded within Paul's practical instructions to the Thessalonian church concerning Christian living, following his commendation of their faith and love in the preceding chapters. In [1 Thessalonians 4:1-2](/1_thessalonians/4-1-2 "1 Thessalonians 4:1-2 - Paul's Exhortation to Walk Worthily"), Paul transitions from theological exposition to ethical exhortation, urging them to "walk and to please God." The immediate context, [1 Thessalonians 4:3-8](/1_thessalonians/4-3-8 "1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 - God's Will for Sanctification"), specifically addresses sexual purity and sanctification, making it clear that abstaining from sexual immorality is "the will of God." Verse 5, therefore, provides a crucial negative contrast, illustrating *how not* to live, by comparing Christian conduct to the unbridled passions of the Gentiles. This section culminates in a warning against defrauding one's brother and emphasizes that God has called believers to holiness, not impurity.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Thessalonica was a bustling port city in Macedonia, part of the Greco-Roman world, where sexual morality differed significantly from biblical standards. Pagan religions often incorporated sexual acts into their worship, and prostitution was common and widely accepted. The prevailing philosophy of the day, particularly Epicureanism, often promoted the pursuit of pleasure, including sensual indulgence, as the highest good. Against this backdrop, Paul's call for sexual purity was radical and counter-cultural. The term "Gentiles" (Greek: *ethne*) referred to the non-Jewish nations, who, from a Jewish and early Christian perspective, were characterized by idolatry, spiritual ignorance, and often, moral depravity, as vividly described in [Romans 1:24-32](/romans/1-24-32 "Romans 1:24-32 - The Depravity of Humanity"). Therefore, for the Thessalonian believers, distinguishing themselves from Gentile practices was not merely a moral guideline but a fundamental aspect of their new identity in Christ and their witness to the surrounding world.
* **Key Themes:** First Thessalonians 4:5 contributes significantly to several key themes within the letter and broader Pauline theology. Firstly, **Sanctification and Holiness** are paramount, as Paul explicitly states in [1 Thessalonians 4:3](/1_thessalonians/4-3 "1 Thessalonians 4:3 - God's Will for Sanctification") that God's will is their sanctification, which includes sexual purity. Secondly, the theme of **Christian Distinction** is highlighted; believers are called to live a life that visibly sets them apart from the world, reflecting their new nature in Christ. This distinction is not merely external but stems from an internal transformation rooted in the knowledge of God. Thirdly, the verse underscores the importance of **Knowledge of God** as the foundation for ethical living. The contrast drawn with "Gentiles which know not God" implies that true knowledge of God leads to self-control and moral uprightness, whereas spiritual ignorance often results in unchecked desires and moral decay. This theme resonates with the broader biblical principle that knowing God transforms one's character and conduct, enabling believers to [walk by the Spirit](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walk by the Spirit") rather than fulfilling the desires of the flesh.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **lust (Greek, _páthos'_):** From the alternate of πάσχω; properly, suffering ("pathos"), i.e. (subjectively) a passion (especially concupiscence). In this context, *páthos* refers to strong, often overwhelming, and uncontrolled desires or passions, particularly those that lead to sin. It signifies a state of being driven by internal urges rather than by reason or divine will, often resulting in suffering or moral degradation.
* **concupiscence (Greek, _epithymía'_):** From ἐπιθυμέω; a longing (especially for what is forbidden). While *epithymía* can denote a neutral or even positive desire, when paired with *páthos* and contrasted with knowing God, it specifically refers to illicit or inordinate cravings, particularly those of a sexual nature. It describes a strong, often sinful, yearning that goes against God's design for human sexuality and relationships.
* **Gentiles (Greek, _éthnos'_):** Probably from ἔθω; a race (as of the same habit), i.e. a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-Jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan). In this verse, *éthnos* refers to the non-Jewish peoples, who, from a biblical perspective, were generally outside the covenant relationship with God and were characterized by idolatry and a lack of divine revelation. Their moral practices, including sexual immorality, were often seen as a direct consequence of their spiritual ignorance.
* **know (Greek, _eídō'_):** A primary verb; used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent ὀπτάνομαι and ὁράω; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by implication, (in the perfect tense only) to know. Here, *eídō* signifies a deep, experiential, and transformative knowledge, not merely intellectual awareness. The Gentiles "know not God" in the sense that they do not have a saving, relational knowledge of Him that would inform and constrain their desires and actions.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Not in the lust of concupiscence":** This phrase serves as a direct prohibition against living under the dominion of uncontrolled and illicit desires. The combination of "lust" (*páthos*) and "concupiscence" (*epithymía*) emphasizes the intensity and sinful nature of these desires, particularly those related to sexual immorality. Believers are called to exercise self-control and discipline over their passions, rather than being enslaved by them, recognizing that such desires are contrary to God's holy character and His will for their lives.
* **"even as the Gentiles":** This clause provides a stark point of comparison and contrast. The lifestyle of the Gentiles, characterized by their unrestrained passions, is presented as the antithesis of how believers should live. It implies that the prevailing cultural norms and practices of the pagan world, particularly in matters of sexual ethics, are not to be emulated or adopted by those who follow Christ. This highlights the call to a distinctive, counter-cultural way of life for Christians.
* **"which know not God":** This final clause explains the root cause of the Gentiles' moral degradation. Their indulgence in "the lust of concupiscence" is directly attributed to their lack of true, saving knowledge of God. Without a relationship with the Creator, and without His moral law revealed to them, humanity is prone to follow its own fallen desires. Conversely, for believers, knowing God provides the ultimate basis, motivation, and empowerment for living a life of holiness and self-control, demonstrating that true knowledge of God is inextricably linked to righteous conduct.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in 1 Thessalonians 4:5 is **Contrast**. Paul explicitly juxtaposes the expected conduct of believers ("not in the lust of concupiscence") with the typical behavior of "the Gentiles which know not God." This sharp distinction serves to highlight the radical transformation that occurs in a person's life upon coming to faith in Christ. The phrase also contains an implicit **Metonymy**, where "the Gentiles" stands for the entire pagan worldview and its associated moral standards, which are diametrically opposed to Christian ethics. By presenting this contrast, Paul not only issues a negative command but also positively reinforces the unique identity and calling of the Thessalonian believers as God's sanctified people.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
First Thessalonians 4:5 is deeply rooted in the biblical theology of holiness and the distinctiveness of God's people. It affirms that a true relationship with God necessarily transforms one's desires and conduct, particularly in areas of sexuality. The verse underscores the fundamental difference between those who are spiritually enlightened by God and those who remain in spiritual darkness, implying that genuine knowledge of God leads to a life of self-control and purity, while ignorance of Him results in moral degradation. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative where God calls His people to be set apart, reflecting His character to a world that does not know Him. The pursuit of holiness is not merely a set of rules but an outflow of a transformed heart, enabled by the Holy Spirit, demonstrating the reality of God's presence and power in the believer's life.

* [Romans 1:24](/romans/1-24 "Romans 1:24 - God Gives Them Over"): "Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:"
* [Ephesians 4:17-19](/ephesians/4-17-19 "Ephesians 4:17-19 - The Futility of Gentile Thinking"): "This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the futility of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness."
* [Galatians 5:16](/galatians/5-16 "Galatians 5:16 - Walk by the Spirit"): "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a contemporary world increasingly characterized by the normalization of sexual promiscuity and the pervasive influence of media that glorifies unrestrained desires, 1 Thessalonians 4:5 remains profoundly relevant. It challenges believers to cultivate a radical counter-cultural lifestyle, one that is not conformed to the patterns of this world but is transformed by the renewing of their minds. This verse calls for intentional self-control and a conscious commitment to purity, recognizing that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and are to be used for God's glory, not for selfish indulgence. Living "not in the lust of concupiscence" means actively pursuing holiness in thought, word, and deed, understanding that our conduct serves as a powerful witness to a world that desperately needs to see the difference that knowing God makes. It compels us to examine our desires, our media consumption, and our relationships, ensuring that they align with God's holy standards, thereby reflecting His light in a darkened world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life do I find myself most tempted to live "in the lust of concupiscence," and what practical steps can I take to cultivate greater self-control?**
* **How does my lifestyle, particularly in matters of sexual purity, visibly distinguish me from "those who do not know God" in my cultural context?**
* **What does it mean to "know God" experientially, and how does this deep knowledge empower me to resist worldly desires and pursue holiness?**
* **How can I actively promote a culture of purity and self-control within my community or church, reflecting the principles of this verse?**

### FAQ

**What does "lust of concupiscence" specifically refer to in this verse?**

Answer: The phrase "lust of concupiscence" (Greek: *páthos epithymías*) refers to strong, often illicit or inordinate desires, particularly those of a sexual nature. "Lust" (*páthos*) denotes uncontrolled passion or suffering, while "concupiscence" (*epithymía*) signifies a longing or craving, which, in this context, is for what is forbidden or contrary to God's will. Together, they describe intense, sinful passions that lead to sexual immorality. Paul is urging believers to avoid being driven by these unholy desires, contrasting their conduct with the unrestrained indulgence common among those who do not know God. This call to purity is foundational to Christian living, as detailed in [1 Thessalonians 4:3-4](/1_thessalonians/4-3-4 "1 Thessalonians 4:3-4 - God's Will for Sanctification").

**Why does Paul contrast believers with "the Gentiles which know not God"?**

Answer: Paul uses "the Gentiles which know not God" as a stark contrast to highlight the transformative impact of knowing God. In the Greco-Roman world, the Gentiles (non-Jews) were often characterized by idolatry, spiritual ignorance, and moral depravity, particularly in sexual matters, as their worldview lacked the moral constraints and divine revelation found in the Judeo-Christian tradition. By drawing this comparison, Paul emphasizes that believers, having come to know the true God, are called to a radically different lifestyle—one of holiness, self-control, and honor—that sets them apart from the prevailing cultural norms. This distinction serves as a powerful witness to the world, demonstrating the life-changing power of the Gospel and the moral implications of a genuine relationship with God. The contrast underscores that a lack of true knowledge of God often leads to moral degradation, as seen in passages like [Romans 1:28-32](/romans/1-28-32 "Romans 1:28-32 - God Gives Them Over to a Reprobate Mind").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
First Thessalonians 4:5, while a direct command to believers, finds its ultimate fulfillment and empowerment in Christ. The call to live "not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God" is made possible because of Christ's redemptive work, which delivers us from the dominion of sin and empowers us through the Holy Spirit. Jesus Himself lived a life of perfect purity and self-control, serving as the ultimate example for believers. His sacrifice on the cross not only atoned for our past sins, including those stemming from unholy desires, but also broke the power of sin in our lives, enabling us to walk in newness of life ([Romans 6:4](/romans/6-4 "Romans 6:4 - Newness of Life")). Furthermore, the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent, indwells believers, providing the divine power necessary to mortify the deeds of the flesh and cultivate self-control, a fruit of the Spirit ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22-23 "Galatians 5:22-23 - Fruit of the Spirit")). Therefore, our ability to live distinctly from the world, particularly in matters of sexual purity, is not by our own strength but by the grace and power of Christ working within us, transforming us into His likeness and enabling us to live as children of light ([Ephesians 5:3-5](/ephesians/5-3-5 "Ephesians 5:3-5 - Living as Children of Light")). This call to holiness is a reflection of our union with Christ, who makes us holy and blameless before God ([Colossians 1:22](/colossians/1-22 "Colossians 1:22 - Reconciled in Christ")).

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

Galatians 4:8

¶ Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.

Acts 17:30

And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:

Acts 17:31

Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by [that] man whom he hath ordained; [whereof] he hath given assurance unto all [men], in that he hath raised him from the dead.

Ephesians 4:17

¶ This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,

Ephesians 4:19

Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

Colossians 3:5

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

2 Thessalonians 1:8

In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: