1 Thessalonians 5:6

¶ Therefore let us not sleep, as [do] others; but let us watch and be sober.

Therefore {G686}{G3767} let us {G2518} not {G3361} sleep {G2518}, as {G5613}{G2532} do others {G3062}; but {G235} let us watch {G1127} and {G2532} be sober {G3525}.

so let’s not be asleep, like the rest are; on the contrary, let us stay alert and sober.

So then, let us not sleep as the others do, but let us remain awake and sober.

so then let us not sleep, as do the rest, but let us watch and be sober.

Commentary

Context

This verse is a direct exhortation following Paul's teaching in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-5 regarding the timing and nature of the "day of the Lord." Paul has just explained that this day will come unexpectedly, "as a thief in the night," for those who are "in darkness." However, he reassures the Thessalonian believers that they are "children of light, and children of the day," implying they should not be caught off guard. Therefore, 1 Thessalonians 5:6 serves as a practical application and imperative for how believers should live in light of this truth, contrasting their expected behavior with that of "others" (those who are spiritually unprepared).

Key Themes

  • Spiritual Vigilance: The primary message is a call to constant spiritual alertness. Believers are not to be complacent or indifferent to the spiritual realities around them, especially concerning the Lord's return.
  • Readiness for Christ's Return: This verse underscores the importance of being perpetually prepared for the Day of the Lord. It's not about knowing the exact time, but about living in a state of readiness.
  • Distinction in Conduct: Paul draws a clear line between the behavior of believers and non-believers. "Others" are spiritually asleep and unaware, but Christians, as children of light, must demonstrate a different, disciplined way of living.
  • Self-Control and Clear-mindedness: To "be sober" implies a disciplined life, free from spiritual intoxication or worldly distractions that could hinder one's spiritual awareness.

Linguistic Insights

  • "sleep" (Greek: katheudō): While it can mean physical sleep, in this context, it is used metaphorically to denote spiritual apathy, indifference, or moral laxity. It signifies a state of unawareness or unpreparedness regarding God's purposes and the Lord's return. This contrasts with Paul's earlier use of "sleep" to refer to physical death in 1 Thessalonians 4:13.
  • "watch" (Greek: grēgoreō): This word means to be awake, vigilant, or alert. It implies an active state of spiritual awareness, attentiveness, and readiness. It's a call to be spiritually watchful, akin to a guard on duty.
  • "sober" (Greek: nēphō): Literally meaning to be free from the influence of intoxicating drink, metaphorically it signifies being clear-headed, self-controlled, temperate, and discerning. It speaks to a mind that is spiritually alert and not clouded by worldly concerns or spiritual stupor. This concept of spiritual sobriety is echoed in 1 Peter 5:8.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Thessalonians 5:6 is a powerful call to live with intentionality and spiritual preparedness. It reminds us not to be complacent in our faith or get caught up in the distractions and spiritual indifference prevalent in the world. Instead, we are to actively cultivate a life of vigilance, marked by:

  • Spiritual Awareness: Being mindful of God's presence, His will, and the signs of the times, without becoming alarmist.
  • Disciplined Living: Exercising self-control in all areas of life, ensuring our minds are clear and focused on eternal priorities, not clouded by sin or worldly pursuits. This aligns with the broader call to wake out of sleep found in other New Testament epistles.
  • Active Faith: Engaging in prayer, studying God's Word, fellowshipping with other believers, and living out our faith in practical service, demonstrating that we are indeed "children of light."

This verse encourages us to live each day with purpose, ready for the Lord's return, and distinct from those who live in spiritual darkness.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Peter 1:13 (19 votes)

    ¶ Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ;

  • Matthew 24:42 (15 votes)

    Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

  • Luke 22:46 (11 votes)

    And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.

  • Romans 13:11 (11 votes)

    ¶ And that, knowing the time, that now [it is] high time to awake out of sleep: for now [is] our salvation nearer than when we believed.

  • Romans 13:14 (11 votes)

    But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts [thereof].

  • 1 Peter 5:8 (9 votes)

    ¶ Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

  • Revelation 16:15 (7 votes)

    Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed [is] he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.