1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 – Sexual Activity and Self-Control

BIBLE TEXT

1 Thessalonians 4:3-8

SUMMARY

Paul instructs the Thessalonian church about sexual self-control.

ANALYSIS

The main point of this passage has to do with believers’ “holiness” or “sanctification.” Writing to a Gentile context that some may have assumed to have no sense of proper self-control, Paul warns against unrestrained sexual behavior. There is confusion about v. 4, because it is unclear whether Paul is speaking about controlling or managing one’s own body, one’s sexual organs, or one’s spouse. In any case, his point is about honoring God and acting consistently with holiness in one’s sexual behavior.

Readers misunderstand this passage if they assume it is primarily about sexual acts. Paul mentions sex as a piece of the larger question about the role God plays in believers’ lives, a role that reflects God’s desire to shape them. Verses 6-8 warn that God is an avenger, but these words also reassure that God calls people in holiness and gives the Holy Spirit to claim and empower them. Holiness (or sanctification) is not something that believers attempt to muster on their own. God brings it to pass (see 3:13; 5:23).