those who sleep in death (literally those who have fallen asleep; also in 4:14): In Greek, Jewish, and Christian literature, sleep often means death (Daniel 12:2; Matthew 27:52). Personal existence continues after death (Luke 23:40–43; Acts 7:55–60; 2 Corinthians 5:6–10; Philippians 1:20–24; Revelation 6:9–11). Those who have died await the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:23).
grieve like the rest, who are without hope: Ancient letters of comfort advised those in grief not to become overwhelmed by grief, as they could not prevent death. Paul does not forbid grief but encourages Christians to avoid the kind of grief typical of those without hope in God (see John 16:6, 20; Philippians 2:27).