1 Thessalonians 4:2

Modern

For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.

Traditional

For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.

Literal

For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.

Latin

Scitis enim quæ præcepta dederim vobis per Dominum Jesum.

Greek

English

For you know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.

we ask and encourage you: Paul emphasizes the authority of his teaching by speaking in the name of the Lord Jesus.
For you know the instructions we gave: Ancient letters often reminded recipients of what they already knew. Paul reminds the Thessalonians of matters requiring them to obey (4:11; 2 Thessalonians 3:4, 6, 10, 12).

The second part of the letter discusses Timothy's news about the church and the questions the Christians had for Paul.

Paul addresses:

the problem of sexual immorality (4:3–8) before responding to the Thessalonians’ questions about love for other Christians (4:9–12),
the fate of Christians who have died (4:13–18), and
the timing of "the Day of the Lord" (5:1–11).

Paul offers advice on topics such as leadership and community relations, the relationship with the Lord, and prophecy (5:12–22).

Theme notes and profiles

Matthew 28:20
…and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”
Ezekiel 3:17
“Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel. Whenever you hear a word from My mouth, give them a warning from Me.
2 Thessalonians 3:10
For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: “If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat.”
1 Corinthians 9:21
To those without the law I became like one without the law (though I am not outside the law of God but am under the law of Christ), to win those without the law.
2 Thessalonians 3:6
Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from any brother who leads an undisciplined life that is not in keeping with the tradition you received from us.

Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world