Lesson 496: 1 Thessalonians 4:3
1 Thessalonians 4:3
The Blueprint — The Verse
It is God’s will that you should be sanctified: that you should avoid sexual immorality;
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
Thessalonian believers lived in a city full of pagan immorality. Paul taught them about sexual ethics, work, and life together as they awaited the Lord’s return.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Paul urged them to live in a way that pleases God, recalling commands he gave by the Lord Jesus. He stated plainly that God’s will is their sanctification — specifically avoiding sexual immorality.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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1 Thessalonians 4:2
For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
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Read the verse immediately before this lesson (1 Thessalonians 4:2) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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1 Thessalonians 4:4
that each one of you know how to control his own body in sanctification and honor,
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Read the verse immediately after this lesson (1 Thessalonians 4:4) to continue the passage.
Discussion
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Why does Paul connect sanctification with sexual purity?
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How is knowing God's will comforting rather than burdensome?
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What cultural pressures make sanctification difficult today?
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