Much like some of Paul the Apostle’s other New Testament letters, 1 Thessalonians chapter four can be separated into different sections. The first portion of 1 Thessalonians chapter four covers verses 1-12 and provides practical instruction on several important topics. The rest of this chapter is prophetic in nature and concerns Jesus’ future return. That subject occupies verses 13-18 of chapter four and extends into the opening verses of 1 Thessalonians chapter five.
The practical instruction that marks the beginning of this chapter starts from the very first verse…
“Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God; for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 4:1-2).
Paul used the phrase “Finally then…” as a literary bridge to signal his readers that he was about to change subjects and transition into the final portion of this letter. That portion began with an exhortation to “abound more and more” in pursuit of a life that is pleasing to God. Unlike those mentioned earlier who were “…unpleasing to God and against all men” (1 Thessalonians 2:15 BBE), Paul encouraged the Thessalonians to translate their growing maturity in Christ into actions that reflected the reality of their relationship with Him.
He then used the term “walk” as a word-picture to help communicate this idea. This simple figure of speech communicates more than it may seem at first glance. You see, walking serves as an excellent analogy for our relationship with Christ. For instance, walking is generally slower than other forms of transportation and is often difficult when the terrain is rough or the weather is bad. In much the same manner, there are no high-speed thoroughfares or easy paths on the road to spiritual maturity.
Walking also serves to build positive characteristics like strength and endurance. These are qualities we might not develop if we took shortcuts or traveled an easier road in our relationship with Christ. One commentator offers an important reminder concerning this idea…
“Paul was thankful for the growth he saw in the Thessalonians, but still looked for them to abound more and more in a walk that would please God… This means that Christian maturity is never finished on this side of eternity. No matter how far a Christian has come in love and holiness, he or she can still abound more and more… Those who do not know God do not have the spiritual resources to walk pure before the Lord; but Christians do. Therefore, Christians should live differently than those who do not know God.” (1)
(1) David Guzik, 1 Thessalonians 4 – Confidence in the Coming of Jesus © Copyright – Enduring Word https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/1-thessalonians-4/