1 Thessalonians 4:12 kjv
That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.
1 Thessalonians 4:12 nkjv
that you may walk properly toward those who are outside, and that you may lack nothing.
1 Thessalonians 4:12 niv
so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.
1 Thessalonians 4:12 esv
so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.
1 Thessalonians 4:12 nlt
Then people who are not believers will respect the way you live, and you will not need to depend on others.
1 Thessalonians 4 12 Cross References
| Verse | Text | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Thessalonians 4:11 | to live a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your hands, as we told you, | Ethical conduct and diligence |
| Colossians 4:5 | Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the time. | Wisdom in dealing with unbelievers |
| Ephesians 5:15-16 | Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. | Wise use of time in a fallen world |
| Ephesians 5:10 | trying to learn what is pleasing to the Lord. | pleasing God through our actions |
| 1 Peter 2:12 | Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as wrongdoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation. | Good conduct leads to glorifying God |
| Romans 12:17 | Do not repay evil for evil. | responding to adversaries with good |
| Romans 12:18 | If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. | Pursuit of peace with everyone |
| Galatians 6:10 | So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith. | Opportunity for doing good |
| Philippians 2:15 | that you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, | Shining as lights in darkness |
| Matthew 5:16 | in the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. | Letting good works glorify God |
| Proverbs 3:4 | so find favor and good repute in the sight of God and man. | Gaining favor and good reputation |
| 2 Corinthians 6:3 | We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry. | Avoiding offense in ministry |
| 1 Timothy 3:7 | Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. | Good reputation among outsiders |
| Acts 2:47 | praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved. | Favor with people leading to salvation |
| Mark 12:31 | You shall love your neighbor as yourself. | Love for neighbor |
| 1 Corinthians 10:32 | Give no offense either to Jews or to Greeks or to the church of God, | Not giving offense to any group |
| Romans 14:13 | Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another any longer, but rather decide never to put a stumbling block or hindrance in the way of a brother. | Avoiding stumbling blocks for brethren |
| Hebrews 12:14 | Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. | Pursuing holiness and peace |
| Ephesians 4:1 | I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, | Walking worthy of our calling |
| Colossians 4:6 | Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer each person. | Gracious speech |
1 Thessalonians 4 verses
1 Thessalonians 4 12 Meaning
The verse states that believers should "walk properly" and "make the most of every opportunity" toward those outside the church. This means living a life that is honorable and sets a good example, utilizing every moment to further God's kingdom and positively influence unbelievers. It emphasizes intentionality in our conduct and speech, reflecting Christ's love and truth.
1 Thessalonians 4 12 Context
This verse is found in 1 Thessalonians chapter 4, which addresses Christian conduct and ethics. Paul is offering pastoral encouragement and instruction to the church in Thessalonica. In this chapter, Paul moves from doctrinal matters concerning the return of Christ and the fate of deceased believers to practical advice on holy living. He wants the Thessalonians to live lives that honor God, especially in contrast to the pagan surrounding culture. Chapter 4 begins with exhortations to live a life pleasing to God (v. 1) and avoid sexual immorality (v. 3-5). He then addresses brotherly love (v. 9-10) and the importance of a quiet, self-sufficient life (v. 11-12a). Verse 12b, "making the most of every opportunity" in relation to outsiders, is thus set within a broader framework of ethical living, holiness, brotherly love, and living with anticipation of Christ's return. The immediate context is about distinguishing themselves from unbelievers through their behavior, not in a way that isolates them but in a way that commends their faith.
1 Thessalonians 4 12 Word Analysis
Ὥστε (Hoste): "so that" or "therefore." This conjunction indicates a logical consequence or purpose, connecting the previous instructions about brotherly love and diligent living to the outcome of proper conduct towards outsiders.
περιπατεῖν (peripatein): "to walk." This is a common biblical metaphor for one's conduct, lifestyle, or general way of living. It signifies more than just physical movement; it encompasses a person's character, choices, and actions. It suggests a consistent pattern of behavior.
εὐσχήμονα (euschēmona): "properly," "decently," "with good repute," "gracefully." This word implies conducting oneself in a manner that is honorable, respectable, and fitting for a Christian. It suggests actions and speech that are appropriate and command respect, avoiding anything that would bring disgrace or scandal. It carries a sense of propriety and dignity.
τοῖς ἔξω (tois exō): "to those outside," "to outsiders," "to unbelievers." This phrase refers to people who are not part of the Christian community, those who do not share their faith. It highlights the importance of outward-facing behavior and the impact Christians have on those around them who are not believers.
τὸν καιρὸν (ton kairon): "the time," "the opportunity." This noun refers to a specific, opportune moment or a favorable season. In this context, it emphasizes the need for timely and effective witness and righteous living.
ἐξαγοραζόμενοι (exagorazomenoi): "redeeming," "buying up," "making the most of." This verb is a strong term implying acquiring something of great value, often by paying a price. Here, it suggests actively and diligently taking advantage of every opportunity, not letting them pass by ineffectively. It has a sense of shrewdness or prudence in making the best use of what is available, as if purchasing something precious. It speaks to seizing the opportune moments for good.
Phrase Group Analysis:
- "walk properly toward those outside": This phrase signifies living in a respectable, honorable, and exemplary manner in the eyes of non-believers. It's about a lifestyle that avoids scandal and reflects positively on Christ and the Christian faith, creating a favorable impression and opening doors for witness.
- "making the most of every opportunity": This points to intentionality and strategic living. It's about recognizing and utilizing moments for good, whether it's evangelism, demonstrating love, or living consistently with one's faith. It means being alert to chances to positively impact the world.
1 Thessalonians 4 12 Bonus Section
The concept of "redeeming the time" (which is a cognate concept) was significantly discussed by scholars concerning the urgency of the times, given the apocalyptic expectations surrounding Christ's return. While the Thessalonians had genuine concern for these matters, the apostle Paul also emphasized that the time now is the period for effective witness and holy living. This implies that even while awaiting Christ's return, daily life presents constant opportunities for godly impact. The phrase "make the most of every opportunity" is akin to seizing the "kairos" – the opportune moment – rather than just "chronos" (sequential time). This suggests a spirit-filled discernment of when and how to act for God's glory in every circumstance.
1 Thessalonians 4 12 Commentary
Believers are called to live lives of impeccable character before the world. This "walking properly" isn't about mere outward conformity to rules, but a genuine expression of inner transformation, demonstrating respect for God and a concern for the spiritual well-being of those who do not know Christ. The directive to "make the most of every opportunity" underscores a proactive, not passive, approach to Christian living and witness. It means being alert to situations, words, and actions that can commend the Gospel and bring glory to God. This involves using our time wisely, speaking gracious words, and performing acts of kindness, all while presenting a unified and respectable witness that honors God and persuades those outside the faith. The emphasis is on leveraging every interaction and circumstance for the purpose of godly influence and the advancement of God's kingdom.
Practical Usage Examples:
- Responding with kindness and understanding when insulted by a non-believer instead of retaliating.
- Volunteering time or resources for community projects to show love and compassion to the wider society.
- Sharing one's faith openly and clearly when a natural opportunity arises through conversation.
- Maintaining honesty and integrity in business dealings, even when there might be pressure to compromise.
- Using social media platforms to share encouraging and edifying content that reflects a Christian worldview.