What does 1 Thessalonians 5:20 mean?

Explanation

1 Thessalonians 5:20, "Despise not prophesyings," is a call to the believers in Thessalonica to respect and value the role of prophecies within the Christian community.

The verse admonishes against undervaluing or dismissing the importance of prophecies, which were considered a significant means for God to communicate to His people.

In the early church, prophets played a crucial role by providing guidance, edification, encouragement, and even warning to the believers.

This verse is a reminder that such spiritual gifts should be treated with seriousness and not be casually disregarded or treated with contempt.

Historical Context

Written by the Apostle Paul around AD 51, the first letter to the Thessalonians is one of the earliest Christian documents.

It was addressed to the church in Thessalonica, a city in Macedonia (modern-day Greece).

Christianity was still in its formative years, and the community in Thessalonica was facing persecution and confusion about various aspects of their faith, particularly regarding the return of Christ and the roles of spiritual gifts.

Prophesying, in this context, was seen as a direct means of receiving and declaring God's message to the people.

Paul’s instruction reflects the need to maintain order and hold on to sound doctrine while also embracing the various workings of the Holy Spirit in the community.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, "Despise not prophesyings" highlights the importance of spiritual gifts as outlined in the New Testament.

The charismata (gifts of grace) include prophecy, a critical means of building up the church through divine revelation.

Within the framework of Christian theology, this verse often leads to discussions about the continuation versus cessation of certain spiritual gifts.

Continuationists argue that spiritual gifts, including prophecy, continue to operate today, while cessationists believe that the authoritative gift of prophecy ceased with the completion of the New Testament canon.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, "Despise not prophesyings" can serve as a guideline for Christians to remain open to the ways God may choose to communicate and operate within the church. The application may include:

• Encouraging believers to test and discern prophetic words according to Biblical truths.
• Fostering an environment where the sharing of spiritual gifts is welcomed and respected.
• Ensuring that personal or cultural biases do not lead to the suppression of Godly revelations or insights.
• Maintaining a balance between a healthy skepticism and an openness to the mysterious ways that God's Spirit can move.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 14:1 , "Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy."
• 1 Corinthians 14:29 , "Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge."
• 1 Thessalonians 5:21 , "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good."
• Acts 2:17 , "And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:"

Language Study

The term "prophesyings" originates from the Greek word "prophēteias," the plural of "prophēteia," which refers to the utterance of a prophet.

This includes not only predictions of future events but also speaking under divine inspiration, which often includes revealing God's will for the present time.

The original Greek connotation is one of speaking forth the mind and counsel of God, which goes beyond mere foretelling.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions and cultures, prophecy was also an essential element, often associated with divination and oracles. For example, in ancient Greece, the Oracle of Delphi was a renowned prophetic figure.

However, biblical prophecy differs in its monotheistic emphasis and its moral and ethical implications, aligned with the character of the God of Israel, as opposed to the polytheistic and often ambiguous nature of pagan prophecies.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the concept of prophecy involves analyzing psychological and sociological factors that may contribute to the prophetic experience.

While traditional science does not affirm supernatural revelation, it does explore phenomena like collective consciousness, suggestion, and the power of belief. Psychological studies may touch upon how belief in prophecy can shape individuals' actions and community behaviors.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians offer various interpretations of 1 Thessalonians 5:20.

Some emphasize the necessity of discernment and testing of prophecies against scripture.

Others focus on this passage as a call to not stifle the Spirit's work within the church.

Both conservative and charismatic commentators often agree that while not all prophetic utterances are valid, they should not be outright dismissed without thoughtful consideration.

Renowned Bible commentators like John Calvin, Matthew Henry, and more contemporary figures like John Piper and N.T.

Wright each provide insights on the integration and evaluation of prophecy within the life of the church.