What does 1 Thessalonians 5:21 mean?

Explanation

"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good" from 1 Thessalonians 5:21 is a verse that imparts key guidance for the discernment process in a Christian's life.

At its most basic, the verse instructs believers to test or examine everything to determine its value and truthfulness.

Once something has been proven to be good and beneficial, they are encouraged to embrace and maintain it.

On a deeper level, this examination isn't just about external behaviors or teachings; it refers to a spiritual discernment that is keen on distinguishing God's will from human traditions or misleading spirits.

Historical Context

1 Thessalonians is considered to be one of the earliest letters written by the Apostle Paul, composed around AD 50-51.

The epistle was written to the Christian community in Thessalonica, a major city of Macedonia in the Roman Empire.

Thessalonians were encouraged in their faith amidst persecution and to live virtuously in anticipation of Christ's return.

This verse comes in a section of the letter where Paul provides practical instructions for living a Christian life.

Theological Insights

Theological perspectives on this verse can diverge slightly.

From a Reformed viewpoint, the necessity of Scripture to discern what is good is essential, and all teachings and spirits must be tested against biblical truth.

A Wesleyan might highlight the importance of personal holiness and the role of the inner witness of the Holy Spirit in discerning good.

The Catholic tradition may invoke the authority of the Church and the tradition that accompanies Scripture in the testing of what is considered good.

Practical Applications

The instructions of this verse can be seen as an exhortation to critical thinking and spiritual vigilance in everyday life.

In a practical sense, this means Christians are encouraged to evaluate teachings, relationships, media, and practices critically, accepting only what aligns with biblical principles and moral goodness.

Additionally, it calls for a proactive adherence to virtue and truth once identified.

Cross-References

• "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world." (1 John 4:1)
• "But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil." (Hebrews 5:14)
• "To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them." (Isaiah 8:20)

Language Study

The key term in the original Greek manuscript for "prove" is "δοκιμάζετε" (dokimazete), which means to test, examine, prove, scrutinize or discern.

It was a term also used for testing metals' genuineness.

"Hold fast," translated from "κατέχετε" (katechete), carries the idea of holding firmly or keeping secure.

The word for "good" is "καλὸς" (kalos), which means not only good in quality but also beautiful, noble, or morally good.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many religious traditions, the idea of testing wisdom or instruction against a standard of truth is common.

In the Jewish tradition, the testing of prophets and their messages against the Torah is a similar concept.

Ancient Greek philosophy also held the idea of examination of life and thoughts for virtue, echoing Socrates' famous assertion that "the unexamined life is not worth living."

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, the process of proving or testing all things can be seen as akin to the scientific method, where hypotheses are tested through observation and experimentation to arrive at a conclusion.

Furthermore, the cognitive sciences underscore the importance of critical thinking and cognitive biases' management, resonating with the verse's call for a thoughtful evaluation of information and experiences.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentaries have reflected on this verse, placing different emphases on its elements.

Matthew Henry's commentary, for instance, interprets this as a caution against despising prophesying, but also against being credulous.

He suggests that believers must be discerning to safeguard against deception.

John Gill's exposition emphasizes the thorough nature of the testing that should be applied to all things, including doctrines and practices, to ensure they are according to the will and word of God.

Adam Clarke's commentary highlights the importance of holding on to what is good with all might and certainty, stressing the active role of the believer in discernment.