This verse is part of a broader passage (1 Thessalonians 4:3-8) in which Paul urges us to live in holiness, particularly regarding sexual purity and how we treat one another. Let’s explore the meaning and significance of this verse in context and how it applies to our lives today.
Before verse 6, Paul writes: "For this is the will of God: your sanctification, that you abstain from sexual immorality, that each one of you know how to control his own body in sanctification and honor, not in the passion of lust, even as the Gentiles who don’t know God." (1 Thessalonians 4:3-5)
Paul makes it clear that God’s will for us is sanctification—being set apart for His purposes. This includes avoiding sexual immorality and honoring both our own bodies and others. Unlike the unbelieving world, which follows uncontrolled desires, we are called to live differently, walking in purity and self-control.
- Understanding "Wronging a Brother or Sister"
In verse 6, Paul warns against taking advantage of or wronging others, particularly in matters of sexual morality. This could include actions such as adultery, sexual exploitation, or any behavior that disregards the dignity of another person. Sexual sin is not just a private issue—it affects others.
When someone commits adultery, they wrong the spouse of the person involved.
When someone engages in premarital or extramarital relations without commitment, they treat another person as an object of desire rather than as someone made in God’s image.
When someone pressures or manipulates another into sin, they cause harm to that person spiritually and emotionally.
Paul reminds us that sin is never just about ourselves. Our actions have consequences, and when we dishonor others, we dishonor God.
- "The Lord is an Avenger in All These Things"
This statement is a strong warning. God is not indifferent to how we treat others, especially in matters of purity and honor. The word "avenger" here indicates that God will hold people accountable for their actions.
Hebrews 13:4 reinforces this idea: "Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the bed be undefiled; but God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterers."
Romans 12:19 reminds us: "Don’t seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God’s wrath. For it is written, 'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.'"
God’s role as avenger does not mean He seeks to destroy us but that He takes justice seriously. If we harm others through sin, we will be held accountable. This is both a warning and an encouragement—God sees all and will make things right.
- Why This Warning Matters Today
In a world that often promotes self-gratification over self-control, this verse reminds us to be mindful of our actions. Sexual sin is often treated as a private issue, but Scripture makes it clear that it has far-reaching consequences.
Relationships are damaged when trust is broken.
Individuals suffer emotional and spiritual harm when treated as objects rather than as people made in God's image.
Families and communities are affected by sexual sin, leading to pain and division.
Instead of following the world’s standards, we are called to live in a way that honors God and respects others.
How We Can Apply This Verse
Pursue purity – This includes avoiding situations that may lead to temptation and seeking accountability in our lives.
Honor others – We should view people as brothers and sisters in Christ, not as objects for our own desires.
Trust God's justice – If we have been wronged by someone else’s sin, we can trust that God sees and will bring justice in His time.
Conclusion: 1 Thessalonians 4:6 reminds us that God takes holiness seriously, especially in how we treat one another. It warns us against taking advantage of others and reassures us that God is just. Our actions have consequences, and we are called to live in a way that reflects God's love and righteousness.
1 Thessalonians 4:6. No one should take advantage of and wrong a brother or sister in this matter; because the Lord is an avenger in all these things, as also we forewarned you and testified.