King James Version
What Does 1 Thessalonians 5:1 Mean?
“But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.”
Context
1
But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
2
For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.
3
For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child ; and they shall not escape.
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English ReadersV.
(1) **But of the times.**—The fourth subject of instruction; the bearing of the doctrine of the Advent upon the Christian’s own life. “Times and seasons” is a Hebraism, and in the original, the *second* word, not the first, is the more explicit: we should say, “About day and hour.” The plural seems to mean the different periods at which men might conceive the Advent likely to come.
**Ye have no need.**—The next verse shows that this paragraph is not so much intended for an answer to a false theory about the time of the Advent, as practically to cure the restlessness common at Thessalonica.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Thessalonians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Thessalonians 5:1 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Thessalonians 5:1
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge