Definition: For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 1 Thessalonians 4:2 – “For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.” Here’s a simple explanation: Essentially, this verse is telling us that the believers in the early Church were given specific rules or guidelines for how to live their lives. It's like receiving a set of instructions from Jesus himself. Let’s unpack it further: “We gave you…” : This refers back to the teachings and principles established by Jesus Christ during his ministry on Earth. He wasn’t just giving them randomly; he was giving them as a guide for a life that would be pleasing to God. “…by the Lord Jesus.” : This is really important! It emphasizes that these commandments were given through Jesus. It's a crucial connection – Jesus is the source of authority and the standard against which we should live. What kind of rules are we talking about? The exact nature of these commandments isn’t explicitly detailed in this verse, but it likely involved things like: Respect for others: Treating people with kindness and fairness. Honesty and integrity: Being truthful in our words and actions. Love and compassion: Showing empathy and caring for those around us. Following God’s will: Living a life that aligns with God's purpose. In short, it was a set of moral guidelines designed to help believers stay connected to God and live a righteous life. Important Note: This verse is often interpreted as a foundational principle for the early Church. It’s a powerful statement about the authority of Jesus and his teachings, and it's believed to have influenced the development of Christian ethics and morals throughout history. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context on this passage?