Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers - 1 Thessalonians 5:8
(8) Putting on.—A curiously abrupt transition, suggested by the sober vigilance just advocated. The Christian must be careful to watch, not only because the Lord is coming back at some unexpected hour, but also because there are enemies all round. He is not only the porter, sitting up to let his Lord in at any hour when He may return from the wedding (Mark 13:34; Luke 12:36), but the soldier standing sentry, liable to be surprised by the foe.Breastplate of faith and love.—We have not to do with... read more
John Dummelow's Commentary on the Bible - 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28
The Need of Watchfulness. Final Injunctions1. Times and seasons] St. Paul always lays stress on the uncertainty as to the time of the Advent (2 Thessalonians 2:2 cp. 2 Peter 3:3-4). 3. When they shall say] i.e. when people are saying.4, 5. Thief] better, ’as thieves.’ Thieves work in darkness. You are all children of light. Live up to your birthright. 6. Let us not sleep] i.e. in carelessness and sin. Others] better, ’the others.’8-10. Mason paraphrases, ’Let us arm ourselves with a brave hope... read more