1 Thessalonians 4:7 – Called in Holiness

7 for God calls us, not for uncleanness, but in holiness.

With the word “for,” Paul gives the reason for what he wrote in the preceding verses. He warned against prostitution and crossing boundaries, thereby wronging a brother. He now sums this up under the term “uncleanness.” In his letters, Paul repeatedly associates this term with prostitution and licentiousness (Gal. 5:19; Eph. 4:19; 5:3; Col. 3:5). So this specifically concerns sexual intercourse with someone other than one’s own husband or wife. God has not called us to that!

When God calls, it is not merely an invitation. Those whom He calls, He also justifies (Rom. 8:30). And to all who are called, Christ is God’s power and God’s wisdom (1 Cor. 1:24). God’s calling, therefore, actually brings about faith. The initiative lies entirely with Him. It is not our choice or merit that determines the outcome, but God’s call, which never fails to accomplish its purpose.

Paul also does not say that God called us to holiness, but in holiness. That is a significant difference. Holiness is not an ideal we must strive to attain, but the position in which God has placed us. We have been set apart for Him and belong to Him. And it is precisely in that position that our conduct takes on its meaning. Not in order to become holy, but because God has called us in holiness!

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