1 Thessalonians 4:6

Go beyond. Gr. huperbaino, “to step over,” “to go beyond,” metaphorically, “to transgress.” The verb is used only here in the NT.

Defraud. Gr. pleonekted, “to take advantage of another,” “to overreach.” A different word (apostered) is used for “defraud” in 1 Cor. 7:5, but the meaning is similar.

In any matter. Rather, “in the matter.” One’s understanding of what is implied by “the matter” vitally affects the interpretation of this verse. Some hold that the reference is to commercial transactions, and that Paul is admonishing his converts to be honest in their dealings. This view cuts across Paul’s line of thought as expressed in vs. 5 and 7, where he clearly deals with sexual purity. It seems preferable to assume that the apostle is maintaining his topic throughout vs. 3-7, and that he delicately states that fornication is a form of robbery, since it takes that which rightfully belongs to another.

Avenger. Gr. ekdikos (see on Rom. 13:4). The Lord is here portrayed as the executor of judgment. He who forms the tie that unites husband and wife, watches over it (see Matt. 19:5, 6). Relationships which are thought to be secret, which come before no earthly tribunal, are seen by the Lord (see Heb. 4:13). He judges. The wrongdoer cannot escape His punishment. In this way Paul reminds his readers that sin, especially the kind of which he is speaking, will not go unpunished. This statement is given as the first reason for not defrauding one’s brother.

All such. That is, all people who practice the fleshly sins of fornication, adultery, and every other form of sexual impurity.

Forewarned. Gr. proeipon, “to say before,” that is, formerly. Paul is giving no new counsel. He is repeating the teaching he had previously given to the believers.

Testified. Or, “testified earnestly,” “charged religiously.” Paul had faithfully warned his converts against the corrupting influences that bore sway in society. Such solemn admonition needs to be taken to heart by the church of God today, surrounded as it is by the debasing influences of a corrupt society.