1 Thessalonians 4:15

For this we say vnto you by the word of the Lord, That we which are aliue and remaine vnto the comming of the Lord, shall not preuent them which are asleepe. 1 Thessalonians 4:15 (KJV)

The book of 1 Thessalonians was written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica. In this section (1 Thessalonians 4:13‑18) Paul addresses the believers’ concerns about what will happen to those who have died before the return of Christ. He begins by stating, “by the word of the Lord,” emphasizing that his teaching is based on divine revelation and carries the authority of Scripture rather than personal opinion.

When Paul says, “we which are alive and remain,” he includes himself and the Thessalonian believers who were still living at the time. The wording reflects an expectation that Christ’s return could occur during their lifetimes, and it underscores the shared experience of the living community.

“The coming of the Lord” refers to the second coming of Jesus Christ, a central event in Christian eschatology when He will return to earth in power and glory. Paul’s reference points the reader toward the future fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan.

The phrase “shall not prevent them which are asleep” means that the living believers will not go before or exclude those who have died in Christ. In the parallel wording found in another draft, “shall not be taken away” is explained as “removed” or “caught up,” conveying the same assurance that the dead in Christ will not be left behind when the Lord returns.

The metaphorical term “asleep” is used throughout the New Testament to denote the physical death of believers. It signifies that death is temporary for Christians, who will be raised to eternal life at Christ’s coming.

For deeper insight, readers are encouraged to study the surrounding passages (1 Thessalonians 4:13‑18) and the entire epistle. This broader context will enrich understanding of Paul’s message concerning the hope of resurrection and the blessed expectation of Christ’s return.