1 Thessalonians 5:7
For they that sleepe, sleepe in the night, and they that bee drunken, are drunken in the night. 1 Thessalonians 5:7 (KJV)
This verse is found in the fifth chapter of the First Epistle of Paul to the Thessalonians and appears in some manuscript traditions, though it is not included in the standard KJV text. It forms part of Paul’s exhortation to the Thessalonian Christians concerning the Second Coming of Christ and how believers should live in anticipation of that event. In this passage Paul contrasts two groups of people: those who sleep and those who are drunk, using each as a metaphor for spiritual states.
The metaphor of sleep: Here “sleep” represents spiritual indifference or apathy—a state of unawareness, inactivity, and lack of vigilance. Just as people who sleep at night are oblivious to what is happening around them, those who are spiritually asleep are not fully aware or alert to the things of God.
The metaphor of drunkenness: Likewise, “drunkenness” signifies spiritual dullness or insensitivity. As intoxication impairs judgment and awareness, the spiritually drunk are unaware of spiritual realities and are insensitive to God’s voice and leading.
The context of vigilance: Paul uses this contrast to emphasize the importance of vigilance and alertness in the life of a believer. He urges believers to move from spiritual slumber and drunkenness to a state of watchfulness and sobriety. In verse 8 he writes, “But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and as a helmet, the hope of salvation.”
Paul’s call is for Christians to be spiritually awake, aware, and sober. Believers are called to live in the light, walking in truth, and being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Vigilance involves guarding one’s heart and mind against spiritual complacency and distractions. This passage reminds believers not to be caught off guard by the world’s temptations or become spiritually indifferent. Rather, they are to be active in their faith, eagerly awaiting Christ’s return and living in a way that honors Him.
