ESV Reformation Study Bible – 1 Thess 5:23
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1 Thess 5:23

5:23 sanctify. The complete mending of all human imperfection is not only possible but certain. God is faithful and will accomplish it (v. 24). The time element must be remembered. Ultimate perfection, to include a glorified body as well, will be accomplished at the Second Coming of Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:6). See “Sanctification: The Spirit and the Flesh” at 1 Cor. 6:11.

your whole spirit and soul and body. Three words are used to emphasize the wholeness of the perfection. “Spirit” and “soul” are used as virtual synonyms in the Bible for the spiritual component of a person. When the terms occur together (as here and in Heb. 4:12) it is difficult to find any significant difference in meaning. Compare the fourfold representation of “heart,” “soul,” “mind,” and “strength” in Mark 12:30.