Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.

1 THESSALONIANS 5:21KJV
Know the Bible

1 Thessalonians 5:21 (KJV)

What does 1 Thessalonians 5:21 mean?

1 Thessalonians 5:21 tells readers to carefully test everything and to firmly keep whatever is truly good. The verse encourages discernment, urging believers not to accept things blindly but to examine them and hold onto what proves worthwhile.

Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica, giving practical advice for daily life as they wait for Jesus’ return. In this section, he lists short, memorable instructions. Here, Paul emphasizes the need for thoughtful judgment, especially as the community hears different teachings and experiences various influences.

The Greek behind 1 Thessalonians 5:21

  • "Prove" (δοκιμάζετε, dokimazete) means to test, examine, or scrutinize something to see if it is genuine. Paul is not just talking about casual approval but a careful, thoughtful process—like testing metals for purity.
  • "Hold fast" (κατέχετε, katechete) carries the sense of gripping or keeping something firmly. The idea is not just to accept what is good but to cling to it and not let it go.
  • "Good" (καλόν, kalon) refers to what is genuinely good in quality or character, not just what seems pleasant or agreeable. Paul is pointing to what is truly worthwhile, not just superficially attractive.

Why 1 Thessalonians 5:21 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that faith means accepting everything without question; instead, Paul calls for careful evaluation.
  • The instruction to "hold fast" highlights that not everything tested will be good—some things should be rejected, which is an important balance in spiritual life.
  • In the wider passage, Paul’s advice helps the Thessalonians navigate a world of competing voices and teachings, encouraging them to be both open and discerning.

Where else these words appear

“fast” Greek G2722 · used in 19 verses

  • Matthew 21:38 But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us seize on his inheritance.
  • Romans 1:18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
  • 2 Thessalonians 2:6 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.

“Prove” Greek G1381 · used in 21 verses

  • Luke 12:56 Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of the earth; but how is it that ye do not discern this time?
  • 1 Corinthians 3:13 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
  • Ephesians 5:10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord.

“good” Greek G2570 · used in 91 verses

  • Matthew 3:10 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
  • Mark 14:21 The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him: but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! good were it for that man if he had never been born.
  • 1 Timothy 2:3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;