1 Thessalonians 4:15

By the word of the Lord [ε ν λ ο γ ω κ υ ρ ι ο υ]. Or in the word. Logov of a concrete saying, Romans 9:9; Romans 13:9. We do not say this on our own authority. Comp. 1 Corinthians 7:10; 1 Corinthians 7:12; 1 Corinthians 7:25. No recorded saying of the Lord answers to this reference. It may refer to a saying transmitted orally, or to a direct revelation to Paul. Comp. Galatians 1:12; Galatians 2:2; Ephesians 3:3; 2 Corinthians 12:1; 2 Corinthians 12:9.

Remain [π ε ρ ι λ ε ι π ο μ ε ν ο ι]. P o. and only in this Epistle. The plural we indicates that Paul himself expected to be alive at the parousia. 26 Shall not prevent [ο υ μ η φ θ α σ ω μ ε ν]. The A. V. misses the force of the double negative - shall in no wise prevent. Prevent in the older sense of anticipate, be beforehand with. See on Matthew 17:25, and 1 Thessalonians 2:16. The living shall not share the blessings of the advent sooner than the dead in Christ.