John Piper, in a sermon,” Advancing and Sustaining the Covenant Community” Look at the connection between [1 Thessalonians] 3:12 and 3:13. 12) May the Lord cause you to increase and abound in love for one another, and for all men, just as we also do for you; 13) so that he may establish your hearts … More Piper: The covenant requirement of holiness is also a gift as well as a command