2 Thessalonians - Chapter 3

2 Thessalonians 3.1 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: 2 Thessalonians 3.2 And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith. 2 Thessalonians 3.3 But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. 2 Thessalonians 3.4 And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. 2 Thessalonians 3.5 And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. 2 Thessalonians 3.6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. 2 Thessalonians 3.7 For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; 2 Thessalonians 3.8 Neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: 2 Thessalonians 3.9 Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. 2 Thessalonians 3.10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. 2 Thessalonians 3.11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. 2 Thessalonians 3.12 Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. 2 Thessalonians 3.13 But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. 2 Thessalonians 3.14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. 2 Thessalonians 3.15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 2 Thessalonians 3.16 Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3.17 The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write. 2 Thessalonians 3.18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

2 Thessalonians : Chapter 3

Conclusion of the Letter to the Thessalonians

Chapter 3 of the Second Letter to the Thessalonians concludes with essential practical instructions for the life of the Church. It raises the question of how the Christian community should deal with those who create trouble. This instructive text emphasizes the importance of prayer, hard work, and discipline within the community of believers.

Exhortation of Saint Paul

In this chapter, Saint Paul exhorts believers to turn away from those who are idle and to imitate the example of diligence set by those who work diligently. It emphasizes crucial themes such as personal responsibility, the work ethic, and the necessary order in the Church.

Five Relevant Bible Passages

Let's consider five Bible passages that relate to the practical principles of this concluding chapter:

1. 1 Corinthians 5:11

"But now I write to you: Do not associate with anyone who, claiming to be a brother, is immoral, greedy, an idolater, a slanderer, a drunkard, or a thief. You should not even eat with such people." This verse refers to the advice in 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14, regarding how to treat brothers who live disorderly lives.

2. Proverbs 13:4

"A lazy person desires nothing and obtains nothing, but the desires of the diligent are amply satisfied." This passage reinforces the teaching of 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 on the importance of diligent work.

3. Galatians 6:9

"And let us not grow weary in doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not lose heart." This verse echoes the encouragement in 2 Thessalonians 3:13 to persevere in good works.

4. Titus 3:14

"But let our people learn to devote themselves to good works, so that they may meet their daily needs and not be unproductive." This passage reinforces the teaching of 2 Thessalonians 3:6-12 on the importance of productive work in the Christian life.

5. Matthew 18:15-17

"If your brother sins against you, go and be with him alone and point out his error... But if he does not listen to you, take one or two others with you... If he refuses to listen, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen to the church also, treat him as a pagan or a tax collector." This teaching of Jesus provides context for Paul's instructions in 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 about how to treat those who disobey within the Church.

Conclusion

In summary, 2 Thessalonians chapter 3 reminds us of the importance of maintaining order and accountability in the Christian community. Based on the teachings of Scripture, we are called to work diligently, encourage others, and address disorder with wisdom and love.