2 Thessalonians 3

-8 1 3 2 -9 1 0 0 0 0 13 96 -9 2 0 0 2 0 1 RVStyle2 X StyleNameNormal textFontNameArialUnicode Size Standard StyleNameDefaultFontNameTahomaUnicode Size Standard StyleNameJumpFontNameTahomaStylefsUnderlineColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonHoverEffects rvheUnderlineUnicode Jump Size Standard StyleNameHeading - Module name SizeDoubleFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode SizeStandard StyleName"Heading small - Module descriptionFontNameTahomaColorclMaroonUnicode Size Standard StyleNameHeading - LinkFontNameTahomaColorclNavy HoverColorclPurpleUnicode Jump Size StandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsItalicUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueSubSuperScriptTypervsssSuperScriptUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsUnderlineColorclBlueUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldfsUnderlineColorclBlueSubSuperScriptTypervsssSuperScriptUnicode Jump SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanStylefsBoldfsItalicUnicode SizeStandardCharsetANSI_CHARSET SizeDoubleFontNameTimes New RomanColorclBlue HoverColorclMaroonNextStyleNoUnicode Jump Size-9 2 0 0 2 0 2 RVStyle2 �BiDiModervbdLeftToRightTabs StyleNameCentered Alignment rvaCenterTabsStandardTabsStandardSpaceBefore SpaceAfterTabs-9 2 0 0 2 0 4 RVStyle2 -9 0 0 0 0 0 7 6 1 3 8 0 0 CHAPTER III ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.0|AUTODETECT|” Outline of ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.0|AUTODETECT|” II Thessalonians 3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Theme: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Revelation of the Lord Jesus from Heaven) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 5 3 8 0 0 is a firmly anchored hope whose contemplation should result not in disorderliness but in calm assurance, stedfast endurance, and strength-imparting peace. ) 3:1 and 2 A request for intercession ) 3:3 5 Calm assurance and stedfast endurance required and promised ) 3:6 15 Disorderliness condemned ) 3:16 18 Conclusion: Now may he, the Lord of peace, give you this peace. Closing benediction. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 3 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 1 For the rest, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run its race and be crowned with glory��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref1 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn1” 130) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ��, just as it did among you; 2 and that we may be rescued from those unrighteous and evil men, for (true) faith is not everyone s portion. 3 Yet, faithful is the Lord, who will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one. 4 Moreover, we have confidence in the Lord about you, that what we command, you are doing and will continue to do. 5 And may the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that you stay away from every brother who conducts himself in a disorderly manner and not in accordance with the tradition which you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we did not conduct ourselves in a disorderly manner (when we were) among you, 8 neither did we eat anyone s bread without paying for it, but with toil and hardship we were working for a living by night and by day, in order not to be a burden to any of you; 9 not because we have no right (to be supported by you) but in order that we might offer ourselves as an example for you to imitate. 10 For also when we were with you, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 this) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 we used to command you, If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat. 11 For we hear that some among you are conducting themselves in a disorderly manner, not busy workers but busybodies. 12 Now such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ that by quietly working for a living they eat their own bread. 13 But as for you, brothers, do not become weary in well-doing. 14 Now if anyone does not obey our word expressed in this letter, note that man, and do not get mixed up with him, in order that he may become ashamed. 15 And do not consider him an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 16 Now may he, the Lord of peace, give you this peace at all times and in all ways. The Lord (be) with you all. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 17 The greeting by the hand of me, Paul, which is a token of genuineness in every epistle; so I write. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ (be) with you all. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 3:1, 2. For the rest, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run its race.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” The expression for the rest 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.11|AUTODETECT|” ; then ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.11|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 13:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.4.8|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 4:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.16|AUTODETECT|” ) is certainly very appropriate when a letter is drawing to a close; though it is not restricted to this use 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.1.16|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 1:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.2|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.2|AUTODETECT|” 4:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.29|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.7.29|AUTODETECT|” 7:29) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=50.3.1|AUTODETECT|” Phil. 3:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). It is as if Paul, having finished chapters 1 and 2, read what he had written, and then decided that there were a few important matters which must not be left unmentioned. So, to the wish for divine encouragement and strengthening (2:16, 17) he now adds some closing admonitions. In Paul s writings the divine and the human, God s decree and man s responsibility, constantly occur side by side. Thus also here in chapter 3 one series of expressions, stressing the former Faithful is the Lord, who will strengthen you and guard you, May the Lord direct your hearts, May he, the Lord of peace, give you this peace, The Lord be with you all, The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all is interwoven with another, stressing the latter Pray for us, Stay away from disorderly persons, We command that they eat their own bread, Do not become weary in well-doing, Note that man, Admonish him as a brother. We hasten to add, however, that in Paul s teaching as in that of Jesus the qualifying power which enables man to do what God commands is ever from God, of whom and through whom and unto whom are all things.

Thus also in the present passage the word of the Lord runs its race in answer to prayer. It is ever God who provides the blessing. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.25|AUTODETECT|”

As has been noted previously, Paul sets much store by the intercession of fellow-believers for himself and his fellow-workers 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.25|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 5:25) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.15.30-45.15.32|AUTODETECT|”

; cf. ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.15.30-45.15.32|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 15:30 32) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.1.11|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.1.11|AUTODETECT|”

II Cor. 1:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.19|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.19|AUTODETECT|”

Phil. 1:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.4.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=51.4.2|AUTODETECT|”

Col. 4:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=57.1.22|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=57.1.22|AUTODETECT|”

Philem. 22) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

). It is not improbable that here the present tense has continuative force: Continue to pray for us, or Pray constantly for us. Note, however, that the prayer is not so much for personal blessings as it is for the progress of the gospel by means of the work of the missionaries, though the latter does not exclude the former. Paul prays that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

the word of the Lord) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

(called thus because it proceeds from him and refers to him, that is, to the Lord Jesus Christ) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

may run) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

7 1 -1 9 0 0

may run its race) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) without hindrance and constant interference from the side of the enemy. That this is the meaning is shown by the immediate context. The apostle adds: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0

and be crowned with glory) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.9.16|AUTODETECT|”

. The fact that he is here employing a figure is evident at once, for in the literal sense of the term the word of the Lord does not run. It is surely entirely in line with Pauline usage to suggest that, as in many other passages so also here, the apostle is borrowing a metaphor from the race-track 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.9.16|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 9:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.9.24-46.9.27|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=46.9.24-46.9.27|AUTODETECT|”

I Cor. 9:24 27) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.2.2|AUTODETECT|”

Gal. 2:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.7|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.7|AUTODETECT|”

5:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.2.16|AUTODETECT|”

Phil. 2:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.1|AUTODETECT|”

). The author of Hebrews makes use of the same figure 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.1|AUTODETECT|”

Heb. 12:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=58.12.2|AUTODETECT|”

2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

). However, the verb and be glorified which can be somewhat freely translated and be crowned with glory also indicates that in his mind the reality emerges out from under the figure. The word of the Lord is glorified when it is accepted by true faith, sothat it begins to adorn the lives of believers. Now this word of the Lord had been successful in Thessalonica. Hence, Paul adds: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0

just as it did among you) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

(see the first chapter of both epistles). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0

The first object-clause is elucidated by the second: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0

and that we may be rescued from those unrighteous and evil men.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.12-44.18.17|AUTODETECT|”

Note the definite article: the or those unrighteous and evil men. Paul has a definite, concrete situation in mind, namely, the situation at Corinth. To say that the reference cannot be to the episode before Gallio, recorded in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.12-44.18.17|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 18:12 17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

, because this took place a little later, misses the point. What is described in that paragraph is the final flare-up. But surely, the opposition from the side of the Jews did not ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

begin) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.5|AUTODETECT|”

then 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.5|AUTODETECT|”

Acts 18:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.6|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=44.18.6|AUTODETECT|”

6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.15|AUTODETECT|”

). In the light of ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.15|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 2:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.16|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.16|AUTODETECT|”

16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

(see on that passage), it is immediately clear that Paul is referring to the Jews when he speaks of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

unrighteous) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

7 1 -1 9 0 0

out of place) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

evil) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

men. The modifying clause, which accounts for the existence of these wicked men, is a characteristically Pauline litotes: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0

for (true) faith is not everyone s portion) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

(or simply: for not all have (true) faith ). The meaning is: Most people have and show in their conduct the very opposite of faith, namely, unbelief, vicious opposition to the truth. Lack of faith explains the hostile attitude to Christ, his gospel, his ambassadors. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0

3.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

Now over against those who lack ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

faith) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

stands the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

faithful) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

Lord 7 1 -1 9 0 0

faith & faithful) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

), ever ready to protect his people: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0

Yet, faithful is the Lord, who will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) 6 1 3 8 0 0

By a very natural transition Paul, having dwelt for a moment upon the theme of his own conflict at Corinth, returns to the very similar battle which the Thessalonians are waging. Inwardly the young, struggling church is in need of strengthening. Outwardly for Satan is surely an outsider! it needs to be guarded. Paul now assures the readers that what he had wished with respect to them (see on 2:16, 17) will also come to pass. They will be both encouraged and strengthened (2:16, 17) or, as the apostle now expresses it the Lord will both strengthen and guard them. This ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

guarding) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

will prevent the Thessalonian believers from falling into the snares of the evil one, such as fanaticism, loafing, meddlesomeness, neglect of duty, defeatism (see verses 5 8). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.18|AUTODETECT|”

It is from the evil one that the readers will be guarded. Though the noun used here (��� �������) can also be translated evil, yet in all probability Paul has reference to the personal devil. That is in harmony with the entire trend of the epistle and of the one that precedes it 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.18|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 2:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.5|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.5|AUTODETECT|”

3:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.2.9|AUTODETECT|”

II Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.6.16|AUTODETECT|”

) and also with ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.6.16|AUTODETECT|”

Eph. 6:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.6.13|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.6.13|AUTODETECT|”

Matt. 6:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.13.19|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.13.19|AUTODETECT|”

13:19) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.13.38|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=40.13.38|AUTODETECT|”

38) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

-2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0

_ftnref2

10 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn2”

N.T.C.) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.15|AUTODETECT|”

on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.17.15|AUTODETECT|”

John 17:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0

Between the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

strengthening) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

and the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

guarding) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.2|AUTODETECT|”

there is a very close relationship. By being positively strengthened in faith, love, every good work and word 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.2|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 3:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.12|AUTODETECT|”

12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.13|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.13|AUTODETECT|”

13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.2.17|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.2.17|AUTODETECT|”

II Thess. 2:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) believers will be guarded against the sin of capitulating to Satan. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0

In all this the Lord (Jesus Christ) will manifest his ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

faithfulness) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.24|AUTODETECT|”

13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.24|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 5:24) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

). His promise never fails. He ever completes that which he began 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

Phil. 1:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

). ) 6 3 3 8 0 0

But, as already indicated (see above on verse 1), in this process of spiritual strengthening believers are not passive. On the contrary, they become very active. ) It is exactly as is stated in the Canons of Dort: ) Moreover, when God accomplishes this his goodpleasure in the elect, or works in them true conversion, he not only provides that the gospel should be outwardly preached to them, and powerfully illumines their mind by the Holy Spirit, that they may rightly understand and discern what are the things of the Spirit of God, but he also, by the efficacy of the same regenerating Spirit, penetrates into the innermost recesses of man, opens the closed, softens the hardened, and circumcizes the uncircumsized heart, infuses new qualities into the will, and makes that will which had been dead alive, which was evil good, which had been unwilling willing, which had been refractory pliable; and actuates and strengthens it, that as a good tree it may be able to bring forth fruit of good works.& The will, being now renewed, is not only actuated and moved by God, but being actuated by God, itself also becomes active. Wherefore the man himself, through this grace received, is rightly said to believe and repent (Third and Fourth Heads of Doctrine, Articles XI and XII, my translation). ) 8 1 3 8 0 0

4.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

Hence, turning from the work of God to the action of the believer, which action is used by God as a means for the accomplishment of the divine design, the apostle continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0

Moreover, we have confidence in the Lord about you, that what we command, you are doing and will continue to do.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|”

Apart from the Lord 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) confidence in the readers and in their future conduct would have lacked a firm basis. One never knows what mere men are going to do. But ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

by virtue of union with the Lord) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.10|AUTODETECT|”

the confidence which Paul has is well-founded, for the Lord perfects that which he has begun 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=48.5.10|AUTODETECT|”

Gal. 5:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=50.1.6|AUTODETECT|”

Phil. 1:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|”

). By means of obedience to the commandments 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) those issued before and also those which Paul is about to issue (in verses 6 15) spiritual strengthening and protection is and will be attained. The readers are doing and are going to do what they are told to do. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0

Verse 4 does not begin a new section. It is very closely related to the preceding verse, as we have shown. It also prepares for the things that immediately follow. It shows delicate, admirable tact. The commandment will not sound nearly as harsh when those who issue it (principally Paul, but also Silas and Timothy) are kind enough to preface it by saying, We have confidence & that what we command, you are doing and will continue to do. Verse 4 is therefore a window through which we can look into the wise, kind, and considerate soul of Paul. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0

5.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

But although the missionaries have full confidence in the readers, they realize, nevertheless, that it is only with the help of the Lord that men will be disposed to keep the commandments. Hence, the pendulum swings back once more (see on verse 1 above) from the human to the divine: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0

And may the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) 6 1 3 8 0 0

When the love which God has for the Thessalonians and which he is constantly showing to them becomes ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

the motivating force) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

in their lives and when the endurance exercised by Christ in the midst of a hostile world becomes their ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

example,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

then they will do and will continue to do whatever God through his servants demands of them. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.5|AUTODETECT|”

Both of God and of Christ are to be considered subjective genitives. Not their love for God but God s love for them is what is meant. That is regular Pauline usage 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.5|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 5:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.8|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.8|AUTODETECT|”

8) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.39|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.8.39|AUTODETECT|”

8:39) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.13.14|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=47.13.14|AUTODETECT|”

II Cor. 13:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.2.4|AUTODETECT|”

; cf. ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=49.2.4|AUTODETECT|”

Eph. 2:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

). This is the love of God which has been shed abroad in our hearts. It is his own love toward us. It is the love of God in Christ from which nothing shall be able to separate us. It is his great love with which he loved us. ) 6 8 3 8 0 0

Thy love to me, O Christ, ) Thy love to me, ) Not mine to thee I plead, ) Not mine to thee. ) This is my comfort strong, ) This is my joyful song, ) Thy love to me. ) (Mrs. M. E. Gates, 1886) ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|”

This love is strong, sovereign, unconditional (i.e., not dependent in its origin on foreseen love coming from us, but creating love in our hearts), never-ending, and above all human comprehension. See also N.T.C. on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=43.21.15-43.21.17|AUTODETECT|”

John 21:15 17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0

When human ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

hearts) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.13|AUTODETECT|”

13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.13|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 3:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.2.17|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=53.2.17|AUTODETECT|”

II Thess. 2:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) are ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

directed) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.11|AUTODETECT|”

13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.11|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 3:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) to this love, obedience results; for this love is not only a divine attribute, or that plus a favorable attitude toward believers, but also a divine, dynamic force within them, a principle of life in their innermost being. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0

The endurance of Christ must not be interpreted as meaning the wonderful ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

longsuffering) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

which Jesus showed to his friends, for example, to Peter. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

Endurance) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

(Q������) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

is the grace to bear up under) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

. It amounts to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

stedfastness,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

no matter what may be the cost. In nearly every case in which the apostle employs the term he also uses a word which indicates the hostility directed against Christ and his followers or the trials and hardships which they have to endure. Note the following examples: ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.3|AUTODETECT|”

Rom. 5:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.4|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.5.4|AUTODETECT|”

4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

endurance in the midst of tribulation ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.4|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.5|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=45.15.5|AUTODETECT|”

5. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : endurance in the midst of reproach (cf. verse 3) ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.1.6|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 1:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : endurance in the midst of suffering ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.6.4|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 6:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : endurance in the midst of affliction ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.12.12|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 12:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : endurance in the midst of persecution, distress ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.1.4|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : endurance in the midst of persecution ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.6.11|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 6:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : endurance in the midst of the good fight of faith (see verse 12) ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=55.3.10|AUTODETECT|” II Tim. 3:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : endurance in the midst of persecution, suffering (see verse 11) ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.3|AUTODETECT|” See also on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.3|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Though the two kinds of patience, namely, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 endurance) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (Q������) and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 longsuffering) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 slowness to wrath) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ) are very closely related 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.1.11|AUTODETECT|” Col. 1:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ), they must not be confused. See on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . We ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 endure) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 amid adverse ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 circumstances;) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 we show ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 longsuffering) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 with (or: we exercise patience toward) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 people) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 .��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref3 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn3”
6. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Endurance) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the bravery of perseverence) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in faith and in all good works even then when all things seem to be against us. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In the present context this mention of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 endurance) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.5|AUTODETECT|” is very fitting. The meaning is this: just like Christ ran the race with endurance of stedfastness enduring the cross, despising shame , so we (in this case, the Thessalonians) in the midst of our afflictions should follow the same course. We should look unto Jesus, and follow his example. 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.5|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.1-58.12.4|AUTODETECT|” immediately suggests ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.12.1-58.12.4|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 12:1 4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 .) Hence, there should be no forsaking of duty, no fanaticism or inexcusable excitement sothat one lays down his work, thinking, What s the use of working, if Christ s return is just around the corner? ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Jesus) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 persevered. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 He) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 never resorted to idleness, loafing. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 He) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 adhered to his appointed task to the very end. So should ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 we) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” Paul expresses the solemn wish that the Lord 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) may direct the hearts of the readers to this love of God and to this endurance or stedfastness of Christ. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 6.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 By means of this expression of confidence (verse 4) and this solemn wish (verse 5) Paul has prepared the reader for what follows in verses 6 15: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that you stay away from every brother who conducts himself in a disorderly orderly manner and not in accordance with the tradition which you received��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref4 11 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn4”
7. 8 1 -1 9 0 0 �� from us.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The command which follows is given in the name of that is, on the basis of the authority of and in accordance with the teaching (revelation) of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the Lord Jesus Christ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). He alone is the Anointed Lord and Savior of the Church, and in that capacity has the right to issue commands. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 The command has to do with individual cases of disorderly conduct. The expression every brother would seem to indicate that the instances were rather isolated: here one and there one. The congregation as a whole was sound in faith and practice. The disorderly conduct probably consisted of such things as: ) a. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 loafing) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , in view of the conviction that Christ would return any day now; ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 b. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 spreading) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 all manner of exciting ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 gossip) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 about Christ s imminent return (cf. 2:2); ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 c. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 asking to be supported by the church) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 their own) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 bread, which implies that this was what they did not want to do); and ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 d. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 meddlesomeness,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 perhaps interfering with the business that properly belonged to the officers . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” The fact that a rather lengthy paragraph (verses 6 15) is devoted to this sin would seem to indicate that the evil here signalized had grown worse since the first epistle was written 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|”
8. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 5:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ; then also ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ). Such conduct was certainly far removed from the tradition (see on 2:15) which the Thessalonians had received from the missionaries. This tradition was the teaching which Paul, Silas, and Timothy, on the basis of the authority vested in them, had passed along to the congregation. It included such instructions as this one: If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat (verse 10). The Thessalonians had received it from the missionaries during their first visit (verse 10), and also subsequently by letter 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 5:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). No doubt Timothy, on his visit, had stressed the same thing. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In the case of some individuals all this instruction had been in vain. Hence, somewhat stronger methods must now be used. When ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 admonition) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 does not succeed, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 segregation) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.5|AUTODETECT|” must be resorted to, at least to a limited extent. Note that the severe measure mentioned in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.5|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:5) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” is not yet contemplated here in II Thess. The brothers 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) are told ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to stay away) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.20|AUTODETECT|” 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.8.20|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 8:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) from such a brother (note that the disorderly persons are still referred to by this name!). Even this ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 staying away) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 however, is qualified. It does not imply complete ostracism, for verse 15 states expressly that such a one must be admonished as a brother. It does mean, however, that the rest of the congregation should not get mixed up with him (verse 14), that is, should not associate with such a person on intimate terms, agreeing with him and following his example. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 7, 8.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Not only was the disorderly conduct contrary to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the instructions) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 which had been delivered to the Thessalonians, both orally and in writing; it was also in conflict with ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the example) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 which the missionaries had given them: ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we did not conduct ourselves in a disorderly manner (when we were) among you, neither did we eat anyone s bread without paying for it, but with toil and hardship we were working for a living by night and by day, in order not to be a burden to any of you.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 In the light of the immediately preceding context (verse 6), the present passage (verses 7 and 8), in which several thoughts have been compressed together in a few words, may be paraphrased as follows: ) Now we command you, brothers & that you stay away from every brother who conducts himself in a disorderly manner and not in accordance with the tradition which you have received from us. We have a right to remind you of the teaching which we transmitted to you, for you know, of course, what that was; also you know how you ought to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 imitate) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.7|AUTODETECT|” 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=58.13.7|AUTODETECT|” Heb. 13:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.11|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=64.1.11|AUTODETECT|” III John 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ; cf. ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.14|AUTODETECT|” 2:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) the manner in which we practiced what we preached. We feel free to add this because we did not conduct ourselves in a disorderly manner when we were among you. Specifically, we did not eat anyone s bread ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 without paying for it) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (gratis or as a gift ������, adverbial accusative) but with toil and hardship we were working for a living by night and by day. We did this in order not to be a burden to any one of you. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” The clause With toil and hardship we were working for a living by night and by day, in order not to be a burden to any of you occurs also in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ; see on that passage. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Truly, what the disorderly persons were doing was the very opposite of what the missionaries had done. The latter had been preaching the gospel and working at a trade besides! The former did not do a stitch of real work in either direction. They were loafers and spongers! Instead of being a help they were a hindrance to the progress of the gospel. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 9.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Why did the missionaries work for a living by night and by day ? One reason has already been given, namely, in order not to be a burden to any of you. Another reason, closely connected with the first, is now added: in order that we might offer ourselves as an example for you to imitate. The statement which contains this second purpose clause is as follows: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 not because we have no right (to be supported by you) but in order that we might offer ourselves as an example for you to imitate.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” Again and again Paul insists on his rights, but again and again, in the interest of the kingdom, he is willing to waive the use of these rights. This (in connection with his stand on the question of received remuneration) has been discussed in detail; see on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (the ten propositions). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The desire of the missionaries was that the Thessalonians, each in his own way and with the opportunities given him, might ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 imitate) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (see on verse 7) the example of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 unselfish devotion) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 given by those from whose lips they had heard the glorious message of salvation. Since the example of Christ had been imitated by Paul, he now in turn feels free to ask others to imitate his example (and that of his associates). For this thought 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to imitate) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to become imitators) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 example) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” ) see on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.7|AUTODETECT|”
9. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” . Not only in welcoming the word with Spirit-imparted joy amid great tribulation but also in whole-hearted self-surrender, the example given by Paul and his fellow-workers must be imitated. That the great majority of the readers had done the former is the thought expressed in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.6|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.7|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.7|AUTODETECT|”
10. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.9|AUTODETECT|” . That some refused to do the latter is implied here in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.9|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 10.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The Thessalonian irregulars could not excuse their conduct by saying, You never taught us any different. They knew the way, because the missionaries: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 a. had given them ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 an example) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 of unselfish devotion (verses 7, 8, 9) ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 b. had ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 also) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (note ��� at the beginning of verse 10) given them a definite ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 precept,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 namely, If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat (verse 10). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Hence, the conjunction ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 for) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in verse 10 really refers back to verse 7, the thought being, You yourselves know & ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 for) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 when we were with you (in addition to teaching you by means of example) this we used to command you, etc. In a sense this ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 for) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 refers all the way back to verse 6: the tradition which you received from us. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 For also when we were with you, ) 12 1 -1 9 0 0 this) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 we used to command you, If anyone does not want to work, neither let him eat.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 No true parallel to this word of Paul has been found anywhere else. A maxim such as, If they do not work, they have nothing to eat, is no parallel. That is a mere truism, an axiom so obvious to all except the rich that its very expression seems a bit superfluous. But what Paul had been saying again and again while in Thessalonica, and what he reaffirms here, is something else. It concerns the pious (?) sluggard ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 who does not want to work,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and who proceeds from the idea: The church owes me a living. Substitute world or government for church and the passage would fit many people living today, both inside and outside the church! ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The command which Paul, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, was constantly issuing was this, Do not permit such a person to eat, that is, Do not supply his material needs. If he refuses to work, let him go hungry. That may teach him a lesson. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.26-45.15.29|AUTODETECT|” Paul keeps perfect balance. While, on the one hand his heart goes out to those who are really in need, and he is the kind of a man who is even willing to undertake a missionary journey that will have as one of its purposes the energetic promotion of a collection for the needy saints in Judea 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.26-45.15.29|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:26 29) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.10|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.2.10|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 2:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), on the other hand he has no sympathy whatever with the attitude of people who refuse to do an honest day s work. It is necessary to grasp the deep root of this labor-philosophy. As we see it, the apostle is not 7 1 -1 9 0 0 merely) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) borrowing a bit of good old workshop morality, a maxim applied no doubt hundreds of times by industrious workmen as they forbade a lazy apprentice to sit down for dinner, ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref5 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn5”
11. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� but is proceeding from the idea that, in imitation of Christ s example of self-sacrificing love for his own, those who were saved by grace should become so unselfish that they will loathe the very idea of unnecessarily becoming a burden to their brothers, and, on the other hand, that they will yearn for the opportunity to share what they have with those who are really in need. While it is certainly true that every man in whom any sense of justice is left will assent to the justice and wisdom of the maxim here expressed , it is nevertheless also true that for the believer this maxim has added force, for selfishness and the truly Christian life are direct opposites. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 11.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The apostle now states the reason for being under the necessity of saying these things: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 For we hear that some among you are conducting themselves in a disorderly manner, not busy workers but busybodies.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Though it is hardly possible for us who are living in a day of fast transportation and air-mail and of telegraphic, telephonic, and televisic communication to imagine the difficulties connected with the very slow method of receiving and conveying messages which prevailed in the first century a.d., nevertheless we must not exaggerate this contrast. Messages did come through even in the days of Paul. The highways and sea-lanes were often crowded with travelers. Tidings kept reaching Paul and his associates. Hence, by this time he was well aware of one fact, namely, that some among the readers (let them take note of the preposition among, in the deepest sense not really of unless they repent) were conducting themselves in the manner outlined above, in connection with our discussion of verse 6; see on that passage. Paul says that these disorderly individuals were nothing working but working (i.e. gadding) about.

In the original there is here a play upon words. We read ���r� ����������� ��p ����������������. In order to retain the flavor of the original, at least to some extent, we have translated this: not busy workers but busybodies. It is easy to picture these persons there were ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

some,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

not many laying down their tools, running from one brother to another with fantastic stories about Christ s immediate Return the day had already arrived! making extravagant claims for the truthfulness of their thrilling tales, returning home without the day s wages to buy food, then attempting to sponge on others or even on the benevolence-fund of the church, meddling in the affairs of the authorities, etc. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0

12. Now such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ that by quietly working for a living they eat their own bread.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) 6 1 3 8 0 0

For such irregular people Paul has a formal, objective ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

command,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

message) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

sent ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

along) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|”

or transmitted 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) from the Head of the Church, who is the Chief Commander. This command, moreover, is at the same time a warm, personal ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0

admonition) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

7 1 -1 9 0 0

admonish, urge,) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.11|AUTODETECT|”

) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.2.11|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 2:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.1|AUTODETECT|”

4:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.10|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.10|AUTODETECT|”

10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|”

5:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.2|AUTODETECT|”

; cf. a slightly different sense in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.2|AUTODETECT|”

I Thess. 3:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.7|AUTODETECT|”

, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.3.7|AUTODETECT|”

7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.18|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.18|AUTODETECT|”

4:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.11|AUTODETECT|”

; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.5.11|AUTODETECT|”

5:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0

) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 encourage, comfort;) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.26|AUTODETECT|” and see N.T.C. on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.26|AUTODETECT|” John 14:26) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” The missionaries do their commanding and urging in the Lord Jesus Christ, i.e., by virtue of union with him, his Spirit speaking through them. For the full title the Lord Jesus Christ see on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The substance of the command and admonition is that by calmly working for a living these irregulars shall eat their own bread. Instead of gadding about feverishly, running in circles and agitating, spreading excitement and alarm on every side, these people must work ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 calmly) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” . This last expression immediately recalls ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.2|AUTODETECT|” ; see on that passage and also on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=54.2.2|AUTODETECT|” I Tim. 2:2) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 If they will obey this commandment and heed this admonition, they will not only be doing ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 themselves) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 a favor, and this both spiritually and materially, but also ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 others) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . No longer will they be annoying other people. They will be eating their own bread, providing their own sustenance. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 13.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Over against the irregular conduct of the few, Paul urges the many to persist in doing whatever is excellent: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 But as for you, brothers, do not become weary in well-doing.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 They must not ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 begin to behave badly) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 become weary) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.1|AUTODETECT|” 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.18.1|AUTODETECT|” Luke 18:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.1|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.1|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 4:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.16|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.4.16|AUTODETECT|”

16. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=49.3.13|AUTODETECT|” Eph. 3:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) in the matter of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 well-doing) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . As a compound verb (here nominative plural, masc. present participle �������������) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 well-doing) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (one word) or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 well doing) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.7|AUTODETECT|” (two words) makes little, if any, difference. The two words (three if the article is counted when it occurs: �x ���x� ���������) occur in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.7|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 13:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.21|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . The point to note is that in each of these passages the meaning is general; that is, it is not specifically giving to the poor that is meant, but performing what accords with God s will in every walk of life. Doing the ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 excellent, honorable,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 beautiful) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (����� � ��) thing 7 1 -1 9 0 0 good) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.6|AUTODETECT|” deed, cf. ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=41.14.6|AUTODETECT|” Mark 14:6) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) simply stands over against doing ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 (the) evil) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Note the following: ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.7|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 13:7) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : Now we pray God that you may not do evil & that you may do the good. ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=48.6.9|AUTODETECT|” Gal. 6:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : And with respect to doing the good let us not grow weary. ) 13 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.7.21|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 7:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 : I find then the law that to me who would do the good, the evil lies close at hand. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.13|AUTODETECT|” It is probably not necessary to depart from this general meaning here in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.13|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . It is true that something can be said for the idea favored by several leading commentators, that what Paul meant in the present context was this: ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Do not become so exasperated by the troublesome conduct of a few loafers that you will begin to tire of exercising charity with respect to those who are deserving. But nothing in the context forbids us from interpreting the meaning to be: ) Do not be misled. Do not let a few people who neglect ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 their) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 duty keep ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 you) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 from doing ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 yours) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Never grow tired of doing what is right, honorable, excellent. ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Since this interpretation, in addition to fitting into the present concrete situation and context, is also the one demanded in the other passages (as has been shown), we accept it to be the right one. ) For the concept ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 brothers) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” see on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 14, 15.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Doing the good and honorable thing means obeying the will of God as revealed by his servants. Some, however, refuse to obey. Hence, Paul continues: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Now if anyone does not obey our word expressed in this letter, note that man for yourselves, do not get mixed up with him, in order that he may become ashamed.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Paul and his associates provide for the possibility that there will be those who refuse to obey our word expressed in this letter. The writers are probably thinking especially of those members who were making themselves guilty of disorderly conduct: laying down their tools, rushing away to spread Parousia-gossip, and sponging on (as well as meddling in the affairs of) other people. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.10|AUTODETECT|” These members had been repeatedly warned with respect to these matters: first, during the personal presence of the missionaries when the gospel was brought to Thessalonica 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.10|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” ). No doubt Timothy, on his mission, had reiterated the warning. Then, by means of the first letter 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.2.9|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 2:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” 5:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” , and directly, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.11|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 4:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.*?id=52.4.12|AUTODETECT|”
17. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.6-53.3.12|AUTODETECT|” ) and now in this second letter they had been admonished again, in clear and forceful language 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.6-53.3.12|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:6 12) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). They had been called busybodies, not busy workers (3:11). One might expect that Paul would long ago have lost his patience with them, and would now advise their excommunication. However, we find nothing of the kind. The apostle still regards them as brothers (see verse 15), though ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 erring) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 brothers. To be sure, Paul and his fellow-workers are conscious of their authority, and they believe in discipline, personal, mutual, and church (discipline). But they do not believe in harsh intolerance, rash action, precipitate decision which cannot tolerate the light. They believe in honesty and integrity, and in the exercise of genuine love and patience! Hence, what they desire and they are speaking by inspiration! is this, that if all previous admonitions fail to effect their purpose, sterner measures must be resorted to. But even these measures are reformatory in character. They aim to reclaim, to lead to repentance, to save; not to destroy: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The person who persists in his disobedience must now be ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 marked) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 noted) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . Note that man for yourselves (second person plural, present imperative middle), he says. This is addressed to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 all) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the faithful brothers at Thessalonica, not only to the consistory of the church. Or shall we assume that though the pronoun ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 you) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in verse 13 and again in verse 16 refer to ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 all,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 yet the similar ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 you) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (implied in the verb) in the intervening verses (14 and 15) does not apply to the congregation but only to the consistory? The idea of some, namely, that what the writers have in mind is this: Let the consistory display this disobedient person s name on a blackboard or bulletin-board is simply ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 read into) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 the text. One cannot find it there, not even when reference is made to certain papyri where the verb does occur, but in connections that shed little or no light on its use here in II Thess. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 What is actually meant is probably this: The congregation, having listened carefully to the public reading of II Thessalonians, a letter in which the character and conduct of the disorderly members are clearly indicated, must take definite notice of the persons described. In the future these individuals must not be treated as if nothing had happened. On the contrary, to a certain extent ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the obedient members) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 must withdraw themselves from such disobedient ones. That the writers have this in mind is clear from the fact that it is exactly what they have already said in verse 6 (see on that verse). Writers should be allowed to explain their own words! Here in verse 14 the command is, Let there be no intimate association with him (i.e., with such a recalcitrant member) or Do not get mixed up with him. ��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref6 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn6”
18. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 �� The disobedient members must not associate with such an individual ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 on intimate terms) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . They should not welcome him into the company of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 close friends,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 agreeing with him, approving of his conduct, etc. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.14|AUTODETECT|” The purpose of this limited segregation or ostracism is in order that he may become ashamed 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.4.14|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 4:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.8|AUTODETECT|” ; see on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.2.8|AUTODETECT|” Titus 2:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Clearly this purpose is reformatory. It springs from love, from the desire to heal, not from the desire to get rid of an individual whom one does not happen to favor. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 shame) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 will probably result when the individual in question begins to reflect on the patient and loving manner in which, in spite of his own grievous error which is pointed out to him (see verse 15), this discipline is being exercised. This man is not being excommunicated, at least not yet and probably never. That will depend on ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 his own) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.14|AUTODETECT|” subsequent behavior. The writers approach to the subject 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.14|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|”
19. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) is not that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the person) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 in question ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 should be barred or banished,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 but that ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the obedient members) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.13|AUTODETECT|” should withdraw themselves from him! It is exegetically unjustifiable to superimpose ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.13|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.11|AUTODETECT|” or ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.11|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.14|AUTODETECT|” upon ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.14|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|”
20. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . The present case is different. To be sure, it ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 may develop) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.5-47.2.11|AUTODETECT|” into something analogous to the stern disciplinary measure demanded in the fifth chapter of I Corinthians, but that stage has not been reached here. And even with respect to the Corinthian passages one should bear in mind that, according to what many regard as the most probable interpretation, the stern disciplinary measure there imposed had its wholesome effect, sothat Paul was happy to follow up his earlier commands by saying, Forgive him, comfort him & confirm your love toward him 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.2.5-47.2.11|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 2:5 11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 That the shunning of the disobedient person was not intended to be absolute is shown by the words: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 And do not consider him) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 as ;) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.19.11|AUTODETECT|” a� is pleonastic, perhaps a Hebraism; cf. ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=18.19.11|AUTODETECT|” Job 19:11) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.20|AUTODETECT|” This beautiful exhortation which affords an insight into the fatherly heart of Paul and into the Father-heart of God! immediately reminds one of ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.20|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 enemy) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him to drink ), and via Paul leads the mind back to Christ in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:44) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.27|AUTODETECT|” or ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:27) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 enemies ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). In all these cases the same word is used, namely, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 enemy) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 an outsider, stranger;) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 then, a person with a hostile disposition toward one: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 an enemy;) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 cf. the Latin ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 hostis) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 a stranger, foreigner,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 and finally ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 enemy) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.20|AUTODETECT|” But though ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.12.20|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 12:20) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.5.44|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 5:44) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.27|AUTODETECT|” and ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.6.27|AUTODETECT|” Luke 6:27) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|” have as their starting-point the actual existence of an enemy, ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.15|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:15) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 warns against positing an enemy where there should be none. The person in question, though heedless with respect to all previous admonitions and even with respect to the earnest counsel given in II Thessalonians, must ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 not) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 be placed on the list of enemies & no, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 not yet) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.8|AUTODETECT|” at least! It is as if we hear the vine-dresser say, Lord, let him alone this year also 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=42.13.8|AUTODETECT|” Luke 13:8) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). And do not consider him an enemy, but ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 admonish) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (����������) ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 him as a brother. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 See on I Thess. 5 12, where the verb ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 to admonish) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 has been discussed. For ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 brother) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” see on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.4|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:4) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . That this work of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 admonishing) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 must be performed by ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the entire congregation) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” is clear from ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.14|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.14|AUTODETECT|” 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=45.15.14|AUTODETECT|” Rom. 15:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.3.16|AUTODETECT|” Col. 3:16) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). That ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the elders) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” take the lead is clear from ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.12|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:12) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.13|AUTODETECT|” , ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.13|AUTODETECT|”
21. 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.10|AUTODETECT|” The question is asked, But what happens when the person whose conduct is here criticized persists in his refusal to give heed to loving counsel and admonition? No doubt, such a one would finally have to be excommunicated, for he would be revealed in his true character as a factious person 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=56.3.10|AUTODETECT|” Titus 3:10) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.17|AUTODETECT|” ). Christian tolerance has its limits 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=40.18.17|AUTODETECT|” Matt. 18:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.14-66.2.16|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.14-66.2.16|AUTODETECT|” Rev. 2:14 16) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.20-66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=66.2.20-66.2.23|AUTODETECT|” 2:20 23) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ), yet, until it is absolutely necessary it is well for the congregation not even to think of this possibility. Hence, Paul here in Thess. 3:15 says ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 nothing) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 about it! The erring one must be looked upon and treated not as a possible ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 reprobate) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 but as an erring ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 brother!) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 16.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Thoroughly convinced that in their own strength the readers cannot fulfil the precepts contained in the preceding verses, the writers add: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 Now may he, the Lord of peace, give you this peace at all times in all ways.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The Lord of peace is the Lord Jesus Christ. It is he who established peace through his cross. It is he who not only pronounces it but actually ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 imparts) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 it. Hence Paul writes, Now may he & ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 give ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (���, 3rd. per. sing., aor. optative active). This ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 peace) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 or spiritual ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 prosperity) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 will prevail when the disorderly persons begin to live calmly, attending to their duties both earthly and heavenly (that is the immediate context here), when the faint-hearted go to the depths of God s promise, no longer worrying about their departed friends and about their own spiritual condition, and when the weak gain strength through sanctification. It is needed at all times, in all ways, that is, in every circumstance of life. The peace here indicated is of a very special character. Note the article in the original 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23|AUTODETECT|” peace ). Objectively, it is the condition of being reconciled, God s wrath having been removed. But here the subjective must not be dissociated from the objective. It is the reflection of God s smile in the heart of the believer who, by sovereign grace, has received the blessed assurance of this state of reconciliation. This, truly, is prosperity! Note also the similar expression toward the close of the first epistle 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.23|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:23) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” ; also on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.1.1|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 1:1) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , for the meaning of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 peace;) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” and see N.T.C. on ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=43.14.27|AUTODETECT|” John 14:27) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Implied in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the peace) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 the fellowship,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 which, however, because of its superlative worth, merits special mention. Hence, there follows ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The Lord) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (i.e., the Lord Jesus Christ) ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 with you all) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (with the verb be understood). Note: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 you all,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 not even the disorderly ones are excluded! Did not the writers proceed from the idea that the censored persons were, after all, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 brothers?) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.24|AUTODETECT|” Cf. ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.24|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:24) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.13|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=47.13.13|AUTODETECT|” II Cor. 13:13) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 17.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 An autographic conclusion follows, as a token of the fact that the letter is an authentic product of the mind and heart of the great apostle: ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The greeting by the hand of me, Paul, which is a token of genuineness in every epistle; so I write.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 It was customary in those days that the man who dictated a letter as Paul, no doubt, dictated this one would add a few words of greeting, etc., with his own hand, as a sign of authenticity.��) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftnref7 9 1 -1 9 0 “#_ftn7”
22. 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.21|AUTODETECT|” �� That this was also Paul s habit is clear from the present passage and from ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.16.21|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 16:21) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.18|AUTODETECT|” ; ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=51.4.18|AUTODETECT|” Col. 4:18) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.19|AUTODETECT|” . Cf. also ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=57.1.19|AUTODETECT|” Philem. 19) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . The apostle never failed to do this. It was, indeed a ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 token of genuineness) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (�������) in ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 every) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 epistle. This, of course, does not mean that Paul always ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 called attention) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to it! Often he did not. But that does not change the fact. Thus, we may assume that the benediction at the close of II Corinthians was written by Paul s own hand, even though he does not there expressly state this. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The words, which is a token of genuineness ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in every epistle ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 are not difficult to understand if one bears in mind the following facts: ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 a. Paul had already written I Thessalonians and probably also Galatians. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.9|AUTODETECT|” b. He no doubt intended to write many more letters. Moreover, in God s wise providence, not all the letters written by Paul have come down to us 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=46.5.9|AUTODETECT|” I Cor. 5:9) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ). Perhaps, the apostle had even now written more letters. ) 6 1 3 8 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.17|AUTODETECT|” Why did the apostle, here in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.17|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:17) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 , call special attention to this mark of genuineness? The following reasons have been suggested and may well point in the right direction: ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 a. To prevent the disorderly persons from being able to say, We admit that the letter which was read to us during the service (II Thessalonians) contained some rather uncomplimentary things with respect to us, but we do not believe that it actually represents the thought of Paul. We deny that he either wrote or dictated it. ) b. To discourage the spread of spurious epistles and/or the claim that someone had in his possession (or had seen) a letter from Paul stating that the day of the Lord had already arrived; see on 2:2. ) 8 1 3 8 0 0 18.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 The closing benediction ) 8 1 -1 9 0 0 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ (be) with you all) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.28|AUTODETECT|” is exactly the same as in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=52.5.28|AUTODETECT|” I Thess. 5:28) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (see on that passage), with the sole exception that here, at the end of the second epistle, the word ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 all) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 is added. Was this word added in order to make sure that the individuals who had received a rebuke would feel that, in Paul s great and loving heart, there was room even for them? ) 7 1 3 8 0 0 Synthesis of Chapter 3) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 See p. 192. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 The Revelation of the Lord Jesus From Heaven is a firmly anchored hope whose contemplation should result not in disorderliness but in calm assurance, stedfast endurance, and strength-imparting peace.) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verses 1 and 2. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Request for intercession) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Being a firm believer in the power of intercessory prayer, Paul requests that the Thessalonian brothers will remember in their devotions the men who had brought them the glorious gospel of salvation. He makes this request in order that not only in Thessalonica but also at Corinth, where Paul, Silas, and Timothy are staying while this letter is being written, the word of the Lord may run its race and be crowned with glory, and God s servants may be rescued from those unrighteous and evil men, which expression probably has reference to the Jewish opponents. ) Verses 3 5. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Calm assurance and stedfast endurance required) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Over against faith-) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 less) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 men stands the ever faith-) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 ful) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Lord, who will inwardly strengthen and thus (as well as in other ways) guard the readers from the evil one. Paul expresses his complete confidence in the obedience of the group which he is addressing. He expresses the hope that the Lord may direct the hearts of the readers to the love which issues from the heart of God, and to the endurance which was shown by Christ in the midst of his own bitter suffering. When this love becomes the motivating force in the lives of the Thessalonians and when that endurance becomes their example, spiritual victory is assured. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 Verses 6 15. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Directives with respect to every brother who conducts himself in a disorderly manner (Disorderliness condemned)) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 2 3 8 0 0 Reminding the readers of his own example (and that of Silas and Timothy) while at Thessalonica, an example of bustling activity and industry , and of the order which he had repeatedly issued at that time , Paul rebukes the busybodies who refuse to work. He commands and urges them in the Lord Jesus Christ that by calmly working for a living they eat their own bread. He counsels the congregation not to copy their evil example, that is, not to fall behind in doing whatever is noble and honorable. If disorderly individuals disobey the word expressed in the present letter, they must be shunned, but not entirely. The other members must contact them for the purpose of admonishing them. However, as long as the idlers continue in their sinful course, the rest of the membership should refuse to associate with them on intimate terms. The purpose of admonishing them and of the refusal on the part of the others to get mixed up with them and their deeds is that the erring ones may become ashamed and thus brought back to a healthy outlook upon life. ) Verses 16 18. ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 Conclusion) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 The apostle expresses the ardent wish that upon the struggling church at Thessalonica, oppressed by persecution from without and plagued by fanaticism from within, the peace established by Christ may rest, that peace which alone is able to impart strength and courage. He continues, The Lord be with you ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 all, ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 that is, not only with those who are not in need of special instruction or admonition but also with mourners, with those who are on the way to become martyrs, with the weak, yes even with fanatics, busybodies, and loafers, who repent of their sins. ) 6 1 3 8 0 0 In order to add weight to the contents of the divinely inspired letter, to prevent the spread of false rumors, and to pronounce upon the readers, assembled for worship, the most precious of all gifts, there follows, The greeting by the hand of me, Paul, which is a token of genuineness in every letter: so I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn1 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref1” 130 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Or simply: ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 be glorified) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 . ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn2 10 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref2” N.T.C. ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 W. Hendriksen, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 New Testament Commentary) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn3 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref3” 131 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Hence, I cannot agree with the interpretation given by Lenski, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 452. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn4 11 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref4” 132 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Whether the text as originally written had ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 you) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 received or ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 they) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 received makes little essential difference. If ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 you) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 received it, then ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 they) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (the disorderly ones) also received it. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn5 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref5” 133 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 Thus A. Deissmann, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 p. 314. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn6 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref6” 134 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.14|AUTODETECT|” Whether one adopts the imperative or the somewhat better attested infinitive makes little difference. It cannot be denied that, from Homer down, Greek at times carried on an imperative by means of an infinitive with imperative meaning. See Gram.N.T., pp. 943, 944. Here in ) 13 1 -1 9 0 “tw://bible.?id=53.3.14|AUTODETECT|” II Thess. 3:14) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 (���������������) we probably have an instance of such an infinitive in which the imperative sense of the preceding verb (����������) is carried on. That would seem to be the simplest explanation. Basically nothing changes when the weaker reading (��������������) is adopted, for this is an imperative. But even if one should agree with some interpreters who favor the infinitive but who regard it as an infinitive of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 purpose) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 in order not) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to have intimate fellowship with him ) or of ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 result) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 7 1 -1 9 0 0 so as not) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 to have intimate fellowship with him ), the basic idea namely, that either directly or by implication, the readers are here ordered not to have intimate fellowship with such a disobedient person remains the same. ) -2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 _ftn7 9 1 3 8 0 “#_ftnref7” 135 ) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 See A. Deissmann, ) 7 1 -1 9 0 0 op. cit.,) 6 1 -1 9 0 0 pp. 171, 172. )