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2 Thessalonians 3

2 Thessalonians 3 serves as Paul’s closing exhortations to the Thessalonian church, emphasizing prayer, proper behavior, and discipline within the community. Paul requests prayers for the spread of the gospel and for protection against evil forces. He addresses issues of idleness among the believers, urging them to lead disciplined lives and to follow his own example of hard work. This chapter concludes his second epistle with practical advice on how to maintain order and encourage productivity within the Christian community.

2 Thessalonians 3:1-5 (NKJV)
1 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you,
2 and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.
3 But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.
4 And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you both do and will do the things we command.
5 Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.

Paul requests prayer for the rapid spread and glorification of God's word, reflecting his mission-centered focus. He also seeks deliverance from those opposing the gospel, highlighting the challenges posed by unbelievers. The affirmation of the Lord’s faithfulness reassures the Thessalonians of divine protection and guidance. Paul expresses confidence in their adherence to his teachings and prays for their hearts to be directed towards God’s love and Christ’s endurance.

2 Thessalonians 3:6-10 (NKJV)
6 But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us.
7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you;
8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you,
9 not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example for you to follow.
10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.

Paul instructs the community to distance themselves from members who are disorderly and do not follow the traditions passed on by the apostles, emphasizing the importance of community discipline. He references his own behavior as a model of diligence, having worked hard to not be a financial burden to them. The principle "If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat" underscores the expectation for each member to contribute to the community and avoid idleness.

2 Thessalonians 3:11-15 (NKJV)
11 For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies.
12 Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread.
13 But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.
14 And if anyone does not obey our word in this epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed.
15 Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

Reports of idleness and meddling prompt Paul to command and encourage such individuals to work quietly and sustain themselves. He exhorts the rest of the community not to become discouraged in doing good, highlighting the importance of perseverance in righteous behavior. For those who disobey the apostolic instruction, Paul advises marking them and limiting association to induce a sense of shame, yet they are to be treated as erring family members, not enemies.

2 Thessalonians 3:16-18 (NKJV)
16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all.
17 The salutation of Paul with my own hand, which is a sign in every epistle; so I write.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

In his closing benediction, Paul prays for the Lord to grant the Thessalonians peace at all times and in all circumstances, reflecting his desire for their spiritual and communal well-being. He authenticates the letter with his own handwriting, a personal touch indicating the genuineness of the epistle. Finally, he extends the grace of Jesus Christ to all, encapsulating his message of faith, guidance, and community discipline in grace.

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