“2 Thessalonians 3”

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

Paul begins this section, verses 1-9, by asking the Thessalonians to pray for him (and Silas and Timothy) in order that their work in the gospel might prosper.

They were facing opposition from unbelievers who were determined to undermine the disciples’ influence. He warns them, in verse 6, of the need to discipline unfaithful members (“every brother who walks disorderly”).

In verses 7-9, he points to his own example as one who worked hard to provide for his own needs so as not to be a burden to others.

In earlier passages in these letters, we have noted that some of the Thessalonian Christians had quit working so they could simply await the Lord’s return, which they considered to be imminent. Two thousand years later, we know they were wrong.

Perhaps that should give pause to those today who believe He will return in our own lifetime. He might, but He might not. Nobody knows for sure (Mark 13:32-37). In this last section of the book, Paul gives final instructions for faithful, prepared living.

He teaches in verses 10-12 that a person should work for a living and, if he is not willing to do so, he doesn’t even have the right to eat. He is not talking about someone who is physically unable to work, but those who simply choose not to work and support his family. This subject will also be dealt with in 1 Timothy 5.

Verses 14-15 remind us that, if a person has been “withdrawn from” (verse 6), he is not an enemy, but should be treated as a brother and encouraged to do the right thing. Do not avoid such people, but try to help them get things back in order.

In verse 13, Paul encourages them, and also us, not to “grow weary in doing good.” It is often easy to grow discouraged and the Lord wants us to keep on doing the right thing.

Jesus is coming again. Do you love His appearing (2 Timothy 4:6-8)? Are you ready?

--Roger Hillis

Share