I have notes from a previous study on First and Second Thessalonians at 2017, December on the sidebar of my blog.
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First Thessalonians
1:1 – 2:16
1. 1:1 From Paul (and
Silas and Timothy) to the Thessalonians
– Background, Acts
17:1-10
– Occasion for the
letters, 1 Thes 3:1-3 (Acts 18:5)
2. The Messengers
– 1:4 What they knew:
chosen/ the election
(a people among
the gentiles, Acts 15:13-17)
– 1:5a How the word came
– 1:5b; 2:1-12 Their
behavior
(without
false motive, gentle, godly, motivating)
3. The Thessalonians
– 1:6; 2:13 Received the
word
– 1:2-3 Bore fruit: work
of faith, labor of love,
patience of hope
– 1:6; 2:14-16 Were
followers/ imitators in persecution
– 1:7-10 Became examples
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First Thessalonians
1:1 – 2:16
1.
1:1 From Paul (and Silas and Timothy) to the Thessalonians
– Background,
Acts 17:1-10
It was on Paul's second missionary journey that he, Silas, and Timothy came to Thessalonica in Macedonia (Greece today), as recorded by Luke in the book of Acts, chapter 17.1-10.
1
Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came
to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. 2
Then Paul, as his custom was, went in to them, and for three Sabbaths
reasoned with them from the Scriptures, 3
explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise
again from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I preach to
you is the Christ." 4
And some of them were persuaded; and a great multitude of the devout
Greeks, and not a few of the leading women, joined Paul and Silas. 5
But the Jews who were not persuaded, becoming envious, took some of
the evil men from the marketplace, and gathering a mob, set all the
city in an uproar and attacked the house of Jason, and sought to
bring them out to the people. 6
But when they did not find them, they dragged Jason and some brethren
to the rulers of the city, crying out, "These who have turned
the world upside down have come here too. 7
Jason has harbored them, and these are all acting contrary to the
decrees of Caesar, saying there is another king—Jesus." 8
And they troubled the crowd and the rulers of the city when they
heard these things. 9
So when they had taken security from Jason and the rest, they let
them go. 10
Then the brethren immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to
Berea. When they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews.
Acts 17:1-10 NKJ
Paul had some positive response from his speaking in the synagogue of the Jews. Luke does not record much about their stay in the city. They had to spend more than a few days there, because of the reference to them (Gentiles) turning to God from Idols (1 Thes 1.9)--which would have been Gentiles who were not the ones who attended the Synagogue, and the level of teaching on issues like the second coming of Christ, the "Day of the Lord," and the "revealing" of the "son of destruction."
Paul's time in the city was cut short because of the Jews who were not persuaded who became envious and caused trouble. And so as to probably not be a problem for the new believers, Paul and Silas moved on to Berea (in Macedonia) where they had success as well in the synagogue, but Jews from Thessalonica came and stirred up the crowds against them. So, Paul was moved along to Athens while Silas and Timothy remained behind.
– Occasion
for the letters, 1 Thes 3:1-3 (Acts 18:5)
1
Therefore, when we could no longer endure it, we thought it good to
be left in Athens alone, 2
and sent Timothy,
our brother and minister of God, and our fellow laborer in the gospel
of Christ, to establish you and
encourage you concerning your faith,
3
that no one should be shaken by these afflictions; for you yourselves
know that we are appointed to this. 1 Thessalonians 3:1-3 NKJ
5
When Silas and Timothy had come from
Macedonia, Acts 18:5 NKJ
After they came to Paul in Athens, Timothy was sent back to Thessalonica and Silas to maybe Berea.
Paul had moved on to Corinth when Timothy comes, and First Thessalonians must follow after Timothy's report.
First
Thessalonians was one of Paul's first letters written in early
AD50's. This was during the time of the proconsul Gallio in Corinth.
2.
The Messengers
– 1:4
What they knew: chosen/ the election
(a
people among the gentiles, Acts 15:13-17)
For
we know, brothers loved by God, that he has chosen you, 1
Thessalonians 1:4 ESV
There
is reason to believe that this Divine choice / election is not about
personal salvation, but God choosing the gentiles as his servants
(like Israel).
And
after they had become silent, James answered, saying, "Men and
brethren, listen to me: 14
Simon has declared how God at the
first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a people for His name.
15
And with this the words of the prophets agree, just as it is written:
16
'After this I will return And will rebuild the tabernacle of David,
which has fallen down; I will rebuild its ruins, And I will set it
up; 17
So that the rest of mankind may seek the LORD, Even all the Gentiles
who are called by My name, Says the LORD who does all these things.'
Acts 15:13-17 NKJ
We have a parallelism
about Israel that connects election with service: 1 Yet
hear now, O Jacob My servant, And Israel whom I have
chosen. 2 Thus says the LORD who made you And formed
you from the womb, who will help you: 'Fear not, O Jacob My
servant; And you, Jeshurun, whom I have chosen. Isaiah
44:1-2 NKJ Also consider Isaiah 45:4; 65:9
– 1:5a
How the word came
For
our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and
in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance,
as you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. 1
Thessalonians 1:5 NKJ
This
is more about how the Gospel came to them from the messengers than
how it was received. How it came is connected to their behavior.
Paul,
Silas, and Timothy understood the divine will concerning the gentiles.
They understood that Gentiles could be saved by faith alone (apart
from becoming Jews first), and God chose from among the gentiles a
people for his name.
They
spoke the word of God about Jesus with conviction and demonstration
(like in the synagogue).
– 1:5b;
2:1-12 Their behavior
(without false motive, gentle, godly, motivating)
as
you know what kind of men we were among you for your sake. 1
Thessalonians 1:5 NKJ
1
For you yourselves know, brethren, that our coming to you was not in
vain. 2
But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated at
Philippi, as you know, we were bold in our God to speak to you the
gospel of God in much conflict. 3
For our exhortation did not come from
error or uncleanness, nor was it in deceit.
4
But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel,
even so we speak, not as pleasing
men, but God who tests our hearts. 5
For neither at any time did we use
flattering words, as you know, nor
a cloak for covetousness—God is
witness. 6
Nor did we seek glory from men,
either from you or from others, when we might have made demands as
apostles of Christ. 7
But we were gentle among you,
just as a nursing mother cherishes her own children. 8
So, affectionately longing for you, we were well pleased to impart to
you not only the gospel of God, but also our own lives, because you
had become dear to us. 9
For you remember, brethren, our labor and toil; for laboring
night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you,
we preached to you the gospel of God. 10
You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly
and justly and blamelessly we behaved
ourselves among you who believe; 11
as you know how we exhorted, and
comforted, and charged every one of you,
as a father does his own children, 12
that you would walk worthy of God
who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. 1 Thessalonians
2:1-12 NKJ
Behavior
plays a significant role in persuading people of the message. Those
Jews who didn't believe had to try to undermine that character.
Paul
reminds them of their approved character. There was no false motive
to take advantage of them.
All
their actions showed a genuine concern for their eternal well-being,
for both salvation and a walk worthy of God.
3.
The Thessalonians
– 1:6;
2:13 Received the word
6And you became followers of us and of the Lord, having
received the word in much affliction,
with joy of the Holy Spirit, 1 Thessalonians 1:6 NKJ
13
For this reason we also thank God without ceasing, because when
you received the word of God which you heard from us, you welcomed it
not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God,
which also effectively works in you who believe. 1
Thessalonians 2:13 NKJ
This
must have basis in who was speaking it, how they behaved, and the
demonstration from Scripture that was done in the Jewish synagogue concerning Christ.
They
were persuaded that the words spoken were of God.
– 1:2-3
Bore fruit: work of faith, labor of love, patience of hope
2
We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in
our prayers, 3
remembering without ceasing your work
of faith, labor of love, and patience of hope
in our Lord Jesus Christ in the sight of our God and Father, 1
Thessalonians 1:2-3 NKJ
These qualities are the
fruit that believers can bear: faith, love, and hope. The specifics of that fruit, being "work," "labor," and "patience," is seen in their conduct hat Paul recognizes in the letter. This fruit is the Christian's service to God as His people.
– 1:6;
2:14-16 Were followers/ imitators in persecution
And
you became followers of us and of the
Lord, having
received the word in much affliction,
with joy of the Holy Spirit, 1 Thessalonians 1:6 NKJ
14
For you, brethren, became imitators
of the churches of God which are in Judea
in Christ Jesus. For you also
suffered the same things from your own countrymen, just as they did
from the Judeans, 15
who killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have
persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all
men, 16
forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as
always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon
them to the uttermost. 1 Thessalonians 2:14-16 NKJ
This suffering for the
word of God was their work of faith.
They were like the Jewish
believers in Judea who suffered from their own countrymen.
One could anticipate being
persecuted, if they were to allow themselves to be persuaded concerning Christ, and therefore, choose not to give attention to the word of God. Yet they did give attention to the word of God about Christ and believed it.
– 1:7-10
Became examples
7
so that you became examples to all in
Macedonia and Achaia who believe. 8
For from you the word of the Lord has sounded forth, not only in
Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place. Your
faith toward God has gone out, so
that we do not need to say anything. 9
For they themselves declare
concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned
to God from idols to serve the living and true God,
10
and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead,
even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. 1
Thessalonians 1:7-10 KJV
Here
we can seen more of their work of faith, in that they
turned to God from idols.
We
also see their patience of hope in that they are said to wait
for the coming of Christ. Paul must have spent some time on
teaching about the coming of Christ and associated events.
Their
faith and hope went out to people beyond them.
Next
to the word of God, the impact of the Christian life on another
cannot be understated. Looking back, the Christians I spent time
with had an impact on me, leading me to realize I wasn't saved and to
trust in Jesus for salvation.
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First Thessalonians 2:17-3:13: Paul's Deep Concern
1. 2.17-20 To see them
– Satan
hindered
– their
crown (at Second Coming)
2. 3.1-8 Over their
affliction
– don't
be shaken – appointed
– vain
labor
– a good
report (“now we live”)
3. 3.9-13 To see them
– to
perfect faith
– to
increase in love
– to be
blameless (at Second Coming)
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First
Thessalonians 2:17-3:13: Paul's deep concern
2.17-20
To see them
Paul
(actually the team) had a deep concern for them and wanted to see
them, contrary to the opponents' claims. See
3:1, 5: “When we no longer could endure it.”
– Satan
hindered
“Satan”
means “adversary” in Hebrew. Paul had both Satan and those doing
his will in view. Those in opposition to Paul's message were doing
Satan's will, even if Satan wasn't directly involved.
It
was probably deemed best to not visit in person for the sake of the
believers there.
– their crown (at Second Coming)
A
crown (which is) rejoicing: “crown” used as a reward—a
victor's crown, not a royal one.
Contrary
to any claim by the opposition, the Thessalonians will be their cause
of joy at the coming of Christ.
One
of the greatest rewards in God’s presence are those as a result of
our witness and impact. Consider Daniel
12:2-3.
3.1-8
Over their affliction
It
was probably safer to send Timothy back to Thessalonica to check on
the new believers, for the Jews would have been on the lookout for
Paul. Paul was deeply concerned about their spiritual state.
– don't
be shaken – appointed
Affliction
is tribulation. "Appointed" means allotment, destiny.
Tribulation is the believer's allotment or destiny in life. So
don't be shaken or moved, be expecting.
– vain
labor
Satan
is again referenced, but as the tempter. Temptation is toward
responding in the flesh, that is, according to inordinate desire, or
be deceived to believe a lie, as in Galatians
3.1.
Paul's
labor would have been in vain, if they failed in their faith, not
reaching maturity. The result would be disapproved/ unfit for service
for the kingdom of God. Such failure could result in a state that
they can't recover from.
– a
good report (“now we live”)
Tim's
Good news: They were continuing in faith and love, and they had a
good remembrance of Paul.
They
had not written them off as exploiters or disinterested in their
well-being, which could have resulted in their failure or any future
ministry to them.
Comfort
in affliction is knowing those who continue in the faith while in
affliction.
“Now
We live.” This Shows how greatly they impacted Paul. It was not
just Paul impacting them. This strengthens Paul’s desire to be with
them and strengthen them, in their faith and walk.
3.9-13
To see them
Again,
Paul desired to see them for their spiritual, eternal well-being.
– to
perfect faith
To
repair or complete what's lacking—the aim is maturity. How is
that done?
– to
increase in love
Faith
is essential for love, because God defines love, and it is not easy
to love others as God requires. Love is the greater than faith,
according to 1 Cor 13.13. James says
faith without works is dead—I understand this to mean ineffective,
unproductive.
Love
is concern for the well-being of another, especially their eternal
well-being. Love for believers and others is knowing God's love, and
his moral will. For in doing God's moral will, believers are loving
others.
By
this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and
keep His commandments. 1 John 5:2
Does this make sense? The last 6 commands are about
relationships with people.
Hillel
in response to a pagan's challenge to make him a proselyte by
teaching the Torah while he stood on one foot: “What is hateful to
you, do not do to your neighbor: that is the whole Torah while the
rest is commentary: go and learn it.”
Paul
has to address the issue of not taking advantage of others: 4.9-13
This love relates to blamelessness...
–
to be blameless (at Second Coming)
Blameless
means without fault. To Establish means to make constant. Holiness
speaks of God's moral will and motives that are pure towards others.
The goal is to be blameless in that holiness at Christ’s coming.
The
coming of Christ is when believers will be reunited with family and
friends and be recognized for the lives we lived for the Lord. See
Rev 22.12: Jesus is coming to give reward.
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First
Thessalonians 4.1-18: How you ought to walk
1.
4.1-8: God's (moral) Will
A.
your sanctification (sexually)
–
control yourself
–
don't take advantage of (a “brother”)
B.
Divine consequence
2.
4.9-12: Walk properly (mind your own business)
3.
4.13-18: Sorrow not as without hope
(Jesus is coming again, and he
will unite the dead and the living)
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First
Thessalonians 4.1-18: How you ought to walk
1.
4.1-8: God's (moral) Will
“Finally”
signifies a transition from primary concerns pertaining to the state
of their faith to some specific issues. "Abound" is with
reference to fruit, especially love (3.12). “Walk” is a metaphor
for conduct.
This
passage in 1 Thes 4 is difficult to interpret with certainty.
However, it is clearly about God's moral will.
At
the end of Chapter 3, Paul expresses desire that they increase in
love toward one another. 3.13 seems to continue by connecting that
love to being "blameless in holiness" for the coming of
Christ. Through holiness, believers do love one another, because
holiness fulfills those moral laws that are contained in the 10
commandments that have to do with human relationships.
A.
your sanctification (sexually)
Holiness
and sanctification translate the same root Greek word. "Holy
one" and "Saint" mean the same thing. It means to be
"set apart" unto God. All believers are "saints"
in a positional sense, but it is to be their practice in life. God's
will is the believer's "sanctification," and in this
context, it is with regard to sexual morality.
Paul
must be addressing this issue because of the background and tendency
of these Gentile believers of former pagan practices.
Leon
Morris writes: The
Thessalonian Christians lived in a world where people did not see
fornication as a sin but as part of normal life. It [was] featured in
the worship of more than one deity.
– control
yourself
Some
see the words "possess" and "vessel" as referring
to obtaining a wife and not to take advantage of
another's wife or someone to be another's wife. Others take this to
mean to control your body-- the NIV interprets it this way.
Why
doesn't Paul use the words "wife" or "body?" A
"vessel" is something that serves a purpose. Why use that
word here?
I
tend to think he is speaking to both men and women, and he is using
the word "possess" to mean something like "control,"
and he is using "vessel" instead of "body"
because of the reference to "sanctification." The believer
belongs to the Lord, and he/ she is to be set apart as a "vessel"
fit for service.
1
Corinthians 6:13: Now the body is not for sexual immorality but
for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.
Also
consider:
1 Corinthians 6:18-20;
and 2
Timothy 2:20-21
–
don't take advantage
of (a “brother”)
“Defrauding a brother”
: Knowledge Bible Commentary (KBC):
The
brother here is most likely another human, not necessarily another
Christian male. This seems clear from the fact that this person is a
victim of illicit sex. Sexual immorality wrongs the partner in the
forbidden act by involving him or her in behavior contrary to God’s
will and therefore under His judgment. The initiator of the act takes
advantage of his partner in sin by fanning the fire of passion till
self-control is lost.
Through
pressure or seduction, a fellow believer (“brother”) involves
another in a sin (sexual immorality in this case) that takes
advantage of and “defrauds” (takes) from them their blamelessness
in holiness status before God and man. This is not loving one
another (1 Thes 3.12-13).
B.
Divine consequence
4
Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but
fornicators and adulterers God will judge. Hebrews 13:4
The
Lord as “Avenger”: KBC: Two
or more people practicing sex out of God’s will are calling God’s
wrath down on themselves.
These
activities destroy one's witness, causes failure and disapproval.
The
believer is called to a proper one man one woman marriage
relationship through marriage or celibacy.
“He who rejects
this” is rejecting God’s will. Can there be any doubt?
“Has
also given us His Holy Spirit”: We have the resources to enable us
to do God’s will. I must spend time in His word, pray for help, and
be committed to other believers.
2.
4.9-12: Walk properly (mind your own business)
4.9-12 Speaks of love as
brotherly love (Greek word is “Philadelphia”). This is love
towards fellow believers, as in a family relationship. This love is
more general but focuses on personal responsibility. Verse 12 says to
be proper towards others: show respect, honesty, and don’t take
advantage of others.
A “quiet life” speaks of minding your
own business. There is a balance that must come through spiritual
discernment when it comes to being concerned about others and yet not
being intrusive. Also, one should be as responsible for one’s own
affairs as much as possible. Just as one was not to take advantage of
another sexually in verse 4.6, one is not to take advantage of
another’s generosity or expect it.
John Walvoord writes: We
are exhorted to mind our own business. No one gets into trouble for
minding his own business, but if he starts minding someone else’s
business, that usually causes a lot of trouble. They were exhorted to
mind their own business, and to work with their own hands. Honest
toil is a good thing, and God’s people need to work to earn an
honest living.
The
same kind of conduct should really be practiced towards
non-believers: we should be seen as those who are as much as
possible responsible people for our needs and not taking advantage of
others: show respect, honesty, and don’t take advantage of others.
3.
4.13-18: Sorrow not as without hope
(Jesus is coming again, and he
will unite the dead and the living)
Paul
now addresses a new issue that must have been raised during Timothy’s
visit.
The Thessalonians believed in the coming of Christ for
them, but what about those who have died before this event,
particularly past acquaintances? When and how will we meet?
"Sleep"
was used by Christ for those who have died in faith. See Mat 9.24;
John 11.11
The word “Cemetery” comes from the Greek words for
“sleeping place.”
Daniel spoke of death as “sleep” for all
who have died, see Daniel 12.2.
Do
not sorrow as others who have no hope.
The
word “as” is important and means “to the same degree.” Can
believers sorrow? Certainly, but it should be consistent with
knowledge and faith concerning everlasting life.
Sorrow over the
death of someone should be consistent with our knowledge and faith in
a future resurrection which is as certain as the death and
resurrection of Christ, see John 5.28-29. “God will bring with
him” anticipates a resurrection of the dead.
The
focus of Paul’s words is for comfort, and so dead acquaintances
are in view. They will be the first we want to see. That is a
primary basis of comfort for the believer. This is the reason we
should not sorrow as those without hope. And this would be no
comfort, if we did not recognize them in that future meeting.
The
"rapture" is the catching up of living believers to meet
Christ at His coming, it comes from the Latin translation for "caught
up," being “rapere.” Those who have died in Christ will be
resurrected first, and then there will be this grand reunion with
those who are alive.
The “Blessed Hope” in Titus 2.13 is
not just the rapture as some might believe, but also the
resurrection. Only one generation will experience the rapture. Over
1900 years of Christians have died.
Paul was saying that the
resurrection will not be some far off event with respect to the
rapture, but immediately precede it. The living will be reunited with
the dead at the coming of Christ.
The coming of Christ will be
with a shout, the voice of an archangel, and the trumpet of God. 1
Cor 15.52 connects a “last” trumpet with the rapture and
resurrection. See Mat 24.30-31.
The main issue here is that
the believer has the hope and comfort of a future reunion with those
acquaintances who have died as believers.
_______________________________________________
First Thessalonians 5.1-28: How
we ought to walk, part 2
1.
5.1-11: sons of light/ day
–
vss 1-4: they know about DOL
(how it comes)
–
vss 5-8: do not “sleep”
(be awake/ watch)
–
vss 9-11: appointed to salvation
(whether awake or asleep)
2.
5.12-22: final exhortations
–
vss 12-13: recognize and esteem your leaders
–
vss 14-15: pursue what is good
–
vss 16-22: disposition and discernment
3.
5.23-28: concluding desire
and requests
_______________________________________________
First
Thessalonians 5.1-28: How
we ought to walk, part 2
At
the end of Chapter 4, We have Paul answering a concern about the fate
of those believers who had died, and what will become of them at the
coming of Christ. With reference to their “walk,” they should
not sorrow as others who have no hope, because the dead and the
living will be reunited at the coming of Christ.
In
chapter 5, Paul is addressing the timing of the DOL, and who it
affects. There is good reason to believe the coming of Christ and the
DOL are the same event, but the DOL has a chief purpose being divine
wrath on the nations. Connected with this is what they know, who
they are, and what kind of walk/ behavior they should have. Was
there a concern not only about those who died before Christ came, but
of the judgment on the nations that will happen at that coming, which
the OT prophets called “the Day of the Lord?” Would they
experience it, being gentiles?
5.1-11:
“Sons of Day/ Light”
This
has to be the believer's identification or position, and Paul is
saying that there is corresponding behavior.
– vss
1-4: they know about DOL
(how it comes)
The
Day of the Lord's main feature is wrath. It is that prophetic event
foretold in the OT prophets of coming judgment and destruction from
God on the earth.
“Times and seasons” are words Jesus used
in Acts 1.6-7 in response to the disciples about the restoration of
the kingdom to Israel.
"Time" indicates the when and
"Season" indicates the particular circumstances or
characteristics.
Concerning the DOL, Paul
says they already know about it—how it comes.
DOL
will come as a “thief.” The main significance of a thief is that
he is not expectant (catches people unprepared), and he causes loss.
“As a thief” speaks of how it comes upon on the world, not
believers. (see John 10.10.)
“Labor pains” is a term often
used to signify the nature of an event. It comes sudden, with no
escape—you have to go through it, and it is painful or
sorrowful.
There is good reason to understand the Second
Coming of Christ and the DOL to be the same event, but DOL has as its
chief aim as the period of direct Divine wrath and judgment on the
nations.
That
“Day” will not overtake believers as a thief. Wrath is the
appointment of those who are not saved.
–
vss 5-8: do not “sleep”
(be awake/ watch)
One's
walk should align with one's identity. There are metaphoric images
(vss 5-6, 8) and literal images (vs 8) here.
There are behaviors that
are characteristic of the night, being sleep and drunkenness.
Likewise, there are behaviors characteristic of the day.
So, believers are to have
behavior characteristic of their identity. In an analogous sense,
they are sons/ children of the light/ day. Jesus spoke of believers
as “sons of light, as did Paul in Eph 5.
The night and its
behaviors are analogous to that which isn't good: ignorance, lack of
control, and unbelief.
While the light and day
have behaviors that are good, such as having spiritual understanding
and being watchful and sober.
The way we are watchful
and sober is to have the qualities that are like body armor: faith
and love and hope (where have we seen these before? 1.3). The armor
here, I believe, protects one in an defensive sense: as I
understand the armor in Eph. 6.13-17, as “being able to stand.”
Having faith, love, and hope will protect you from Satan's attempt to
defeat you from self-condemnation and disapproval for service.
And
now, little children, abide in Him, that when He appears, we may have
confidence and not be ashamed before Him at His coming. 1
John 2:28
We
are to be sober: be serious minded about the things of God. Be in the
word and living by it.
In chapter one, we saw faith, love, and
hope. These are like armor to the body. Faith in God, love for one
another, and the hope of final salvation keeps us in line with the
right affections and should give us boldness and courage to think
and act correctly in difficulty.
–
vss 9-11: appointed to salvation
(whether awake or asleep)
Believers
should behave as “sons of light,” but what if they don't? Wrath
is not their appointment, but salvation is.
The
expectation is to be awake/ watching and not asleep. But even if the
believer fails, because Christ died for them, when he comes, they
will be with him.
A
common view is that verse 10 understands “wake” as alive
physically, and “sleep” as dead physically, and that this refers
back to the concern in chapter 4. I find that problematic, because
Paul just used those terms for their walk, and the Greek words for
sleep and wake or watch are the same in chapter 5 but different from
chapter 4. I believe he is not reverting to the same issue as
chapter 4 about the physically dead. The shift to the DOL would
suggest a different concern as well, being about God's wrath.
6
Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things
the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7
Therefore do not be partakers with them. 8 For you were
once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of
light 9 (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness,
righteousness, and truth), 10 finding out what is
acceptable to the Lord. 11 And have no fellowship with the
unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. Ephesians
5:6-11
2.
5.12-22: final exhortations
– vss
12-13: recognize and esteem your leaders
‘recognize'
means take notice of.
‘Over you’ means ‘rule.’ In view, I
believe, are elders in the local assembly or pastors.
Those who
‘Labor’... especially in the word, with its teaching.
‘Admonish’
means to warn…what you should or shouldn’t be doing
‘Esteem’
is to give recognition, consideration to, and highly, for their work.
‘Be
at peace’: don’t cause conflict, give due recognition and
appropriate submission.
–
vss 14-15: pursue what is good
‘Exhort’
is a strong encouragement. This also is to the “brethren” …vss
12-13 was towards the elders, vss 14-15 is toward those they
congregate with. The body involves more than fellowship, but
government.
‘Unruly’ is ‘disorderly’ as to not providing
for self and taking advantage of others and meddling: see 2 Thes 3.6,
11: ‘Disorderly’ is same Greek word.
‘Comfort’...
‘uphold’.. be ‘patient’ …be longsuffering with those who
are less mature spiritually.
‘Evil for evil’ is about
revenge. It's Not our role but the government’s. We are always to
seek what is good. Romans 12.17: Repay no one
evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men.
– vss
16-22: disposition and discernment
(a
spiritual) disposition: ‘Rejoice’ ... ‘pray without
ceasing’ ... ‘give thanks’
These
things are through knowing and depending on God.
They are a call
to a divine perspective. A state resulting from priorities and
submission to God and knowing and believing the word of
God.
(spiritual) Discernment: Do not quench the
Spirit, despise prophecies. Test all things, hold fast, Abstain
from...
These go together involving discernment. To quench
means to extinguish, suppress or stifle. This is concerning the
Spirit's activity or what is of God.
We
can be too negative or limiting because of the possibility of error,
disagreement, or past failures. Some spontaneity is not all bad.
Despising
prophecy might include negativity to the teaching of doctrinal
issues/ topics.
We should just discern and hold what is true and
good by Scripture.
Hold
off what is evil: every form is every kind, not just appearance, even
the evil of quenching the Spirit or opposition to the teaching of
doctrine.
3. 5.23-28: concluding
desire and requests
Sanctify
completely: as previous in the letter in their love for one-another,
3.12-13 and sexual purity, 4.3…
It
is the goal of a transformation of character of the whole person,
body, soul, spirit
To be without blame or censure at Christ’s
coming is not the same as sinlessness, but without accusation against
ones character. God is able, and His intentions are always toward
this end—the problem is our free will.
Pray for us… Greet
all the brethren … read to all …grace
________________________________________________
Second Thessalonians 1.1-12: The
Righteous Judgment of God
1.
vss 1-3: introductory stuff
(“ought” to give thanks)
2.
vss 4-12: the righteous judgment of God
A. vss 4-5, 11-12: tribulations of believers
– to be “counted worthy” for the kingdom
B. vss 6-10: tribulations of non-believers
(when Jesus is “revealed”)
– vs 8: the “vengeance” of God
– vs 7: rest for the afflicted
________________________________________________
Second
Thessalonians 1.1-12: The Righteous Judgment of God
1.
vss 1-3: Introductory stuff (“ought” to give thanks)
It
is believed that this was written shortly after the first letter,
maybe after news from the first letter-carrier’s return.
Same
greetings as in the first letter.
Grace and peace are those things
the believer are to experience through faith in God’s word.
It
is grace to do the will of God. 2 Corinthians 9.8: And God [is] able
to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all
sufficiency in all [things], may have an abundance for every good
work.
It
is peace as a state of calm. John 14.27: Peace
I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I
give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be
afraid.
“Bound” (“ought”
– most translations) means “should”
give thanks. It is as fitting here
as in first letter, because of the qualities in them, being faith and
love. These were identified in the first letter. These qualities were
characteristic of them, yet we know in the first letter there was
concern over the state of their faith due to persecution and the
issues of sexual immorality and disorderly conduct. But
characteristic of them was faith and love, and these things were
progressing, and so Paul gave thanks to God.
2.
vss 4-12: the righteous judgment of God
Tribulation
is evidence of the righteous judgment of God.
There are two
classes of people in the world, believers and non-believers.
Tribulation comes on both believers and non- by Divine will, but for
different reasons.
A.
vss 4-5, 11-12: tribulations of believers
Boast
means to glory in and honor. It
is ok to boast about others’ progress--to
speak well of --which encourages and motivates everyone. It is ok to
boast about what God has done.
Patience and faith are the
means of enduring tribulations. Tribulation
endured creates character, to endure
further tribulation, with appropriate response, see Romans 5.3.
Tribulation
is broader than persecution (for their beliefs), but the believer
suffers all kinds of tribulation, which is his appointment, see 1
Thes 3.3. Persecution happens to all who live godly, 2 Tim
3.11-12.
– to be “counted
worthy” for the kingdom
I can't believe that being
“counted worthy” speaks of being qualified for the kingdom.
I
can think of 3 ways to understand this being “counted worthy”
here and in verse 11.
One
way is that is speaking of being fit for service for the
kingdom of God, which is our “calling.”
The
Greek word for “worthy” appears 3 times in this chapter. It's
not the exact same form, because of the difference between adverb and verb and a compound word. The word means “deserving,”
or “fitting,” or “right.” It is in verse 3, 5, and 11.
My
thinking is that through tribulation, one can be made fit for service
for the kingdom. This service is our calling or vocation. The word
“calling” has this meaning.
This
statement by Jesus does not use “worthy'” but the NIV
interpretation, seems to have the right idea, as the word “fit”
means useful, so they add the word “service”:
62
Jesus replied, “No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back
is fit for service in the kingdom of God.”
Luke 9:62
Consider
Paul's words in Ephesians, using the word “worthy”--same as in
2Thes1.3 for “right” and “calling”--same word as in 2
Thes1.11 (as vocation”): 1
I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of
the calling with which you were called, 2
with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bearing with
one another in love, 3
endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Ephesians 4:1-3
The
other option is that God wants the believer to be deserving of
that which he will inherit, though he/she will inherit it. It just
like in 1Thes5.4-11 where we read about how as “sons of the light/
day,” we should have behavior (walk) that corresponds to that
identity. But even if we don't, we will still be with the Lord. God
wants us to be deserving of that which we will inherit.
A
possible analogy: You have a business that you created through
sacrifice and hard work. You have children who will inherit that
business. Even though they will inherit it, you want them to be
deserving of or fit for it. Let's say one child may take special
interest in it and learn it. Though they all inherit it, that one
child will take a greater part in it's operation.
That
last bit would actually be the third option: To be “counted
worthy” to reign in the kingdom/ God. How the believer walks now
will affect his experience and reign in the Kingdom. One of my
commentaries takes the reigning view for 2Thes1.5.
Paul
writes, 10
Therefore I endure all things
for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation
which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.
11
This is a faithful saying: For if
we died with Him, We shall also live with Him. 12
If we endure, We shall also reign with Him. 2 Timothy
2:10-12
B.
vss 6-10: tribulations of non-believers
(when Jesus is “revealed”)
–
vs 8: the “vengeance” of God
The
tribulation that God will bring upon non-believers, I believe, is the
coming wrath called “the Day of the Lord.”
The
reference that Jesus will be revealed with his angels taking
vengeance is another reason I believe the DOL is second coming. See
Mat 16.27; 25.31
Vengeance
is God’s. It will be both temporal (physical death) and everlasting
judgment (separation from God forever).
–
vs 7: rest to the afflicted
This
rest must speak in the sense of manifested justice, for 2000 years
of persecution have come to past.
All
believers, and these Thessalonians who believed Paul, will
participate in Christ’s honoring.
To
be counted worthy of the calling is to be fit for the kingdom for
service now and reigning later.
____________________________________________
Second Thessalonians 2: Concerning
the Day of the Lord
1.
2.1-3a: troubled by a false teaching.
A.
the coming, gathering together, and day of the Lord.
B.
don't be shaken, alarmed, or deceived...
2.
2.3b-12: two things precede that Day
A.
the rebellion (or falling away, Gr. Apostasy)
B.
the revealing of the lawless one
–
his act in the holy place
–
his restraint
–
his end (at Second Coming)
–
his power and deception
3.
2.13-17: chosen for salvation (through the gospel)
A.
stand firm and hold fast (to what they were taught)
B.
may God encourage and strengthen
___________________________________________
Second Thessalonians 2: Concerning the Day of the Lord
2:1 Now, brethren, concerning the coming
of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask
you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or
by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had
come.
1. 2.1-3a: troubled by a false teaching.
A teaching attributed to Paul had troubled the
Thessalonian believers that the Day of the Lord had come. This was
troubling maybe because they thought they missed the rapture.
A. the coming, gathering together, and day of the Lord.
The
gathering must be the rapture: 1 Thes 4.17.
The Majority Greek
Text says “day of Christ,” but most believe the Alexandrian text
reading.
Paul previously wrote on DOL as a day of wrath in 2
Thessalonians 1.6-10 and in 1 Thes 5.1-4.
B. don't be shaken, alarmed, or deceived...
3
Let no one deceive you by any means:
Don’t be deceived
about that future Day.
2. 2.3b-12: two things precede that Day
for
[that] [Day] [will] [not] [come] unless the falling away comes first,
and the man of sin is revealed, the son of perdition, 4 who opposes
and exalts himself above all that is called God or that is worshiped,
so that he sits as God in the temple of God, showing himself that he
is God.
Two things will precede
DOL. Paul’s point is that these things haven’t happened.
The
word first may apply to both things, the rebellion or falling away
and the revealing: both come before DOL. Or the rebellion comes
first, before the revealing.
A. the rebellion (or falling away, Gr. Apostasy)
Preterists believe these
things have already happened, these things and the 70th
Week of Daniel, but futurists believe these things are future, though
the “rebellion” may have started in the past.
The
rebellion speaks of a falling away or departure, and most probably
from the faith. The Greek word transliterated is the origin of our
word apostasy. I don’t believe that this apostasy is a trend in the
world towards greater evil, but a departure from the faith.
Has
this already begun in the past, or is it a future kind of apostasy?
First Timothy 4.1-3: "Now the Spirit expressly says that in
latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to
deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons…"
It seems to
me that apostasy has to speak of a departure from the truth,
especially the faith, which does not apply to the unsaved.
The word is used in Acts
as “forsake”: but
they have been informed about you that you teach all the Jews who are
among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to
circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs.
Acts 21:21
B. the revealing of the lawless one
– his act in the holy place
The second thing is the revealing of
the lawless one, son of destruction. This revealing is described in
verse 4 as particular acts of opposition to God. Paul’s teaching is
taken from that of Christ’s, being the abomination of desolation:
"Therefore when you see the abomination of desolation,' spoken
of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place." Matthew
24.15
This act reveals him in his true character, as Lenski, a
Lutheran scholar, says: This antichrist reveals himself as the
antichrist by this pagan act of seating himself in the true God’s
own sanctuary. The designation antichrist comes from first
John, and it is applied to this individual in 2 Thessalonians and the
“beast” in Revelation 13.
This happens during the middle
of the 70th week of Daniel, Daniel 9.27, but then, I believe the DOL
happens at the end of the 70th week.
Many believe the
revealing is the signing of a 7 year treaty that starts the 70th week
of Daniel. Charles Ryrie says: he will be revealed when he
makes a covenant with many of the Jewish people, Dan 9.27, and this
will signal the start of the tribulation period.
I
believe the revealing is when he is manifested in his true character
and capacity as stated in vs 4. Is not vs. 4 the defining event that
reveals him? I wonder why Jesus makes reference to the abomination of
desolation, but not the making or strengthening of a 7 year treaty,
as seen in Daniel 9.27? Many identify him as the antichrist, and this
event identifies him as such.
Bible Knowledge Commentary: It
seems probable that the man of sin will be identified by some people
living then when he makes a covenant with Israel at the beginning of
the 70th week of Daniel …but when he breaks the covenant three and
a half years later … he will be widely recognized for who he really
is … This latter event may be the time Paul had in mind for the
“revealing” of the man of lawlessness.
It’s like
Judas, who was revealed as the “son of perdition” (John 17.12) by
his act of betrayal, which followed after Satan entered him. It may
be that Satan is allowed to enter this man to do his will, and he
commits these acts that reveal him as the man of sin and son of
perdition.
The acts of antichrist reveal him as such, and it
is the result of satan entering this man to accomplish this role. The
acts are similar to Antiochus IV in the temple during the second
century BC. It is the abomination of desolation and as Daniel
foretold: Daniel 7.8, 25; cp. 8.9-11; Rev 13.4-8
– his restraint
5
Do you not remember that when I was still with you I told you these
things? 6 And now you know what is restraining, that he may be
revealed in his own time.
What was
previously taught they were to hold on to. Paul was saying basically,
I was right the first time. Wouldn’t it be nice if we had a writing
of the exact things Paul said to them?
They know what is
restraining (holding back) the revealing. They knew, but we have
theories.
The common futurist view is that it is the Holy
Spirit through the Church; the rapture removes the restraint. I
believe it is angelic, based on Daniel 10.10-21.
Concerning the
restraint...it has to be at the right time in human events. Does
this man have to be alive and at the right place in history for
things to happen? He can't be someone who has been around for 1000s
of years being restrained for the right time. Could satan use anyone
when the time is right? He could be anyone who could fill the role
and be possessed by satan.
7 For the
mystery of lawlessness is already at work; only He who now restrains
[will] [do] [so] until He is taken out of the way. 8a And then the
lawless one will be revealed,
The Mystery of
lawlessness is in contrast to the son of sin / lawlessness. The
spirit of antichrist is already at work, but a particular
manifestation of that spirit is being held back. 1 John 2. 18 says:
Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the
Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which
we know that it is the last hour.
The reference to a
restrainer is that of something that is holding back. It is a
particular restrain of a particular person in a particular capacity.
I believe it is Satan who is primarily being restrained to do his
will through this person.
The restrainer is
ultimately God, but the agent of God is probably angelic, such as
Michael, see Daniel 10.10-21. Daniel 12.1 says that Daniel will stand
up or stand still; compare this with the time period of Revelation
12.7-9,12b where we see satan defeated and coming down to earth with
great wrath--one restrained is satan, who will be allowed to do his
will through this man.
– his end (at Second Coming)
8b whom the Lord
will consume with the breath of His mouth and destroy with the
brightness of His coming. 9 The coming of the [lawless] [one] is
according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying
wonders,
The end/ defeat of the antichrist/beast is
the second coming of Christ; he and the false prophet will be the
first to go to Hell: Dan 7.11,26; Rev 19.19-20
– his power and deception
Antichrist’s
coming is according to Satan: Rev 13 reveal the mortal wound healed
(13.3) and the signs and wonders of the false prophet (13.11-14).
10
and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because
they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
Those who perish are those who are not convinced of
their depravity. All unsaved people are perishing, but there is hope
for those who are or can be convinced of their depravity, but those
who are not convinced and cannot be convinced are conditioned to
believe the coming deception. These truly are perishing as they
believe the deception and continue in unrighteousness, building a
case against them and speeding up judgment.
Not receiving the love of
the truth is evidence of their unbelief. It is here for contrast
between those who perishing and those who are not. Those perishing do
not believe and therefore do not love the truth but have pleasure in
unrighteousness. It is not just unbelief but the condition and
character they have reached that wrath is coming upon them. They will
not be saved from the wrath of God, temporal, as in the Day of the
Lord, and everlasting, as in the Lake of Fire.
The working of satan and
the unrighteous deception makes reference to the signs and wonders
done by the false prophet in the presence of the beast to draw in
those who have not believed in Christ.
ll
And for this reason God will send them strong delusion, that they
should believe the lie, 12 that they all may be condemned who did not
believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.
A strong delusion is set
before the unbelievers which they are conditioned to go after. God,
by this, is speeding up and building a case for judgment, for not
just unbelief brings judgment but the evil conduct that unbelief
produces. Temporal judgment comes when society has reached a certain
degree of ungodliness. The contrast is between those who believed and
those who had pleasure in unrighteousness.
The strong delusion
probably refers to Revelation 13 concerning the beast’s mortal head
wound being healed and the false prophet's signs and wonders. Those
who didn’t believe will be of such a state of mind (conditioning)
that they will follow the great coming deception.
3. 2.13-17: chosen for salvation (through the gospel)
13
But we are bound to give thanks to God always for you, brethren
beloved by the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you for
salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the
truth,
“But” we are bound to
give thanks. . . for you
The DOL is coming, but it
hasn’t come and it won ’t come upon them.
I believe l Thes 5.9 could
have been on Paul’s mind; For God did not appoint us to wrath, but
to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Their appointment is
salvation.
The DOL is the appointment
of those who are not convinced of their depravity (thus perishing);
who do not believe, and love unrighteousness.
Judgment was coming upon
the nations for their unbelief, but not these Thessalonians, because
they belong to the people and purpose of God through faith. The DOL
wrath would be the time of the gentiles’/ nations’ distress:
Ezekiel 30. l
The word of the Lord came to me again, saying, 2 "Son of man,
prophesy and say, ‘Thus says the Lord God: "Wail, ‘Woe to
the day!‘ 3 For the day [is] near, Even the day of the Lord [is]
near; It will be a day of clouds, the time of the Gentiles.
But God had chosen the
gentiles for salvation through faith. That’s how I understand this
reference Paul is making at this point that "God chose you for
salvation.”
Paul’s statement that
God “Chose you” speaks of their collective Divine purpose as
gentiles, as with Israel, but it is through belief in the truth.
God has chosen a people
for himself from among the gentiles, and this is by faith in Christ.
The Greek word for "chose"
is rather unique here, it is "heilato,“ a word used for Israel
in the Septuagint as in Deuteronomy 26.18:
The Lord has chosen thee this day
that thou shouldest be to him a peculiar people.
James says in Acts
15.14: "Simon has declared
how God at the first visited the Gentiles to take out of them a
people for His name.”
The words “sanctification
by the spirit” comes first.
I would suggest that it
comes first because Paul had more to say about belief in the truth.
A reverse order can be
seen elsewhere as seen in 1Timothy 2.4 (who desires all men to be
saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth) and Revelation 4.11
(by your will they existed and were created).
Sanctification of the
Spirit can speak simply of being set apart by God for His purpose.
God revealed to Peter concerning the Gentiles who believe: What God
has cleansed you must not call common. Acts 10.15 Sanctification by
the Spirit comes first because Paul had more to say about belief,
but this sanctification happens instantly upon belief in the truth.
14
to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory
of our Lord Jesus Christ.
It was God's purpose to
have a people from among the gentiles. They will share in the glory!
honor of Christ.
Paul wrote to the
Colossians: Colossians 1.24-27 ...the
church, of which I [Paul] became a minister according to the
stewardship from God which was given to me for you, to fulfill the
word of God, the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from
generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God
willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery
among the gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.
This salvation of the
gentiles would include God's purpose to manifest Christ in them. God
had chosen them like he did Israel, as a people for His purpose. And
who could have imagined such a thing-—certainly not the Jew?
This is why the vision was given to Peter that he might understand
about Cornelius. This was the revelation and stewardship/
dispensation given to Paul.
Though the Day of the Lord
is coming upon the gentiles who do not obey the gospel, the nations
can be part of the people and purpose of God through belief in the
truth, and this was evident among the Thessalonians who had both
turned to God from idols and received and believed the gospel message
(First Thessalonians chapter one).
A. stand firm and hold fast (to what they were taught)
15
Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you
were taught, whether by word or our epistle.
Tradition is some practice
handed down or given over by word of mouth or written. It isn‘t
always something optional. Paul speaks of them as being binding: 2
Thes 2.15, 3.6.
They were to follow the
example that Paul lived before them.
B. may God encourage and strengthen
16
Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who
has loved us and given [us] everlasting consolation and good hope by
grace, 17 comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word
and work.
Paul Concludes with words
of encouragement about God's character and His intentions and ability
for them. Abide in God’s word and will, and He will encourage and
strengthen you.
________________________________________
2 Thessalonians 3: How
they ought walk
1.
3.1-2: Paul's prayer request
– concerning
the advance of the word of God
– concerning
deliverance from opposition
2.
3.3-5: Paul's confidence concerning them
– God
is always faithful and able
– a
positive assessment to pave way for further instruction
3.
3.6-15: Paul's instruction concerning the idle/ unruly.
– how
to handle the idle/ unruly
– follow
the tradition/ example
4.
3.16-18: Paul's concluding desire for them.
__________________________________________
2 Thessalonians 3: How they ought walk
1. 3.1-2: Paul's prayer request
1
Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will
spread rapidly and be glorified, just as it did also with you; 2
and that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men; for not all
have faith.
2 Thessalonians 3:1-2
The request was for two
things. First concerning the advance of the word of God. and second,
concerning deliverance from opposition.
– concerning the advance of the word of God
The Word of God being
glorified means honored and received as the word of God, as they had
receive it: not as the word of men but the word of God: 1 Thes 2.13.
– concerning deliverance from opposition
The men that fit Paul’s
description were the religious Jew, see 1 Thes 2.14-16; Acts 17.5.
We know that the word of
God is often hindered and rejected, and there is opposition. This is
a world of free will and evil. A spiritual battle is part of that
mix. God may intervene and limit free will and evil in answer to
prayer.
2. 3.3-5: Paul's confidence concerning them
– God is always faithful and able
3
But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from
the evil one.
God is always faithful
towards His own; the problem is with the believer in his walk.
I believe one’s faith is
in view. Satan wants to overthrow it or pervert it. Christian
ministry will not keep you, but humble abiding in the Word will.
– a positive assessment to pave way for further instruction
4
We have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and
will continue to do what we command.
This is a positive,
favorable opinion that paves the way for further instruction. Their
past godly character was a basis of optimism. He is about to address
conduct unbecoming and how it is to be handled.
5
May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the
steadfastness of Christ.
God is always able...
“May” suggests human
responsibility to abide in God’s word.
‘Direct’ means
‘guide.’
“Hearts” speak of
stirring their affections by the love of God for them and patience is
enduring as Christ (in conduct and expectation).
3. 3.6-15: Paul's instruction concerning the idle/ unruly.
6
Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
that you keep away from every brother who leads an unruly life
and not according to the tradition which you received from us. 7
For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example,
because we did not act in an undisciplined manner among you, 8
nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with labor
and hardship we kept working night and day so that we would not be a
burden to any of you; not
because we do not have the right to this, but in order to offer
ourselves as a model for you, so that you would follow our example.
10
For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if
anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either. 11
For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life,
doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. 12
Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to
work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread. 13
But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good. 14
If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take
special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that
he will be put to shame. 15
Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
2 Thessalonians 3:6-15
– how to handle the idle/ unruly
– follow the tradition/ example
Tradition in this context
is with reference to appropriate conduct: work for your own needs and
wants. They were to follow Paul's example of not taking advantage of
other believers and being an unnecessary burden. Though they had
authority as Apostles / missionaries to live of the gospel.
Christians generally
should not expect other people to take care of them but should
support themselves as much as possible.
The don't work don't eat
rule applies under normal conditions.
KBC: The individuals in
view were not those who could not work but those who would not work.
They were not to be supported by other Christians out of a sense of
charity. The loving thing to do was to let them go hungry so that
they would be forced to do right and go to work.
Disorderly conduct was
that of not minding their own business, but meddling.
Paul says there needs to
be church discipline on those who don‘t obey this instruction. The
reason is because of its bad testimony, being Christians taking
advantage of others.
KBC: treat the offender as
a brother, not as an enemy. They were not to think of the offender as
personally antagonistic toward them, nor were they to feel hostile
toward him. His objective relationship to them as a brother in Christ
should govern their feelings and actions, rather than subjective
feelings that might be aroused by his idleness. They were to warn
him, not denounce him. Whereas they were to have no social contact
with him they were not to break off all contact. They were patiently
to admonish him to forsake the error of his ways.
4. 3.16-18: Paul's concluding desire for them.
16
Now may the Lord of peace Himself continually grant you peace in
every circumstance. The Lord be with you all! 17 I,
Paul, write this greeting with my own hand, and this is a
distinguishing mark in every letter; this is the way I write. 18
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Peace is unity and calm, a
lack of conflict. When one is establish in doctrine, they are not
“troubled” by contradictory teaching. When believers are aligned
with God’s will, they have peace among themselves.
Paul wrote by means of a
secretary, but at this point was in his own hand. This could protect
against any claims about letters from him that weren’t. It makes it
personal and quite evident it was from him.
Ends as Paul’s letters
begin. God’s grace is what saves us and what enables us, if we
abide in His word.
