_MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE PARAGRAPH.— 2 Thessalonians 1:1_ Phases of Apostolic Greeting. Under this heading we have already treated homiletically the apostle’s formula of salutation, which is the same here as at the beginning of the first epistle.... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 2 Thessalonians 1:3. WE ARE BOUND TO THANK GOD.—We owe a debt of gratitude to God. It is not so much what is seemly that comes into prominence here, as what is due. EVEN AS IT IS MEET.—The word for “meet” directs attention to the value of the increase of the faith of... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 2 Thessalonians 1:5. WHICH IS A MANIFEST TOKEN—“An _indication_.” The steadfast and resolute continuance in the profession and adornment of the Christian faith, in face of opposition, might suggest to persecutors, as to Gamaliel, the possibility of the divine origin... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 2 Thessalonians 1:8. IN FLAMING FIRE.—Lit. “in a fire of flame.” “Fire is a symbol of divine anger and majesty in Scripture; and flame is fire in motion, leaping and blazing out” (_Findlay_). TAKING VENGEANCE ON THEM THAT KNOW NOT GOD.—St. Paul does not consider ign... [ Continue Reading ]
_CRITICAL AND EXPLANATORY NOTES_ 2 Thessalonians 1:11. AND FULFIL ALL THE GOOD PLEASURE.—R.V. “every desire of goodness.” “As much as to say, May God mightily accomplish in you all that goodness would desire and that faith can effect” (_Findlay_). 2 Thessalonians 1:12. THAT THE NAME OF OUR LORD JE... [ Continue Reading ]