PAUL'S REQUEST FOR THEIR PRAYERS As he did in his first letter to the church in Thessalonica, Paul used the word "finally" meaning, "as for the rest." Paul asked them to pray for him but with the desire that others be benefitted. He asked that prayers continually be offered requesting that the gosp... [ Continue Reading ]
PAUL'S CONFIDENCE IN THE THESSALONIANS In contrast to some men who could not be trusted, Paul said God is completely trustworthy. Those placing their trust in God will be made firm by Him so that they will not fall prey to Satan or his devices. Paul was confident that the Christians in Thessalonica... [ Continue Reading ]
DISCIPLINE FOR THE DISORDERLY Paul wrote this letter with the authority that belonged to an apostle of Jesus Christ (Galatians 1:1; 11-12; Matthew 16:19). In fact, he carefully noted that he spoke by Christ's authority. The Lord's command as issued by Paul was that they not have fellowship with tho... [ Continue Reading ]
PAUL'S EXAMPLE AMONG THEM Paul urged them to remember the example he had set when in Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 2:9). He had worked night and day so that they might hear the gospel and he could earn a living. If one who was bringing them the word of salvation could work with his own hands and no... [ Continue Reading ]
THE COMMAND FOR THE DISORDERLY Kelcy notes that Paul used the imperfect tense when he said, "we commanded you this", so it means he repeatedly commanded them. Thus, the one who as a habit refused to earn a living was to be refused aid by his brethren. Unfortunately, these same folks, while refusing... [ Continue Reading ]
ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THE FAITHFUL Despite the fact that some had been lazy, Paul encouraged Christians to continue in all good works which were in accord with God's will. As Lipscomb says, "Nothing discourages giving to the needy like having the lazy and meddlesome seeking support." Those who are trul... [ Continue Reading ]
CLOSING THOUGHTS Despite the stern warnings he had used, Paul still desired that the Lord of peace would give them peaceful relations between one another and with God. The Lord is constantly associated with peace, so Paul's prayer was that He be with them (Luke 2:14; John 14:27; Ephesians 2:12-17).... [ Continue Reading ]