Adam Clarke Bible Commentary

2 Thessalonians 3:1

CHAPTER III.

The apostle recommends himself and his brethren to the prayers

of the Church, that their preaching might be successful, and

that they might be delivered from wicked men, 1, 2.

Expresses his confidence in God and them, and prays that they

may patiently wait for the coming of Christ, 3-5.

Gives them directions concerning strict discipline in the

Church; and shows how he and his fellow labourers had behaved

among them, not availing themselves of their own power and

authority, 6-9.

Shows them how to treat disorderly and idle people, and not to

get weary in well doing, 10-13.

Directs them not to associate with those who obey not the orders

contained in this epistle, 14, 15,

Prays that they may have increasing peace, 16,

And concludes with his salutation and benediction, 17, 18.

NOTES ON CHAP. III.

Verse 2 Thessalonians 3:1. Finally, brethren] The words το λοιπον do not mean finally, but, furthermore-to come to a conclusion-what remains is this-I shall only add-any of these phrases expresses the sense of the original.

Pray for us] God, in the order of his grace and providence, has made even the success of his Gospel dependent, in a certain measure, on the prayers of his followers. Why he should do so we cannot tell, but that he has done so we know; and they are not a little criminal who neglect to make fervent supplications for the prosperity of the cause of God.

May have free course] They were to pray that the doctrine of the Lord, ὁ λογος του Κυριου, might run, τρεχη, an allusion to the races in the Olympic games: that, as it had already got into the stadium or race course, and had started fairly, so it might run on, get to the goal, and be glorified; i.e., gain the crown, appointed for him that should get first to the end of the course.

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Adam Clarke Bible Commentary

2 Thessalonians 3:1

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