Tyndale Open Study Notes2 Thessalonians 3

Before discussing the final topic of the letter (3:6–15), Paul asks for prayers (3:1–2). He assures the Thessalonians of God's help during difficult times (3:3–5).

pray for us: The prayer for the gospel to spread quickly reminds us of Psalm 147:15. Paul combines this image with references to the Roman games in which a winner received honor (see 1 Corinthians 9:24–26; Galatians 2:2).

Paul also suffered for the good news about Jesus (2 Corinthians 6:5; 11:23–26; 1 Thessalonians 2:2). His prayer for rescue echoes Isaiah 25:4.

The Thessalonians experienced suffering caused by the evil one (or by evil; see 2:9; compare 1:4–6; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 2:14).

The prayer for God to direct (literally make straight) their hearts comes from an Old Testament expression (1 Chronicles 29:18; Proverbs 23:19). Christians should love like God and show patience like Christ.

In his previous letter, Paul addressed the issue of church members who were lazy and refused to work (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12; 5:14). Some ignored his message and example, so he provides more guidance on how to treat these members.

• Paul gives his command by the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:2).

• Church members should avoid Christians who are lazy (see 2 Thessalonians 3:7, 11–13; 1 Thessalonians 5:14). Staying away from undisciplined people would strongly impact them (Matthew 18:17; Romans 16:17; 1 Corinthians 5:9–13). This would promote shame and repentance (2 Thessalonians 3:14), but it would stop short of removal from the church (3:15).

In the ancient world, people valued teaching by example. Paul set a good example by working to earn his own food (3:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:9).

without paying for it: Paul taught that workers in the Christian church could receive pay for their labor (3:9; see Matthew 10:10; 1 Corinthians 9:7–14; 1 Timothy 5:17–18). However, he did not use that privilege (1 Thessalonians 2:9; 2 Thessalonians 3:6–10).

Paul had separated himself from people in the culture who sought fame and money (1 Thessalonians 2:5).

Work is the right way to earn a living (see Genesis 3:17–19; Psalm 128:2; Proverbs 10:4). Paul says the church is not responsible for feeding Christians who refuse to work.

• Paul emphasizes the strength of the command by referring to the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ (as in 3:6; 1 Thessalonians 4:1–2).

• begin working quietly: This means to live a quiet life instead of concerning oneself with other people's activities (see 1 Thessalonians 4:11).

well-doing: Paul encouraged the Thessalonians to help those truly in need, not those who are lazy and dependent (see Galatians 6:9–10; 2 Thessalonians 3:7–8, 10).

Paul hoped the Christians who disobeyed and were separated from the community would feel ashamed and ask God to forgive them (see study note on 3:6).

do not regard him as an enemy: In the ancient world, people broke social ties with enemies and took revenge against them. The apostle Paul warns the Thessalonians that discipline against Christians who disobey should not lead to this kind of attack (3:14). Instead, the church should treat them like family members, and act in hope that they will correct their behavior (1 Thessalonians 5:12, 14).

The final prayer repeats the blessing Jesus spoke in John 14:27 (see also Numbers 6:26). It contrasts with the challenges Christians encountered in Thessalonica (2 Thessalonians 1:4–10; 1 Thessalonians 2:14). Paul was always aware of the presence of the Lord Jesus with his people (Romans 15:33; Philippians 4:9).

A secretary wrote this letter for Paul (Romans 16:22; 1 Peter 5:12). Now Paul picks up the pen to add a final greeting written by his own hand (see 1 Corinthians 16:21; Galatians 6:11; Colossians 4:18; Philemon 1:19). He does this because he suspects someone is using his name and circulating a letter he did not write (2 Thessalonians 2:2). He emphasizes this step to prove the letter is truly from him.

Ancient letters often ended with a wish for health or prosperity. However, Paul’s blessing is much grander. He asks the Lord Jesus Christ to give grace to the recipients (see 1 Thessalonians 5:28).