We exhort you to live a life full of love and in God because Jesus has all authority in Heaven and on earth therefore we can have confidence in Him.
Let’s pray:
Lord Jesus, thank You for getting us to the final chapter in this letter. thank You for reminding us to live for You and walk out our lives in confidence and dependence on You for You have all the authority. Lead us through this and reveal what You need me to see. Thank You, Lord, In Your Name I pray.
2 Thessalonians 3 – Amplified Bible
Exhortation
Please read 2 Thessalonians 3:1-5
1 Finally, brothers and sisters, pray continually for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be honored [triumphantly celebrated and glorified], just as it was with you; 2 and [pray] that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men; for not everyone has the faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you [setting you on a firm foundation] and will protect and guard you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will continue to do the things [which] we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the steadfastness and patience of Christ.
He is a firm foundation. And we are protected, guarded always. Thus we need to live His way. Direct your heart into the love of God and His steadfastness and patience. He is worthy. Always worthy.
Please read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-10
6 Now we command you, believers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and by His authority, that you withdraw and keep away from every brother or sister who leads an undisciplined life and does not live in accordance with the tradition and teaching that [a]you have received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example, because we did not act in an undisciplined or inappropriate manner when we were with you [we were never idle or lazy, nor did we avoid our duties], 8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with labor and hardship we worked night and day [to pay our own way] so that we would not be a financial burden on any of you [for our support]; 9 not because we do not have a right to such support, but [we provided our own financial support] to offer ourselves as a model for you, so that you would follow our example. 10 For even while we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is [b]not to eat, either.
He has all authority so we can keep away from those who lead undisciplined lives and follow the example set for us in how to walk out this life of faith.
Please read 2 Thessalonians 3:11-13
11 Indeed, we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined and inappropriate life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies [meddling in other people’s business]. 12 Now such people we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work quietly and earn their own food and other necessities [supporting themselves instead of depending on the hospitality of others]. 13 And as for [the rest of] you, [c]believers, do not grow tired or lose heart in doing good [but continue doing what is right without weakening].
Do not grow tired or lose heart in doing good. It’s quiet work. It’s faith-filled work.
Please read 2 Thessalonians 3:14-16
14 Now if anyone [in the church] does not obey what we say in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be ashamed and repent. 15 Do not regard him as an enemy, but keep admonishing him as a [believing] brother.
16 Now may the Lord of peace Himself grant you His peace at all times and in every way [that peace and spiritual well-being that comes to those who walk with Him, regardless of life’s circumstances]. The Lord be with you all.
Obey the letter. Admonish those who don’t. Oh yes, Lord, grant us Your Peace at all times and in every way. For You are God Among us. Immanuel.
Please read 2 Thessalonians 3:17-18
17 I, Paul, write you this final greeting with my own hand. This is the distinguishing mark in every letter [of mine, that shows it is genuine]. It is the way I write [my handwriting and signature]. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.
Footnotes
[a] 2 Thessalonians 3:6 -that [a]you have received from us- One early ms reads they.
[b] 2 Thessalonians 3:10 -he is [b]not to eat- I.e. if one is able, but unwilling to work to provide for himself or his family, it is unjust for him to receive the necessities of life provided free by those who willingly work.
[c] 2 Thessalonians 3:13 –[c]believers- Lit brethren.
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