Verses 1-18

CONCLUSION

The concluding chapter consists of an exhortation to pray for its author (2 Thessalonians 3:1-2), an expression of his confidence in the faithfulness of those he is addressing (2 Thessalonians 3:3-5); a command to them concerning their separation from the unfaithful (2 Thessalonians 3:6-11); a command to the unfaithful themselves (2 Thessalonians 3:12-15), a benediction and a superscription (2 Thessalonians 3:16-18).

There is but one thing for which Paul would have them pray on his behalf, namely, that he may be “delivered from unreasonable and evil men.”

These men were in the church in the visible sense, not the invisible, for they did not have “the faith” (RV) It was these more than the people outside who were hindering the Word from running and being glorified.

What a sweet thought that is in 2 Thessalonians 3:5, “the patient waiting for Christ.” It is only the scoffer, walking after his own lusts who says, “Where is the promise of His coming?” (2 Peter 3:3-4). Let us not through any undue impatience be classed with them. He “will come and will not tarry” (Hebrews 10:3; Hebrews 10:7).

The unfaithful ones are the same as he addressed in 1 Thessalonians 4:10-12, and who evidently did not heed that exhortation. And yet, they might be saved men notwithstanding (see 2 Thessalonians 3:15).

The token of validity (2 Thessalonians 3:17) is interesting in the light of 1 Thessalonians 2:2. Hereafter the forger will have to be doubly bold.

No questions are required for this lesson.