STUDIES IN THE EPISTLE OF SECOND THESSALONIANS Bob Buchanan 1
RUINS OF AN ANCIENT FORUM IN MODERN THESSALONIKI 2
INTRODUCTION TO SECOND THESSALONIANS PLEASE NOTE: The following sections, Roman Numerals I and II, concerning both the CITY of Thessalonica, as well as the beginning of the CHURCH in that City, are being copied and re-printed from the booklet on FIRST Thessalonians. I. The CITY of THESSALONICA A. The modern name of the city is Thessaloniki or Salonika B. In 315 B. C., Cassander, who had been a general under Alexander the Great, built a new City. C. The City was named after Thessalonica the daughter of Philip II of Macedon. She was also the step-sister of Alexander the Great. D. Thessalonica was conquered by the ROMANS in 168 B. C. and became the provincial capital. Later, it was made the CAPITAL of the entire region. E. The City was located on the famous EGNATIAN WAY, the Roman road that crossed Macedonia from East to West. Some of the remains of this highway may still be seen in that area. Many people walked on this road on their way to the coast and then to Italy and the City of Rome. The City was a TRADE CENTER, and had a natural harbor with extensive shipping. F. Thessalonica was conquered by the TURKS in 1430 A. D. and by the GREEKS in 1912 A. D.. G. In the days of the apostle Paul, Thessalonica was an important city, but also a wicked city. The population included GREEKS, ROMANS, and JEWS. H. The RUINS of the ancient City of Thessalonica, known by the apostle Paul and first century Christians, are covered by the MODERN THESSALONIKI. The ruins of the ancient forum seen in the picture on the previous page of this booklet were at one time covered by a BUS TERMINAL I. Today, THESSALONIKI is the second largest city in Greece, second only to Athens, and has a population of more than 320,000 people, The general area has more than 700,000 people. II. The BEGINNING of the CHURCH of our Lord at Thessalonica in the days of the apostle Paul 3
A. Please examine Acts 17:1-9 to see the initial preaching of the gospel in Thessalonica. B. This evangelism took place on the SECOND MISSIONARY JOURNEY of Paul 1. While at PHILIPPI, Paul s companions were SILAS, TIMOTHY, and LUKE 2. Paul and Silas had been joined by TIMOTHY at LYSTRA (Acts 15:40; 16:1-5). 3. It is observed that LUKE joined the team at TROAS. This is seen in the use of the pronoun, WE in Acts 16:10-13. The author of Acts, LUKE, included himself in the group. 4. However, when Paul and his companions left Philippi and went to Thessalonica, a distance of about 160 kilometers, Luke used the pronoun THEY. This indicates that Luke was NOT WITH THEM. He evidently remained in Philippi. Examine Acts 17:1, 10, etc.. C. In Thessalonica, Paul reasoned in the Jewish SYNAGOGUE for THREE SABBATH DAYS (Acts 17:2) 1. Paul preached the RESURRECTED CHRIST (Acts 17:3, 4) 2. The jealous JEWS raised up a MOB, and opposition began (Acts 17:5-9) 3. SOME of the Jews believed, as well as many God-fearers among the Greeks, and a number of leading women (Acts 17:4) 4. From this we learn that GENTILES obeyed the gospel in Thessalonica. Paul stated that they had turned to God from idols (I Thessalonians 1:9, 10). Read also First Thessalonians 2:14. 5. From Thessalonica, Paul went to the city of BEREA (Acts 17:10-13). 5. NOTE: It is not possible to determine exactly HOW LONG Paul remained at Thessalonica. III. CIRCUMSTANCES existing in the CHURCH at Thessalonica at the time of writing of II Thessalonians. This epistle was probably written in the NEAR FUTURE AFTER the writing of FIRST Thessalonians. The date of writing is UNCERTAIN. (See the possible DATE below). 4
A. One of the challenges facing the church was the CONTINUATION of PERSECUTION in Thessalonica. 1. Review the record in the book of Acts concerning the early persecution in that City (Acts 17:1-9). Perhaps, when Paul left the City (Acts 17:10), the persecution may have become LESS for a time, and then increased again. We cannot be certain about this. 2. Also, review Paul s discussion of the affliction experienced by the church which is seen in FIRST Thessalonians 1:6; 2:14-16. 3. However, their suffering, their affliction was CONTINUING at the time of the writing of SECOND Thessalonians 1:3-7. B. A SECOND CHALLENGE in the Thessalonian church at the time Paul wrote II Thessalonians was their MISUNDERSTANDING about the TIME of the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus (II Thessalonians 2:1-12). They thought that the day of the Lord has come. (II Thessalonians 2:2). C. A THIRD CHALLENGE was the PROBLEM of IDLENESS in the congregation at Thessalonica (II Thessalonica 3:6-15). 1. Observe that even in FIRST Thessalonians 4:11, 12, Paul exhorted them strongly to WORK! 2. Also, in I Thessalonians 5:14, the church was to admonish the UNRULY ( ataktous ). This word is the same root word that is used for idle in II Thessalonians 3:6, 11. Therefore, it seems that this problem had continued among the Thessalonian brothers. IV. The inspired AUTHOR and DATE of writing of Second Thessalonians A. The inspired AUTHOR 1. PAUL was the primary author, but SILVANUS and TIMOTHY were also included in the greeting (II Thessalonians 1:1). 2. Just as he did in FIRST Thessalonians, Paul used the pronouns WE (II Thessalonians 1:3, 4; 2:1, 13; 3:4, 8-11, etc.) and the word, US (2:15; 3:1). This suggests that he was including his companions, Silvanus and Timothy, in the exhortations which he gave to the Thessalonians. 5
3. However, Paul also used the pronoun I as he emphasized that, while I was still with you, I was telling you these things (II Thessalonians 2:5). 4. Note also that Paul wrote the greeting at the end of the epistle WITH HIS OWN HAND, and used the pronoun I again (II Thessalonians 3:17). B. The DATE of the writing of SECOND Thessalonians 1. Because of the CONTINUING CIRCUMSTANCES at Thessalonica, it seems that SECOND Thessalonians was written NOT LONG AFTER the writing of FIRST Thessalonians. 2. II Thessalonians was probably written while Paul remained at Corinth for 18 months on the second missionary journey (Acts 18:11). If so, this would be approximately 50-52 A. D. V. Paul s REASONS or PURPOSES for writing the epistle of SECOND Thessalonians A. Paul desired to express his THANKFULNESS for their FAITHFULNESS. Read II Thessalonians 1:3, 4. B. To ENCOURAGE the Thessalonian disciples to continue in that faithfulness and obedience to the teaching Paul had given them. Read II Thessalonians 2:13-15; 3:3-15. C. He desired to CORRECT wrong ideas concerning the SECOND COMING of Christ (II Thessalonians 2:1-12). D. Paul urged proper DISCIPLINE of UNRULY or IDLE brothers (II Thessalonians 3:6-15) (Kelcy, pages 127, 128). VI. IMPORTANT and RELEVANT LESSONS from II Thessalonians A. A beautiful description of the GODHEAD 1. GOD the FATHER a. He is the Christian s heavenly FATHER and He is the ONE who gives COMFORT, GRACE, PEACE, LOVE and HOPE (II Thessalonians 1:2; 2:16; 3:5). 6
b. God the Father has chosen Christians for SALVATION (II Thessalonians 2:13). c. God s JUDGMENT will be a RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT (II Thessalonians 1:5). 2. JESUS CHRIST the SON a. Because the name of Christ is united or coupled with the Father in extending GRACE, His DEITY is clearly seen. See II Thessalonians 1:1, 2; 2:12. b. At His SECOND COMING, He will appear in FLAMING FIRE to execute vengeance (II Thessalonians 1:7-9). c. He will destroy the man of lawlessness (II Thessalonians 2:8). d. JESUS IS LORD! (II Thessalonians 1:1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 12; 2:1, 8, 14, 16; 3:6, 12) 3. The HOLY SPIRIT is involved in the SANCTIFICATION of the Christian (II Thessalonians 2:13). B. The Thessalonians were IN GOD and IN THE LORD JESUS CHRIST (II Thessalonians 1:1). This is where SALVATION IS FOUND! 1. EXAMINE HOW a person COMES INTO CHRIST (Galatians 3:26, 27; Romans 6:1-5). 2. God had CHOSEN the Thessalonians FOR SALVATION (II Thessalonians 2:13). 3. God had CALLED them through Paul s gospel (II Thessalonians 2:14). Observe that TRUTH is also involved (II Thessalonians 2:10-12, 13). C. There is an emphasis in II Thessalonians on CHRISTIAN LIVING! 1. Paul gave THANKS for the increasing FAITH and the increasing LOVE they had FOR EACH OTHER (II Thessalonians 1:3). 2. They should be STEADFAST and FAITHFUL in the midst of suffering for the Kingdom (II Thessalonians 1:5). 7
3. The Thessalonians should live in PEACE and NOT be disturbed or shaken from their composure (II Thessalonians 2:2). 4. They should NOT permit anyone to DECEIVE them (II Thessalonians 2:3) 5. They should be COMFORTED and STRENGTHENED in heart and should practice EVERY GOOD WORK AND WORD (II Thessalonians 2:17). 6. They should be engaged in HONEST TOIL (II Thessalonians 3:7-10). 7. The Thessalonians should practice CORRECTIVE DISCIPLINE against the UNRULY but show love and admonish him as a brother (II Thessalonians 3:6, 14, 15) (Kelcy, page 133). D. In II Thessalonians, the Lord s SECOND COMING is emphasized again (II Thessalonians 1:5-10). 1. God will give REST to those who are AFFLICTED 2. Those who are DISOBEDIENT will receive ETERNAL DESTRUCTION 3. The APOSTASY or REBELLION would COME FIRST (II Thessalonians 2:3, 4). OUTLINE OF THE EPISTLE OF SECOND THESSALONIANS I. The GREETING of Paul and his companions (1:1, 2) II. ENCOURAGEMENT given to the Thessalonians (1:3-12) A. The THANKFULNESS of the preachers for the Thessalonians (1:3, 4) B. God will bring RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT (1:5-10) C. The PRAYER of the preachers for the Thessalonians (1:11, 12) III. ADDITIONAL TEACHING concerning the SECOND COMING (2:1-17). A. INTRODUCTORY Thoughts 8
B. The Lord s COMING had NOT YET ARRIVED (2:1, 2) C. The REBELLION and the MAN OF LAWLESSNESS must come first (2:3-12) D. More THANKFULNESS and ENCOURAGEMENT to STAND FIRM (2:13-15) E. Paul s PRAYER for the Thessalonians (2:16, 17) IV. Paul s COMMANDS and EXHORTATIONS (3:1-15) A. Encouragement to PRAY for PAUL, SILAS, and TIMOTHY (3:1, 2) B. The CONFIDENCE of the preachers in the LORD and in the THESSALONIANS (3:3-5) C. The COMMANDS of Paul and his companions concerning the DISORDERLY (3:6-15) V. CONCLUSION of the epistle (3:16-18) REVIEW QUESTIONS ON THE INTRODUCTION TO SECOND THESSALONIANS 1. What is the modern name of the city of THESSALONICA? 2. Who founded the city of Thessalonica in ancient times and WHEN was it founded? 3. After WHOM was the city NAMED? 4. What famous ROMAN ROAD passed through Thessalonica? 5. When Paul preached there, which ETHNIC GROUPS inhabited the City? 6. What is the approximate POPULATION of that City TODAY? 7. On which MISSION JOURNEY did Paul preach there, and WHO were his companions? 8. WHERE was LUKE at this time? 9
9. What do the pronouns WE and THEY indicate in Acts 16, 17, etc.? 10. TO WHOM did Paul preach on three Sabbath days, and WHAT WAS HIS TOPIC? (Acts 17:1-9) 11. WHICH GROUPS accepted the message of Paul at Thessalonica? 12. Give THREE CHALLENGES or PROBLEMS facing the congregation In Thessalonica at the time of the writing of II Thessalonians? 13. What do the pronouns, WE and US indicate in the book of Second Thessalonians? 14. WHEN was Second Thessalonians written? 15. What were Paul s PURPOSES in writing Second Thessalonians? 16. Discuss the following important LESSONS in Second Thessalonians: a. What does this epistle say about the Father, Son and Holy Spirit? b. What does it really mean to be IN CHRIST? c. What does this epistle say about CHRISTIAN LIVING? 17. What does Second Thessalonians say about the SECOND COMING? STUDIES IN THE TEXT OF SECOND THESSALONIANS CHAPTER ONE I. The GREETING from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy (II Thessalonians 1:1, 2). A. The epistle is addressed to the church of the Thessalonians (II Thessalonians 1:1) 1. Observe that this same phrase is found in FIRST Thessalonians 1:1. 10
2. Consider that God s people are simply called the church which was located in the city of Thessalonica. See also the church in Colossians 1:18, 24, etc. 3. The word, church ( ekklesia ) meant a group of citizens such as the citizens of Ephesus who assembled together (Note Acts 19:32, 39, 41). a. Thus, in the secular world, ekklesia referred to a regularly summoned political body However, in the spiritual sense, it referred to the totality of Christians living in one place (A. and G., page 240). Read II Corinthians 1:1. b. Thus, the term, church of Christ is NOT a title, but, it refers to those citizens in the body or kingdom who BELONG TO CHRIST! Christ purchased them with His blood (I Peter 1:18, 19; Acts 20:28; Revelation 5:9, 10) 4. The word, church ( ekklesia ) can refer to the Lord s citizens throughout the world, the UNIVERSAL church (Ephesians 1:22; 3:10, 21, etc.). 5. The word, church is also used in Scripture for the Lord s citizens in a provincial sense, those Christians living in a certain geographical area (Acts 9:31). NOTE the church in Judea, Galilee, and Samaria in this Scripture. 6. Consider also that the Lord s citizens in a congregational sense are also called churches of God (II Thessalonians 1:4; See also I Corinthians 1:2). 7. The phrases, OF GOD and OF CHRIST (Romans 16:16) designate OWNERSHIP! B. The Thessalonians were in God OUR Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ (II Thessalonians 1:1). 1. Sometimes, the word FATHER refers to the relationship the Father has with His Son, the Lord Jesus. Read Romans 15:6; II Corinthians 1:3, etc.). 2. Here, however, Paul said God OUR Father which emphasizes God s relationship with His people. Study also Romans 1:7; I Corinthians 1:3; II Corinthians 1:2 (Kelcy, page 137). 3. The phrases, IN GOD and IN CHRIST describe the relationship which Christians have with the Father and the Son 11
a. Those IN CHRIST are NEW CREATURES (II Corinthians 5:17). b. Examine the great spiritual blessings that are IN CHRIST which are recorded in Ephesians 1:3-14. c. Review the notes on FIRST Thessalonians 1:1 found in the booklet on that epistle. 4. Study concerning HOW one enters that RELATIONSHIP with the Father and the Son (Romans 6:1-5; Galatians 3:26, 27). HOW DOES ONE GET INTO CHRIST? C. May there be GRACE and PEACE from BOTH the Father and the Lord Jesus (II Thessalonians 1:2). 1. Because grace and peace find their origin in BOTH the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, the DEITY of Christ is clearly seen in this statement. 2. Note that Paul often expressed his desire for his readers to have GRACE and PEACE (Romans 1:7; I Corinthians 1:3; II Corinthians 1:2; Galatians 1:3; Ephesians 1:2, etc.). II. Paul ENCOURAGED the Thessalonians again as he did in the FIRST epistle (II Thessalonians 1:3-12). A. The THANKFULNESS of Paul and his companions (II Thessalonians 1:3, 4). They are thankful for the INCREASE in the FAITH and LOVE of the Thessalonians. 1. Paul, Silas, and Timothy felt an obligation ( opheilomen ). Paul said, We ought always to give thanks. They were thankful for the growth and maturity of the Thessalonian Christians during a period of persecution. a. This word, OUGHT is translated OWE in Romans 13:8. Consider that Paul also said, We should always give thanks. in II Thessalonians 2:13. b. They were CONSTANTLY giving thanks for these disciples. Examine this thought also in FIRST Thessalonians 1:2. 2. BOTH the FAITH ( pistis ) of the Thessalonians and their LOVE ( agape ) for one another had been increasing. 12
a. Their FAITH was greatly enlarged. The word here, huperauxanei means to grow wonderfully (A. and G., page 847). b. Their LOVE for one another had also been increasing. Observe the use of this word in II Peter 1:8 and Philippians 4:17. Review also that Paul wanted them to excel still more in their LOVE FOR EACH OTHER! (FIRST Thessalonians 3:12; 4:9, 10). IS THIS A GREAT NEED IN EVERY CONGREGATION TODAY? 3. Paul spoke proudly about the Thessalonians to other churches of God (II Thessalonians 1:4). a. Paul was speaking proudly, and had boasted (A. and G., page 215) about their steadfastness or perseverance ( hupomones ) in the middle of persecutions and afflictions b. It is Biblical to COMMEND the good works of our brethren. Study this principle in Paul s commendation of many brothers and sisters in Romans 16:1-15. c. Examine the word, steadfastness, or bearing up under which is found in FIRST Thessalonians 1:3; I Timothy 6:11; II Timothy 3:10, etc. d. NOTE ESPECIALLY that steadfastness in trials will come out of our HOPE (I Thessalonians 1:3) e. God will give REST to those who suffer for the gospel. See the next section below based on SECOND Thessalonians 1:5-10. B. GOD S JUDGMENT will be a RIGHTEOUS JUDGMENT (II Thessalonians 1:5-10). 1. The ENDURANCE of the Thessalonians under PERSECUTION indicates that God s final JUDGMENT will be RIGHTEOUS (II Thessalonians 1:5). Suffering is a refining, testing, purifying process. Read also I Peter 1:6, 7; 4:12, 13. a. God is WITH His children who suffer for the sake of RIGHTEOUSNESS (Matthew 5:10-12). Note also Hebrews 13:5, 6. of b. There is great VALUE, and a great amount of GOOD that can come out 13
PERSECUTION. Tribulation brings steadfastness which also brings about proven character (Romans 5:3, 4). c. Christians are to LIVE in a manner which is worthy of the KINGDOM. Review the phrases, worthy of the LORD (Colossians 1:10), worthy of your CALLING (Ephesians 4:1), and worthy of the GOSPEL (Philippians 1:27). Read also the notes on worthy of the God (Booklet on FIRST Thessalonians 2:12). d. Christians suffer for the KINGDOM and look forward to entrance into the ETERNAL KINGDOM (Matthew 25:34; II Peter 1:11). 2. God is JUST or RIGHTEOUS in afflicting those who PERSECUTE His people (II Thessalonians 1:6). The NIV translation says, If indeed it is just with God to pay back trouble to those troubling you. a. God will REPAY ( antapodounai ) or bring vengeance on the PERSECUTORS. Note this also in Romans 12:19 and Hebrews 10:30. b. However, God s JUDGMENTS will ALWAYS be JUST (Romans 2:5). Read also Revelation 15:3, 4; 16:5. 3. Those faithful disciples who were AFFLICTED will receive REST ( anesin ) or relief, relaxation (A. and G., page 64) (II Thessalonians 1:7). a. This word, rest is translated, Have some freedom in Acts 24:23. b. Observe the phrase, WITH US or TO US AS WELL In eternity, Paul and his companions would share with the Thessalonians in this REST. Paul had told them while with them that ALLOF THEM together would suffer for the Lord (FIRST Thessalonians 3:3, 4). ALL who live a godly life in Christ will suffer persecution (II Timothy 3:12). c. REST will come at the REVELATION ( apokalupsei ) of the Lord Jesus. In this verse, Paul did NOT use the word COMING ( parousia ) to refer to the Second Coming of the Lord. Note the word REVELATION also in I Peter 1:13. (1) At that revelation, the Lord s GLORY will be seen (I Peter 4:13; 5:1; Romans 8:18). 14
(2) This will be the JUDGMENT DAY (I Corinthians 3:13). d. The Lord will return with POWERFULANGELS and FLAMING FIRE (1) Observe the coming of the Lord with His ANGELS in Matthew 13:41, 42; 25:31. (2) FIRE is associated with PUNISHMENT (Matthew 3:10; 7:19; II Peter 3:10-12), (3) FIRE was also associated with the PRESENCE of the Lord (Genesis 15:17; Exodus 3:2, 3). 4. At the SECOND COMING, JUSTICE will be attained (II Thessalonians1:8). a. The Lord will execute VEN GEANCE ( ekdikesin ) or retribution (A. and G., page 238). Read again Romans 12:19 and Hebrews 10:30. This is the same root word as RIGHTEOUS and JUST as seen in II Thessalonians 1:5 and 1:6. b. There will be PUNISHMENT for those who KNOW NOT GOD and OBEY NOT THE GOSPEL (1) Come commentators affirm that those who know NOT God are pagan Gentiles. It is true that the Gentiles did NOT know God. Note Romans 1:18-23; Ephesians 4:18, 19. These writers affirm that those NOT obeying the gospel are the disobedient Jews. (2) However, it is probable that the ones NOT KNOWING GOD are the SAME GROUP as those NOT OBEYING the GOSPEL (Read I Peter 4:17, 18) (Kelcy, page 145). (3) CONSIDER THIS QUOTE:.Jews, like Gentiles, have rejected the knowledge of God which they have received (Romans 2:1-29; Isa. 1:3), or the Gentiles like Jews have disobeyed. Both descriptions, therefore, apply comprehensively to all of those who oppose God and His people in Christ (Weatherly, page 225). 5. Eternal DESTRUCTION awaits the DISOBEDIENT (II Thessalonians 1:9) 15
a. The literal meaning of this phrase is Eternal destruction (ruin) from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power. b. NOTE CAREFULLY: ANNIHILATION which means going out of existence is NOT INDICATED HERE! c. The word, DESTRUCTION ( olethron ) means RUIN (A. and G., page 566). Note its use also in I Thessalonians 5:3 and I Timothy 6:9. This RUIN is AWAY FROM THE PRESENCE OF THE LORD! d. The faithful disciple of the Lord WILL FOREVER BE WITH THE LORD (I Thessalonians 4:17; Colossians 3:4). e. This RUIN or DESTRUCTION will be ETERNAL! Review Matthew 25:46. This terrible condition is described as where the worm does not die and the fire is not quenched (Mark 9:42-48). f. When the Lord s GLORY is revealed, His POWER will be realized. See Isaiah s picture of God s power, majesty and the terror of the Lord (Isaiah 2:10-12). 6. At His SECOND COMING, Jesus will be glorified in His saints (II Thessalonians 1:10). Read also Colossians 3:4 and I Peter 4:13. a. Consider this QUOTE: The glory of Christ will be seen reflected in His people --- those who have been set apart by God for His service. They are an exhibition of His power and goodness. (Kelcy, pages 146, 147) b. Also, Christians will participate in His GLORY (Romans 8:17; Philippians 3:20, 21; Colossians 1:27; II Thessalonians 2:14). c. When Jesus comes, the Lord s people will be filled with amazement and wonder, for they shall be like Him (Examine I John 3:2). d. In this passage also (II Thessalonians 1:10), Paul emphasized that Our testimony to you was believed. Examine this also in FIRST Thessalonians 2:13 and II Thessalonians 2:14. They had believed the message! C. Paul, Silas, and Timothy were PRAYING for the Thessalonians (II Thessalonians 1:11, 12). 16
1. NOTE: They were CONSTANTLY praying for the Thessalonians. This is indicated, not only by the word, ALWAYS, but also by the tense of the word, PRAY which expresses a CONTINUAL PRAYING. 2. They prayed that Our God may count you worthy of your calling. They should NOT feel that they, by their own merit, were WORTHY, but rather that God, through HIS GRACE would count them worthy. See II Thessalonians 1:12 below. We DO NOT EARN WORTHINESS! It is by GRACE! a. Paul used the plural word, WE (1:11) which indicates that Silvanus and Timothy were ALSO PRAYING! b. The LIFE of disciples of Christ must be in harmony with their CALLING by God (1) Study also the command to walk in a manner worthy of their calling as found in Ephesians 4:1-3. (2) Review also the phrases, worthy of the LORD (Colossians 1:10), worthy of the GOSPEL (Philippians1:27), and worthy of the GOD who calls you.. (I Thessalonians 2:12). 2. With His POWER, God would help the Thessalonians to (1) fulfill every desire ( eudokian ) for goodness and (2) every work of faith (II Thessalonians 1:11). a. GOODNESS is one of the qualities found in the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22, 23). b. This word, desire ( eudokian ) was also used by Paul in Romans 10:1 when he spoke of his desire of heart that his people, Israel, might be saved. c. God will assist the disciple to fulfill his good desires. d. God will also assist the disciple to fulfill his WORK OF FAITH. (1) Consider that, OUT OF FAITH COMES WORK! Review this also in I Thessalonians 1:3; Ephesians 2:10; 4:1 17
(2) Paul also spoke of FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE (Galatians 5:6). 3. OBSERVE the PURPOSE of Paul, Silas, and Timothy in their CONSTANT PRAYER (II Thessalonians 1:12). a. Paul desired that the name of our Lord Jesus might be glorified in the Thessalonians. The righteous acts of Christians can bring glory to our Lord Jesus Christ! b. NOTE that, when Paul was converted, the disciples glorified God (Galatians 1:23, 24). Paul said that they were glorifying God because of me. c. It is also true that DISCIPLES of Jesus, by fulfilling God s desires, will also SHARE in His Glory (Kelcy, page 149). d. This GLORY will be completed at the Lord s SECOND COMING. Read II Thessalonians 1:10 again. e. ALL OF THIS was made possible by THE GRACE of GOD and the LORD JESUS CHRIST (II Thessalonians 1:12). Study Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5; Romans 3:24-27. REVIEW QUESTIONS ON SECOND THESSALONIANS CHAPTER ONE 1. Discuss HOW the word, church ( ekklesia ) is used in (1) The universal, (2) provincial, (3) and congregational or local sense. Show Scriptures for each. 2. Is the term, church of Christ a TITLE? Please discuss. 3. Discuss the phrases: IN God our Father and IN the Lord Jesus Christ. What do these mean? 4. HOW does a person get INTO CHRIST? 5. FOR WHAT were Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy THANKFUL? (1:3, 4). 6. Concerning WHAT did Paul SPEAK PROUDLY to other churches (1:4). 7. Discuss in what way God s JUDGMENT will be JUST or RIGHTEOUS (1:5-10). 18
8. What VALUE or GOOD can come out of SUFFERING, even PERSECUTION? 9. Discuss how the word, WORTHY is used in various Scriptures. 10. How will God repay those who afflicted the Thessalonians? (1:6-9). 11. What will God give the faithful disciples at Thessalonica who were persecuted? (1:7). 12. God s JUDGMENTS will ALWAYS BE (1:6). 13. What is the meaning of the word, REPAY in 1:6? 14. WHO will receive God s RETRIBUTION at the Second Coming? (1:8). 15. With what is FIRE sometimes associated in Scripture? Give 2 answers. 16. Describe the JUST PUNISHMENT of the DISOBEDIENT at the Second Coming (1:7-9). Discuss Eternal PUNISHMENT as seen in 1:7-9. Is it annihilation? 17. Discuss the meaning of Christ being glorified in His saints (1:10). 18. FOR WHAT did Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy PRAY in 1:11, 12? NOTES ON SECOND THESSALONIANS CHAPTER TWO III. Paul s additional TEACHING concerning the TIME of the SECOND COMING (II Thessalonians 2:1-17). A. Some preliminary INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS 1. This passage, II Thessalonians 2, especially verses 1-9, is considered one of the most difficult Scriptures in the New Testament. 2. DIFFICULT QUESTIONS for consideration: a. What is the REBELLION (Apostasy) concerning which Paul speaks? (II Thessalonians 2:3). b. Who is the Man of Sin ( Lawlessness )? (II Thessalonians 2:3). 19
c. WHAT or WHO was RESTRAINING the Man of Sin for a time? (II Thessalonians 2:6, 7). d. In what way was the Mystery of Lawlessness ALREADY AT WORK when Paul wrote this epistle? (II Thessalonians 2:7). B. The Lord s SECOND COMING ( parousia ) was NOT ALREADY PRESENT (II Thessalonians 2:1, 2). The word, parousia means the Lord s Advent in glory to judge the world (A. and G., page 635). 1. Paul was beseeching the Thessalonians concerning the Lord s coming, and our gathering together ( episunagoyes ) to Him (II Thessalonians 2:1). This same word is used concerning the church assembling together (Hebrews 10:25). 2. Christians will be WITH JESUS in eternity (I Thessalonians 4:17). 3. Paul, Silas, and Timothy did NOT WANT the Thessalonians to be disturbed and shaken from their composure (II Thessalonians 2:2). The word for shaken ( saleuthenai ) means to cause to waver or totter (A. and G., pages 747, 748). a. The words, a spirit, would refer to some supposed revelation from someone who was considered to be a PROPHET. Review Paul s statement in I Thessalonians 5:19, 20. and John in I John 4:1. They must test the spirits whether they came from God! b. Paul, Silas, and Timothy DID NOT speak orally, nor did they write a letter which said that the COMING of the Lord HAD ALREADY TAKEN PLACE! They were saying, Do NOT FOLLOW this FALSE TEACHING! C. The REBELLION, ( Falling away, ) ( apostasia ) and the MAN of LAWLESSNESS MUST COME FIRST (II Thessalonians 2:3-12). 1. NOTE CAREFULLY: The Thessalonian Christians KNEW MORE DETAILS about this FALLING AWAY and the MAN OF SIN THAN WE DO! WHY IS THIS TRUE? Because Paul HAD DISCUSSED this WHILE HE AND HIS COMPANIONS WERE WITH THEM in Thessalonica! (II Thessalonians 2:5 below). 20
2. The Thessalonians must NOT BE DECEIVED concerning the Second Coming (II Thessalonians 2:3). a. The REBELLION or FALLING AWAY ( apostasia ) must FIRST take place BEFORE the Second Coming. (1) NOTE that we obtain the word apostasy from this Greek word. (2) This word is also found in Acts 21:21 to refer to abandoning or FORSAKING Moses. In the Greek Septuagint of Joshua 22:22, it refers to a REBELLION. (3) The Scriptures warn of a departure from the faith. Review I Timothy 4:1-5; Hebrews 3:12, etc.). b. Again, the MAN of SIN or MAN of LAWLESSNESS ( anomias ) must appear BEFORE the Second Coming. In the Greek text, the literal translation is Man of lawlessness. (1) It is true that SIN is LAWLESSNESS (I John 3:4). See this word also in Hebrews 1:9. (2) The Man of Sin would be the SON OF PERDITION or DESTRUCTION ( apoleias ). Observe that this same expression is used concerning JUDAS in John 17:12. He is bound for destruction! Examine this word, destruction in I Timothy 6:9 and II Peter 3:16. 3. The Man of Lawlessness would EXALT HIMSELF above every object worshiped by man (II Thessalonians 2:4). a. Emperor CALIGULA, at one time, ordered his statue to be placed in the Jewish temple in Jerusalem. We do NOT know if Paul was thinking about this as he wrote. b. It is true that, in Scripture, the word, temple is used for the spiritual body of Christ, the church (I Corinthians 3:17; Ephesians 2:19-22, etc.. However, this is probably NOT the meaning here. Note the QUOTE below. The man of sin was probably NOT a part of the church of the Lord. c. QUOTE: It seems more satisfactory to regard the expression ( takes his 21
seat in the temple of God --- This writer) as meaning that he intrudes himself into the place or position which rightfully belongs to God alone (Kelcy, page 153). 4. Then, Paul spoke for HIMSELF by using the singular pronoun, I. He had been telling them about this while he was in Thessalonica (II Thessalonians 2:5). a. The expression I was telling you these things is in a CONTINUOUS ACTION tense. Paul must have discussed this often while he was with them. b. WE REPEAT: The Thessalonians must have known MUCH MORE about the man of lawlessness than what Paul has said in this text. 5. SOMETHING, or SOMEONE was RESTRAINING the man of lawlessness at the time Paul wrote (II Thessalonians 2:6, 7). a. In 2:6, Paul said, What restrains him now. In other words, something held back the man of sin at that time (A. and G., page 423). b. However, in 2:7, Paul said, He who now restrains. In other words, someone was restraining (at the time of Paul s writing). c. Paul said, He who now restrains, will be taken out of the way.. NOTE: Is it true that SATAN and all his forces CAN ONLY DO WHAT GOD PERMITS? Review this in the life of the righteous man, JOB (Job 1 and 2). (SEE SECTION BELOW ON THE MAN OF SIN AND THE ONE WHO RESTRAINS ) 6. When the Lord RETURNS, the lawless one will be destroyed (II Thessalonians 2:8). The Lord will slay him with the breath of His mouth. See this expression in Isaiah 11:4. Examine also Revelation 19:15. 7. The coming or presence of the Man of lawlessness is in accord with the activity of SATAN (II Thessalonians 2:9). a. Consider how SIMILAR this statement is to that of the SEA BEAST in the book of Revelation who received his POWER from the dragon, SATAN (Revelation 13:2). b. The activity of the Lawless One, and SATAN, would be accompanied 22
with SIGNS and FALSE WONDERS. Again, this reminds us of the FALSE MIRACLES of the EARTH BEAST (Revelation 13:13). (1) In the book of Revelation, the SEA BEAST was the persecuting Roman Empire and the EARTH BEAST was Emperor Worship. Please study Revelation 13. (2) Note also that FALSE CHRISTS would claim to perform miracles (Matthew 24:24; Mark 13:22). 8. Those who will PERISH would be deceived by wickedness, and would NOT LOVE THE TRUTH so as to be SAVED (II Thessalonians 2:10). a. A literal translation would be every deceit of evil. b. Those who do NOT LOVE the TRUTH will PERISH along with the Man of Lawlessness. Read again II Thessalonians 1:7-9. c. Those who are deceived in wickedness remind us of the GENTILES who refused the KNOWLEDGE of God (Romans 1:21-28). d. It must be emphasized that TRUTH is the only way to SALVATION. Review John 14:6 and note II Thessalonians 2:16 below. Truly, TRUTH IS ONLY IN JESUS! (Acts 4:11, 12). 9. God will permit those who PERISH to accept a DELUDING INFLUENCE, to believe WHAT IS FALSE (II Thessalonians 2:11). The literal phrase here is a working of delusion. a. In Romans 11:8, Paul spoke of those who have a SPIRIT OF STUPOR! They have Eyes to see not and ears to hear not. b. The Scripture also says that SATAN Blinds the minds of the unbelieving (II Corinthians 4:4). 10. Therefore, the JUDGMENT of God will fall on those WHO ----- (1) Did NOT BELIEVE THE TRUTH, but WHO ---- (2) TOOK PLEASURE IN WICKEDNESS (II Thessalonians 2:12). Compare this to Romans 2:8 and I Corinthians 13:6. 23
A FEW OF THE INTERPRETATIONS SUGGESTED BY SCHOLARS CONCERNING THE IDENTITY OF THE MAN OF SIN AND THE ONE WHO RESTRAINS I. INTRODUCTION A. The GREAT LESSON to be emphasized is that CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH WILL BE VICTORIOUS OVER SATAN AND HIS HELPERS. 1. This is also the THEME of the book of REVELATION 2. In this passage, Paul pointed out the DESTRUCTION of the MAN OF SIN, the MAN OF LAWLESSNESS (II Thessalonians 2:8). B. The Thessalonian disciples needed to know that the SECOND COMING of Christ had NOT YET ARRIVED (II Thessalonians 2:1, 2). C. A FALLING AWAY and the coming of the MAN OF SIN MUST FIRST TAKE PLACE (II Thessalonians 2:3). D. At the time that Paul was writing this epistle, the MAN OF SIN was being RESTRAINED or HELD BACK (II Thessalonians 2:6, 7). E. Paul had DISCUSSED this matter PERSONALLY with the Thessalonians when he was WITH THEM (II Thessalonians 2:5). F. AN IMPORTANT QUESTION: When the Thessalonians read this passage, WHAT DID IT MEAN TO THEM? Because Paul had spoken to them personally about these things, we recognize that THEY KNEW MORE DETAILS THAN WE DO! II. We suggest here a few of the INTERPRETATIONS that have been AFFIRMED though the centuries: A. Some affirm that the MAN OF SIN would be the PERSECUTING ROMAN EMPIRE and its EMPERORS, some of whom claimed to be DEITY. PLEASE EXAMINE APPENDIX A 1. A careful study of Revelation 13 informs us that the TWO BEASTS of John s day represented (1) the persecuting Roman Empire and (2) Emperor worship. 2. Persecution of Christians continued periodically in the Roman Empire for 24
more than 200 years until the time of Emperor Constantine in the early part of the fourth century. 3. During this period of suffering that Christians experienced, a number of Emperors claimed to be divine and demanded WORSHIP. 4. Under this interpretation, the One who RESTRAINS would evidently be the Roman government officials who protected Christians while they were still considered to be a part of Judaism which was a legal religion. The persecution at that time was restrained. a. It is recalled that Paul was a Roman CITIZEN who had been wrongfully beaten and imprisoned at Philippi (Acts 16:36-40). b. At the approximate time when II Thessalonians was written, Gallio, the Roman proconsul, dismissed the case against Paul at the time the Jews were opposing Paul (Acts 18:12-16). At this time, persecution was being restrained. 5. There is an OBJECTION to this interpretation. Paul thought of the Man of sin being active in his wickedness when the LORD RETURNS (2:8), but the persecuting Roman Empire HAS BEEN GONE FOR MANY CENTURIES. B. Another popular interpretation, affirmed by a number of writers, is that the Man of Lawlessness is the PAPACY of the Roman Catholic Church which was the result of a GREAT FALLING AWAY. Certainly, this DID happen! There was a departure from the faith in many areas which produced many sects and finally the formation and power of the PAPACY. This is historical. Examine I Timothy 4:1-5 where Paul is probably speaking of a developing Jewish GNOSTICISM. 1. It is TRUE that the great FALLING AWAY came from within the CHURCH, the spiritual temple (Ephesians 2:19-22; II Thessalonians 2:4). 2. It is also TRUE that the Roman Catholic Church claims signs and wonders, that is, MIRACLES, during the centuries of its existence. See II Thessalonians 2:9. 3. Again, it is TRUE that the PAPACY has highly EXALTED itself. Read again II Thessalonians 2:4. 25
4. Some who take this position affirm that the One who restrains was the secular government of the Roman Empire (Kelcy, page 161). 5. However, ARE THESE NOT RELEVANT QUESTIONS? (1) Would Paul discuss with the Thessalonians, both personally and also by letter, a Man of sin who was still some distance in the FUTURE? Or, (2) would Paul be MORE CONCERNED about a PROBLEM ALREADY EXISTING such as the PERSECUTION of the CHURCH taking place in Thessalonica? NOTE: When Paul wrote II Thessalonians, the MYSTERY OF LAWLESSNESS was ALREADY AT WORK. (II Thessalonians 2:7). C. Another interpretation of this passage (II Thessalonians 2:1-12) which has been suggested, affirms that the Man of Lawlessness is SATAN HIMSELF. 1. Some who take this position believe that the One who restrains (2:6, 7) is the HOLY SPIRIT. 2. One OBJECTION to this is the statement of Paul that The one who restrains would be taken out of the way (II Thessalonians 2:6, 7). Certainly, this would NOT apply to the Holy Spirit. 3. Another OBJECTION to this interpretation would be that the coming of the Man of sin was in accord with the activity of Satan (2:9). SATAN and the MAN OF LAWLESSNESS are TWO different persons. D. Another interpretation is that the mystery of lawlessness at work in Paul s day is speaking of the PRINCIPLE OF EVIL (Kelcy, page 163). 1. It suggests that, in the future, there will be a great FALLING AWAY from God. 2. In this interpretation, the One who restrains would be orderly government or law and order. 3. It suggests that, in the future, an ANTICHRIST (Based on I John 2:18) will arise and make the terrible claims that Paul mentioned in II Thessalonians 2:3, 4. When Christ returns, this position says, this man of sin and his disciples will be destroyed. 4. EXAMINE THIS QUOTE: As a general summary it might be said that Paul saw the force of evil working in his day, causing great suffering for the cause 26
of Christ. The full manifestation was being held in check, likely by the force of law and order.the attitude of disregard for law and rebellion against God has been embodied in numerous groups and in numerous individuals. Each of these might be considered an Antichrist (cf. I John 2:18). (Kelcy, page 164). (Underlining by this writer). E. OBSERVATIONS by the writer of this BOOKLET: 1. It must be emphasized that the ANTICHRIST of the Scripture was the false teachers who denied that Christ had come in the flesh (I John 2:18-23; II John 7). 2. However, there can be MANY ANTI-CHRISTS through the centuries who are against Christ and rebel against God. Note many antichrists again in I John 2:18. Is it not possible also that the Man of Lawlessness can appear in many different centuries, in different forms, LED BY SATAN? 3. With respect to this, a man of sin and mystery of lawlessness were coming in the days of Paul and the Thessalonians. Perhaps, Paul was speaking of the present and future PERSECUTION of Christians within the Roman Empire and the demand to worship the Emperor. Please see APPENDIX A. 4. However, a man of sin, the principle of evil, can appear throughout history in the form of institutions and individuals who have the same characteristics as described by Paul in II Thessalonians 2:1-12. This would include a rebellion against God, claiming to be a god, etc.. 5. CONSIDER whether the following COMPARISONS are possible: a. The BEAST out of the SEA (Revelation 13:1-10) in the days of John, who made war with the saints, was the persecuting Roman Empire. This was noted ABOVE. b. However, an application can be made that, whenever God s people are PERSECUTED, Satan is using an institutions or individuals as he did the Roman Empire in the days of Paul! The DRAGON, Satan, has his helpers! They ALL will be destroyed! 27
c. The BEAST out of the EARTH, (Revelation 13:11-18) in the days of John, who forced men to make an image of the SEA beast, was EMPEROR WORSHIP. d. However, an application can be made concerning any period of human history when the SAME EVIL is being imposed on people. With this in mind, It is seen that SATAN can have his SEA BEAST or EARTH BEAST at any particular period of time. But, when Jesus returns, Satan and all of his helpers will meet their doom! e. A SUMMARY: Now, we apply this principle to the MAN OF SIN. In the time of the apostle Paul, the Man of sin was probably the evil persecution of Christians caused by unbelieving Jews at an early time, and then, persecution caused by the Roman government which considered its emperors to be divine. Satan could use the SAME EVIL in any period of human history. Thus, an application can be made. Satan and the man of sin will meet their doom! The One who restrains would be the law and order system and individuals who prevent such LAWLESSNESS. PLEASE DISCUSS THESE OBSERVATIONS! Because the Thessalonians knew MORE ABOUT the meaning of Paul s teaching than we do, NO ONE should be dogmatic! D. The THANKFULNESS of Paul, Silas, and Timothy is emphasized again in addition to their ENCOURAGEMENT to the Thessalonians to STAND FIRM (II Thessalonians 2:13-15). 1. In this passage, Paul CONTINUED his thanksgiving which he began in 1:3. In both passages, he stated that he ought ( opheilomen ) or should give thanks to God.. 2. Observe that the Thessalonians were beloved of the Lord (II Thessalonians 2:13). a. This word for beloved is in a tense which expresses that they had 28
been loved by the Lord, and THEY STILL WERE LOVED! It can be translated, having been loved by the Lord. b. The word, LORD here may refer to JESUS (See Galatians 2:20), BUT, note also the LOVE that the FATHER has for His children (Romans 5:8-10, etc.). c. God had CHOSEN them from the beginning Notice that this was God s eternal plan (Ephesians 1:4, etc.). (1) They had been chosen for salvation ( eis soterian ). (2) Their calling was through the GOSPEL! See the next verse, II Thessalonians 2:14 (3) NOTE: God did NOT choose them arbitrarily without their acceptance. People must OBEY, and be IN CHRIST! (Romans 6:1-5). See the phrase, IN CHRIST and its equivalent terms found several times in Ephesians 1:3-14. d. Their choosing was brought about through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth. (1) Consider Paul s emphasis on holiness and sanctification also in First Thessalonians 3:13; 4:7; 5:23. (2) Observe that the Holy Spirit accomplishes sanctification or holiness through the Word which is His sword (John 17:17; Ephesians 6:17). (3) The Thessalonians had faith in the truth. They had believed the testimony of Paul and his companions. Review II Thessalonians 1:10. 3. The Thessalonians were CALLED through the GOSPEL (II Thessalonians 2:14). a. Review the call of God that is seen in I Thessalonians 2:12; 4:7; 5:24. b. Consider Paul s emphasis on our gospel and the word of the Lord found in First Thessalonians 1:5, 8. 29
c. The acceptance of the GOSPEL by the Thessalonians leads to the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Study II Corinthians 4:4, 6; I Thessalonians 2:12; Colossians 3:4). QUESTION: Is there a sense in which Christians experience GLORY in THIS LIFE? (I Thessalonians 1:12). 4. The Thessalonians were ENCOURAGED to STAND FIRM (II Thessalonians 2:15). a. These words, stand firm ( stekete ) mean to continue being steadfast (A. and G., page 775). Consider how it is used in I Corinthians 16:13; Galatians 5:1; Philippians 4:1; I Thessalonians 3:8. b. Standing firm demands that the Thessalonians hold to the TRADITIONS ( paradoseis ) which they had been taught by Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. (1) The word, traditions means that which was handed down or handed over (A. and G., page 621). (2) HUMAN traditions given through uninspired men are condemned in Scripture (Colossians 2:8; Matthew 15:2; Mark 7:5, 8). There is a WRONG TRADITION! (3) In this passage, Paul is speaking of TEACHING given by Inspired men, either orally or by letter, by word of mouth or by letter from us, This is DIVINE TRADITION! This is GOD S TRADITION! (4) Paul and companions had taught the Thessalonians while present with them. By speaking of letter, Paul may be referring to the epistle of First Thessalonians. Study the word, tradition in II Thessalonians 3:6 and I Corinthians 11:2. E. Paul s WISH / PRAYER for the Thessalonians (II Thessalonians 2:16, 17). 1. The SOURCE of STRENGTH for the task of the disciple is the Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father (II Thessalonians 2:16). Read also First Thessalonians 3:11-13. 30
2. When Paul used the word, US (II Thessalonians 2:16, he included himself and his companions. GOD LOVES ALL OF US! See again, beloved of the Lord in II Thessalonians 2:13. Consider also Romans 8:37. 3. GOD, through His LOVE, has given ETERNAL COMFORT, ( paraklesin ) NOT just temporary, EARTHLY COMFORT! God is the God of all comfort and encouragement (II Corinthians 1:3-7; Romans 15:5). 4. GOD has also given GOOD HOPE! God is the GOD OF HOPE (Romans 15:13). See the HOPE of the Christian in Titus 2:13, the living hope (I Peter 1:3, 4). 5. BOTH of these BLESSINGS noted above COME FROM GOD S GRACE, His FAVOR which we DO NOT MERIT OR DESERVE! (Romans 3:24-27; 6:23; Ephesians 2:8, 9, etc.). 6. May God COMFORT and STRENGTHEN the hearts of the Thessalonians (II Thessalonians 2:17). a. TIMOTHY had been sent to Thessalonica to accomplish this (First Thessalonians 3:2). b. The word, COMFORT ( parakalesai ) here is the same Greek word as ENCOURAGE in I Thessalonians 3:2. The word, STRENGTHEN ( sterixai ) here is the same word as STRENTHEN in I Thessalonians 3:2. c. GOD would comfort and strengthen them for their EVERY GOOD WORK AND WORD! See the emphasis on good works in Ephesians 2:10; Colossians 1:10; Titus 2:14, etc. REVIEW QUESTIONS ON SECOND THESSALONIANS CHAPTER TWO 1. What are some of the very DIFFICULT QUESTIONS concerning CHAPTER TWO? 2. What was the incorrect teaching that had come to Thessalonica? (2:1, 2). 3. What is the meaning of the Greek word for SHAKEN in 2:2? 4. Discuss the meaning of A SPIRIT in 2:2? 31
5. What must COME FIRST BEFORE the Second Coming of Christ? (2:3). 6. Was a departure from the faith approaching in the days of Paul? If so, please give Scripture IN ADDITION to this chapter. 7. Give some characteristics of the Man of sin or Man of lawlessness found in 2:4. 8. The Thessalonians could understand this chapter in MORE DETAIL THAN WE CAN! How do we know this? (2:5). Give other Scriptures which show that Paul and his companions had spoken about other matters IN PERSON while with them. 9. What is the meaning of RESTRAINING? (2:6, 7). 10. When will the lawless one be destroyed? (2:8). 11. The coming of the lawless one was in accord with the activity of. 12. This Man of lawlessness had SIMILARITIES to WHICH VISIONS in the book of Revelation? 13. Thos who will PERISH do NOT LOVE (2:10). 14. Discuss some of the INTERPRETATIONS of this passage given by various scholars, and possible OBJECTIONS that are noted. 15. Discuss OBSERVATIONS made in this booklet concerning these interpretations. 16. HOW does God CHOOSE and CALL men and women? (2:13-15). 17. Give the root meaning of the word, TRADITIONS and show from Scripture which traditions are Biblical and which are NOT Biblical. 18. WHO ARE the source of STRENGTH for Christians? (2:16, 17). 19. According to 2:16, WHAT DOES GOD GIVE THE CHRISTIAN? NOTES ON SECOND THESSALONIANS CHAPTER THREE IV. EXHORTATIONS and CHARGES from Paul and companions (II Thessalonians 3:1-15). 32
A. Encouragement to the Thessalonians to continue PRAYING for Paul, Silas, and Timothy (II Thessalonians 3:1, 2). 1. Paul and his companions ASKED for their PRAYERS (II Thessalonians 3:1). a. Paul OFTEN asked his brothers to PRAY FOR HIM (Romans 15:30-32; II Corinthians 1:11; Ephesians 6:19; Philemon 22; I Thessalonians 5:25, etc.). b. AN INTERESTING POINT: Paul, Silas, and Timothy were PRAYING for the Thessalonians (II Thessalonians 2:16, 17; 1:3). However, NOW, they are saying to the Thessalonians, PRAY FOR US! c. SEE THE SAME IDEA in Philippians: Paul was praying for the Philippians (Philippians 1:9-11). BUT, Paul wanted the Philippians to PRAY FOR HIM! (Philippians 1:19). 2. The Thessalonians were asked to pray that the WORD OF THE LORD might SPREAD RAPIDLY! a. Paul later asked the Colossians to PRAY that he would have an OPEN DOOR (Colossians 4:2, 3). Paul was in PRISON at this time. b. Paul asked the Ephesians to PRAY that he could preach with boldness concerning the mystery of the gospel (Ephesians 6:19). c. NOTE Psalm 147:15: His word runs very swiftly! QUESTION: IN OUR PRAYER LIFE, DO WE PRAY THAT THE WORD OF GOD WILL SPREAD RAPIDLY? d. It is true that the word had spread rapidly in Thessalonica and beyond (Acts 17:1-4; I Thessalonians 1:8). 3. When God s WORD is RECEIVED by people, that WORD will be GLORIFIED and praised (II Thessalonians 3:1). Note that Gentiles in Pisidian Antioch were GLORIFYING the WORD OF THE LORD (Acts 13:48). 4. The Thessalonians were also asked to PRAY that Paul and companions would be delivered from perverse and evil men (II Thessalonians 3:2). 33
a. The word, PERVERSE ( atopos ) means morally evil, wrong, improper (A. and G., page 120). It is used for doing something WRONG (Luke 23:41; Acts 25:5). b. Paul, Silas, and Timothy had been opposed by EVIL MEN in a number of places: (1) In Thessalonica (Acts 17:1-5) (2) In Berea (Acts 17:13) (3) In Corinth (Acts 18:12-16). Read also Romans 15:31. c. At the time Paul wrote this epistle, the major opposition was from the UNBELIEVING JEWS (Read I Thessalonians 2:14-16). d. Paul gave the reason for opposition: Not all have faith. The original language literally says, the faith. B. Paul expressed his CONFIDENCE in the LORD and also his CONFIDENCE in the Thessalonian disciples (II Thessalonians 3:3-5). 1. Paul said, THE LORD IS FAITHFUL! (II Thessalonians 3:3). Notice several Scriptures where the faithfulness of God is expressed (I Corinthians 1:9; 10:13; II Corinthians 1:18; I Thessalonians 5:24, etc.). a. The Lord would STRENGTHEN the Thessalonians, Review Paul s prayer in II Thessalonians 2:17. See also First Thessalonians 3:13. b. The Lord would guard them from the evil (one) ( apo tou ponerou ) (1) This may mean that the Lord would protect them from EVIL. (Read Matthew6:13). (2) OR, it can mean that they would be protected from the EVIL ONE, SATAN. Examine this in Matthew 13:19; Ephesians 6:16. Review the mention of Satan in I Thessalonians 2:18; 3:5. 2. Paul was also CONFIDENT that the Thessalonians would follow his COMMANDS or CHARGES (II Thessalonians 3:4). a. Paul had confidence in the Lord. He had a trust that the Lord would work through them. Observe this expression in Galatians 5:10 and Philippians 1:6. Note also, trust in the Lord (Philippians 2:24). 34