Category: Thessalonians

Give Heed to Fables Part 1

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1Timothy 1:3-4 As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou might charge some that they teach no other doctrine, Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. 

‘As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went to Macedonia.’ Just when this happened is not clear. Some suppose that by this time Paul was liberated from prison, he went into Asia and then into Macedonia, leaving Timothy in Ephesus to carry out this charge.

‘Some that they teach’ – These were Judaizing teachers who were constantly seeking to bring Christians back under the law of Moses which is the same religion that crucified Christ and is still influencing most religions today in not believing in the gospel and Christ (1Tim. 1:3-4, 6-7).

‘No other doctrine’ – No doctrine other than those of the gospel or of the New Testament. Those in the law of Moses or the old covenant who are not brought into and made a part of the new covenant are not to be taught the gospel for they are scoffers (Prov. 9:7.9) and reject Christ’s salvation work (Gal. 1:6-16; 2:15-21; 3:1-29; 4:1-31).

The Old Covenant contrasts the New Covenant as follows: it is called the Old Testament (3:14) and the first covenant (Heb. 8:7; 9:1); it came by Moses (John 1:17) and is thus called the law of Moses (Acts 13:38-39), the law of works (Rom. 3:26-31) that works wrath (Rom. 4:15); the law of sin (Rom. 7:23; 8:2) the law of the flesh (Rom. 7:5-6); not of faith (Gal. 3:12); was the yoke of bondage (Gal. 5:1); ended by Christ (Rom. 10:4); it brought death (3:7); it made guilty (3:9) it was a shadow (Col. 2:14-17); it is fulfilled (Matt. 5:17-18); it demanded righteousness (Luke 10:28); made nothing perfect (Heb. 7:19) while it was glorious (3:7) it was powerless to save (Heb. 9:9; 10:4); many animal sacrifices where needed (Heb. 9:12-13); ratified by animal blood (Heb. 9:16-22); it was a sinful ministry (Heb. 5:1-4); had temporary priests (Heb. 7:23); the Aaronic priesthood and was of Levi (Heb. 7:11); yearly atonement that remembered sins (Heb. 10:3); had an earthly tabernacle (Heb. 9:2); a sinful mediator (Gal. 3:19); offered no inheritance (Rom. 4:13); it could not redeem (Heb. 10:4) nor satisfied (Isa. 1:13-14); it had no miracle power (Heb. 7:18) and its abolishment was predicted (Hos. 2:11).

To be continued…

Peace Part 3

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2Thessalonians 3:16-18 Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means.

All the promises of God reveal that He has provided for man here and now despite the curse. Everyone can enjoy to the full all the benefits of these promises if he will surrender his life to God, experience the genuine new birth and live a godly life in this present world according to the gospel of Christ. Many of these benefits are even for the unsaved to prove to them that God provides for all creation despite their rebellion. The purpose of such goodness to the unsaved is to lead to repentance (Rom. 2:4). The following scriptures teach that it is God’s will for man to be blessed: [1] Prosperity (Jos. 1:5-9; 1Sam. 2:7-8; 1Kin. 2:3-4; 1Chron. 29:12; Ezra 8:22; Job 36:11; Ps. 1:1-3; Matt. 6:31-33; 7:7-11; Mark 11:22-24; John 15:7, 16; 2Cor. 9:6-8; Php. 4:19; 3Jn. 1:2). [2] Healing and health (Ex. 15:26; Ps. 91:1-16; 103:3-5; Isa. 53:4-5; 58:8; Matt. 8:16-17; Jas. 5:14-16; 1Pet. 2:24; 3Jn. 1:2). Christ came to “destroy the works of the devil” (1Jn. 3:8), and to deliver “all that were oppressed by the devil” (Acts 10:38). He came to do this not only for three years during His ministry but forever. He commissioned the disciples to carry on the work that He began both to do and to teach (Matt. 28:19-20; Mark 16:15-20; John 14:12-15; Acts 1:1-2, 8). Early believers did carry on this work until they lost faith (Acts 3:1-26; 5:16; Jas. 5:14-16; etc.). Present Christians are to contend for the faith once delivered to the saints (Jude 1:3; 2Cor. 10:4-6; Eph. 6:10-18). [3] Wants and needs (Ps. 23:1-6; 34:9-10; 37:3-6; 84:11; Mark 9:23; 11:22-24; John 14:12-15; 15:7, 16; 16:23-26; 1Jn. 3:21-22; 5:14-15).

The scriptures prove that Divine providence has been working in all ages in all the affairs of men. It was providence that originally brought all things into existence (Isa. 45:18; Col. 1:15-19), that provided redemption for the fall (Gen. 3:15; Eph. 1:1-11), that preserved humanity at the flood (Gen. 6:8 – 8:22), and that dealt with men in each dispensation giving them a chance to make good in every age. The continued preservation of all things from the creation of man proves that God’s providence is working out all things after the counsel of His own will. God’s love in creating and redeeming all things proves His desire to preserve creation and finally reconcile it to Himself. The prevalence of order in all things proves divine providence. One can see fixed and eternal laws governing everything in creation, evidencing an all-wise Ruler and Preserver of all things.

God’s purpose has been to create a race of beings who would find their highest degree of happiness in the highest degree of holiness and who would, in proportion to their highest holiness and happiness, glorify their Creator (Gen. 1:26-28; Isa. 43:7; 45:18; Eph. 1:12; Col. 1:15-22; Rev. 4:9-11; 5:11-14; 7:10-12).

Peace Part 2

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2Thessalonians 3:16-18 Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. The second epistle to the Thessalonians was written from Athens.

‘The Lord of peace himself give you peace always.’ There are however eight reasons for God not to hold His peace: The mouth of the wicked man is opened against me (Ps. 109:2). The mouth of the deceitful man is opened against me. They have lied against me. They surrounded me with words of hatred (Ps. 109:3). They fought against me without cause. They are my adversaries despite my love toward them (Ps. 109:4). They have rewarded me evil for good (Ps. 109:5). They have rewarded me hatred for love.

Five blessings to him who fears God: He will be taught by God (Ps. 25:12). He will be safe and at peace (Ps. 25:13). His children will be blessed. He will know God’s secrets (Ps. 25:14). He will know God’s covenant.

From Psalm 34 we have eighteen secrets of a long life: Freedom from fear (Ps. 34:4). Quickening from God (Ps. 34:5). Boldness – freedom from shame. Freedom from troubles (Ps. 34:6). Divine deliverance (Ps. 34:7). Partaking of God’s life (Ps. 34:8). Absolute trust in God. Fear (respect) of God (Ps. 34:7-9). Freedom from want (Ps. 34:9-10). Seeking God first (Ps. 34:10, 15; Matt. 6:33). Godly teaching (Ps. 34:11; 2Tim. 3:15). Control of the tongue (Ps. 34:12-13). Godliness – departing from evil (Ps. 34:14-16). Consecration to doing good (Ps. 34:14). Seeking and pursuing peace. Brokenness and humility (Ps. 34:18). Salvation of the soul (Ps. 34:22). Prosperity – freedom from worry.

To be continued…

Peace Part 1

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2Thessalonians 3:16-18 Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all. The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. The second epistle to the Thessalonians was written from Athens. 

‘The Lord of peace.’ From Isaiah 47:5 we read that God says: “I make peace” meaning freedom from war or civil disorder; harmony in human and divine relations; quietness and tranquillity. God is the Author of peace and Christ is called “the Prince of Peace” (Isa. 9:6-7). All real and lasting peace comes from God; it originated with Him.

‘Give you peace.’  The Greek word for peace is eirene, the state of quietness, rest, repose, harmony, order and security amid turmoil, strife, and temptations.

From Isaiah 26:3 we have the promise of being in perfect peace for all men of all ages who meet the condition of keeping the mind stayed on God, and who trust in Him at all times, in all things, and in all places (Ps. 91:1-16).

Christ promises to leave us with His peace and to give it to us if we won’t let our hearts be troubled or afraid (John 14:27). We must lay our burdens and troubles on Him and live in righteousness to accomplish this truth.

In Psalm 34:14 we are commanded to depart from evil, to do good, to seek peace and pursue it.

We see three final commands in 2 Peter 3:14-18 that save the soul: Be diligent that you may be found of Him in peace, without spot, and blameless (2Pet. 3:14). Beware lest you also (like the backsliders of 2Pet. 2:1-22), being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own steadfastness (2Pet. 3:17). Grow in grace, and in the knowledge of Jesus Christ (2Pet. 3:18).

‘The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write.’ Compare this with the ending of other epistles of Paul.

To be continued…

Have No Company

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2Thessalonians 3:13-15 But you, brethren, be not weary in well doing. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 

‘But you, brethren, be not weary in well doing.’ While you refuse to support those who are busybodies and lazy, do not forget the worthy poor. This is the second time this is found in Paul’s writings (Gal. 6:9).

‘And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.’ Perhaps some had disobeyed the first epistle and the congregation continued to bear with them. Now he tells them to disfellowship anyone who still refuses to obey the truth. Count him more an enemy to himself than to you. Continue to admonish him even though you have disfellowshipped him for his soul is still of infinite value (3:14-15).

Forty kinds of people NOT to have fellowship with: The ungodly and scorners (Ps. 1:1-6); workers of iniquity (Ps. 6:8); vain persons (Ps. 26:4); evil workers (Ps. 26:5); criminals (Pro. 1:10-15); the foolish (Pro. 9:6; 14:17); the angry man (Pro. 22:24); those backslidden because of unforgiveness (Matt. 18:17); those causing divisions (Rom. 16:17); backsliders (2Jn. 1:9-11); false teachers (1Tim. 6:3-5; 2Jn. 1:10); the disorderly (2Thess. 3:6); the disobedient (2Thess. 3:14-15); unbelievers (2Cor. 6:14); infidels (2Cor. 6:15); fornicators (1Cor. 5:9); covetous people, extortioners and idolaters (1Cor. 5:10); railers and drunkards (1Cor. 5:11); lovers of themselves, boasters, proud people, blasphemers, those who are disobedient to parents, unthankful people and unholy people (2Tim. 3:2); Those without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce people, despisers of those who are good (2Tim. 3:3); traitors, heady people, highminded people, those who love pleasure more than God (2Tim. 3:4), and hypocrites – those who have “a form of godliness, but deny the power thereof” (2Tim. 3:5).

Disorderly

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2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. 

‘That if any would not work, neither should he eat.’ This is a principle based upon the part of the curse to make a living by the sweat of the brow (Gen. 3:19). Idleness has always been a curse and always will be. It is wrong to support men who will not work and share their own responsibility.

‘For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly.’ How and by whom Paul learned of the state of the congregation is not known, but from this information, he wrote this epistle.

‘Working not at all.’ Either lounging around or becoming a religious gossip to stir up trouble.

‘Busybodies’ [Greek: periergazomai] to be busy with useless matters; doing everything that they should not do; meddlers in the business of others; prying into the domestic affairs of others. Such people are a curse to every neighbourhood and a plague to every religious group.

‘With quietness they work, and eat their own bread.’ [Greek: hesuchazo] Translated “be quiet” (1Thess. 4:11); “rest” (Luke 23:56); “cease” (Acts 21:14); and “hold one’s peace” (Luke 14:4; Acts 11:18). The thought is that of a disposition and life of peace, and contentment; even temperament; to be meek; and learn self-control in all things; not to permit anything to disturb or cause a display of temper tantrums or disturb the peace of others. There evidently were a few idle, tattling people in this church, who, instead of working, went from place to place carrying on religious gossip, meddling with the business of others, and causing splits or divisions. Hence, the commands to quit such practices, to do their own business, leave others alone, hold their peace, walk honestly toward the world, and work with their own hands so they would have no time to meander and gossip (1Thess. 4:11-12).

An Ensample unto You

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2Thessalonians 3:7-9 For yourselves know how you ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; Neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. 

‘Follow’ [Greek: mimeomai] imitate (3:9; Heb. 13:7; 3Jn. 1:11). Paul constantly held himself up as an example for all Christians, for Christ had chosen him to be this for all men (1Tim. 1:16).

‘Disorderly’ [Greek: atakteo] means out of order; not in order of battle; not at one’s post of duty; undisciplined; irregular; lawless, and disorderly. They act according to their own wills and are idle busybodies (3:11). Paul here says that he did not go out of his rank or post of duty, but kept his place and discharged his duties at all times and places as a true and tried soldier of Jesus Christ (3:7).

‘Neither did we eat any man’s bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.’ We paid for what we ate of any man’s bread. We worked and paid our own debts. We were not chargeable to any man. We laboured night and day not to be a burden on them and to be an example to all men not to depend upon others for support (3:8-9).

‘To make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.’ The example that they set in following Christ (1Pet. 2:21-23) we can follow [Greek: tupos] example (Php. 3:17; 1Cor. 10:6, 11; 1Thess. 1:7; 2Thess. 3:9; 1Tim. 4:12; 1Pet. 5:3); pattern (Tit. 2:7; Heb. 8:5); manner (Acts 23:25); fashion (Acts 7:44); form (Rom. 6:17); figure (Acts 7:43; Rom. 5:14), and print (John 20:25).

The Lord is Faithful

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2Thessalonians 3:3-6 But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that you both do and will do the things which we command you. And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother that walks disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. 

‘But the Lord is faithful.’ Twelve times God and Christ are called faithful (Deut. 7:9; Isa. 49:7; 1Cor. 1:9; 10:13; 2Thess. 3:3; Heb. 10:23; 11:11; 1Pet. 4:19; 1Jn. 1:9; Rev. 1:5; 3:14; 19:11).

‘Confidence in the Lord.’ Paul’s threefold confidence: In God to establish and keep saints from evil (3:3). In saints that they will obey (3:4). In God to direct their hearts into deeper love and patience (3:5).

‘Command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother that walks disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.’ Seven parting commands: Withdraw from unruly brothers (3:6). Work or don’t eat (3:11). Work peaceably (3:12). Make your own living. Be not weary in well doing (3:13). Have no fellowship with rebels (3:14). Admonish rebels (3:15).

‘Disorderly’ [Greek: ataktos] here and 2Thessalonians 3:11 (the verb atakteo, to behave disorderly, is used in 2Thess. 3:7). It means out of order; not in order of battle; not at one’s post of duty; undisciplined; irregular; lawless, and disorderly. They act according to their own wills and are idle busybodies (3:11). Paul here says that he did not go out of his rank or post of duty, but kept his place and discharged his duties at all times and places as a true and tried soldier of Jesus Christ (3:7).

‘Tradition’ [Greek: paradosis] is a handing down; doctrines; traditions (Matt. 15:2-6; Mark 7:3-13; Gal. 1:14; Col. 2:8; 2Thess. 2:15; 3:6). Translated “ordinances” only here. What ordinances he refers to are not listed, but they no doubt include the whole body of truth of the gospel and not only the Lord’s Supper and water baptism.

Pray for Us

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2Thessalonians 3:1-2 Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith. 

‘Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you.’ In conclusion, pray for us (3:1-2): That the Gospel may have its free course. That the Gospel may be glorified. That we may not be hindered in work. Paul was the only New Testament writer who asked for the prayers of those to whom he wrote (Rom. 15:30; 2Cor. 1:11; Eph. 6:19; Php. 1:19; Col. 4:3; Phm. 1:22; Heb. 13:18).

‘Glorified’ [Greek: doxazo]. Translated “be made glorious” (2Cor. 3:10); “have glory” (Matt. 6:2; 2Cor. 3:10); “full of glory” (1Pet. 1:8); “honour” (John 8:54; 2Cor. 12:1-21); “magnify” (Rom. 11:13); and “glorify” 49 times in the sense of praise and honour (2Thess. 3:1; etc.).

‘Unreasonable’ [Greek: atopos] out of place – under no discipline; absurd; disgusting; disorderly. Translated “unreasonable” (3:2); “amiss” (Luke 23:41); “harm” (Acts 28:6); and “wickedness” (Acts 25:5).

‘Faith’ [Greek: pistis] is confidence, faithfulness, trust, and a pledge of good faith. Used 244 times. Translated belief (2:13); fidelity (Tit. 2:10); assurance (Acts 17:31); and faith 239 times (Heb. 11:1-39; 12:2; etc.). Here it means fidelity or faithfulness in contrast to the Lord who is faithful (3:2-3). See Faith.

Eighteen definitions of faith: Substance of things hoped for (Heb. 11:1). Evidence of things not seen (Heb. 11:1, 7). Invisible backing of elders (Heb. 11:2). Creative power of divine works (Heb. 11:3). Divine testimony of right doing (Heb. 11:4). Cancellation of natural laws (Heb. 11:5). Basis of pleasing God (Heb. 11:6). Dependence upon God’s word (Heb. 11:7). Trust in an unknown future (Heb. 11:8-10). Counting things that be not as though they were (Heb. 11:11-12; Rom. 4:17). Seeing invisible things (Heb. 11:13-16). Assurance of God’s faithfulness (Heb. 11:17-19; 10:23). Confidence in things to come (Heb. 11:20-31; 3:6, 14; 10:35; Eph. 3:12; 1Jn. 3:21). Stimulus of the Christian faith (Heb. 11:32 – 12:2). The lifeblood of the just (Heb. 10:38). Shield of Christian armour (Eph. 6:16). The down payment of things desired (Heb. 3:6, 12-14; 6:11-12; 10:22-23, 35-39). Guarantee of answered prayer (Matt. 21:22; Mark 11:22-24; Heb. 11:6; Jas. 1:1-27).  

Stand Fast Part 7

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2Thessalonians 2:15-17 Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which you have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which has loved us, and has given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work. 

We submit the following facts in Scripture to prove a Divine Trinity of separate persons in the Godhead (continues): [20] The words through and by, used of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit, but not once of the Father, prove that God is a separate Person and the Head and Director of all things done by and through them (1Cor. 3:23; 11:3; John 10:29; 14:28; 16-17, 26; 15:26; 16:7-15; Acts 2:33-34): (1) Through Jesus Christ (Acts 4:2; Rom. 1:8; 5:1, 9, 11; 6:23; 7:25; 15:17; 16:27; 1Cor. 15:57; 2Cor. 3:4; Gal. 3:14; 4:7; 5:10; Eph. 2:7, 18; Php. 4:7, 13; Tit. 3:6; Heb. 13:21; 1Pet. 1:22; 4:11; 1Jn. 4:9); (2) By Jesus Christ (John 1:3, 10, 17; 10:9; Acts 4:10; 10:36; Rom. 2:16; 3:22; 5:17, 21; Gal. 1:1; Eph. 1:5; 3:9; Col. 1:15-20; 3:17; Heb. 1:1-3; 1Pet. 2:5; 5:10); (3) Through the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:2; 21:4; Rom. 8:13; 15:13, 19; Gal. 5:5; Eph. 2:22; Heb. 9:14); (4) By the Holy Spirit (Ezek. 11:24; Mic. 3:8; Zech. 4:6; Matt. 12:28; Luke 2:27; 4:1; Acts 11:28; Rom. 5:5; 15:19; 1Cor. 2:10; 6:11; 12:3, 13).

‘Loved us, and has given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace.’ Six facts about God: He has loved us (2Thess. 2:16; John 3:16). He has given us everlasting consolation (2Thess. 2:16; Acts 13:15). He has given us good hope through grace. He comforts our hearts (2Thess. 2:17). He establishes us in good words. He establishes us in good works.