2. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness 2Thessalonians 3:1-18

3. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness  In this second epistle, we’ve already seen Paul: >warn regarding persecution & retribution in chapter 1 and >explain further coming of the day of the Lord; the apostasy which comes first; and the Man of Lawlessness in chapter 2.

4. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness  Now, in chapter 3, he gives his final recorded words of exhortation and encouragement to this young church.  He exhorts them: >to be ready for persecution, >to be prepared for the release of restraints from the Man of Sin, >and to patiently and diligently carry on until the Lord’s coming. So let’s take a look at this final chapter...

5. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness  This chapter is also easily divided into three sections: Section #1- Paul’s request for their prayers and his desires for them. Section #2- His final instructions concerning work and failures to do so. Section #3- Farewell.

6. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness  Section #1- Paul’s request for their prayers and his desires for them. His request for their prayers were for: >the rapid spread of the word, v.1a >it’s glorification, v.1b > cf. Isa.11:9 >as it did with them, v.1c > cf.1Thess.1:8 >his deliverance from evil men, v.2 cf. Acts 18:9-17 Then, >he expresses his confidence in them, v.5 >and prays for them specifically, v.6

7. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness  Section #2- His final instructions concerning work and failures to do so. Note the command: (cf.2:1) “keep aloof from every brother who leads an unruly life” Further explanations: -not according to the tradition, v.6b > 2:15 -undisciplined manner, v.7 Specifically, -doing no work at all, v.11a -acting like busybodies, v.11b cf.1Tim.5:13

8. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness Their lives were contrary to the example Paul had set while among them: -following his example encouraged, v.7 -they worked for what they ate & did not become a burden to anyone, v.8 -this was done as a concession for the benefit of the Thessalonians- not because it was required of God, v.9 (cf. 1Cor.9:4-14) Therefore, v.10- Those who will not work should not eat!

9. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness So, what is to be done about all of this? The solution is quite simple, either: -v.12 Work and eat, -v.13 and keep at it, or -v.14 “do not associate with him” “that he may be put to shame.” But, -v.15a don’t regard him as an enemy, -v.15b instead, “admonish him as a brother” cf. 1Thess.5:14

10. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness  Farewell. (vv.16-18) -v.16 The blessing of the Lord’s peace and presence is pronounced upon them. -v.17 Paul’s personal seal is placed upon the letter. -v.18 The grace of the Lord is his final farewell.

11. Thessalonians #8 Exhortations to Readiness  So what big picture lessons should we take home with us from these two letters? 1. Even young and immature Christians are expected to maintain sanctification and grow in the Lord. 2. Doing the right things may well cause you to be persecuted. 3. The Lord will avenge such things…. LET HIM! 4. Take care of your own business while waiting for Christ’s coming.