Page 59 - Pauline Epistles Student Textbook

In vv 14-15, Paul laid down guidelines for the handling of the idle and disruptive brother. Initially,
they were supposed to take special note of anyone who did not obey the apostles’ instructions in
this letter (v14a). They hoped that the idler and disrupter would be able to follow alongside the
apostles’ instructions this time. Secondly, they were not supposed to associate with and idle person
for the purpose of bringing them shame(v14b). Paul excluded the idle from the participation into
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common meals concerning the Lord’s Supper. They were not supposed to be regarded as enemies
(they were still brothers and sisters in Christ [v15a]) but to warn them as people of the same family
(v15b). The believers at Thessalonica were still expected to respect and regard those idlers and
disrupters as brothers and sisters as far as their spiritual status was concerned.

Closing Remarks (vv17-18)

16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you
all.
17 I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand. This is the sign of genuineness in every letter of mine;
it is the way I write. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. (ESV)
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In vv16-17, Paul wished and prayed to the Lord for their peace at all times and in every way. Notice
that this peace is not that one which they were supposed to have amidst much external oppression,
but this peace should be one that results from being free from external persecutions, afflictions,
suffering, and probably trials. This is confirmed using “at all times and in every way.” How possible
was that going to be had in this fallen world? It was possible because with God everything is
possible. Paul confirmed his authorship of 2 Thessalonians with “I Paul write this greeting in my own
hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters” (v17). Then, he wished and prayed for them
that the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ should be with them (v18).

The contents themselves suggest that this passage was penned to make available guidelines for the
handling of brothers and sisters who were idle and disruptive. That conduct confirmed their
disobedience of the apostolic teachings on moral behavior toward work.

11.4 Let’s Practice this Lesson…

1. Contextually, what could be the definition of idleness and disruption (2 Thess. 3:1-15)?

2. Briefly explain how the believers at Thessalonica were expected to respond to those brothers
(perhaps sisters) who were living in idleness and disruption (2 Thess. 3:1-15)?

3. Briefly explain the reasons why the believers at Thessalonica were expected to work with their
own hands (2 Thess. 3:1-15)?

90 Ibid., 289.

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