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Created page with "{{Infobox_Contents | topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : 2 Thessalonians | Image:Paul's Missionary Journeys Small.jpg|thumb|center|a map of the regions tha..."
{{Infobox_Contents |
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : 2 Thessalonians |
[[Image:Paul's Missionary Journeys Small.jpg|thumb|center|a map of the regions that [[apostle Paul|Paul]] travelled. Colossae is in grid I-4]] |
subtopics = [[Apostle Paul]]
* [[Text:EBD:Thessalonica|Thessalonica]] |
opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}}
* [[Text:EBD:Thessalonians, Epistles to the|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on the Epistles to the Thessalonians]] |
}}
Read the book of [[Second Epistle to the Thessalonians|2 Thessalonians]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]
{{chapters}}
[[2 Thessalonians 1|1]]
[[2 Thessalonians 2|2]]
[[2 Thessalonians 3|3]]
==Commentary==
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Thessalonians 1|1]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Thessalonians 2|2]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Thessalonians 3|3]]
{{mhc import}}
'''Commentary on the [[Second Epistle to the Thessalonians]]'''
The second epistle to the Thessalonians was written soon after the first. The apostle was told that, from some expressions in his first letter, many expected the second coming of [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] was at hand, and that the day of judgment would arrive in their time. Some of these neglected their worldly duties. St. [[Paul]] wrote again to correct their error, which hindered the spread of the [[gospel]]. He had written agreeably to the words of the prophets of the Old Testament; and he tells them there were many counsels of the Most High yet to be fulfilled, before that day of the [[Lord]] should come, though, because it is sure, he had spoken of it as near. The subject led to a remarkable foretelling, of some of the future events which were to take place in the after-ages of the [[Christian]] [[church]], and which show the prophetic spirit the apostle possessed.
----
'''Chapter''' 1
''Chapter Outline''
The apostle blesses [[God]] for the growing state of the [[love]] and patience of the Thessalonians.
(1-4)
And encourages them to persevere under all their sufferings for [[Christ]], considering his coming at the great day of account.
(5-12)
'''Verses''' 1-4
Where there is the truth of grace, there will be an increase of it. The path of the just is as the shining light, which shines more and more unto the perfect day. And where there is the increase of grace, [[God]] must have all the glory. Where [[faith]] grows, [[love]] will abound, for faith works by love. It shows [[faith]] and patience, such as may be proposed as a pattern for others, when trials from [[God]], and persecutions from men, quicken the exercise of those graces; for the patience and [[faith]] of which the apostle gloried, bore them up, and enabled them to endure all their tribulations.
'''Verses''' 5-10
Religion, if worth anything, is worth every thing; and those have no [[religion]], or none worth having, or know not how to value it, cannot find their hearts to suffer for it. We cannot by all our sufferings, any more than by our services, merit heaven; but by our patience under sufferings, we are prepared for the promised joy. Nothing more strongly marks a man for eternal ruin, than a spirit of persecution and enmity to the name and people of [[God]]. [[God]] will trouble those that trouble his people. And there is a rest for the people of [[God]]; a rest from [[sin]] and sorrow. The certainty of future recompence is proved by the righteousness of [[God]]. The thoughts of this should be terrible to wicked men, and support the righteous. Faith, looking to the great day, is enabled partly to understand the book of providence, which appears confused to unbelievers. The [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] will in that day appear from heaven. He will come in the [[glory]] and power of the upper world. His light will be piercing, and his power consuming, to all who in that day shall be found as chaff. This appearance will be terrible to those that know not [[God]], especially to those who rebel against revelation, and obey not the [[gospel]] of our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. This is the great crime of multitudes, the [[gospel]] is revealed, and they will not believe it; or if they pretend to believe, they will not obey it. Believing the truths of the [[gospel]], is in order to our obeying the precepts of the [[gospel]]. Though sinners may be long spared, they will be punished at last. They did sin's work, and must receive sin's wages. Here [[God]] punishes sinners by creatures as instruments; but then, it will be destruction from the Almighty; and who knows the power of his anger? It will be a joyful day to some, to the saints, to those who believe and obey the [[gospel]]. In that bright and blessed day, [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]] will be glorified and admired by his saints. And [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] will be glorified and admired in them. His [[grace]] and power will be shown, when it shall appear what he has purchased for, and wrought in, and bestowed upon those who believe in him. [[Lord]], if the [[glory]] put upon thy saints shall be thus admired, how much more shalt thou be admired, as the Bestower of that glory! The [[glory]] of thy justice in the damnation of the wicked will be admired, but not as the [[glory]] of thy [[mercy]] in the [[salvation]] of [[believer]]s. How will this strike the adoring angels with holy admiration, and transport thy admiring saints with eternal rapture! The meanest [[believer]] shall enjoy more than the most enlarged [[heart]] can imagine while we are here; [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] will be admired in all those that believe, the meanest [[believer]] not excepted.
'''Verses''' 11, 12
Believing thoughts and expectations of the second coming of Christ should lead us to pray to [[God]] more, for ourselves and others. If there is any good in us, it is owing to the good pleasure of his goodness, and therefore it is called grace. There are many purposes of [[grace]] and good-will in [[God]] toward his people, and the apostle prays that [[God]] would complete in them the work of [[faith]] with power. This is to their doing every other good work. The power of [[God]] not only begins, but carries on the work of faith. And this is the great end and design of the [[grace]] of our [[God]] and [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], which is made known to us, and wrought in us.
----
'''Chapter''' 2
''Chapter Outline''
Cautions against the error that the time of [[Christ]]'s coming was just at hand. There would first be a general apostasy from the faith, and a revealing of the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]]ian man of sin.
(1-4)
His destruction, and that of those who obey him.
(5-12)
The security of the Thessalonians from apostacy; an exhortation to stedfastness, and [[prayer]] for them.
(13-17)
'''Verses''' 1-4
If errors arise among [[Christians]], we should set them right; and good men will be careful to suppress errors which rise from mistaking their words and actions. We have a cunning adversary, who watches to do mischief, and will promote errors, even by the words of Scripture. Whatever uncertainty we are in, or whatever mistakes may arise about the time of [[Christ]]'s coming, that coming itself is certain. This has been the [[faith]] and [[hope]] of all [[Christians]], in all ages of the [[church]]; it was the [[faith]] and [[hope]] of the Old Testament saints. All [[believer]]s shall be gathered together to [[Christ]], to be with him, and to be happy in his presence for ever. We should firmly believe the second coming of Christ; but there was danger lest the Thessalonians, being mistaken as to the time, should question the truth or certainty of the thing itself. False doctrines are like the winds that toss the water to and fro; and they unsettle the minds of men, which are as unstable as water. It is enough for us to know that our [[Lord]] will come, and will gather all his saints unto him. A reason why they should not expect the coming of [[Christ]], as at hand, is given. There would be a general falling away first, such as would occasion the rise of [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]], that man of sin. There have been great disputes who or what is intended by this man of [[sin]] and son of perdition. The man of [[sin]] not only practises wickedness, but also promotes and commands [[sin]] and wickedness in others; and is the son of perdition, because he is devoted to certain destruction, and is the instrument to destroy many others, both in soul and body. As [[God]] was in the [[temple]] of old, and worshipped there, and is in and with his [[church]] now; so the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]] here mentioned, is a usurper of [[God]]'s authority in the [[Christian]] [[church]], who claims Divine honours.
'''Verses''' 5-12
Something hindered or withheld the man of sin. It is supposed to be the power of the Roman empire, which the apostle did not mention more plainly at that time. Corruption of doctrine and [[worship]] came in by degrees, and the usurping of power was gradual; thus the mystery of iniquity prevailed. Superstition and [[idolatry]] were advanced by pretended devotion, and bigotry and persecution were promoted by pretended zeal for [[God]] and his glory. This mystery of iniquity was even then begun; while the apostles were yet living, persons pretended zeal for [[Christ]], but really opposed him. The fall or ruin of the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]]ian state is declared. The pure word of [[God]], with the [[Spirit]] of [[God]], will discover this mystery of iniquity, and in due time it shall be destroyed by the brightness of [[Christ]]'s coming. Signs and wonders, visions and [[miracle]]s, are pretended; but they are false signs to support false doctrines; and lying wonders, or only pretended [[miracle]]s, to cheat the people; and the diabolical deceits with which the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]]ian state has been supported, are notorious. The persons are described, who are his willing subjects. Their [[sin]] is this; They did not [[love]] the truth, and therefore did not believe it; and they were pleased with false notions. [[God]] leaves them to themselves, then sin will follow of course, and spiritual judgments here, and eternal punishments hereafter. These prophecies have, in a great measure, come to pass, and confirm the truth of the Scriptures. This passage exactly agrees with the system of popery, as it prevails in the Romish [[church]], and under the Romish popes. But though the son of perdition has been revealed, though he has opposed and exalted himself above all that is called [[God]], or that is worshipped; and has spoken and acted as if he were a god upon earth, and has proclaimed his insolent pride, and supported his delusions, by lying [[miracle]]s and all kinds of frauds; still the [[Lord]] has not yet fully destroyed him with the brightness of his coming; that and other prophecies remain to be fulfilled before the end shall come.
'''Verses''' 13-15
When we hear of the apostacy of many, it is a great comfort and joy, that there is a remnant according to the election of grace, which does and shall persevere; especially we should [[rejoice]], if we have reason to [[hope]] that we are of that number. The preservation of the saints, is because [[God]] loved them with an everlasting love, from the beginning of the world. The end and the means must not be separated. Faith and [[holiness]] must be joined together as well as [[holiness]] and happiness. The outward call of [[God]] is by the [[gospel]]; and this is rendered effectual by the inward working of the [[Spirit]]. The belief of the truth brings the sinner to rely on [[Christ]], and so to [[love]] and obey him; it is sealed by the [[Holy Spirit]] upon his heart. We have no certain proof of any thing having been delivered by the apostles, more than what we find contained in the Holy Scriptures. Let us then stand fast in the doctrines taught by the apostles, and reject all additions, and vain traditions.
'''Verses''' 16, 17
We may and should direct our [[prayer]]s, not only to [[God]] the Father, through our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], but also to our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] Christ himself. And we should pray in his name unto [[God]], not only as his Father, but as our Father in and through him. The [[love]] of [[God]] in Christ [[Jesus]], is the spring and fountain of all the good we have or [[hope]] for. There is good reason for strong consolations, because the saints have good [[hope]] through grace. The free [[grace]] and [[mercy]] of [[God]] are what they [[hope]] for, and what their hopes are founded on, and not any worth or merit of their own. The more pleasure we take in the word, and works, and ways of [[God]], the more likely we shall be to persevere therein. But, if we are wavering in faith, and of a doubtful mind, halting and faltering in our duty, no wonder that we are strangers to the joys of [[religion]].
----
'''Chapter''' 3
''Chapter Outline''
The apostle expresses confidence in the Thessalonians, and prays for them.
(1-5)
He charges them to withdraw from disorderly walkers, particularly from the lazy and busybodies.
(6-15)
And concludes with a [[prayer]] for them, and a greeting.
(16-18)
'''Verses''' 1-5
Those who are far apart still may meet together at the throne of grace; and those not able to do or receive any other kindness, may in this way do and receive real and very great kindness. Enemies to the preaching of the [[gospel]], and persecutors of its faithful preachers, are unreasonable and wicked men. Many do not believe the [[gospel]]; and no wonder if such are restless and show malice in their endeavours to oppose it. The evil of [[sin]] is the greatest evil, but there are other evils we need to be preserved from, and we have encouragement to depend upon the [[grace]] of [[God]]. When once the promise is made, the performance is sure and certain. The apostle had confidence in them, but that was founded upon his confidence in [[God]]; for there is otherwise no confidence in man. He prays for them for spiritual blessings. It is our [[sin]] and our misery, that we place our affections upon wrong objects. There is not true [[love]] of [[God]], without [[faith]] in [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. If, by the special [[grace]] of [[God]], we have that [[faith]] which multitudes have not, we should earnestly pray that we may be enabled, without reserve, to obey his commands, and that we may be enabled, without reserve, to the [[love]] of [[God]], and the patience of [[Christ]].
'''Verses''' 6-15
Those who have received the [[gospel]], are to live according to the [[gospel]]. Such as could work, and would not, were not to be maintained in idleness. [[Christianity]] is not to countenance slothfulness, which would consume what is meant to encourage the industrious, and to support the sick and afflicted. Industry in our callings as men, is a duty required by our calling as [[Christians]]. But some expected to be maintained in idleness, and indulged a curious and conceited temper. They meddled with the concerns of others, and did much harm. It is a great error and abuse of [[religion]], to make it a cloak for idleness or any other sin. The servant who waits for the coming of his [[Lord]] aright, must be working as his [[Lord]] has commanded. If we are idle, the devil and a corrupt [[heart]] will soon find us somewhat to do. The mind of man is a busy thing; if it is not employed in doing good, it will be doing evil. It is an excellent, but rare union, to be active in our own business, yet quiet as to other people's. If any refused to labour with quietness, they were to note him with censure, and to separate from his company, yet they were to seek his good by loving admonitions. The [[Lord]]s is with you while you are with him. Hold on your way, and hold on to the end. We must never give over, or tire in our work. It will be time enough to rest when we come to heaven.
'''Verses''' 16-18
The apostle prays for the Thessalonians. And let us desire the same blessings for ourselves and our friends. Peace with [[God]]. This [[peace]] is desired for them always, or in every thing. Peace by all means; in every way; that, as they enjoyed the means of grace, they might use all methods to secure [[peace]]. We need nothing more to make us safe and happy, nor can we desire any thing better for ourselves and our friends, than to have [[God]]'s gracious presence with us and them. No matter where we are, if [[God]] be with us; nor who is absent, if [[God]] be present. It is through the [[grace]] of our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], that we hope to have [[peace]] with [[God]], and to enjoy the presence of [[God]]. This [[grace]] is all in all to make us happy; though we wish ever so much to others, there remains enough for ourselves.
topic_name = Matthew Henry Concise Bible Commentary : 2 Thessalonians |
[[Image:Paul's Missionary Journeys Small.jpg|thumb|center|a map of the regions that [[apostle Paul|Paul]] travelled. Colossae is in grid I-4]] |
subtopics = [[Apostle Paul]]
* [[Text:EBD:Thessalonica|Thessalonica]] |
opinion_pieces = {{short_opinions}}
* [[Text:EBD:Thessalonians, Epistles to the|Easton's Bible Dictionary entry on the Epistles to the Thessalonians]] |
}}
Read the book of [[Second Epistle to the Thessalonians|2 Thessalonians]] from the [[Holy Bible|Bible]]
{{chapters}}
[[2 Thessalonians 1|1]]
[[2 Thessalonians 2|2]]
[[2 Thessalonians 3|3]]
==Commentary==
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Thessalonians 1|1]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Thessalonians 2|2]]
[[Text:MHC Concise 2 Thessalonians 3|3]]
{{mhc import}}
'''Commentary on the [[Second Epistle to the Thessalonians]]'''
The second epistle to the Thessalonians was written soon after the first. The apostle was told that, from some expressions in his first letter, many expected the second coming of [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] was at hand, and that the day of judgment would arrive in their time. Some of these neglected their worldly duties. St. [[Paul]] wrote again to correct their error, which hindered the spread of the [[gospel]]. He had written agreeably to the words of the prophets of the Old Testament; and he tells them there were many counsels of the Most High yet to be fulfilled, before that day of the [[Lord]] should come, though, because it is sure, he had spoken of it as near. The subject led to a remarkable foretelling, of some of the future events which were to take place in the after-ages of the [[Christian]] [[church]], and which show the prophetic spirit the apostle possessed.
----
'''Chapter''' 1
''Chapter Outline''
The apostle blesses [[God]] for the growing state of the [[love]] and patience of the Thessalonians.
(1-4)
And encourages them to persevere under all their sufferings for [[Christ]], considering his coming at the great day of account.
(5-12)
'''Verses''' 1-4
Where there is the truth of grace, there will be an increase of it. The path of the just is as the shining light, which shines more and more unto the perfect day. And where there is the increase of grace, [[God]] must have all the glory. Where [[faith]] grows, [[love]] will abound, for faith works by love. It shows [[faith]] and patience, such as may be proposed as a pattern for others, when trials from [[God]], and persecutions from men, quicken the exercise of those graces; for the patience and [[faith]] of which the apostle gloried, bore them up, and enabled them to endure all their tribulations.
'''Verses''' 5-10
Religion, if worth anything, is worth every thing; and those have no [[religion]], or none worth having, or know not how to value it, cannot find their hearts to suffer for it. We cannot by all our sufferings, any more than by our services, merit heaven; but by our patience under sufferings, we are prepared for the promised joy. Nothing more strongly marks a man for eternal ruin, than a spirit of persecution and enmity to the name and people of [[God]]. [[God]] will trouble those that trouble his people. And there is a rest for the people of [[God]]; a rest from [[sin]] and sorrow. The certainty of future recompence is proved by the righteousness of [[God]]. The thoughts of this should be terrible to wicked men, and support the righteous. Faith, looking to the great day, is enabled partly to understand the book of providence, which appears confused to unbelievers. The [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] will in that day appear from heaven. He will come in the [[glory]] and power of the upper world. His light will be piercing, and his power consuming, to all who in that day shall be found as chaff. This appearance will be terrible to those that know not [[God]], especially to those who rebel against revelation, and obey not the [[gospel]] of our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. This is the great crime of multitudes, the [[gospel]] is revealed, and they will not believe it; or if they pretend to believe, they will not obey it. Believing the truths of the [[gospel]], is in order to our obeying the precepts of the [[gospel]]. Though sinners may be long spared, they will be punished at last. They did sin's work, and must receive sin's wages. Here [[God]] punishes sinners by creatures as instruments; but then, it will be destruction from the Almighty; and who knows the power of his anger? It will be a joyful day to some, to the saints, to those who believe and obey the [[gospel]]. In that bright and blessed day, [[Jesus Christ|Christ Jesus]] will be glorified and admired by his saints. And [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] will be glorified and admired in them. His [[grace]] and power will be shown, when it shall appear what he has purchased for, and wrought in, and bestowed upon those who believe in him. [[Lord]], if the [[glory]] put upon thy saints shall be thus admired, how much more shalt thou be admired, as the Bestower of that glory! The [[glory]] of thy justice in the damnation of the wicked will be admired, but not as the [[glory]] of thy [[mercy]] in the [[salvation]] of [[believer]]s. How will this strike the adoring angels with holy admiration, and transport thy admiring saints with eternal rapture! The meanest [[believer]] shall enjoy more than the most enlarged [[heart]] can imagine while we are here; [[Christ|Jesus Christ]] will be admired in all those that believe, the meanest [[believer]] not excepted.
'''Verses''' 11, 12
Believing thoughts and expectations of the second coming of Christ should lead us to pray to [[God]] more, for ourselves and others. If there is any good in us, it is owing to the good pleasure of his goodness, and therefore it is called grace. There are many purposes of [[grace]] and good-will in [[God]] toward his people, and the apostle prays that [[God]] would complete in them the work of [[faith]] with power. This is to their doing every other good work. The power of [[God]] not only begins, but carries on the work of faith. And this is the great end and design of the [[grace]] of our [[God]] and [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], which is made known to us, and wrought in us.
----
'''Chapter''' 2
''Chapter Outline''
Cautions against the error that the time of [[Christ]]'s coming was just at hand. There would first be a general apostasy from the faith, and a revealing of the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]]ian man of sin.
(1-4)
His destruction, and that of those who obey him.
(5-12)
The security of the Thessalonians from apostacy; an exhortation to stedfastness, and [[prayer]] for them.
(13-17)
'''Verses''' 1-4
If errors arise among [[Christians]], we should set them right; and good men will be careful to suppress errors which rise from mistaking their words and actions. We have a cunning adversary, who watches to do mischief, and will promote errors, even by the words of Scripture. Whatever uncertainty we are in, or whatever mistakes may arise about the time of [[Christ]]'s coming, that coming itself is certain. This has been the [[faith]] and [[hope]] of all [[Christians]], in all ages of the [[church]]; it was the [[faith]] and [[hope]] of the Old Testament saints. All [[believer]]s shall be gathered together to [[Christ]], to be with him, and to be happy in his presence for ever. We should firmly believe the second coming of Christ; but there was danger lest the Thessalonians, being mistaken as to the time, should question the truth or certainty of the thing itself. False doctrines are like the winds that toss the water to and fro; and they unsettle the minds of men, which are as unstable as water. It is enough for us to know that our [[Lord]] will come, and will gather all his saints unto him. A reason why they should not expect the coming of [[Christ]], as at hand, is given. There would be a general falling away first, such as would occasion the rise of [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]], that man of sin. There have been great disputes who or what is intended by this man of [[sin]] and son of perdition. The man of [[sin]] not only practises wickedness, but also promotes and commands [[sin]] and wickedness in others; and is the son of perdition, because he is devoted to certain destruction, and is the instrument to destroy many others, both in soul and body. As [[God]] was in the [[temple]] of old, and worshipped there, and is in and with his [[church]] now; so the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]] here mentioned, is a usurper of [[God]]'s authority in the [[Christian]] [[church]], who claims Divine honours.
'''Verses''' 5-12
Something hindered or withheld the man of sin. It is supposed to be the power of the Roman empire, which the apostle did not mention more plainly at that time. Corruption of doctrine and [[worship]] came in by degrees, and the usurping of power was gradual; thus the mystery of iniquity prevailed. Superstition and [[idolatry]] were advanced by pretended devotion, and bigotry and persecution were promoted by pretended zeal for [[God]] and his glory. This mystery of iniquity was even then begun; while the apostles were yet living, persons pretended zeal for [[Christ]], but really opposed him. The fall or ruin of the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]]ian state is declared. The pure word of [[God]], with the [[Spirit]] of [[God]], will discover this mystery of iniquity, and in due time it shall be destroyed by the brightness of [[Christ]]'s coming. Signs and wonders, visions and [[miracle]]s, are pretended; but they are false signs to support false doctrines; and lying wonders, or only pretended [[miracle]]s, to cheat the people; and the diabolical deceits with which the [[Text:EBD:[[Text:EBD:Antichrist|Antichrist]]|antichrist]]ian state has been supported, are notorious. The persons are described, who are his willing subjects. Their [[sin]] is this; They did not [[love]] the truth, and therefore did not believe it; and they were pleased with false notions. [[God]] leaves them to themselves, then sin will follow of course, and spiritual judgments here, and eternal punishments hereafter. These prophecies have, in a great measure, come to pass, and confirm the truth of the Scriptures. This passage exactly agrees with the system of popery, as it prevails in the Romish [[church]], and under the Romish popes. But though the son of perdition has been revealed, though he has opposed and exalted himself above all that is called [[God]], or that is worshipped; and has spoken and acted as if he were a god upon earth, and has proclaimed his insolent pride, and supported his delusions, by lying [[miracle]]s and all kinds of frauds; still the [[Lord]] has not yet fully destroyed him with the brightness of his coming; that and other prophecies remain to be fulfilled before the end shall come.
'''Verses''' 13-15
When we hear of the apostacy of many, it is a great comfort and joy, that there is a remnant according to the election of grace, which does and shall persevere; especially we should [[rejoice]], if we have reason to [[hope]] that we are of that number. The preservation of the saints, is because [[God]] loved them with an everlasting love, from the beginning of the world. The end and the means must not be separated. Faith and [[holiness]] must be joined together as well as [[holiness]] and happiness. The outward call of [[God]] is by the [[gospel]]; and this is rendered effectual by the inward working of the [[Spirit]]. The belief of the truth brings the sinner to rely on [[Christ]], and so to [[love]] and obey him; it is sealed by the [[Holy Spirit]] upon his heart. We have no certain proof of any thing having been delivered by the apostles, more than what we find contained in the Holy Scriptures. Let us then stand fast in the doctrines taught by the apostles, and reject all additions, and vain traditions.
'''Verses''' 16, 17
We may and should direct our [[prayer]]s, not only to [[God]] the Father, through our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], but also to our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] Christ himself. And we should pray in his name unto [[God]], not only as his Father, but as our Father in and through him. The [[love]] of [[God]] in Christ [[Jesus]], is the spring and fountain of all the good we have or [[hope]] for. There is good reason for strong consolations, because the saints have good [[hope]] through grace. The free [[grace]] and [[mercy]] of [[God]] are what they [[hope]] for, and what their hopes are founded on, and not any worth or merit of their own. The more pleasure we take in the word, and works, and ways of [[God]], the more likely we shall be to persevere therein. But, if we are wavering in faith, and of a doubtful mind, halting and faltering in our duty, no wonder that we are strangers to the joys of [[religion]].
----
'''Chapter''' 3
''Chapter Outline''
The apostle expresses confidence in the Thessalonians, and prays for them.
(1-5)
He charges them to withdraw from disorderly walkers, particularly from the lazy and busybodies.
(6-15)
And concludes with a [[prayer]] for them, and a greeting.
(16-18)
'''Verses''' 1-5
Those who are far apart still may meet together at the throne of grace; and those not able to do or receive any other kindness, may in this way do and receive real and very great kindness. Enemies to the preaching of the [[gospel]], and persecutors of its faithful preachers, are unreasonable and wicked men. Many do not believe the [[gospel]]; and no wonder if such are restless and show malice in their endeavours to oppose it. The evil of [[sin]] is the greatest evil, but there are other evils we need to be preserved from, and we have encouragement to depend upon the [[grace]] of [[God]]. When once the promise is made, the performance is sure and certain. The apostle had confidence in them, but that was founded upon his confidence in [[God]]; for there is otherwise no confidence in man. He prays for them for spiritual blessings. It is our [[sin]] and our misery, that we place our affections upon wrong objects. There is not true [[love]] of [[God]], without [[faith]] in [[Jesus]] [[Christ]]. If, by the special [[grace]] of [[God]], we have that [[faith]] which multitudes have not, we should earnestly pray that we may be enabled, without reserve, to obey his commands, and that we may be enabled, without reserve, to the [[love]] of [[God]], and the patience of [[Christ]].
'''Verses''' 6-15
Those who have received the [[gospel]], are to live according to the [[gospel]]. Such as could work, and would not, were not to be maintained in idleness. [[Christianity]] is not to countenance slothfulness, which would consume what is meant to encourage the industrious, and to support the sick and afflicted. Industry in our callings as men, is a duty required by our calling as [[Christians]]. But some expected to be maintained in idleness, and indulged a curious and conceited temper. They meddled with the concerns of others, and did much harm. It is a great error and abuse of [[religion]], to make it a cloak for idleness or any other sin. The servant who waits for the coming of his [[Lord]] aright, must be working as his [[Lord]] has commanded. If we are idle, the devil and a corrupt [[heart]] will soon find us somewhat to do. The mind of man is a busy thing; if it is not employed in doing good, it will be doing evil. It is an excellent, but rare union, to be active in our own business, yet quiet as to other people's. If any refused to labour with quietness, they were to note him with censure, and to separate from his company, yet they were to seek his good by loving admonitions. The [[Lord]]s is with you while you are with him. Hold on your way, and hold on to the end. We must never give over, or tire in our work. It will be time enough to rest when we come to heaven.
'''Verses''' 16-18
The apostle prays for the Thessalonians. And let us desire the same blessings for ourselves and our friends. Peace with [[God]]. This [[peace]] is desired for them always, or in every thing. Peace by all means; in every way; that, as they enjoyed the means of grace, they might use all methods to secure [[peace]]. We need nothing more to make us safe and happy, nor can we desire any thing better for ourselves and our friends, than to have [[God]]'s gracious presence with us and them. No matter where we are, if [[God]] be with us; nor who is absent, if [[God]] be present. It is through the [[grace]] of our [[Lord]] [[Jesus]] [[Christ]], that we hope to have [[peace]] with [[God]], and to enjoy the presence of [[God]]. This [[grace]] is all in all to make us happy; though we wish ever so much to others, there remains enough for ourselves.
