SECOND THESSALONIANS

 

Second Thessalonians 3

1 ¶ Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may continue to spread, and be received and honored, even as it is with you:

2 And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and evil men: for not all have faith.

3 But the Lord is faithful, and will strengthen you, and keep you from evil.

4 ¶ Now we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will continue doing the things that we command you.

5 Moreover, may the Lord direct your hearts to do so in the love of God, and the patience of Christ.

6 ¶ Now, brethren, we command you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to withdraw from every brother whose conduct is out of line, and not according to the teaching and example that he received from us.

7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example: for we were not idle or disorderly when we were with you;

8 Nor did we eat any man’s bread for nothing; but with labor and hard work we kept busy night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you:

9 Not because we do not have a right to your support, but that our conduct might set example for you to follow.

10 For even when we were with you, we laid down the rule, that if anyone will not work, neither should he eat.

11 For we hear that there are some among you who are idle and disorderly, and do not work at all, but are busybodies.

12 Now we command and advise such people by our Lord Jesus Christ, to work quietly, and eat their own bread.

13 But as for you, brethren, never tire of doing what is right and good.

14 And if anyone will not listen to what we say in this letter, note that man, and do not associate with him, so that he may be ashamed.

15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

16 ¶ Now may the Lord of peace give you his peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all.

17 I, Paul, add this final greeting with my own hand, which is a distinguishing mark in all my letters: and so I write.

18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.

The second epistle to the Thessalonians was sent from Athens.