Definition: Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified, even as [it is] with you:

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:1. It's a really important message about how we should relate to God. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it’s saying: “Please pray for us, and that the word of God – or God’s message – may flow freely and be perfectly expressed.” Let's unpack that a little further: “Finally, brethren, pray for us…” - This is addressing believers in a specific community (the "brethren"). It’s a call to action from leadership. “…that the word of the Lord may have [free] course…” – “Free course” means that God's message should flow smoothly and naturally, without being forced or restricted. It suggests it’s going to be presented clearly and authentically. It's like a river flowing freely; it doesn’t have any obstacles in its path. “…and be glorified…” – “Glorified” means to be perfectly expressed, to shine brightly, and to be recognized as good and worthy of God's favor. It implies that the message is being presented beautifully and with a high standard. “Even as [it is] with you:” - This is crucial! It’s saying that we should pray like or as the people in our community are praying. It emphasizes that God's will is aligned with the needs and desires of those around us. In a nutshell, it’s a plea for God to deliver His message clearly and beautifully through his people. It’s about ensuring that God’s word is presented honestly, authentically, and effectively. Why is this important? The apostle Paul wrote this in response to believers who were facing hardship or challenges. He was concerned about the potential for misinterpretation or distortion of God's message. So, by praying for them, he hoped to ensure that their faith remained strong and that God’s word would be presented as it should – with clarity and grace. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give a more detailed explanation of any part of this verse?

Definition: For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:10. It’s a pretty important and often misunderstood part of the Bible. Here's a simple explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is about responsibility and accountability . It’s saying that God has given us a specific task – to work hard and contribute – and if we don’t do our part, we will be held accountable for not fulfilling that responsibility. It’s a warning about laziness and lack of diligence. Let's unpack it word by word: “For even when we were with you…” - This refers to the time when believers were actively involved in the early church – they were together, sharing life, and working together. It was a period of community and shared effort. “…this we commanded you…” - This is the key part. God gave us this instruction – a specific responsibility. “…that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” - This is where it gets a little more nuanced. It’s a metaphor, and here's how to understand it: “Eat” represents… It symbolizes needing to contribute your time, talents, effort, and skills to God’s kingdom – whether that’s through serving, working, or engaging in activities that benefit others. “Not work” means… Not being diligent, not putting in the effort required for your role. It's about neglecting your duties or responsibilities. So, what does it mean practically? It’s a gentle but serious reminder that God doesn’t just want us to be involved; He wants us to do our part. If we don’t work hard and contribute, we are setting ourselves up for potential disappointment or even being held accountable for not fulfilling our obligations. In short, the verse is a call to action – to be active, diligent, and responsible in your life, recognizing that you have a duty to contribute to God's plan. --- Resources if you’d like to learn more: Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/2 Thessalonians%203%20vs10](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/2- Thessalonians%203%20vs10) - This provides a detailed translation and context. GotQuestions.org: [https://www.gotquestions.org/2- Thessalonians-3-10.html](https://www.gotquestions.org/2- Thessalonians-3-10.html) - Offers a helpful explanation with various perspectives. Would you like me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in the context of our lives today?

Definition: For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:11. It’s a bit complex, but here’s the gist in simple terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is warning us about a kind of spiritual laziness or lack of dedication within a community. It suggests that some people aren't actively involved in serving God and contributing to the church. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly…” : This means there are individuals within our group – our church, our community, or even just our individual lives – who aren't following God’s will or doing their part. “Disorderly” suggests a lack of focus and direction. “working not at all…” : This is the core of the warning. They are not actively working towards God's purpose. It means they aren't contributing to the church, helping others, or engaging in meaningful activities. “…but are busybodies.” : This is a more figurative description. "Busybodies" suggests people who are constantly distracted, preoccupied with themselves, and not genuinely focused on serving God. They might be spending time on things that aren't truly beneficial to the church or to God. What does this mean for us? It’s a gentle reminder to: Stay focused on God: We need to prioritize our relationship with God and actively seek His will in our lives. Be diligent: We should be putting effort into things that are good and helpful, not just passively doing things without intention. Don’t become complacent: It's easy to fall into a habit of doing little or nothing – this verse encourages us to stay engaged and active in our faith. In short, the verse is urging us to be mindful of those who aren't fully committed to serving God and contributing positively to their community. --- Do you want me to: Explain it further with a specific example? Discuss what this verse might mean for you specifically in your life?

Definition: Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:12. It’s a bit complex, but here's the gist in plain language: The Core Idea: This verse is about taking care of your work and living with contentment. Let’s unpack it word-by-word and then put it together: “Now them that are such we command and exhort” : This means "Right now, those who are like this – those who are struggling or facing challenges in their work – we encourage you to do so with patience and care." “We” refers to the Church. “by our Lord Jesus Christ” : This is a key part. It’s connecting us to the example of Jesus himself. Jesus was known for his gentle and patient way of working, and this verse reminds us to follow that same principle. “that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread” : This is where it gets a little more nuanced: "Quietness they work" : This means working calmly, without rushing or being overly stressed. It's about focusing on your tasks rather than worrying too much. “eat their own bread” : This is the really important part. It’s not necessarily about literal food. It refers to living a fulfilling and satisfying life through your work. It means finding contentment, purpose, and satisfaction in what you do. “Eating” your bread symbolizes enjoying the fruits of your labor – feeling good about your accomplishments. In simpler terms: The verse is urging believers to approach their jobs with patience, care, and a sense of peace and satisfaction – like taking time to enjoy the work you're doing and making it worthwhile. It’s about a balanced approach that honors God in your daily life. What does this mean for us today? This verse can be helpful when: You're feeling overwhelmed by work. You're struggling with stress. You want to find more meaning and satisfaction in your job or career. It’s about being a good steward of your time and effort. Do you want me to: Explain this verse further? Give you some examples of how to apply this principle in your own life?

Definition: But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:13 – “But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.” Here's a simple explanation: Basically, it means: Don’t get discouraged or lose enthusiasm about your good deeds. Let's unpack it a bit: “But ye” : This refers to you , the reader of the Bible. It’s addressing you personally. “brethren” : This is a term of respect used for believers, like fellow Christians. “be not weary” : This means "don't become tired" or “don’t lose your enthusiasm.” “in well doing” : This is the key part! It means "doing good" in a righteous and faithful way. So, the whole verse is saying: Don't let your efforts to be good and do what's right wear you down or become monotonous. Keep pushing forward with your faith and good deeds, even when things are challenging. It’s a reminder that God rewards effort, and it encourages us to continue striving for goodness. Does that make sense? Do you want me to: Explain another verse in this passage? Give you some examples of how to stay motivated?

Definition: 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.

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:14. It’s a pretty serious message about the importance of following God’s instructions. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that if someone doesn't really read and understand the Bible (specifically this letter), they are not truly following God’s will. It’s a warning to be cautious about those who aren’t actively engaged with scripture. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “2 Thessalonians 3:14” : This refers to a specific letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christians in Thessalonica. “And if any man obey not our word…” : Paul is telling us that if someone doesn’t understand or follow what he’s teaching , they aren't truly Christian. He’s referring to the core beliefs and teachings of the Christian faith. “…by this epistle” : This means by reading and studying the letter itself – the Bible. “Note that man, and have no company with him…” : Paul is urging us to observe or watch out for these people. It's a gentle but firm call to distance ourselves from those who aren’t engaged with God’s word. “…that he may be ashamed.” : This is the key part! Paul wants us to recognize that this person is ashamed of their lack of understanding and adherence to God's teachings. He wants us to see them as a danger to themselves and to others because they aren’t following His guidance. In short, it’s a warning about spiritual laziness and the importance of actively engaging with scripture. It’s suggesting that genuine faith requires more than just reading – it requires understanding and applying God’s word. Why is this important? Paul wrote this to address a situation where people were confusing their beliefs with mere opinions or practices, and he wanted to ensure they weren't being misled. It’s about maintaining the integrity of the Christian faith. Does this mean we should just ignore them? No! It doesn't mean we should simply shun these individuals. Instead, it means we need to be vigilant and evaluate who is truly following God’s teachings. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the verse in more detail? Give an example of how this verse might apply in a real-life situation?

Definition: Yet count [him] not as an enemy, but admonish [him] as a brother.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:15: “Yet count [him] not as an enemy, but admonish [him] as a brother.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: Basically, it's saying: Don’t treat this person like someone who is trying to harm you. Let’s unpack that a little further: “Yet count [him] not as an enemy…” – This part is crucial. It’s suggesting that this person isn’t a threat or something to be wary of. It's about recognizing them as someone who isn’t trying to cause you harm. Think of it like avoiding a prickly bush – you don’t want to get hurt by it! “…but admonish [him] as a brother.” – This is the key instruction. It means to speak to this person gently, lovingly, and with concern. It's about offering encouragement and guidance in a way that feels like a friendly conversation, rather than a harsh confrontation. Think of it like a concerned sibling – you want to help them out, but you don’t want to cause them pain. What does this tell us about the relationship? This verse is often interpreted as a call for forgiveness and reconciliation. It's suggesting that while there might be misunderstandings or disagreements with this person, it's important to treat them with kindness and understanding. It’s urging us to approach them with compassion rather than judgment. In essence, the message is about treating people with love and gentleness, even when they aren’t easy to deal with. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of this verse in more detail? (e.g., its connection to the context of the letter?) Give you an example of how this could be applied in a particular situation? Offer a related quote or concept from another Bible passage?

Definition: Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord [be] with you all.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:16: “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord [be] with you all.” Here's what it means in simpler terms, broken down piece by piece: “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always…” – This is a really important part. It means that God, the Lord, is actively working for your peace. He’s not just wishing for peace; He’s making it happen consistently in your life. “…by all means.” – This emphasizes that this peace isn't something that happens by chance or only when you’re struggling. It’s a constant, ongoing provision of peace. “The Lord [be] with you all.” - This is the key part! "Be" is a present tense verb that means “is” or “exists”. So, "The Lord be with you all" means that God is present and actively surrounding you in your lives. It’s like God's presence is consistently flowing into your world. In short, the verse is saying that God wants peace for you, and He will always be there to support and comfort you. It's a powerful statement about God’s love and commitment to your well-being. What does this have to do with us? It reminds us that we don’t have to fight our own battles alone. God is actively working for us, offering peace and support wherever we are. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Relate this verse to a specific situation or challenge you might be facing?

Definition: The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly short and intriguing verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:17. It's a bit of a puzzle, but here’s what it means, explained simply: Basically, it’s a very personal sign-off from Paul. Here’s a breakdown of each part: “The salutation of Paul with mine own hand” : This is key. “Mine own hand” refers to Paul’s writing hand – the one he used to write letters. It emphasizes that this isn't just any writing; it's his handwriting. “which is the token in every epistle” : This part is a little more figurative. "Token" means something important or significant. In the context of Paul’s letters, “token” refers to his personal signature – a mark of his authorship and authenticity. It's a way for people to know exactly where the letter came from. “so I write” : This is simply Paul acknowledging that he's writing this specific letter. What does it all mean? This verse suggests that Paul was deeply involved in writing these letters, and his signature was a visible representation of that involvement. It’s a way for people to recognize that this letter was written by him personally. Why is it significant? It's a beautiful and subtle detail that adds weight to the message of the letter. It highlights Paul’s personal connection to the recipients of his writing. It emphasizes his authorship and the importance of his work. In short, it’s a sign of Paul’s personal dedication to writing and sharing his message. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Give you more context about the book of 2 Thessalonians?

Definition: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you all. Amen.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:18: “The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” Here's a simple explanation in plain language: Basically, it means: “May God’s grace – His love and favor – be present with you.” Let’s unpack that a little further: "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ..." This refers to the forgiveness and mercy offered by Jesus Christ. It's about how He wants to comfort and help us. "...be with you all." This is a very important part – it means that God’s grace is for everyone , not just some people. It’s a blessing for each individual in the church. "Amen." This is a word of affirmation, like saying "Yes!" or “I agree.” What does this verse say about God's presence? It’s a message of comfort and reassurance. It’s telling us that God isn’t leaving us behind – He wants to be with us in our struggles and difficulties. It’s a reminder that we are not alone and that God is always near. In short, it’s a powerful blessing – a promise of love and comfort from God. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this verse in a specific context (like facing challenges)?