2 Thessalonians

Paul noted that these evil men did not have faith. In sharp contrast to their faithlessness God is faithful (3:2-3; see 1 Cor. 1:9; 2 Cor. 1:18). The apostle expressed confidence that God would continue to direct their paths. Before Paul's rebuke of the idle, he prayed that God would direct their hearts into God's love. There should be no hard feelings among those who are completely indebted to the love of God.

Some in Thessalonica had ceased working in light of the imminent return of the Lord. While Paul maintained his confidence in the Lord's return, he rebuked the idleness of those who passively waited. Paul instead urged them to be examples in the community, to earn their own living, and not to grow weary in well doing.

The problem was mentioned in the first letter (1 Thess. 4:11-12; 5:14) and had apparently grown worse. Paul responded in a most serious fashion, giving more attention to this matter than any in the book except for Christ's return per se. Christians must not be loafers or busybodies. Worse than being idle, they were interfering in other people's lives. Paul strongly urged the faithful believers not to associate with those who rejected his teaching. They, however, should not be treated as enemies but admonished as brothers.

Paul concluded the letter with words of grace and peace and with his personal signature. Paul normally dictated his letters (see Rom. 16:22). Probably Silas penned the letter, but Paul added something in his own handwriting (see 1 Cor. 16:21; Gal. 6:11; Col. 4:18). The book included encouragement, instruction, rebuke, and admonishment. But it is a word of grace from beginning to end, concluding with "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all."

Theological Significance. The emphasis on the second coming of Christ reminds us to be ready for Christ's coming at any time. We must be prepared, for He will come as suddenly as a thief in the night. Those who have died and those who are still alive will be united with Christ at His return. These words provide hope and encouragement for the church at all times.

Likewise, we must be alert to the evil schemes of the man of lawlessness. The church gains strength from the instruction about the wicked activity of Satan with all power and pretended signs and wonders. Believers are empowered with the truth that the man of lawlessness will be finally destroyed by the Lord Jesus at His coming (2:12). In the meantime the church must remain faithful and steadfast to the goodwill and providential purposes of God.

ARTICLE: The Return of Christ

The Lord Jesus, who was raised from the dead and ascended to the Father, will return. This conviction is expressed repeatedly in the New Testament.

The church used several terms to refer to the return of Christ. Parousia, meaning either coming or presence, often described the Lord's return (see Matt. 24:3; 1 Cor. 15:23; 1 Thess. 2:19). Epiphaneia in religious usage described the appearing of an unseen god (see Titus 2:13). The revelation ( apocalypsis) of the power and glory of the Lord was eagerly anticipated by the church (for example, see Luke 17:30; Rom. 8:18).

The phrase "the day of the Lord" (an Old Testament theme) is also common in the New Testament. "That day," "the day of Christ," and similar phrases were used as synonyms.

Often the writer implied that he was living in the last days (Acts 2:17; 1 John 2:18). The reference to time in many passages listed above, however, is ambiguous (see 1 Cor. 1:8; 5:5; Phil. 1:6,10; 1 Thess. 5:2; 2 Thess. 1:10). The character of that "day" is clearer than its timing. It is a day of judgment.

The Gospels. Jesus taught His disciples to expect a catastrophic conclusion to history. At that time God would effect a general resurrection and a final judgment with appropriate rewards for the just and the unjust (Matt. 7:21-27; 24:1-51; Mark 12:24-27; 13:1-37; Luke 11:31-32; 21:5-36).

Although the signs of the end receive considerable attention in the Gospels (Matt. 24; Mark 13; Luke 21), the time of the end remains obscure. Some sayings imply the end is near (Matt. 10:23; Mark 9:1; 13:30). Others imply a delay (Matt. 25:5; Mark 13:7,10). The clearest statements indicate that the time cannot be known (Matt. 24:36,42,44; Mark 13:32-37; Luke 12:35-40).

Acts 1:6-8 expresses the same conviction: the time cannot be known. According to Jesus, the disciples' task was to bear witness to the gospel. The time was left in the Father's hands.

The Epistles. As the church aged, questions arose. What happens to those who die before Jesus' return (1 Thess. 4:13-18)? What will His return be like, and when will it occur (1 Thess. 5:1-11; 2 Thess. 2:1-12)? What will happen to us and our world (1 Cor. 15:12-13,23-28)? Does His delay make His promised return a lie (2 Pet. 3:3-10)?

The New Testament answers these questions with a strong affirmation concerning Christ's return. The New Testament is not as clear regarding the time of His appearing. Yet the epistles clearly reveal a persistent faith in the return of Christ (Rom. 8:19-39; 2 Tim. 4:1). His lordship is real. His victory is assured. His people will share His glory at His return (Rev. 19:622:17). Thus the responsibility of the church is patience, faithfulness, and witness (see Acts 1:7-8; 1 Cor. 15:58; 1 Thess. 4:18).