2 Thessalonians Devotion

2 Thessalonians 3

I suppose there’s always been and always will be people who underestimate and overestimate the evil one. If you need a good reason to pray, here’s one in verse one. Evil men and the evil one (Satan) is feverishly at work to stop the rapid spread of God’s Word and it being glorified!

What should you know before praying? The Lord is faithful. Because of that, he will strengthen and protect you and those you pray for. I, with Paul, am confident that you are doing this and will continue to do so. Verse 5 is one of those quick prayers that we should master: May the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the steadfastness of Christ. – 2 Thessalonians 3:5

I bet some of the rest of this chapter sounds odd to many. Maybe it’s helpful to ask this question, “Where were these perverse and evil men Paul speaks of in verse 2?” I think the clue is “not all have faith” and the instructions in the rest of this chapter.

I think this means they are from within the church. Brothers (professing believers) who live “unruly” will hinder the rapid spread of the gospel. Paul had given them clear examples of how both ministry and work should been done. So, those who are leading undisciplined lives should be ashamed. The way Paul commands this to happen is by withdrawing from them in hopes of restoration.

Sin within the body is a big deal. There are those who are members that do not have faith. There are those who are members that live unruly and need to be admonished. Why? For sake of God’s glory and the spread of the gospel!!!

I’ll leave you with this, if a brother or sister in Christ (specifically those you are in covenant membership with) are living unruly lives you must do something to show them their error. Your relationship cannot go on as “normal” and expect them to get it or be ashamed.

My prayer for you: Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all. – 2 Thessalonians 3:16