The Superior Word Daily Devotional Study in 2 Thessalonians

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 2:14, 9 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2017

Monday, 9 October 2017


...to which He called you by our gospel, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 2:14


Look carefully at the progression of thought that Paul has said in the previous verse and in this one –

God from the beginning chose you

For salvation

Through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth to which He called you

By our gospel


He uses a neuter relative pronoun, translated here as “which.” As the preceding nouns (salvation, sanctification, and belief) are either feminine or masculine, he is not referring to any of these individually, but rather to all of them together. As Charles Ellicott notes, it is “the general state of life which is compounded of these three notions – ‘to which thing He called you.’” He then notes that, “The election or choice takes place in eternity (2 Thessalonians 2:13); the call is at that point of time when the men first hear the gospel. (See Romans 8:30).”


This wonderful insight, which is confirmed in the tense of this relative pronoun, clearly shows that the Calvinist view on predestination is wrong. Though God chose in eternity past, the process is also clearly based on a presentation of the gospel in the present of the believer. God calls each by the gospel. If no gospel presentation is given, salvation will not occur. As Paul says, “...faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).


Paul shows that God calls us to salvation, sanctification, and belief by the gospel, “for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” There are actually several different possibilities as to how this final clause is translated –

1) “...for the purpose of an acquisition of glory to Jesus Christ.” This seems to indicate that the gospel was given in order for Jesus to accumulate glory. It is true that Jesus indicates that He is glorified in His disciples in John 17:10, but this doesn’t appear to be Paul’s intent as he writes.


2) “...for a glorious possession of Jesus Christ.” This would show that the intent of our salvation and sanctification is so that we would become subjects of Christ in His kingdom. It is true that this will occur. Christ is our Head and we are His people, but once again this doesn’t seem to be what Paul is thinking of.


3) “...to be possessors or sharers in the glory of Jesus Christ.” This appears to be what is on Paul’s mind. He relates this idea to the saints at several times in several distinct ways. For example, in Romans 8:17 he says that we will be “heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ.” Paul is an apostle who is, at this time, telling his readers what lies ahead for them because of the process that they have gone through, and continue to go through.


Life application: God has a plan. It is a plan which was in His mind before He created anything. We must understand this, and in understanding it, we can be assured that everything is exactly as it should be. However, we also need to understand that His plan is being worked out in the stream of time. The means of salvation is given in His word – a presentation of the gospel message. That message must then be received by the hearer of it. There is no external forcing in this process, but rather a free-will decision by the believer. Neither Paul, nor any other writer in the Bible, ever hints that we are “regenerated in order to believe.” Be sure to open your mouth and speak. People need to hear the word, and they must respond to what they hear.


Lord God, thank you for having granted us the choice to believe Your message or to reject it. This then places all the glory on You for those who receive it, and it places all the responsibility for failing to act upon those who reject it; thus giving You the glory even in their rejection. Nobody will be able to say, “It’s not fair!” on that great day when we stand before You. You are sovereign, and You are gracious. Glory to You in the highest. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 2:15, 10 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10, 2017

Tuesday, 10 October 2017


Therefore, brethren, stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle. 2 Thessalonians 2:15

The word “Therefore” is especially given based on Paul’s words back in verses 1 & 2 of this chapter. However, he has supported those words with everything else since. He said then to them that they should not be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from them. In other words, “Anything you have heard which has not been given to you by an apostle, or which cannot be confirmed as apostolic in nature, is to be rejected outright.” After that, he defended this position by reexplaining what he had already explained to them, confirming that what he said was to be taken as authoritative. Anything contradictory to that was a false message.


He then says again, “brethren.” He is addressing them as fellow-believers in Christ, and he wants them to be sound in their doctrine and faith. For this reason, he continues with the words, “stand fast.” To stand is to be sound, fixed, and firm in doctrine. They were not to waiver and be “soon shaken or troubled” when some Johnny-come-lately passed along something which was not in accord with sound apostolic teaching. To support this, he continues with, “and hold the traditions which you were taught.”


“The traditions” are those things which they first heard from Paul and his associates, and which became ingrained in them. The word “tradition” here means “from close-beside.” It indicates something passed on from one generation to the next. As the apostles gave them their first instruction in Christ. It was this, and this alone, which they were to hold fast to. The word translated as “hold fast” means to seize hold of and to put under one’s control. This is what they were to do with the word given to them, and this is what we are to do with the word, once delivered to us, today. We are to hold fast to it, and we are not to be shaken by every wind of doctrine which passes by. How sad that Paul’s words are pretty much completely ignored by countless cults and unsound churches today!

He finishes with the words, “whether by word or by our epistle.” This is referring to the “traditions you were taught.” Those things which are apostolic in nature, and which were either in writing, or which would be codified in writing by other apostles, form what we call “the word of God,” or “the Holy Bible.” Once the word was recorded, and canonicity was determined, the word was set. What we should ask God when we hear someone claim divine inspiration over anything we hear is, “Shall I accept this, or will I stand fast on Your word alone?” It is a question each person must answer on his own. Is God’s word sufficient for our life and practice, or is it not?


Life application: This verse again shows us the truth of the doctrine of apostolic inspiration. It further implies then that when the apostolic age ended, no further revelation is given for our doctrine and faith. Paul’s words show that people should only hold on to what can be confirmed as from this divinely inspired process. It is exactly the reason why we are to never accept prophetic utterances, or claims of divine inspiration, by anyone else. The church age is literally spattered with false teachers who have claimed divine inspiration (and who continue to do so today), but none of their messages are to be considered authoritative or acceptable.

Lord God, You have spoken. Your word is set, and it is settled. May we never accept any supposed “word” from You by those who would attempt to add to what You have once and for all time delivered to the saints for their life, doctrine, and practice. Help us to be secure in our minds that the sixty-six books of the Bible are all-sufficient for us to know Your intentions for us, and to reject anything else which claims divine inspiration. You have spoken, and we have a sure, precious, and understandable word. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 2:16, 11 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2017

Wednesday, 11 October 2017


Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 2 Thessalonians 2:16


In these words, Paul presents a prayer which is connected to the exhortation he just made. He asked those in Thessalonica (and thus us!) to “stand fast and hold the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or our epistle.” In response to these words, he issues a prayer to confirm this in them. In a rather unusual construction, he says, “Now may the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father...” In this, he begins with Jesus, and only then does he move to the Father. This is the opposite of 1 Thessalonians 3:11 –

“Now may our God and Father Himself, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way to you.”


The reason for placing the Lord Jesus first is because of words which follow, and which describe the work of the Father. However, in doing this, there is the implicit hint, as is seen so many times elsewhere, of the equality of the Persons within the Godhead. The word “and” between the two shows that they are separate and distinct (a Godhead is thus identified), and that they are equal within this Godhead. As this is a prayer made directly to Jesus, as well as to the Father, it recognizes the equality of the two.


With that understood, it says that it is God the Father “who has loved us.” God the Father is the Source of the love which is being expressed in the thought. His love for us is what then leads to Paul’s next thought, that He has “given us everlasting consolation.” These words describe a type of comfort which is enduring, and which cannot be robbed from us. No matter what happens, our comfort will endure. How untypical of all other faiths where adherents place their lost loved ones in the grave, and who then mourn their eternal loss. But this is completely untrue with the Christian faith. As Paul noted in verse 13, God chose us “for salvation in (as the Greek reads) sanctification by the Spirit.”


This is the everlasting consolation now being referred to. Those in Christ are saved, and they have been sanctified. Every terrifying thing described earlier in the chapter (and elsewhere in Scripture) concerning those who fail to come to Christ has no bearing on us. Instead, we have the everlasting consolation “and good hope by grace.” The words in Greek read “in grace.” This denotes the mode of the everlasting consolation and good hope which we have been given. Grace is the element in which it occurs and is experienced. The words here then correspond to verse 13 –

“God from the beginning chose you for salvation in sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.”

“God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope in grace.”


We are chosen for salvation in sanctification, and we are given everlasting consolation and good hope in grace. This shows us the extent of the Father’s love for us. He sent Christ Jesus to accomplish these things for us in order to reconcile us to Him, and it is this Gift of Christ Jesus which is a reflection of His unlimited grace. Praise be to God.


Life application: If you struggle with the concept of the Trinity, that’s OK. It is a difficult concept for us to grasp. Not fully understanding something, however, does not mean that we cannot accept it as true. The word of God clearly teaches this doctrine, and so we are expected to accept it by faith, even if we do not fully understand it. Have faith in God’s word, and do not let others bring you into error because they are unwilling to take God at His word.


Lord God, we may not understand everything presented in Your word, but we can still have faith that Your word is true. And this isn’t a naive trust in a dubious thing. Rather, it is trust in a word which has confirmed itself countless times. It has been proven true so many times that we would be ignorant fools to not accept the parts we don’t yet get. Our faith is grounded, and our hope is sure. We step into Your revealed light when we enter into the pages of Scripture! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 2:17, 12 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2017


Thursday, 12 October 2017

...comfort your hearts and establish you in every good word and work. 2 Thessalonians 2:17


The verse here is divided in a way where it cannot be taken alone. The word “comfort” is based on Paul’s previous words – “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ, and our God and Father … comfort your hearts.” The word “comfort” here is the tied into the intervening words of that same verse which said, “who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace.” There, the word “consolation” is a noun form of the closely corresponding verb “comfort” here.


As those in Thessalonica were facing trials and troubles, Paul is praying that they will be comforted by the comfort which exists in the Lord Jesus Christ, and in God the Father. He then adds in, “and establish you in every good word and work.” To be established is to be firm and fixed. It is to be unyielding when difficulties or confrontations come. The word in Greek means to stand against vacillation. And Paul applies it to “every good word and work.”


The word is the word of God, and the doctrine which flows from it. The work is applying that doctrine properly and in accord with the word. It then is a thought more fully fleshed out by Paul in Ephesians 4:13, 14 –

“...till we all come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a perfect man, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ; 14 that we should no longer be children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, in the cunning craftiness of deceitful plotting.”


The words of the word, combined with a right application of them, will lead to good works which are suitable and pleasing to the Lord Jesus Christ, and to God the Father. And this is exactly what is implied here in Paul’s choice of words in the Greek. The verbs are in the singular, but the corresponding pronouns are “the Lord Jesus Christ” and “God the Father” of verse 16. Both are united in the use of the singular verbs. Thus, once again, there is the implication of the divine unity between these two Persons. It is another reference to the nature of the Godhead.


Life application: These words were written to those in Thessalonica, but they are a part of the word of God. And so Paul’s words to them are still a prayer of Paul to us today. They are a hope which endures through the ages of the church age, and they are words which we can rely on in our own times of trial and trouble, knowing that eons before we existed, the faithful apostle was making this petition to God on our behalf as well.


Glorious, precious, and wonderful heavenly Father! It is good to give thanks and praise to You. You have established us, You have granted us so very much good, and You are merciful and forgiving of our failings when we submit ourselves to You through Christ our Lord. Surely we are undeserving of the least of Your favors, and yet You have lavished us with abundance. Thank You for Your kind hand upon our lives. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:1, 13 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, OCTOBER 13, 2017

Friday, 13 October 2017


Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you, 2 Thessalonians 3:1

Chapter 3 begins with the word, “Finally.” Though there were no chapter and verse divisions in the original books of the Bible, this is a logical place to begin the chapter. He has finished the main purpose of the book with its theological discourse on the timing of the end times. As was seen, those in Thessalonica had been disturbed by input from someone telling them that the day of the Lord had already come. Paul ensured them (and thus us!) that such was not the case, and that we could know how this was true. He gave a concise and precise detailing of the sequence of end-time events so that we wouldn’t be duped by others, and so that we wouldn’t waste our time speculating on who the Antichrist would be.


After opening the final section, he immediately again says, “brethren.” This is the fifth of seven times that he will say this in this short book. Thus, he is ensuring they don’t forget that they are “beloved by the Lord” (verse 2:13). Despite the things which may come against them and afflict them, they are united in Christ as brethren. With that understanding, he then petitions them for prayer.


As brethren, this is right for him to ask, and for them to respond. Paul was known for keeping his beloved brethren and their churches in prayer (such as in verse 1:11), and he anticipated that they would likewise be in prayer for him and those with him. And so with specificity, he names the type of prayer they seek. It is “that the word of the Lord may run swiftly.” His request is reflected in the 147th Psalm –

“He sends out His command to the earth;

His word runs very swiftly.” Psalm 147:15


The request of Paul and his companions is that their work of spreading the word would be swift, that it would not be in any way hindered, and that it would be without any type of anxiety or stress which could slow down its progress. And in addition to this, he asks that they pray that the message conveyed will “be glorified.” This is not asking for Paul and his associates to receive distinction or honor, but that the message itself would be honored. The desire is for the exaltation of the gospel message, and thus for the honor of the Lord upon whom it is based. The thought is reflected in Acts 12 where it says that “the word of God grew and multiplied” (verse 24). This was the continued hope of Paul and his company.


Finally he notes, “just as it is with you.” If they wanted to know exactly what to pray for, all they needed to do was to look at how the word had taken hold in their own church. It had been presented, received, and brought honor to the Lord. This was the hoped-for condition of each place to be encountered by Paul’s group.


Life application: There are churches in towns and villages around the world, but there are still places where the word has not been conveyed. Churches are set groups that generally don’t go far beyond their own places of meeting. But then there are missionaries who are there specifically for that purpose. Even though churches don’t head out from their home areas, they can, and should, support those who do. This is one of the major purposes of the church. We are to ensure that we don’t stagnate behind walls, but that we continue to refresh ourselves and the gospel through the support of missionaries.


Lord God, we who live and work in various towns and cities enjoy gathering together to worship You and hear Your word explained, but we are also grateful for those who go out into the mission field, forsaking home and comfort, in order to help others establish what we already possess. Today, we pray for those who are willing to do this, knowing that they face times of trial, difficulty, and loneliness. Be with them and guide them. May their message run swiftly, and may Your word be glorified through them. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:2, 14 October 2017

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Saturday, 14 October 2017


...and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith. 2 Thessalonians 3:2



The words here closely reflect those of Romans 15:31 –

“...that I may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe.”


Paul was constantly hemmed in and persecuted by those who lacked faith. In particular, it was the non-believing Jews. They hounded him, they attacked him, and they did their best to destroy him. This was also true among the Gentiles, but more often than not, their attacks were first spurred on by the unbelieving Jews. The book of Acts carefully details these things, and those in Thessalonica were perfectly aware of this, having seen it in their own city first hand. Acts 17 records this.


His request here, “that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men,” is given to describe the request for prayer of the previous verse. He had made his request, now he gives specific details concerning that request that they can plug into their prayers. The Greek actually has an article in front of “unreasonable.” Thus, he is identifying a specific group of people. It says, “and that we may be delivered from the unreasonable and wicked men.” The word translated as “unreasonable” is rather rare, being used just four times. It is an adjective which signifies “out of place,” and thus “warped.”


There was a specific group of people, warped in their thinking and action, and who were also wicked. Paul desired that prayer be made against them in order to hinder them from effectively stopping the swift and effective transmission of the word of the Lord. To complete his description of them, he says, “for not all have faith.” Again, there is an article in the Greek which is lacking. It says, “the faith.” People may have faith, but are misdirected in their faith. He is unconcerned with their faith, and is targeting his concerns concerning their lack of “the faith” in Christ Jesus. Their lack of this particular faith is what makes them harmful. Not only do they have faith (in something else), they use the faith they have against “the faith” which Paul proclaims.


Again, it seems certain that those of the Jewish faith are who Paul is referring to. He was one of them and their culture, and he had once worked with all of his might to destroy the faith which is found in Christ. He knew the passion these enemies of the gospel possessed, and he knew that prayer was effective in working against their success.


Life application: Paul asked for prayer. Paul wrote about his prayers. The many examples of prayer that he gives us are intended to show us that prayers are not unnecessary, and that they are effective. It may seem pointless to pray to the God who already knows all things, but it is not. We pray and He hears. A prayer which is not uttered is a prayer which will probably not be acted upon.

Lord God, help us to improve our prayer lives. Your word shows us that prayers are both expected, and that they are effective. Should we presume to know more than the word You have given us? Rather, help us to live in accord with Your word, and to be people who pray with conviction, and in hopes of a favorable response. And should the response not be favorable, help us to understand that Your wisdom is far higher than ours. In the end, we will see why all things have transpired as they have. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:3, 15
October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, OCTOBER 15, 2017

Sunday, 15 October 2017


But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one. 2 Thessalonians 3:3


Here Paul makes a play upon the words of the previous verse –

“for not all have (the) faith.”

“But the Lord is faithful.”


He is taking the same word, and applying it in two ways. He does this also in Romans 3:3. Here, he is in essence saying, “Not everyone possesses the faith. Despite this, the Lord is faithful.” The implication is that for all who have the faith, He is and always will be faithful. That is then explained in the next words. The Lord, who is faithful, “will establish you.” The word indicates “to firmly plant.” He had just prayed for the Thessalonians in verse 2:17 using this exact same word. Now, having made that prayer, he notes that it will be as he has prayed. This is based upon the faithful nature of God towards those who are in Christ Jesus.


And more than being established, he says that the Lord will also “guard you from the evil one.” Some translations simply say “evil.” However, with an article before evil, it should be translated as “the evil,” or “the evil one.” The personification of evil, or the source of evil, meaning the devil, is what is being presented. Again, like the word “faith,” he is using the same word as in the preceding verse, translated there as “wicked,” in order to make a play on the words –

“and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked (evil) men.”

“the Lord will guard you from the evil one.”


Note how he had just asked for prayers for himself and those with him in verse 1 & 2, but how in this verse he has spoken only in the second person. He immediately reverted from his needs to a note of comfort for his beloved brethren. The attitude is selfless and “other” directed. He trusts that the prayers of the church will be effective for him and his companions, and so he redirects immediately for their sake.


Life application: It is good to remember, even when we are in times of need, to extend words of comfort and edification to others. If we can trust that those we hope to receive comfort from will have us in prayer, then they are doing what they can for us. With this assurance, we should remember to build them up in their own walk through this world of trial and difficulty.


Most wonderful Lord! It is such a blessing to be able to share in prayer with others in our times of need. At various times, we all have needs. When it is our time, how wonderful it is to know others are praying for us. And so when their time comes, help us to be mindful to also pray for them. And surely You are attentive to all prayers of Your redeemed people. We know this is true because we have the perfect Mediator who never fails us! Thank You for this. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:4, 16 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2017


Monday, 16 October 2017


And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you. 2 Thessalonians 3:4

Paul just said, “But the Lord is faithful.” In agreement with that, he continues with, “And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you.” Paul’s confidence is not at all in the faithfulness of those in Thessalonica. Instead, it is a confidence for them which is grounded in the Lord. This is the same thing that he relays to others, such as the church in Philippi –


“...being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippines 1:6


Paul understood the wretched state of the human heart, and its ability to not effectively work out anything but evil. However, when one is in Christ, there is the truth that Christ’s power and purposes can be realized in us in a way which was previously not possible. This doesn’t mean that saved believers are automatons which can rely on Christ doing everything for us, but that when we are willing to submit to Him, we are able to do what He expects of us. Our human will is not excluded from the process, and we can choose to work out evil even after coming to Christ. But if we desire to do as He wills, He will ensure that it is possible for us to do so.


Paul then states what that confidence in his hearers is – “both that you do and will do the things we command you.” It is the same formula which is found throughout Paul’s writings. God presents an offer; man receives the offer. It is a synergistic working of God’s divine offer and assistance being coupled with man’s human efforts.


This does not mean that man’s works are credited for salvation. God has done all the work, but man must respond to the offer by exercising faith. Romans 3:27 excludes faith as being considered a work. After salvation, our proper walk in Christ follows this same pattern, but it then involves human effort beyond faith. We must “work out [our] own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippines 2:12).


As far as the word “command.” It is a word which signifies a watchword or command that has full authorization because it has gone through the right and correct channels. Paul’s commission is specifically noted in Acts 9. He (and those with him) had the full authority of Christ Jesus to make such commands as authorized by the Lord. He will begin to give some such commands in just two verses.


Life application: As always, Paul notes that we must actively do something in order for God’s will to be realized in our lives. The Lord makes it possible for us to be pleasing to God, but we still must do in accord with that which the Lord makes possible. Obedience to the Lord’s will must be an active part of our lives, or we will not be pleasing to the Lord.


Heavenly Father, in Christ, You have given us the ability to be pleasing to You, but we also must respond to that divine assistance. To be saved, we must demonstrate faith. To walk rightly, we must demonstrate obedience. Help us to do according to Your will in all things by granting us the wisdom to rightly discern what Your will is, and then to act upon it. To Your glory we pray. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:5, 17 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2017

Tuesday, 17 October 2017


Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ. 2 Thessalonians 3:5

An implicit reference to the Trinity is stated here. “Now may the Lord direct your hearts” is a work which properly belongs to the Holy Spirit. “The Lord” here would be, in Paul’s mind, the Greek rendering of the divine Hebrew name of God.” In the Greek, it is a general word for God, but the order of the verse is showing us that he is thinking of the sacred name first, which he then breaks down into the Persons and workings of the Godhead.


“Into the love of God” gives the sense of, “So that you may love God.” This doesn’t mean that they didn’t yet love God, but Paul is petitioning that they will always be directed to love God. It is comparable to saying to a couple on their wedding, “May the power of love direct your heart into the love of one another.” They are already in love, but the appeal is that they will always be in love, and drawn into the love of one another. It is as if the love is a safe haven from all the cares and worries which could otherwise steal away the joy of being united. And to ensure that this love is strengthened so that it can be realized, he finishes with “and into the patience of Christ.”


Christ was able to face His trials patiently because his heart was fully directed to the love of God. But it is also true that His patience in those trials made it possible for Him to be directed into the love of God. The two work hand in hand to form a complete whole. In our trials, we need to be patient, understanding that God has a good end for us, even if the immediate moments are seemingly unbearable. And, in our trials we need to direct our hearts into the love of God so that we may be patient through the trials. Each is a part of the whole, and together they will keep us on the right path towards the good end which lies ahead for the people of God.

And these things are needed based on what he had said in the previous verse. He had just said, “And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you.” By having our hearts directed into the love of God, and also by having the patience of Christ, we will certainly have the desire and the ability to do the things we are commanded to do. This is Paul’s heartfelt prayer for those in Thessalonica (and thus us!).


Life application: Times of trial are certain to come, but if we are properly directed, and if we are determined to patiently endure them, then those trials will not destroy our faith. Instead, we will be able to maintain it through the trials. If we are lacking these things, we should pray for the Lord to direct us and establish us in them. He will graciously grant such a request, as He has done for the countless faithful who have gone before us.


It is a tough life, O God. Even on the best of days, we can get misdirected and tossed about in a moment. In this, we can quickly lose our direction. How much more true is this when extended times of trial and trouble cross our path. In such times, help us to remember that You are there. Direct our heart to loving you even more, and give us the patience which Christ Himself demonstrated in His own hour of trial. Surely, as He prevailed, so we can too. Help us in this, O faithful and glorious God. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 18 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 18, 2017

Wednesday, 18 October 2017


But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us. 2 Thessalonians 3:6

In verse 4, Paul noted his confidence that the Thessalonians would do the things that were commanded them. He now gives such a command, specifically stating it as such. But, he again calls them “brethren.” It is a command based on their place in Christ, and one which is intended to ensure harmony within that placement. To further bolster this, he then says, “in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” This is what made them “brethren” in the first place.


Because of their standing in Christ, and under the authority of that name which was given to Paul (and those with him), he issues his first of a series of commands and exhortations. This first command is “that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly.” The word he uses is only found elsewhere in 2 Corinthians 8:20. It gives the sense of “taking precaution” against. In modern lingo, we might nod towards such a person and quietly say under our breath, “Watch out for that guy.”


This is not a formal excommunication, but it is a strong warning to not get tangled up with such a person. Most churches of any size at all have one or two people like this. They are given instruction, and they refuse to apply it to their lives. Thus, they are disorderly. The word so translated is an adverb found twice, both in this chapter (see verse 11 for its second use). As an adjective, it is used in 1 Thessalonians 5:14 where it is translated as “unruly.” It signifies someone who walks in an insubordinate manner towards the word of God, and is thus fruitless. He lacks proper discipline.


The reason he is this way is because his walk is “not according to the tradition which he received from us.” The “tradition” Paul speaks of is an authoritative standard which is expected to be passed on and adhered to. As it says, it is “from us.” It is that which is apostolic in nature. As it is, it ultimately receives its authority from Christ the Lord.


Today, with the Bible complete, there is no such tradition which is not found there. In other words, with the ending of the apostolic age, any other “traditions” are from men and not from God. They may be useful, but they are do not carry the same authoritative stamp. Papal edicts, books of discipline, etc, can be amended. The word of God cannot. It is this word of God which carries the “traditions” which Paul speaks of here.


Life application: Churches often place high value on written codes which are extra-biblical, using them for the practical guidance of their gatherings. This is rather unfortunate, as has been seen among many long-standing denominations in recent years. One example is the Book of Discipline found in the Methodist church. It was given with guidelines concerning morality which were originally closely aligned with biblical standards. However, those standards have lately been changed, or are being evaluated for change, to allow all kinds of unbiblical perversion. Instead of going back to the source, meaning the Bible, they have altered the traditions which were man-given. This is error. Either the Bible is the rule and guide of our walk, or we have no proper source by which we will conduct ourselves in accord with God’s standards.


Lord God, codes of conduct, papal edicts, books of discipline, etc., can all be amended or superseded, but the Word of God stands forever. Help us to redirect our lives away from such things, and to correct our walk before you based on Your word alone. There is way too much perversion in churches today because they have decided upon their own moral standards instead of relying on what You have instructed. And with this turning from Your word, only a sad expectation of wrath and indignation can be expected. Wow! We sure don’t want that! Help us to stick to Your word for our holy conduct. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:7, 19 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2017

Thursday, 19 October 2017


For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; 2 Thessalonians 3:7

The word “For” is given here based on the words of the previous verse which exhorted those in Thessalonica to “withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly...” It then is explained in this and in the coming verse. Now, he says, “For you yourselves know.” As he has done on numerous occasions, Paul calls to memory what occurred in the past. Each time he does this, it solidifies his argument and his exhortations, because there can be no doubt of what he relays. He and his associates acted in a certain way, and they saw it with their own eyes.


Understanding this, he goes further by saying that they know “how you ought to follow us.” The meaning of “follow” is “to imitate.” In the manner that he and his fellow-workers acted, the church should also act. The missionaries had set the standard, and those ministered to should take note and follow accordingly. This “how you ought to follow us” is actually described by him in his first letter to them –


“You are witnesses, and God also, how devoutly and justly and blamelessly we behaved ourselves among you who believe; 11 as you know how we exhorted, and comforted, and charged every one of you, as a father does his own children, 12 that you would walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory.” 1 Thessalonians 2:10


The final words of the verse, “for we were not disorderly among you,” are not meant to contrast for the purpose of condemning. Rather, they are words of contrast for the purpose of exhortation that they would choose and walk on the right path. The Greek word he uses which is translated as “disorderly” is the verb form of the adverb he used in the previous verse which was also translated as “disorderly.” Thus, he is saying, “Just as you are to withdraw from those who are disorderly, you should emulate one who is marching in proper order, for we were not walking in a disorderly way among you.”


He is using a negative in order to form a positive example in the eyes of the Thessalonians. Like his description of himself in his first letter, he will next again provide concrete examples of the conduct he and his associates demonstrated while he was among them.

Life application: Paul’s words are as much to us as they were to his original audience. If we want to live properly, all we need to do is go to the Bible and apply its precepts to our own lives. This is especially so with the words of Paul’s epistles. They are our “marching orders” during this dispensation. All Scripture is profitable for this purpose, but his words are especially directed to this Gentile-led church age.


It is such an honor to know that we can come to You, O God, and to ask You for our heart’s desire because of the mediation of Christ. There is no longer any fracture between us. The veil is rent, and we have full and unfettered access to Your throne of grace. Help us to be confident in our prayer life, and help us to use this privilege and honor wisely so that our prayers will be pleasing to Your ears. Thank You, O God, for our intimate line of communication in Christ. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:8, 20 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2017

Friday, 20 October 2017


...nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, 2 Thessalonians 3:8


These words are not just descriptive reminders, but they are instructive as well. Paul just said, “For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us.” By stating what they did, he is instructing what those in the church should do. He began that instruction by stating they were “not disorderly.” Now he continues in this verse with, “nor did we eat anyone’s bread free of charge.”

Paul and his companions didn’t just come to town, proclaim the gospel, and then say, “As your instructors, we hope you will provide for our means while we are among you preaching and teaching.” Instead, he uses a Hebraism – “eat anyone’s bread” – to show that they tended to their own basic needs. “Bread” here is used as a metaphor for that which sustains life. Not only did they shun pay for their instruction, they even refused to accept a gift (free of charge) for the most commonly needed of provision. Instead, they “worked with labor and toil night and day.”


They were willing to expend themselves for the sake of those they ministered to rather than accept what they were actually rightfully due. Elsewhere Paul says, “The laborer is worthy of his wages” (1 Timothy 5:8). He also says, “Let him who is taught the word share in all good things with him who teaches” (Galatians 6:6). However, it is obvious that Paul and his associates perceived that there was a streak of slothfulness in the Thessalonians which needed to be rebuked through living example. As Charles Ellicott notes, “There is a flavour of scorn in St. Paul’s disclaimer of such a parasite’s life.”


In order to quench this attitude among the Thessalonians, they worked all the more heartily, even night and day, in order to be living examples of how to conduct one’s affairs. This is all the more certain, because he and his associates were willing to receive pay at other churches (see 2 Corinthians 11:8). But for those churches which needed proper guidance in how to conduct life’s affairs, they would go the extra mile in being the right example. This was so “that we might not be a burden to any of you.”

In seeing this example, they would hopefully learn to rightly live as well. Instead of being freeloaders, they would learn hard work, industry, and making one’s own way in life. This will continue to be seen as Paul continues.


Life application: With the advent of liberal policies, and handouts from the government, being a freeloader has become an acceptable part of society. However, it is not an acceptable attitude according to the Bible. The book of Proverbs, in particular, has strong words against such people. They are leeches that need to be scraped off from the bloodied flesh they cling to, and they need to either fend for themselves, or suffer the consequences of their own idleness.


Lord God, You word teaches that each man is to be industrious, and to earn his own way. We are not to be freeloaders who rely on others, whether individuals or governments. It’s unfortunate that the policies of those in power have led to a generation of freeloaders and leeches. We would pray that this would change. If a man has two working hands and two working feet, he needs to be responsible for his own way in life, or he needs to be cut off as a pariah. You have made us to be industrious, and so help us to be just that. Honorably working in society – helpful to others, and glorifying of You. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:9, 21 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2017


Saturday, 21 October 2017


...not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. 2 Thessalonians 3:9

One can see the importance of apostolic authority in Paul’s words. He has explained why he and his associates did not impose upon those in Thessalonica. It was because they did not desire to be a burden on them. However, he now notes that they had every right to do so with the words, “not because we do not have authority.” They had a legitimate right to partake of anything any other apostle was entitled to. They bore the word of God, and they transmitted it to the church there.


The implication is that bearing the word of God carries this authority. As the word of God comes through the apostles, only those who bear the word of God, as given by the apostles, have such a right to the same authority. And as there is only one word of God, only those who hold to it alone have a true right to what accompanies its transmission. Someone who stands in the pulpit and dismisses the word of God, or who adds to it, has no authority, or has abused his authority. He is to be rejected. This is all implied in how Paul reveals these truths. The word of God alone is our authority within the church.


He, and his associates, possessed that authority, but they did not exercise it. This was, as he says, “to make ourselves an example.” The words “to make” means “so that we might give.” They were setting themselves as examples for those in Thessalonica to learn from and to emulate. They had purposefully acted as they did with the intent of teaching those who were slothful among the church. They were to learn by it in hopes that they would emulate what they saw. This is revealed in the words, “of how you should follow us.” Paul and his companions had set themselves as a model, and this model was expected to be applied to the lives of those in the church.


What is seen here is a letter which centers on the coming rapture of the church, and then the coming Day of the Lord. It is to be inferred that there were congregants who were sitting around doing nothing because it was so much easier to speculate about the coming of the Lord than it was for them to get up, get out, and work. And it was also so much easier than studying the word, gaining sound theology, and actually applying Scripture to their lives.


They were the forerunners of today’s YouTube prophecy addicts who spend all their time in the realm of “goofy” instead of in the realm of reality. They didn’t want to work, and they used the soon-coming of the Lord as an excuse to not do just that. They didn’t want to strain their minds on sound theology, and they mishandled Scripture in order to avoid learning to rightly apply it.

Before YouTube, one can see them setting up stalls on the road and promoting their wares for everyone to see. Instead of a DONATE button, they had a DONATE slot. Instead of computer graphics, they had their wife paint a bizarro screen at the back of the stall. And instead of an open Bible, filled with study notes, they listened to words of false teachers (see verses 2:1-3), or they simply made things up out of their own heads, passing it off as the truth of God. Paul is (and will continue) telling them that this is not appropriate. They needed to get out there, work, and stop idly speculating about something which is known but to God alone.

Life application: Paul set the example of work and industry. Stop watching 60 hours of YouTube a week, get up, get out, and get to work. And in your free time, read the Bible.


Lord God, Your word sets forth an example for Your people that we are to be hard working, self-sufficient, and industrious. It also informs us that this is so because idle speculation about the Lord’s return is unproductive, it is time-wasted, and it is harmful to the body. This can all be inferred from Your word, and some of it is explicit. Help us to get a grip, get off YouTube, and get to work – always anticipating, but never expecting, the great Day when Jesus comes to take us home. Whoo hoo. Oh what a day that will be. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:10, 22 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, OCTOBER 22, 2017

Sunday, 22 October 2017


For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. 2 Thessalonians 3:10

Food: When you’re hungry, nothing satisfies like food. Paul now ties this wonderful necessity in with an oft-dreaded word, “work.” We both need food, and we enjoy food. We often do not like work, but according to Paul, we need to work if we want that other thing we need and enjoy, “food.” He links the two together as if they are one.


This verse seems to be tied back to verse 6 –

“But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us. … For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.”


And so, “For when we were with you,” is first based on that command, and then it was practically lived out by Paul and his associates in verses 7-9. Next, “we commanded you this,” is tied to what is spoken at the beginning of verse 6, “But we command you.” This is now repeated in the epistle to remind them of what they had said. While in Thessalonica, it was evident that some were unwilling to work, but instead were sponging off the kindness of others. “Gee, we’re all Christians here, you wouldn’t let a hungry brother down, now would you?”


This is something that is still seen 2000 years later. Some people use their status as Christians to guilt other Christians into tending to them, even for their basic necessities. It happens to individuals, and it happens to churches. There are sponges all over the place who take advantage of this. But Paul advises the Thessalonians (and thus us!) to not be duped into this kind of thing. He says quite clearly, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.”


It is not an optional thing, and Paul actually presents nothing new. Solomon speaks of the need to be industrious on several occasions, and he tells the sad results of being a lazy-Joe –

Go to the ant, you sluggard!

Consider her ways and be wise,

7 Which, having no captain,

Overseer or ruler,

8 Provides her supplies in the summer,

And gathers her food in the harvest.

9 How long will you slumber, O sluggard?

When will you rise from your sleep?

10 A little sleep, a little slumber,

A little folding of the hands to sleep—

11 So shall your poverty come on you like a prowler,

And your need like an armed man. Proverbs 6:6-11


In Paul’s words then, there is nothing out of the ordinary, nothing un-Christian, and nothing harsh. Rather, there is wisdom which is intended to 1) Get lazy people up off their duffs and out into the world to earn their bread, and 2) Save industrious people from being seduced by those in category 1. We should not feel the slightest bit guilty when a person actually has to miss a meal because he spent the day at the beach, or whittled his time away on an iPad.


Life application: For obtaining life-prolonging food-intake, get to work.


Lord God, what a treasure it is to open Your word and find in it the words, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” Wow! That takes the burden off those who are willing to get out and earn their own way. They don’t have to be used by sluggards and lazy people, and they don’t need to feel guilty when a lazy-Joe misses a meal or two because play is more important that work to him. Whoo hoo! Those who are capable, but don’t get to work, can entertain us with growly-tummy noises. We’ll pray they learn their lesson and get to work! Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:11, 23 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2017


Monday, 23 October 2017

For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. 2 Thessalonians 3:11


The words “For we hear,” are an indication that some were at the church in Thessalonica, and they were personal witnesses of those who were being lazy and sponging off of others. It was probably the carriers of his first letter back to the church. They took the letter and had a visit, probably a bit horrified that those who had accepted Paul’s gospel presentation and instruction were already departing from it, and receiving false words from others.


The source may have been someone from the church itself as well, dispatched to get Paul’s thoughts on what was going on. Either way, he has been giving direction, instruction, and correction based on this saddening news, which is “that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner.”


He has already instructed that the church members were to “withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly” among them (verse 3:6). Now he shows that this wasn’t just an arbitrary statement of instruction, but a preparation for specific accusation, which is now given. Those who were disorderly (and they were already there in the church) were to be withdrawn from. Here they were, repeating false doctrines which had been received from unreliable sources, and they were spreading them around like a growing virus. The way to end this was to end any contact with them.


While most in the church were being productive, living their lives out in a sound and reasonable manner, these sensationalists were “not working at all.” Instead, they were “busybodies.” In the Greek, there is a play on words which is wholly lacking in the English translation. The word “working” is ergazomai. The word “busybodies” is periergazomai. It is used only here in the Bible, and it is a superlative word. Peri means “all around,” and so one gets the idea of “working all around,” and thus meddling.

Instead of doing what should be done, they had their noses in the work of everyone else, fixating on what they were up to. In this, one can almost see then what they would do next. “Gee, you are too busy making a living. Don’t you know that the Day of the Lord has come (or the rapture is going to happen on 23 September). Why are you wasting your time? But, seeing as how you have your wages coming in, why don’t you give me a bit for lunch...”


Whatever attitude was demonstrated in these people, it included a theological misunderstanding (or intentional falsification) of the sequence of events concerning the return of Christ and the tribulation period. In their mishandling of what was to occur, they were not being productive, and they were leeching off of those who were. And doesn’t this sound like the rapture date-setters of today! They put out video after video, monetizing those videos, robbing people of their time which would otherwise be spent more productively, and leading those uninformed in Scripture down unsound paths of doctrine. And with the link to the DONATE button, they rake it in at the expense of people who are too unclear in their life and doctrine to see they are being duped.

Paul has set the timeline of events in his writings, but because people are unwilling to study the word, they get caught up in the false teachings of these people who should otherwise be, as Paul directly commands, stayed away from. How sad it is that people won’t take the time to simply learn the Bible. In this, they will stop speculating, and they would learn to devote their time, work, and resources to productive things. Rapture-schmapture. It will happen when it happens, and so we can cherish the thought in our heart without becoming duped into false hopes by these abhorrent people.


Life application: Still watching videos and reading commentaries about a particular date for the rapture? Try reading your Bible instead.


Lord God, there have been enough false-predictions about the return of Jesus that maybe it’s time we should just stop paying attention to this nonsense. Maybe… maybe we should instead just read our Bibles each day, and then get out to our jobs, be industrious and hard working there, and then devote our free time to something worthwhile, like telling people about their need for Jesus. What an innovative idea… maybe we should. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:12, 24 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2017


Tuesday, 24 October 2017

Now those who are such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. 2 Thessalonians 3:12


It is of note that Paul uses the word translated as “command” a total of 12 times in all of his letters, and yet four (one-third) of them are in 2 Thessalonians, and all four are in this chapter. It is, therefore, a clear indication that he is not just a bit miffed about the attitude of those sponging off of others in the church, but he is highly upset about it. These, the forerunners of “rapture date-setters,” are uninterested in hard work and sound doctrine, and they are an annoyance to the body. Each time they believe someone who says, “The day of the Lord has come,” and then pass it on to others, they cause harm. Each time they say, “The rapture will be on this day because...,” they cause people to stop their productive lives, and to hope on that which is not based on any type of reality.


Paul had already told the church the things he knows of concerning the end-times when he was with them (2:5), and then he repeated that in this letter. No “word from the Lord” will come along and change these things, and no special insights into when these things will occur will ever be forth-coming, thus contradicting Paul’s words of this letter. Therefore, it is a waste of time and energy to focus on them. Instead, he directs his words to this particular group saying, “Now those who are such...”


It is those who are not willing to work, but are spending all their time being unproductive and passing on unsound theology that he is writing to. Instead of living productive lives, they sponge off of those who do, and sway them with words which have no basis in authoritative words of the apostles (today, those words of the apostles which have been recorded and saved are a portion of the Bible).


It is to these that he says, “we command and exhort.” A command is a directive – “You are to do this thing.” The words require attention and action. However, he immediately follows up with “and exhort” in order to lesson the chance of angry rebellion by those he is commanding. These are, after all, date-setters who are easily miffed over being told their doctrine is unsound. Thus, the word “exhort” is given as a friendly, hopeful way of them taking the “command” in a positive way instead of stomping off in an angry huff.

Remember that it is the same group of people whom he commanded to be withdrawn from in verse 6. Those words were for the people of the congregation who weren’t caught up in the idle speculation. These words are for those who are. “The congregation is to withdraw from you, but you can be brought back into a right relationship with them if you stop this nonsense, get to work, and earn your own bread.” This is still applicable today. We are to withdraw from rapture date-setters until they stop their disturbing posts and learn to be productive. They can then be brought again into a right relationship with the church.


And to bolster his words, Paul continues on with the note that the command and exhortation is “through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Some manuscripts say “in” instead of “through,” but the title is where the main focus is. Whether Christ directly gave this command (which He in fact did in Acts 1:7, 8), or whether Paul is simply giving it under inspiration as an apostle, the words are given by authority of the name of the Lord. And the command and exhortation is “that they work in quietness and eat their own bread.”

“Folks, it’s time to stop listening to non-biblical things, to stop spreading those things, and to get to work. At the end of the day, you’ll have your pay, and you can go buy your own food with it. Stop interrupting the church. Stop idly speculating on the day of the rapture. Get wisdom. Get sound instruction. Stand approved before the Lord.” All of this and so much more is tied up in Paul’s words. There are souls who need to hear about Jesus, and it won’t get done while people are watching videos about the rapture coming up on Friday. There are people who see Christians watching those videos and who laugh at them each time another date passes by without anything happening. And there is the name of the Lord which is brought to shame each time this occurs.

Life application: If you see what appears to be a really interesting looking video about the prophetic timeline pointing to the coming tribulation and the rapture of the church, don’t watch it.


Heavenly Father, You have a wonderful plan of redemption laid out for the world. It’s been going on for a long, long time. We are living in a small moment of that plan, and we have this one short chance to be a productive part of it. Help us to be properly directed in our attitude towards the gospel. Help us not to waste our time on idle speculation about the rapture or the coming tribulation period, but to quietly tuck those things into our minds, and keep on working diligently in our daily lives as workers at our jobs, and as Christians with a duty to share the good news of redemption in Christ. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:13, 25 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017


Wednesday, 25 October 2017

But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good. 2 Thessalonians 3:13

Here we have a subtle jab at those referenced in the previous two verses. Paul has said that he who “will not work, neither shall he eat.” He then built upon that, pointing out these sluggards and what they should do in verse 12. Now, he gives a contrast to them with the words, “But as for you, brethren.”


In other words, he is making a distinction between the two. He has cumulatively called all (both hard worker and sluggard) “brethren” quite a few times already, but he has told those who are diligent and industrious to “withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us” (verse 6).


He acknowledges that they are brothers, but now in this verse he gives them a poke by using the term “brethren” as applying to those who aren’t like them. There are brothers, and then there are brothers! The intent here is to convict those who are sitting around watching crazy YouTube rapture videos all day, and who then pass on this false information to the church, to stop doing this, to get to work, to be examples of Christ, and to be obedient to His will.


After this direct and convicting opening, he then tells the “brethren” that they are to “not grow weary in doing good.” The word translated as “weary” is used once by Luke and five times by Paul. It gives the sense of fainting. Paul is exhorting the brethren to not allow anything to interfere with doing good, even exhaustion itself. The word translated as “doing good” is used just this once in the Bible. It comes from two Greek words which together give the sense of “doing good that inspires others to rise up and do what is noble” (HELPS Word Studies).


This exhortation is tied back to the “patience of Christ” of verse 5. Just as Christ continued in His ministry, never faltering in His work, so we are to likewise act. And, we are to do so by inspiring others in the process. The contrast between the sluggardly rapture/Day of the Lord date-setters and those who are acting properly is crystal clear. While they are doing nothing of value, wasting time, and harming the walk of others, those who are obedient to the word are productively working, making the best use of the time they are allotted, and their work is inspiring others on to their noble work as well.


Life application: Are you a rapture date-setting sluggard, or are you a person interested in the whole counsel of God, and in sharing your interest in the word with others? Paul has set a distinction between the two. If you are the former, he tells the rest to withdraw from you. If you are the latter, he tells others to emulate you. Which will receive commendation from the Lord on that Day? Hmmm… I wonder which.


Lord God, our main hope and goal in this life, and in everything we do, should be to receive commendation from You on the Day we stand before You. What a waste to think that You would save us through the agonizing cross of Calvary, and then after accepting what You have done, fritter our time away doing nothing productive in return! Help us to think this through clearly. This life is a breath and then it will be gone. We should endeavor to use it to Your glory right up until the end. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:14, 26 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2017


Thursday, 26 October 2017


And if anyone does not obey our word in this epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed. 2 Thessalonians 3:14


In these words, Paul is working for unity within the body, not division. But by calling for division from sluggards, it is a call for those who need to be withdrawn from to wake up from their slumber, get their act in order, and become productive, compliant members of the church. It must be remembered that the entire discourse here is based on the fact that some in the church had been swayed by a false word concerning the end times (verses 2:1, 2). From that departure, they had become unproductive members of the body, lollygagging around, and interrupting a normal environment of right worship and proper daily life.


Understanding this, he begins the verse with, “And if any man.” This is the call for division in hopes of obtaining unity. The reason this is so, is that the person is already divided from the body in a general sense. He is not in accord with the rest, and so there is no point in allowing him to continue to be in fellowship with the church. The reason why he isn’t in accord with the rest is because he, as Paul says, “does not obey our word in this epistle.”


“This epistle” is based on apostolic authority, derived from Christ Jesus. Therefore, such a person is being disobedient to the word of God. This continues on today because the epistle has found a permanent place in the word of God. Therefore, the command applies just as much today as it did when it was received by the church at Thessalonica. And the instruction given is to “note that person and do not keep company with him.”


The word translated as “note” means “to set a mark upon.” The individual is to be highlighted as if branded so that we are constantly reminded of his errant ways. Until he is compliant, the note is to remain. It’s not enough to say, “Oh, he’s not holding to the word, but in this case he has an interesting insight I think you should hear.” Instead, he is to be noted, and to be completely ignored.


As seen above, the main thrust of the letter concerns adhering to the word of God concerning end times. It is a call to not speculate on what belongs to the Lord alone (see Acts 1:7 and 1 Thessalonians 5:1). As this is disobedience to the words of Jesus, and the words of Paul (who is Jesus’ representative), we are to not keep company with date setters. We are not to watch their videos on YouTube, and we are not to attend their conferences, if applicable. Instead, we are to remain productive members of the church, not idle speculators wasting precious time which should be directed towards attaining spiritual maturity.


Paul’s words, however, are certainly all-encompassing. Anyone who is not obedient to the words of his epistles – regardless of the infraction – is to be kept away from. Though the words here are centered on end-times date-setters, they must also pertain to all flagrant ignoring of church-age doctrine. He then finishes up with an explanation of why he commands this with, “that he may be ashamed.” In the coming verse, he will further define this, but for now, the intent is one of correction.


Rapture date setters shouldn’t be applauded for their diligence in trying to determine when the rapture will be. They should be shunned for being an embarrassment on the body. Such is true with any infraction. A brother who is sexually immoral is to be expelled from the body because he is bringing disgrace upon the name of Christ, and his actions are harmful to those who may think it is otherwise OK to act in this way. Such things should not be. The place to find out what is and what is not acceptable is the word of God. When it is not adhered to, action must be taken to restore order and to maintain holiness.


Life application: Some people seem to be beyond shame. They make stuff up out of their own heads, and they misuse Scripture willingly in order to appear super-religious. Whether they will acknowledge their infractions or not, we are given our orders – keep ourselves away from such people. Don’t get caught up in that which is misdirected. Instead, grow in sound theology, and hold fast to the word of God!


Most wonderful God, how precious it is to be in Your presence. How good it is to know that You are here for Your people, and that You hear their prayers because of the offering of Christ Jesus. Now, help us to be obedient to Your word, to hold fast to sound doctrine, and to apply it to our daily lives. When we stand before You, it will all have been worthwhile if we pursue You now. May it be so in our lives. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:15, 27 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017


Friday, 27 October 2017


Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 2 Thessalonians 3:15


The Greek begins with “and,” not “yet.” There is no thought of bitterness or unkindness in Paul’s words already spoken, or which he now writes. Instead, this is a saving measure towards the wayward brother. Using the proper conjunction “and” shows that not keeping company with this person is actually an act of brotherly kindness. It is intended to correct his incorrect conduct and hopefully bring him back to proper conduct.


Understanding this, Paul says, “And do not count him as an enemy.” What is occurring here is Christian discipline, not warfare. This person is not holding to sound doctrine. He is misusing Scripture, or has been misled concerning Scripture, and has come to faulty conclusions about an issue. This, in turn, has led him to lollygag around and not working. Such a person isn’t to be treated as an enemy, but rather as a misdirected brother. In order to correct him, he is not to be associated with, but at the same time, he isn’t to be treated like someone who is actually hostile to the faith. Rather, we are to “admonish him as a brother.”


Admonish means to correct, counsel, or exhort. We are to urge such people to turn and look for God’s best in their lives. Rapture date-setting doesn’t qualify. One misses out on life when they spend all their time speculating about the next prophetic event to occur. Proper work habits are interrupted, family relationships suffer, and other people are brought into the same inane paths of futile speculation. None of this should occur, and such people are to be properly admonished, as brothers, to give up this avenue and pursue sound doctrine.


Life application: With the UNFRIEND option on Facebook, it is pretty easy to just cut people off without a care. This is necessary at times, but it can also be harmful as well. We need to ensure that we only take such measures towards other Christians if they are truly disruptive, or passing on heretical ideas. Otherwise, we should just admonish them to pursue right doctrine, and avoid otherwise commenting on their incorrect posts about the next rapture date or “sign in the sky.” Always attempt to use Christian courtesy when dealing with your fellow brethren.


Heavenly Father, in our modern world, we have the added burden of the dreaded “unfriend” option on social media. When it is used against us, it can bring about sad feelings of rejection. Understanding this, help us to be as courteous as possible to others before using this option ourselves. Help us to not divide Christian fellowship over minutiae, but instead to reserve that option for the truly offensive people who come into our lives. Help us to strive for peace to the greatest extent possible as we live in Your presence. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:16, 28 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2017


Saturday, 28 October 2017


Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with you all. 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Paul has given multiple commands and exhortations since verse 6. Now, he attaches a benediction to these by saying, “Now may the Lord of peace Himself...” He has been speaking of withdrawing from those who are disorderly. Now as a prayer that such will resolve this unhappy situation, he calls on the “Lord of peace.” This phrase is unique in all of his writing. Elsewhere he says, “God of peace, such as in Romans 15:33 and 1 Thessalonians 5:23. Thus, we have another implicit reference to the Godhead, ascribing to Jesus what was previously ascribed to God. This probably stems from Isaiah’s use of the term “Prince of peace” in Isaiah 9:6.

It is Christ Jesus who provides the peace of God. It is a peace which is more than just quiet, but wholeness of heart and soundness of mind. It is also the peace that extends to harmony between people. Paul asks that this fullness of peace be given to those at Thessalonica. As he says it, “always in every way.” In adhering to the commands and exhortations, along with all of the other apostolic instruction, this will be possible. Obedience to the word of God is what will bring this about in their lives.


In completion of the verse, he then adds in, “The Lord be with you all.” This petition hearkens back to Matthew 28:20 where the Lord promised to be with his people always. In obedience to the word of the Lord, there is found the comfort of the Lord. How often people say, “I feel like the Lord’s presence isn’t with me lately.” More often than not, it is because there is some deficiency in their own walk.


The Lord has promised, Paul has petitioned, and the only thing to keep either from being effective must then be from our side, not the Lord’s. If we are walking obediently, and yet we still do not feel the Lord with us, then we need to draw near to the Lord who is already there. In Hebrews 10:22, we are admonished to “draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith.” If the Lord seems distant, let us follow these words and correct the problem from our end. He has never left us!


Life application: If our spiritual walk is dry and barren, or when we feel that the Lord is distant, let us return to the word. Let us remember that He has given His promise to never leave us, and to never forsake us. With that in mind, let us then draw near to the One who is right there. Open those spiritual eyes and direct them to Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith.

Lord God, it is true that at times we find ourselves in a place where You seem distant. We wonder, “Why has the Lord drawn away from me?” But Your word says otherwise. For those in Christ, You have promised to never leave us. As this is a promise and a guarantee, help us to feel Your presence again as we draw ourselves near to You. There You are with us. All we need to do is realize this truth and rejoice in it. Thank You for the eternal surety we possess. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:17, 29 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2017


Sunday, 29 October 2017


The salutation of Paul with my own hand, which is a sign in every epistle; so I write. 2 Thessalonians 3:17


“This salutation of Paul with my own hand,” tells us that until this point he has had a scribe writing the epistle for him. It is at this point that he stopped his narration and said to the scribe something like, “Bentonious, let me have the quill to finish up the letter.” Certainly not miffed at all because of writer’s-cramp, Bentonious probably said, “It’s all yours, fine Sir, finish away.” The salutation of Paul was intended to keep from happening exactly what did happen, as noted in verses 2:1, 2 -


“Now, brethren, concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, we ask you, 2 not to be soon shaken in mind or troubled, either by spirit or by word or by letter, as if from us, as though the day of Christ had come.”

A hand written salutation from Paul authenticated the letter so that there would be no mistake in whether it was valid or not. This is seen in his next words, “which is a sign in every epistle, so I write.” Paul obviously wrote the concluding thoughts of the first letter to them, but he didn’t highlight it at that time, but now he is doing so in order to keep from any future possibility of a false letter being received and accepted.


It is known from Galatians 6 that Paul had a unique style of handwriting which was with very large letters (Galatians 6:11). It is generally assumed that this was because he had poor eyesight. The reasons for this assumption are convincing. His handwriting would be very easy to recognize, and rather hard to forge. This was his mark of authorship, and the letter’s mark of authenticity.

Life application: Nowadays, we send many emails, and our social intercourse is often reduced to short, rather impersonal, messages. From time to time, it should be our practice to take a moment and to actually write a note to those we cherish. In this, we go back to a more personal, even intimate, time where associations and friendships were recognized as such.


Lord God, You have created us to be personal, social beings. But our lives have been reduced to impersonal social media for the most part. We tell people we love them because they post friendly things and don’t annoy us, but we just as quickly unfriend them when they say they voted for Senator Do-Nothing. Grant us the ability to be more personal to others than just a 100 character tweet. Help us to establish true and enduring friendships. Your word says, “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” Help us to be true friends and brothers. Amen.

[PrisonerOfHope]

Daily Bible Verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:18, 30 October 2017

WWW.WONDERFUL1.COM·MONDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2017


Monday, 30 October 2017


The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. 2 Thessalonians 3:18


Paul’s closing words here are identical to those of 1 Thessalonians 5:28, except here he adds in the word “all.” This is in line with his words of verse 16 of this chapter where he said, “The Lord be with you all.” This is especially important because he has censured some of the congregation for being lazy sluggards. Despite this, he has no ill will towards them, and the letter has been intended to correct their sloth. Should they fail, the congregation also has its orders to withdraw from them, but still admonish them as brothers.


Despite the addition of “all,” as is in accord with all of his epistles, Paul’s closing salutation is a blessing which is a petition for divine favor to be upon his audience. In the Greek, there is a definite article in front of "grace." Quite often English translations will insert "the" for clarity at certain points, but it may not be in the Greek. However, it is here.


"The grace" is different than saying something like, "May grace from the Lord Jesus be with you." Paul is asking for a divine impartation of this attribute of the Lord to rest upon those in Thessalonica (and thus us!) and to sustain them in their walk. It must be then considered that those who are not obedient to the epistle are to be excluded from this petition.


For example, in a similar petition for grace to be bestowed upon the congregation at Corinth, he wrote concerning a disobedient congregant, saying to “deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.” Until that person was willing to adhere to the sound instruction of the epistle, his petition for divine grace was most probably not intended for him.


And yet, at the same time, we all fall short of one precept or another. Therefore, it must be considered that it is for those who earnestly strive for adherence to it, even if they do fall short. Such is the nature of grace; undeserved merit. Paul, in one form or another, closes out every one of his epistles with such a note of request for this divine favor. Even the last words of the Bible are very closely aligned with his words here. There John writes -

“The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” Revelation 22:21


Finally, Paul closes the letter with “Amen.” In essence, “So let it be.” Paul has petitioned for grace upon his audience, and he then confirms that petition with assured hopes that it will be so.


Life application: The Bible, time and again, asks for an undeserved blessing to be bestowed upon those who pursue it, even if they fall short of what it states. Such is the nature of grace, and such is the nature of our gracious Lord. As you walk along life's highway, take time to contemplate the wondrous grace which has been lavished upon you. And then thank the Lord and praise the Lord for that same grace.


Lord God, we take the many blessings of this life for granted. At times we even act as if we deserve Your grace. But grace is unmerited favor, and so help us to realize this. May we look to each radiant day of sunshine as a gift. Every beautiful flower that opens was because of Your gracious hand. None of such things are deserved, but are instead kind acts from You, our loving Creator. Grant us wisdom to realize this, and to thank and praise You for each delight which fills our eyes, minds, and hearts. Amen.