Book Study: Second Thessalonians

Book Overview

Paul writes to encourage the persecuted church in their affliction and remind them of God’s justice. He also addressed confusion about Christ’s return. Some thought the Day of the Lord had already come. Paul reassures them that key events must precede Christ’s return and urges them to remain faithful, work diligently, and stand firm in the truth.

Brief Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1

Paul is thankful for the church’s growing faith and love. The church was suffering but Paul anticipates God’s justice when he returns. Eternal destruction awaits those disobedient to the gospel, but relief will come to those who believe.

Chapter 2

Paul explains the coming Day of the Lord that it will not sneak up on them nor has it come already. There will be an apostasy first and a man of lawlessness will rise. Many will be deceived by the power, signs and false wonders surrounding him. These will be judged when Jesus returns. Paul thanks God that we have been chosen by God for glorification.

Chapter 3

Paul asks for prayer to be rescued from evil men and for the rapid spread of the word of the Lord. He instructs them to work and not be undisciplined. Those who do not work and provide for themselves should be avoided so they will be ashamed and repent.

Key Verses

2 Thessalonians 1:6-7

God is just: He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you and give relief to you who are troubled, and to us as well. This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels

2 Thessalonians 2:3

Don’t let anyone deceive you in any way, for that day will not come until the rebellion occurs and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the man doomed to destruction.

2 Thessalonians 2:13–15

But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as first fruits to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth. He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one.

2 Thessalonians 3:10

For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”

2 Thessalonians 3:13

And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.

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