2 Thessalonians 3: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Thessalonians 3 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul requests prayer for the spread of the Lord's word and for protection from evil men (vv. 1-2). He assures the Thessalonians that the Lord is faithful and will establish and guard them (vv. 3-5). Paul commands the church to withdraw from any brother who is rebellious and does not follow the traditions he taught (vv. 6-10). He emphasizes that those who refuse to work should not eat, encouraging the community to avoid idleness (vv. 11-12). Paul urges the Thessalonians to not grow weary in doing good and to correct those who disobey his teachings, treating them not as enemies but as brothers (vv. 13-15). He concludes with a blessing of peace and grace from the Lord to the community (vv. 16-18).

Key verse

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with you all.”
2 Thessalonians 3:16 (WEB)

Outline

2 Thessalonians 3:1–2 Request for Prayer and Protection
2 Thessalonians 3:3–5 Assurance of God's Faithfulness
2 Thessalonians 3:6–10 Command Against Idleness
2 Thessalonians 3:11–12 Exhortation to Work Quietly
2 Thessalonians 3:13–15 Encouragement to Persevere in Doing Good
2 Thessalonians 3:16–18 Final Blessings and Benediction

Discussion questions

In v6, what specific action does Paul command regarding those who walk in rebellion?
What does Paul say about his own behavior in vv. 7-9 that believers should imitate?
Paul's command in v10 about work: what tension exists between this command and the community's current situation?
In v14, what does it mean to 'note that man' in relation to disobedience?
When have you felt weary in doing what is right, as mentioned in v13?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Thessalonians 3: Galatians 6, 1 Thessalonians 5, 1 Corinthians 10.

Before next time: read 1 Timothy 1.