Acts 17:1-14

First Thessalonians Lesson # 1

INTRODUCTION TO FIRST THESSALONIANS

Memory Verse: I Thess. 1:8 (N.W. 1:2) Lesson: Acts 17:1-14

The Bible student who spends some time in ancient history will learn to appreciate the work of our God in those historical events which lay a groundwork for the New Testament. (1) The conquests of Alexander the Great furnished the Bible lands with a rich Greek culture, and more importantly, the expressive Greek language for the writing of the New Testament. (2) The conquests of the Roman Empire furnished an orderly government and a common government for all of the areas around the Bible lands and the Mediterranean Sea, thus making I it easier to travel from one country to another. Also, the Romans built wonderful roads that made it easier to carry the Gospel. Some of those roads still exist after 2,000 years.

To properly understand the two epistles to the Thessalonians, we must understand the background of the city, its people and Paul's association with them. We are furnished much of this information in the Divinely inspired account found in Acts 16-18. The student should carefully compare the few historical statements found in the two epistles with the account found in Acts.

I. THE FOUNDING OF THE CHURCH AT THESSALONICA.

    A. The Events Bringing Paul To Thessalonica.

        1. The Macedonian call. Acts 16:6-11. This involved leaving Asia and going into Europe, which may have not been so eventful to Paul, since he merely left one province of the Roman Empire for another. This was the beginning of the westward thrust of Christianity which has continued to this day.
        2. The Philippian converts. Acts 16:12-34
        3. The Philippian controversy. Acts 16:35-40. This resulted in Paul being urged to leave the city. (Of this we can say, how wonderful that he did not quit).
        4. The Apostle Paul and his companions.

            a. His Hebrew name was Saul, meaning "asked for." His name was changed to Paul which means "little." He had been saved 18 to 20 years when these events took place and was about 50 years of age.
            b. Silas or Silvanus was a prophet and a member of the Church at Jerusalem. Acts 15:32, And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.
            c. Timothy, a young man whose mother was Jewish and his father Gentile. Acts 16:1, Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:
            d. Luke, a physician, and the writer of Acts. Many think him to be Gentile, but there seems little proof of this.

        5. Paul was led to strategic centers. He went to the central city of an area, so that when a church was established, the gospel could radiate out from it.
        6. Thessalonica was such a strategic city.

            a. It was the largest and most influential city of all of Macedonia.
            b. The great Via Egnatia Roman highway to the East ran through it.
            c. The hot springs, originally gave it the name Therma.
            d. In 315 B.C. Cassanda rebuilt the city and named it Thessalonica after his wife, who was the half sister of Alexander the Great.
            e. The Romans captured the province in 168 B.C. and made Thessalonica a naval station.
            f. In Paul's day it was a free self governing city.
            g. The people were Thracians, Greeks, Romans & Jews.
            h. The synagogue gives evidence of a large Jewish population. Philippi had no synagogue.

    B. The Events Involving Paul In Thessalonica. Acts 17:1-9

        1. The manner of Paul's ministry.

            a. No mention of preaching in Amphipolis or Apollonia.
            b. Paul spoke 3 Sabbaths in the synagogue. v. 2
            c. His scriptural message based on the 0. T. v. 2,3

                (1) Christ (the Messiah) must needs suffer and rise from the dead. (The unbelieving Jew did not understand the prophecies in this manner).
                (2) This Jesus is the Christ. (Messiah).

        2. The result of Paul's message. v. 4

            a. Some of the Jews believed.
            b. A multitude of devout Greeks believed. (These may well have been Jewish proselytes).
            c. A number of the chief women believed.

        3. The opposition moved. v. 5-9

            a. The source of the opposition. v. 5
            b. The victims of the opposition. v. 5-6
            c. The accusation of the opposition. v. 6-7

                (1) These men have turned the world upside down.
                (2) They do things contrary to the decrees of Caesar.
                (3) They say there is another king - Jesus.

            d. The rulers of the city troubled. v. 8
            e. Jason put under bond. v. 9

        4. The length of his stay in Thessalonica.

            a. It had to be more than 3 weeks. v. 2
            b. It could have been a few weeks, but at most a few months.
            c. There was time for the Philippian Church to send gifts. Phil. 4:16

II. THE OCCASION AND PURPOSE OF I THESSALONIANS.

    A. Paul's Ministry After Leaving Thessalonica.

        1. Success and opposition in Berea. Acts 17:10-14

            a. The Jews in Berea were more receptive. (Berea was about 50 miles from Thessalonica.
            b. The Jews of Thessalonica stir up trouble.
            c. Paul goes to Athens by sea. v. 14
            d. Silas and Timothy left behind. v. 14

        2. Stirring events in Athens. Acts 17:15-34

            a. He sends word to Silas and Timothy to join him. v. 15
            b. Paul preaches and witnesses in Athens.
            c. Timothy sent back to Thessalonica to establish and comfort them. I Thess. 3:1-2, Wherefore when we could no longer forbear, we thought it good to be left at Athens alone; And sent Timotheus, our brother, and minister of God, and our fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ, to establish you, and to comfort you concerning your faith:
            d. After much opposition and some success he departs from Athens to go to Corinth.

        3. A sizeable Church organized in Corinth. Acts 18.1-11

            a. In the flesh Paul was likely discouraged when he arrived in the city of Corinth. See I Cor. 2:3, And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
            b. Silas and Timothy arrive with encouraging news of the Thessalonian Church. Acts 18:5. See I Thess. 1.
            c. The sizeable Church revealed in v. 8-10.
            d. Paul continues there for 18 months. v. 11

    B. The Purpose Of I Thessalonians.

        1. He mentions and commends their obedience. I Thess.3:6, But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also to see you:
        2. He corrects some moral problems. I Thess. 4:1-7
        3. He further teaches them about the 2nd Coming in each chapter. (All agree that it was written at Corinth).

    C. The Date Of I Thessalonians.

        1. It was Paul's first epistle. None of the rest had been written at this time.
        2. It was written shortly after Timothy arrived, and soon after Paul left Thessalonica. I Thess. 3:6; 2:17
        3. Yet some time had intervened for the reputation and outreach of the Thessalonian Church to have grown. See I Thess. 1:8; 4:10
        4. There is disagreement on the exact date of the epistle.

            a. Scofield and others say 54 A.D.
            b. J. Sidlow Baxter suggest 53 A.D.
            c. Leon Morris and the Wycliffe Bible Commentary both suggest 50 A.D. Their reasons are:

                (1) Gallio the deputy is mentioned in Acts 18:12.
                (2) Paul was in Corinth before Gallio was deputy.
                (3) According to an inscription found at Delphi, Gallio would have taken office in early part of 52 A.D.
                (4) Going back 18 months would put it in 50 A.D.

    D. The Authenticity Of I & II Thessalonians.

        1. There has never been much opposition to the Pauline authorship of these epistles.
        2. They were quoted by the early Church fathers.
        3. The earliest lists of canonical books captain them.

-- E. L. Bynum

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. How did the Greek and Roman Empires affect N.T. events.?
2. List by memory the events leading up to Paul's involvement in Thessalonica.
3. Who were Paul's companions on this second missionary journey?
4. What kind of places did the Lord lead Paul in mission work?
5. Who was Thessalonica named after and why?
6. When did the Romans take control of Thessalonica?
7. Who were the principle races living in Thessalonica?
8. How do we know there was a sizeable Jewish colony?
9. List in their proper order the two points of Paul's messages in the Synagogue.
10. Who led the opposition and what did they charge Paul and his companions of doing?
11. What restraint was put upon Jason?
12. What was the attitude of the Bereans?
13. Who stirred up opposition to him there?
14. Where did Paul go from Berea?
15. Where were Silas and Timothy at this time? When did Paul send word for them to join him?
16. Where did Paul send Timothy from Athens?
17. What is the evidence for a sizeable Church in Corinth?
18. What is the purpose of I Thessalonians?
19. Which one of Paul's epistles did he write first?
20. Give the approximate date of the Thessalonian epistle.

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I Thess. 1:1-10

I Thessalonians Lesson # 2

THE SECOND COMING AN INSPIRING HOPE

Memory Verse: I Thess. 1:2 (N.W. 2:4) Lesson: I Thess. 1:1-10

This Epistle was written to a young church that had been richly blessed, and was growing in spiritual strength. This letter contains a strong emphasis on the Second Coming of the Lord. The coming of the Lord a second time is mentioned 318 times in the 260 chapters of the New Testament. This means that one out of every 20 verses refers to the Second Coming. This doctrine is emphasized in every chapter of I Thessalonians.

I. GREETINGS TO A CHOSEN CHURCH. v. 1-4

    A. The Greeting. v. 1

        1. This greeting is harmonious in its outflow. v. 1

            a. The greeting was from all three. They had all had a part in the establishing of this Church.
            b. This does not mean that all three wrote the letter. Paul was the writer that God used, but in Christian charity the greeting is from Silas and Timothy also.

        2. This greeting recognizes the Church's Sublime Origin.

            a. The Church is divinely founded. It was "in" God the Father and "in" the Lord Jesus Christ.

                (1) In the following Scripture we have an intimate glimpse of the meaning of being "in" the Father and the Son. John 17:21, That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
                (2) Paul did not bypass the Church as many today.
                (3) These people had not long ago been idolaters and false religionist, but what a change grace brought.

            b. The Church is divinely sustained. Whatever is "in" the Lord is sustained by His power. Matt. 16:18, And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

        3. This greeting supplicates the bestowal of the highest blessing.

            a. "Grace" always comes first in Paul's greetings. It is from grace that all other blessings flow. (See Paul's greetings in his other Epistles.)
            b. "Peace" is the outflow and the result of grace. Phil. 4:7,9, 7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. 9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
            c. The source of all blessings is found in the Father and the Son.

    B. The Thanksgiving. v. 2-4

        1. This thanksgiving is to the source of blessing. v. 2
        2. This thanksgiving resulted in regular remembrance in prayers. v. 2
        3. This thanksgiving is because of their work of faith. v. 3. Works do not produce faith, but faith produces works. Eph. 2:8-10, For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
        4. This thanksgiving is because of their labour of love. v. 3
        5. This thanksgiving is because of their patience of hope. v. 3. It was firmly anchored in Christ and under the watchful eye of the Father. Note the conjunction of faith, hope, and love, which we also find in the following Scriptures, and in other places also. Rom. 5: 2-5, By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. I Cor. 13:13, And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.
        6. This thanksgiving was because they were an elected Church. v. 4. (Election means chosen). Election is always a work of God and not of man. Election is not a plan for sentencing men to eternal torment, but for rescuing them from it. See Eph. 1:4. There is a vital connection between love and election. See v. 4; II Thess. 2:13; Acts 15:13-18.

II. THE COMMENDATION OF A MISSIONARY CHURCH. v. 5-8

    A. The Gospel Came In Word And Power. v. 5

        1. The gospel in word.

            a. The Messiah must suffer, die, and rise again. Acts 17:3
            b. This Jesus is the Messiah. See Acts 17:3.

        2. The gospel in power, and in the Holy Spirit. v. 5; Rom. 1:16; John 16:7- 11
        3. The gospel in assurance. The Spirit through the Word gives assurance.
        4. The gospel in shoe leather. Paul and his helpers came with the right message flowing from a right life.

    B. The True Reception Of The Gospel. v. 6

        1. They received the word in much affliction. v. 6; Acts 17:5-9
        2. They received the word with joy of the Holy Ghost.

    C. The Practical Result Of The Reception Of The Gospel. v. 6-8

        1. They became followers of Paul and of the Lord. v. 6
        2. They became examples to other churches and believers. v. 7
        3. They sounded out (or sent forth) the word of the Lord. v. 8
        4. Their God centered faith was spread abroad. v. 8

III. THE EXPECTATION OF A PREMILLENNIAL CHURCH. v. 9-10

    A. They Were A Working Church. v. 9

        1. They had turned to God. This involves faith.
        2. They had turned from idols. This involves repentance.
        3. They served the living God. They did not sit down and wait for the coming of the Lord. They did something practical. Some prophecy lovers are so starry eyed and heavenly minded that they are no earthly good.

    B. They Were A Waiting Church. v. 10

        1. They Were looking for the return of their risen Saviour. They were not waiting for the antichrist or for the beginning of the tribulation.
        2. They had been delivered from the wrath to come.

Note in V. 9-10, the three tenses of the Christian life.

        1. Past--They had turned to God from idols--Salvation.
        2. Present--They were serving the living God--Sanctification.
        3. Future--They were waiting for the Coming of the Son--Glorification.

--E. L. Bynum

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. If Paul was the writer, why are the names of Silvanus and Timothy included.?
2. What is the significance of the order of grace and peace?
3. Write out the memory verse from memory.
4. State as many reasons as you are able, for Paul's thanksgiving
5. What is the meaning of election?
6. List four results of their reception of the gospel.
7. What did this Church do while waiting for the coming of the Lord?
8. State from memory the three tenses of the Christian life.

I Thess. 2:1-20

I Thessalonians Lesson # 3

THE 2ND COMING AN ENCOURAGING HOPE

Memory Verse: I Thess. 2:4 (N.W. 3:12) Lesson: I Thess. 2:1-20

In I Thessalonians there is a progressive and purposeful treatment of the 2nd Coming in relationship to the Christian life.

Ch. 1 - Conversion and the Second Coming.
Ch. 2 - Service and the Second Coming.
Ch. 3 - Purity of heart and life and the Second Coming.
Ch. 4 - Bereavement and the Second Coming.
Ch. 5 - Alertness and the Second Coming.

I. PAUL'S MODEL MINISTERIAL CONDUCT. v. 1-4

    A. Boldness And Suffering. v. 1-2

        1. His boldness did not result in a vain or ineffectual effort.
        2. His boldness not stifled by persecution. v. 2
        3. His boldness was well founded"in our God." v. 2
        4. His boldness in declaring a message the gospel. v.2
        5. His boldness enabled him to face contention or warfare. v. 2

    B. Faithfulness And Responsibility. v. 3-4

        1. The motive for the message. v. 3

            a. Neither the message or the messenger were deceitful.
            b. The doctrine and motives were clean, not unclean.
            c. There was no guile nor evil motive in his preaching. Phil. 1:14-19

        2. His responsibility based on a God ordained trust. v. 4

            a. The gospel a trust from God. Gal. 1:11-12, But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
            b. This trust calls for responsibility in speaking. We are stewards and will be required to given an account of our stewardship. Luke 16:1-2, And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward. I Cor. 4:1-2, Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
            c. His aim, to please God not men. Gal. 1:10, For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.
            d. God tries and tests the hearts.

II. PAUL'S UNSELFISH MINISTRY IN LOVE. v. 5-8

    A. The Proof Of His Selfless Love. v. 5-7

        1. He never used flattering words. v. 5
        2. He did not covet their possessions. v. 5, II Pet. 2:3
        3. He did not seek glory of men. v. 6
        4. He did not use apostolic authority or fame for financial gain. v. 6
        5. He treated them gently as babes. v. 7. As newborn Christians they were fed with the milk of the word. I Pet. 2:1-3, Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

    B. The Expression Of His Selfless Love. v. 8

        1. His love for them resulted in his giving them the gospel.
        2. His love for them made him willing to impart his life unto them.

III. PAUL'S DEVOTED MINISTRY FOR OTHERS. v. 9-12

    A. His Devoted Ministry Described. v. 9-12

        1. His unceasing labor. v. 9

            a. He labored to carry the gospel to them.
            b. He labored to make his own living, although the Church at Philippi sent some support to him. Phil. 4:15-16, Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.

                (1) Paul was a tent maker by trade. Acts 18:3, And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.
                (2) Paul did not burden them. v. 9
                (3) Paul knew he had the right for financial care. 1 Cor. 9:6-12
                (4) On some occasions he used this right. II Cor. 11:8, I robbed other churches, taking wages of them, to do you service.

            c. His message - the gospel of God. v. 9. Paul's message was divine, it came from God and was God's.

        2. His unblameable behaviour. v. 10. Phil. 2:15, That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
        3. His unfailing paternal care of them. v. 11
        4. His unchanging desire for their walk. v. 12, II John 4, I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father. Col. 1:10, That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.

    B. The Results Of His Devoted Ministry. v. 13-18

        1. His unceasing thanks. v. 13

            a. They received the Word of God as the Word of God. II Tim. 3:16; II Pet. 1:20-21; Job 23:12, Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food. Psa. 19:7-9, The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
            b. They effectual work of the Word of God.

        2. Their unceasing walk, even in persecution. v. 14-15
        3. Their unholy opponents. v. 16
        4. His unfailing desire. v. 17-18

    C. The Reward Of His Devoted Ministry. v. 19-20

        1.Christ's coming will be the time of the reward. v. 19. This is when the Judgment Seat of Christ will take place. II Cor. 5:9-10, Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
        2. The Thessalonians souls would be his reward. v. 19. At His 2nd Coming (soon thereafter), the believer, the servant, will receive his reward for service. I Cor. I 3:8-15

E. L. Bynum

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Write or recite the memory verse from memory.
2. How was the gospel spoken to the Thessalonians? v. 2
3. Whom was Paul trying to please? v. 4
4. Show the extent of Paul's concern for them. v. 8
5. How were they to walk? v. 12
6. Who hindered Paul from coming?
7. How does this chapter relate the 2nd Coming to service?
8. What is flattery, and why did Paul not use it?

I Thess. 3:1-13

I Thessalonians Lesson # 4

THE SECOND COMING A PURIFYING HOPE

Memory Verse: I Thess. 3:12 (N.W. 4:4) Lesson: I Thess. 3:1-13

This chapter takes us back to the events recorded in Acts 17, which is a record of the founding of the Thessalonian Church and the subsequent events.

I. THE THESSALONIAN CHURCH STANDING FAST IN THE LORD. v. 1-8

    A. Paul's Concern. v. 1-5

        1. Paul's concern for the Thessalonian Church. v. 1. See Acts 17:15-34. "Wherefore" looks back to 2:17-20, where Paul tells of his great love for the believers.
        2. Paul's willingness to be inconvenienced. v. 1. John 10:12-13, But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. II Cor. 12:15, And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.
        3. Paul's well qualified messenger sent. v. 2

            a. Timothy a spiritual brother. I Tim. 1:2, Unto Timothy, my own son in the faith: Grace, mercy, and peace, from God our Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.
            b. Timothy a minister of God. I Tim. 4:6, If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained.
            c. Timothy a fellowlabourer in the gospel of Christ.

        4. Paul was concerned that they be established and comforted. v. 2. Heb. 5:11-14, Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

            a. "Establish" has the idea of putting in a buttress, a support.
            b. "Comfort" has the idea of strengthening.

        5. Afflictions should not move the Christian from God. v. 3. Phil. 1:29, For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake. I Pet. 4:12, Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you.
        6. Christians need to be warned of tribulation. v. 4. Acts 14:22, Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God. I Pet. 5:8-9, Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
        7. Paul's concern was based upon his knowledge of Satan and false religion. v. 5. II Cor. 11:2-4, For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or if ye receive another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might well bear with him. II Cor. 11:13-15, For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. I John 5:4, For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.

    B. Paul's Consolation. v. 6-8

        1. Timothy's good report. v. 6

            a. It was good tidings of their faith.
            b. It was good tidings of their charity.
            c. It was good tidings that their memories of Paul caused them to desire to see him again.

        2. Paul was comforted (strengthened) by their faith. v. 7. This was especially needed in the midst of his affliction and distress. II Cor. 7:6-7, Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus; And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
        3. Their standing fast in the Lord imparted new life to Paul. v. 3. This is of course, is not to be taken in the literal sense, but rather he was enlivened, and lifted up by the knowledge of their standing fast.

II. PAUL'S PRAYER FOR HOLINESS IN THE THESSALONICAN CHURCH. v. 9-13

    A. Paul's Satisfaction. v. 9-10

        1. Paul thanked God for their stand and the joy this brought him. v. 9. See I Sam. 12:23; Acts 6:4; Acts 20:32.
        2. Paul's prayer for them. v. 10

            a. Its season -- night and day.
            b. Its intensity -- praying exceedingly.
            c. Its object -- that he might see and perfect them. See Eph. 4:11,12

    B. Paul's Intercession. v. 11-13

        1. He prayed that God might direct him to them. v. 11. "Direct" is singular in the Greek, thus testifying to the unity of the Godhead.
        2. He prayed that they might increase and abound in love. v. 12
        3. He prayed that they would be ready for the Second Coming. v. 13

            a. He prayed for their hearts to be established. For "established" see v. 2.
            b. He prayed that they would be unblameable in holiness. See II Thess. 1:10.

"In reading this passage one cannot but observe the immediate and living way in which the Lord's coming is linked with daily practical life, so that the perfect light of that day is thrown upon the hourly path of the present time." -- Gaebelein

E. L. Bynum

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Why did Paul send Timothy to Thessalonica?
2. What had Paul told them before?
3. Who did Paul think might lead them astray?
4. How are people led astray from the truth?
5. How did Paul receive his consolation?
6. What was Timothy's report?
7. What two things did Paul pray for?
8. How does Paul relate these things to the Second Coming?

I Thess. 4:1-18

I Thessalonians Lesson # 5

THE SECOND COMING A COMFORTING HOPE

Memory Verse: I Thess. 4:4 (N.W. 5:8) Lesson: I Thess. 4:1-18

I. THE DIVINE CALL TO SANCTIFICATION . v. 1-12

    A. God Calls His Own To a Higher Life. v. 1-2

        1. The seriousness of the call. v. 1. It was serious enough for the apostle to beseech and exhort.
        2. The source of the call. v. 1. "by the Lord Jesus."
        3. The sacredness of the call. v. 1. "walk to please God." (How do we know what pleases God? Listen to Him.) See I Cor. 6:20; Gal. 1:10; John 8:29. One of Paul's favorite pictures is the Christian life compared to a walk.

            a. Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called. Eph. 4:1
            b. Walk not as other Gentiles walk. Eph. 4:17
            c. Walk in love. Eph. 5:2
            d. Walk as children of light. Eph. 5:8
            e. Walk by faith. II Cor. 5:7
            f. Walk in the light. I John 1:5-7
            g. Enoch walked with God. Gen. 5:24

        4. The success of the call. v. 1. It leads to abounding "more and more."
        5. The survival of the call. v. 2. It hasn't changed. It was the truth that he had taught them before. "Commandments" a military term. It refers to orders handed down from superior officers.

    B. God Call His Own To A Holy Life. v. 3-8

        1. God calls to sanctification. v. 3. God's people are to be separated from the world and are to live holy lives before God.
        2. God calls to sexual purity. v. 3. Ex. 20:14. Adultery and fornication seldom condemned among the Greeks, much the same as in our society today. God built a fence around sex, not to rob of joy, but to safeguard joy. A fence around a garden, is not to make a prison, but to safeguard the garden. God created sex and He has the authority to govern it, for the continuance of the human race and for pleasure. Heb. 13:4
        3. God calls for successful control of the body (vessel). v. 4. This can only be when one is saved, sanctified, and separated unto the Lord.
        4. God calls away from sensuality and lust. v. 5. The unsaved then and now cannot hear and obey this call.
        5. God calls us away from swindling a brother. v. 6. Sexual looseness certainly defrauds others, and brings God's judgment upon the guilty party.
        6. God calls to sanctification and not to immorality. v. 7. I Pet. 1:15; Gal. 5:16. His call is not an excuse for sin--it is an encouragement to holiness.
        7. God calls to a Spirit led life. v. 8. Sexual sin is rebellion against the Holy Spirit. Sexual sin is one of the biggest problems in churches today.

    C. God Calls Us To An Humble Life. v. 9-12

        1. It is a life of brotherly love. v. 9. See John 15:12,17; James 2:8; and I John 3:11-18. The Greeks had three words for love. "Eros" = erotic, and is not found in the New Testament. "Philia" = deep affection, and is used in N.T. "Agape" = love. God show us that it is the highest type of love. Fish swim because they are fish. Birds fly because they are birds, and Christians love because they are Christian. I John 4:8
        2. It is a growing life of love. v. 10
        3. It is a life of honesty and labor. v. 11
        4. It is a life of testimony to the world. v. 12. "Honestly" is also translated "decently" in I Cor. 14:40.

II. THE DIVINE CALL AT THE SECOND COMING. v. 13-18

    A. The Blessed Hope Of The Saints. v. 13-15

        1. We are not to be ignorant concerning dead saints. v.13
        2. He would not have us sorrow for these. v. 13
        3. His resurrection points to the resurrection of the saints. v. 14. I Cor. 15:20,52. The souls of these dear departed Christians will the Lord bring with Him, to be reunited with their bodies.
        4. The living saints will not precede the sleeping saints. v. 15. The "we" seems to be an editorial we, and does not indicate that Paul expected to be alive when the Lord comes.

    B. The Lord's Coming. v. 16-18

        1. The Lord Himself will come with proper sounds. v. 16. See Dan. 12:1,2; and 1 Cor. 15:54-57.
        2. The dead in Christ shall rise first. v. 16
        3. The resurrected saints and the living saints shall go up together. v. 17. "Caught up, its meaning.

            a. To catch away speedily. Acts 8:39
            b. To seize by force. John 6:15
            c. To claim for one's own self. This is what Christ will do.
            d. To move to a new place. Paul's visit to heaven. II Cor. 12:1-4. A prepared place. John 14:1-6
            e. To rescue from danger. Acts 23:10. Reminds us of the pre-trib rapture.

        4. All the saints shall meet Him in the air. v. 17. A reunion where we will forever be with the Lord.

            a. A glorious meeting. We shall have glorified bodies.
            b. An everlasting meeting. Forever with the Lord. John 14:3
            c. A time of reckoning. Judgement seat of Christ. Rom. 14:10; II Cor. 5:10

        5. None of the saints shall ever be separated from Him. v. 17
        6. This is a message of comfort to the living saints. v. 18.

If the Thessalonian Christians were concerned about the Christians who had died, then this should forever settle in their minds the fact that all these sleeping saints would share in His Coming.

E. L. Bynum

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. What is God's will for the Thessalonians?
2. To what have they been called?
3. What does it mean to defraud a brother?
4. What does it mean to possess ones vessel in sanctification and honor?
5. Why was it not necessary for Paul to teach them about brotherly love?
6. What did Paul teach them about work?
7. Give the order of events at the rapture and comment upon each event, as is described in this chapter.

I Thess. 5:1-28

I Thessalonians Lesson # 6

THE SECOND COMING AN AWAKENING HOPE

Memory Verse: I Thess. 5:8 (N.W. II Thess. 1:2) I Thess. 5:1-28

I. THE DAY OF THE LORD. v. 1-11

    A. The Time Of The Day Of The Lord. v. 1-3

In I Thess. 4:13-18, we have studied concerning the rapture of the saints. In this lesson we are studying about the "day of the Lord," when the Lord will come back in judgment upon a wicked world. When studying prophecy it is needful to keep these two phases of His coming distinct and separate in our minds. At the rapture He comes in the air, at the time of His wrath, He comes back to the earth.

        1. "Times" refers to chronology or clock time. v. 1
        2. "Seasons" refers to the quality and grouping of certain kinds of events. v. 1
        3. "The day of the Lord" will bring unexpected judgment upon the Christ rejecting unbelieving world. v. 2. This day is not a 24 hour day.
        4. It will be a time when the unbelieving shall be crying "peace and safety." v. 3. The unsaved will be caught by surprise. They did not heed Noah, Lot, or Jesus.
        5. The "day of the Lord" will bring birth pangs, as a woman giving birth. v. 3; Isa. 13:6-13; Matt. 24:8, All these are the beginning of sorrows.
        6. The "day of the Lord," will bring sudden destruction. v. 3. Amos 5:18, Woe unto you that desire the day of the LORD! to what end is it for you? the day of the LORD is darkness, and not light. Joel 2:1, Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for it is nigh at hand. (See Joel 2 and 3); Isa. 2:6-22; Zeph. 1:14-18; and Zech. 14:1-9.

            a. This day is referred to as "the time of Jacob's trouble." Jer. 30:5-9
            b. It is also called the Tribulation. Rev. 6-19
            c. This day does not relate to the church, but it does relate to Israel and the unbelieving world.
            d. Paul enlarges upon the day of the Lord in II Thessalonians.

    B. The Believer And The Day Of The Lord. v. 4-11

Before the "day of the Lord" with its judgments, the believers will be raptured out. I Thess. 4:13-18

        1. The believers are not of the darkness and therefore that day will not overtake them as a thief. v. 4. Notice the contrast between "they," "them" (unsaved) in v. 3, 7, and "ye," "we," and "us" in v. 4-6, 8-11 (saved).
        2. Believers are children of light and are not of the darkness. v. 5
        3. Believers are not to sleep, but watch and be sober. v. 6
        4. Unbelievers are not awake, but living in darkness and sin. v. 7; Rom. 13:12-13
        5. Believers are of the day and not the night. v. 8

            a. We are to be "sober". This means to "be free from the influence of intoxicants," (Vine), and to be serious and sober minded. I John 2:28, And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.
            b. We are to put on the breastplate of faith and love, for we are soldiers.
            c. We are to put on for a helmet, the hope of salvation. (Note the triad of faith, hope, and love.) (The armor is all defensive, this is against being surprised.) Eph. 6:10-18
            d. "Hope of salvation" does not mean, we hope to be saved, but rather the hope that salvation gives us.

        6. The believer is not appointed to wrath. v. 9. Wrath here refers to God's wrath in the tribulation period, which shall be poured out upon unbelievers. We are not going into the tribulation. See wrath in Rev. 6:16-17; 14:10, 19; 15:1, 7; 16:1, 19; and 19:15.
        7. Christ died for us, therefore we are to live for Him at all times . v . 10. He died for us that we might live through Him, I John 4:9; for Him, II Cor. 5:15; and with Him, I Thess. 5:10.
        8. The application to the Church. v. 11

            a. They are to be comforted together.
            b. They are to continue to edify one another.

II. EXHORTATIONS TO GODLY LIVING. v. 12-22

    A. Honoring Those In Places Of Responsibility. v. 12-13

        1. They are to know their spiritual leaders. v. 12

            a. They had laboured among them.
            b. They were over them in the Lord. Eph. 4:7-16; I Pet. 5:1-5
            c. They admonished (instructed and warned) them.

        2. They were to highly esteem their spiritual leaders. v. 13. They were to obey them. Heb. 13:17, Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
        3. They were to be at peace among themselves. v. 13

    B. Exhortation For Harmony. v. 14-15

        1. The unruly are to be warned. v. 14
        2. The feebleminded (discouraged) to be comforted. v. 14
        3. The spiritually weak to receive spiritual help. v. 14
        4. Be patient toward all men. v. 14
        5. Believer not to render evil for evil. v. 15
        6. Follow that which is good. v. 15

    C. Various Exhortations. v. 16-22

        1. Rejoice evermore. v. 16; Phil. 4:4
        2. Pray without ceasing. v. 17; I Cor. 11:1-6; Acts 1:13-14; 4:23
        3. Give thanks in everything. v. 18; Eph. 5:19; Col 3:16
        4. Quench not the Spirit. v. 19; Gal. 5:16; Eph. 4:30
        5. Despise not prophesyings. v. 20. Prophesying here "signifies the speaking forth of the mind and counsel of God." (Vine)
        6. Faithfulness enjoined. v. 21
        7. Abstain from all appearance of evil. v. 22. This teaches both personal and ecclesiastical separation.

III. SANCTIFICATION FOR THE WHOLE MAN. v. 23-28

    A. The Whole Man Set Apart For God. v. 23-24

        1. The spirit, soul, and body to be preserved. v. 23. Man is a tri-part being.
        2. The certainty of complete sanctification. v. 24

    B. The Closing Charge. v. 25-28

        1. The request for prayer. v. 25
        2. The holy kiss. v. 26. This was a kiss on the cheek of people of the same sex. Later on churches abused this and allowed the kissing of people of the opposite sex, and this of course led to evil. Now we shake hands.
        3. The letter to be read to all the brethren. v. 27
        4. The closing salutation. v. 28

--E. L. Bynum

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. What is the "day of the Lord?"
2. How will the "day of the Lord" come?
3. What will the unsaved be saying just before the "day of the Lord?"
4. Give proof that the "day of the Lord" will mean destruction and judgment upon the unsaved.
5. What will happen to the saved before the "day of the Lord?"
6. What are believers to be doing, rather than sleeping?
7. What does it mean to be sober?
8. What is the triad that we are to put on?
9. What does it mean, that God has not appointed us to wrath?
10. Because He died for us, we are to for Him.
11. What was the holy kiss, and who participated in this?
12. What does it mean to abstain from all appearance of evil?
13. Which verse in this chapter proves that man is a three part being?

II Thess. 1:1-12

II Thessalonians Lesson # 1

PERSECUTION AND THE LORD'S COMING

Memory Verse: II Thess. 1 :2 (N.W. II Thess. 2:7) II Thess. 1:1-12

This epistle was likely written soon after the first epistle to the I Thessalonians. Probably while Paul was still at Corinth. From the second chapter we learn that they were troubled about something. In the first epistle they were troubled about those "which are asleep." (I Thess. 4:13) Now they are "troubled" by those who have tried to deceive them concerning the "day of Christ." (II Thess. 2:1,2)

The divisions of this epistle are basically: (Chap. I) The Thessalonians had tribulation, not in the manner of punishment, but for the kingdom of God. v. 5; but God will "recompense tribulation to them" that brought trouble upon the Thessalonians. (Chap. II) The day of Christ and the things that transpire in connection with that time. (Chap. III) Words of comfort, prayer and exhortation!

I. THE SALUTATION & THANKSGIVING. v. 1-4

    A. Paul Addresses The Church. v. 1-2

As in the introduction in I Thess., which varies very little I from this introduction, Paul recognizes two important things:

        1. The church is divinely founded and sustained. v. 1
        2. The church is divinely blessed and supplied. v. 2

            a. Grace unmerited; unlimited; unfathomable.
            b. Peace with God; from God, 3:16; with one another. I Thess. 5:13 "Be at peace among yourselves."

    B. Paul's Appreciation Of The Church. v. 3-4

        1. He has not changed his opinion of them. cf. I Thess. 1:1-4
        2. A continuous thanksgiving. v. 3 "always."
        3. A continuous growth is appreciated. v. 3. "faith groweth"

            a. Their faith had been lacking. I Thess. 3:10
            b. Growth is a sign of living faith.
            c. It is right to pray for increased faith. Luke 17:5, And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.

        4. A continuous growth in love one toward another. v. 3 "Charity ....aboundeth."

            a. Persecution may have encouraged this growth.
            b. Appreciation of others increased. Phil. 2:4, Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
            c. They learned to bear one another's burdens. Gal. 6:2, Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

        5. Paul glories in them before others. v. 4; Cf. I Thess. 1:7-8

            a. The ground for such praise. "patience and faith" in endurance of tribulation.
            b. The proof of their patience and faith. . . they endured.

II. THE LORD OF HEAVEN REVEALED. v. 5-10

There is an interval of some 7 years between the coming of the Lord for the saved in I Thess. 4:13-18 and His being revealed "from heaven with his mighty angels . . . taking vengeance" in II Thess. 1:7,8.

    A. The Significance Of Suffering In Relation To Judgement. V. 5-6

        1. The righteous Judge will judge. Gen. 18:25, That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?
        2. There will be a judgment of all.

            a. Of the righteous. Psa. 58:11, So that a man shall say, Verily there is a reward for the righteous: verily he is a God that judgeth in the earth. II Cor. 5:10, For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
            b. Of the wicked. Rev. 20:12-15, 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

        3. The godly are sure to suffer for their godliness. II Tim. 3:12, Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.

            a. God's grace teaches godly living. Tit. 2:12, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.
            b. God's grace prompts godly living. Heb. 12:28, Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.

        4. Righteous judgment for the persecuted and the persecutor.

    B. The Manner Of The Lord's Coming. v. 7-8

        1. The "rest" until the Lord is revealed from heaven. v. 7. Rest: Greek, "anesis"; relaxation or (fig.) relief. (This is even in the midst of trouble.) Psa. 23:4-5, Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
        2. The "revealed" Lord Jesus from heaven. v. 7-8

            a. He shall come in person. Acts 1:11
            b. He shall come in power. Jude 14-15
            c. He shall come in praiseworthiness. v. 8; Rev. 19:11-16

    C. The Twofold Purpose Of The Lord's Coming. v. 9-10

        1. To bring righteous retribution upon the wicked. v. 9
        2. To receive the glory deserved only by the Lord. v. 10

            a. Glorified "in" His saints. (They being changed into His image. Rom. 8:29, For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. II Cor. 3:18, But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
            b. Admired "in" all that believe. (Admired: to wonder or wonder at such glory and power.)

III. PRAYER FOR THEM IN PROSPECT OF FUTURE GLORY. V. 11,12

    A. That Their Lives Would Match Their Calling. v. 11

        1. It was an "high calling . " Phil. 3:14, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
        2. It was a ''holy calling." II Tim. 1:9, Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.
        3. It was a "heavenly calling. Heb. 3:1, Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus.

    B. That Their Lives Would Fulfil The Work Of Their Calling. V. 11b-12

        1. Their conduct should display His character.
        2. Their action should advance His glory.
        3. Their future glory is due to His grace.

--W. W. Mosley

STUDY QUESTIONS

1. Give two important things that Paul recognizes concerning the church at Thessalonica?
2. What prompted the thankfulness that Paul had for the church?
3. What did the Thessalonians have that Paul gloried in before other churches?
4. What is the difference in the Lord being "revealed from heaven" in this chapter and the events of I Thess. 4:13-18?
5. What will God do to those who had "troubled" this church?
6. What does the term "rest" imply in v. 7?
7. What is the two-fold purpose of the revelation of the Lord?
8. What did Paul pray in their behalf?

II Thess. 2:1-17

I. THE RAPTURE AND THE DAY OF WRATH. v. 1-5

    A. Their Misunderstanding Refuted . v. 1-2

Since these people were suffering (1:5-12), they seemed to believe that they were already in the tribulation, and that the day of the Lord's wrath had already come.

        1. The coming of the Lord for His saints will come before I the day of His wrath. v. 1
        2. The believer is to remain calm and unshaken. v. 2
        3. They are not to be swayed by a false spirit, a false word or a false letter. v. 2. It is believed that someone, pretending to be Paul, had written them a letter. They had taught that the Thessalonians were already in the tribulation. Paul had previously taught them that they would be delivered by the pretrib rapture. I Thess. 1:10; 5:9
        4. The day of the Lord's wrath is still future. v. 2

NOTE: Westcott and Hort changed "the day of Christ" to "the day of the Lord" on the basis of certain corrupted manuscripts. Most modern versions have followed Westcott and Hort in this. Many of the "pre-tribulation rapture" fundamentalists have been quick to accept that change, thinking that it helps their doctrine. However, the KJV and the Textus Receptus contain "the day of Christ" reading and we shall stick to that and accept what the Scripture says, rather than to change it to suit our doctrine. There is no doubt but what "the day of the Lord" rendering would make the pre-tribulation rapture easier to explain. While this writer steadfastly believes in a pre-trib rapture, nevertheless he will not change the Scripture in order to strengthen his position. Pre-trib writers go astray in accepting rigid rules of interpretation which will not fit the Scriptures, and then are forced to accept the work of modernists who have tampered with the Scriptures, because the mutilated passage supports their rigid rules.

The basic mistake made by pre-trib writers is to say that the "day of Christ" always refers to the rapture and that "the day of the Lord" always refers to the day of God's wrath being poured out. We agree that this is generally true, but not a hard and fast rule. One pre-trib writer who favors changing this verse lists the passages which speak of "the day of Christ." Out of the six passages he lists, two of them (I Cor. 5:5; II Cor. 1:14), do not contain "Christ, "but speak of "the day of the Lord Jesus." No doubt II Thess. 2:2 refers to the day of God's wrath, but after all Christ will be preeminent in bringing this wrath, so why all the furor over "Christ" being mentioned in connection with that day? After all He is "the Lord Jesus Christ." (See II Thess. 1:7-8)

    B. Their Deception Refuted. v. 3-5

        1. Evidently they had been deceived by some man. v. 3
        2. The day of the Lord's wrath to be preceded by certain events. v. 3

            a. It will be proceeded by a falling away. This falling away is an apostasy and outright rebellion toward God and His truth.
            b. It will be preceded by the revelation of the man of sin, the son of perdition (antichrist). I John 2:18-22; 4:3; II John 7

        3. The antichrist will oppose God and all godly things. v. 4. He will come as a peacemaker. Rev. 6:1-2
        4. He shall sit in the restored Jerusalem temple as God. v. 4. He will end up being a peace- breaker. Dan. 9:27, And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
        5. Paul had previously told them these things. v. 5

II. THE RAPTURE AND THE MAN OF SIN. v. 6-9

    A. The Rapture And The Restrainer. v. 6-7

        1. The Holy Spirit restrains the antichrist from being revealed as long as the believers are on earth. v. 6
        2. The mystery of iniquity was already at work. v. 7
        3. The Holy Spirit restrains and prevents the revelation of antichrist until he ceases to restrain. v. 7 ("Let" means to hinder.) Lot could have restrained God's wrath from falling on Sodom. Gen. 19:12- 29
        4. This does not mean that the Holy Spirit will be removal from the earth at the rapture, but that He will no longer hinder.

    B. The Rapture And The Revealing Of Antichrist. v. 8-9

        1. After the rapture the wicked antichrist to be revealed. v. 8
        2. The Lord will come to earth and destroy him. v. 8. See Rev . 19:11-21; 20:10
        3. The antichrist is empowered by Satan. v. 9
        4. His power will perform signs and lying wonders. v. 9; See Rev. 9:1-21; 12:7-17; 16:13-16. This will be an imitation of Christ's miracles.

            a. Satan has his false preachers. II Cor. 11:13-15
            b. They preach a false gospel. Gal. 1:6-9
            c. They have false churches. Rev. 2:9
            d. They perform false miracles. Matt. 7:21-23

III. THE RAPTURE AND LATTER-DAY TRUTH REJECTERS. V. 10-12

    A. Truth Rejecters Doomed. v. 10

        1. Antichrist with great miracle power shall deceive. v. 10. Today those who pretend to work miracles deceive many. Think how the unsaved will be duped by a real miracle worker.
        2. They had rejected the truth previously. v. 10

    B. The Reason For Their Doom. v. 11-12

        1. God will send them strong delusion, and they will believe antichrist. v. 11
        2. This is because they heard the gospel before the rapture and rejected it. v. 12

IV. PAUL'S THANKS FOR THE THESSALONIANS. v. 13-17

    A. They Gave Him Cause For Thanks. v. 13-14

        1. They were beloved of the Lord. John 3:16; Rev. 5:8
        2. They were chosen by the Lord. v. 13. See Eph. 1:3-14.

            a. It was through the sanctification of the Spirit.
            b. It also involved the belief of the truth.

        3. The Lord called them by the gospel. v. 14
        4. God gave them glory. v. 14

    B. They Gave Him Cause For Exhortation. v. 15-17

        1. They were to stand fast in sound doctrine. v. 15. I John 2:18-24; 4:1-3; II Peter 2:1; II Tim. 3:1-7. "Tradition" in this verse simply means the doctrine handed down from God, and not the tradition of men. Col. 2:8, Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
        2. He prayed to our great and gracious God. v. 16
        3. He prayed for their comfort and stability. v. 17. Paul sent Timothy to establish them in the faith, and now he prayed that God would establish them. v. 17

-- E. L. Bynum

1. What will proceed the day of God's wrath?
2. Explain why some want to change "the day of Christ" in v. 2, to "the day of the Lord."
3. Why should the rendering of this verse be retained in the KJV?
4. What two things will proceed the day of the Lord's wrath?
5. Where will the antichrist sit, and who will he pretend to be?
6. Who restrains the antichrist from being revealed?
7. What does "let" and "letteth" mean in this chapter?
8. Will the restrainer be completely removed from the earth at the time of the rapture?
9. Where will antichrist get his power?
10. How will he use that power?
11. What will antichrist use to deceive people?

II Thess. 3:1-18

Our daily expectation of the coming of Christ should affect our home life and service to God in general. Those who await His coming should live a life of orderly Christian service.

I. PAUL'S PRAYER REQUEST. v. 1-5

    A. The Request. v. 1-2

        1. PRAYERFULNESS that the Word of God might have free course. v. 1. "The preaching of the word in the pulpit has often been replaced by the entertainment of the world on the platform." "It is the task of the pastor to feed the sheepnot to entertain the goats." Heb. 4:12, For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. II Tim. 2:9, Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.

            a. "Free course" means to run or spread. Psa. 19:5, Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. Psa. 147:15, He sendeth forth his command ment upon earth: his word runneth very swiftly.
            b. When it has free course it will be glorified.

        2. PRESERVATION of Paul and his fellowlabourers. v. 2

            a. "Unreasonable" men are those out of place and order.
            b. Evil men without faith are constant opponents.

    B. The Ground Of His Request. v. 3-5

        1. PROTECTION from the faithful Lord. v. 3

            a. He is faithful to His purpose, His promises, and His Word.
            b. He is faithful to stablish and keep His own.

        2. PERSEVERANCE and obedience of the Lord's faithful people. v. 4. "Command" in this verse is a military term, referring to an order passed down from a superior officer. Just remember that we are soldiers.
        3. PATIENCE given by the Lord to those waiting for His Coming. v. 5; I Thess. 4:13-17; James 5:7, Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain.

II. PAUL'S DISCIPLINE REQUEST. v. 6-13

    A. The Principle Of Separation Established. v. 6

        1. Paul's teaching is clearly the command of God.
        2. A disorderly walk not to be permitted in the Church. "Disorderly" comes from the same Greek word as "unruly" in I Thess. 5:14. It is a military term that was used to describe those who were out of step or out of line.
        3. The walk of the believer is to be patterned after the divine truth of God.
        4. Opponents of Biblical separation try to limit this verse to simply apply to those who refused to work, as in verses 10 and 11. However, this is a limitation that will not hold up in a true interpretation of this verse. Certainly it did apply to those who would not work and became busybodies, but it would apply to any Christian who was disobedient to the Word of God. Anyone who was out of step and out of line in any Biblical truth would be walking "disorderly." If those who would not work were to be withdrawn from, how much more so this should be done in regard to those guilty of heresy, false doctrine, and immorality.

    B. The Proper Example Expounded. v. 7-9

        1. Paul had not been disorderly in doctrine and practice. v.7
        2. Paul had not been disorderly in financial matters. v. 8. In fact he worked making tents in order to set an example.
        3. He declined support for an example. v. 9. See I Thess . 2:9; and I Cor. 9:14, Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. See I Cor. 9:3-13.

    C. The Poor Example Explained. v. 10-12

        1. Those who will not work are not to eat. v. 10. Paul is not talking about those unable to work, but those who would not work. Our government has disobeyed this Scripture, and so are many churches. Churches are disobedient to God when they feed a steady stream of transient, shiftless, lazy, and workless individuals who go from church to church seeking aid. See I Tim. 5:3-16.
        2. Non-workers become busybodies. v. 11. (An idle mind is the devil's workshop). They were meddling in the affairs of others.
        3. Commanding and exhorting proper conduct. v. 12

    D. The Purposed Cure Indicated. v. 13-15

        1. True believers to continue in well doing. v. 13
        2. The proper course toward the disobedient. v. 14

            a. They are to be marked.
            b. They are not to be fellowshipped.
            c. They are to be made ashamed.

        3. Though disciplined they are to be considered brothers. v. 15. See Gal. 6:1, Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
        4. Handling doctrinal error.

            a. If he is ignorant teach him the truth. II Tim. 2:23-26, But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
            b. If he persists in error, rebuke him. Titus 1:10-14; Gal. 2:11, But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.
            c. If the error continues, avoid him. Rom. 16:17-18, Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.
            d. Separate yourself from him. II John 9, Whosoever trans-gresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son.

III. PAUL'S BENEDICTION REQUEST. v. 16-18

    A. His Supplication. v. 16

    He supplicates the blessing of the Divine peace and presence. John 14:27, Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. Heb. 13:20, Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant.

    B. His Salutation. v. 17.

    He expresses an emphatic salutation.

    C. His Invocation. v. 18.

    His solemn invocation of the abiding grace of God.

--E. L. Bynum

1. For what does Paul want the Thessalonians to pray?
2. Who would keep them from evil?
3. What does verse 6 teach about the brother who is sinning?
4. What did Paul say about someone who would not work?
5. What kind of example did Paul make while in Thessalonica?
6. What is the meaning of "disorderly" in this chapter?
7. What is the walk of the believer to be patterned after?
8. What is a busybody and what should be done with them?
9. Is it the business of the Church to feed and care for those who will not work?