2 Thessalonians 3:13–15

3:13 This short verse forms a hinge between 3:6–12 and the following verses. Given the inclusio in 3:6–12 (cf. Section Outline discussion for 3:6–12), verse 13 likely begins a new short paragraph (3:13–15; cf. ESV).

Paul redirects his address to the whole of the church (“as for you, brothers”; cf. Gal. 4:28; 1 Thess. 5:4). The prohibition here is against growing weary in doing good. The Greek verb for “grow weary” (enkakeō) refers to becoming discouraged or losing enthusiasm; it is elsewhere often translated “lose heart” (Luke 18:1; 2 Cor. 4:1, 16; Eph. 3:13). “Doing good” appears in a similar admonition in Galatians 6:9–10, referring to the performance of moral good on behalf of others, especially among believers.

3:14–15 Paul and his colleagues insist that the church must obey their letter. To modern ears, this may seem overly confident or demanding, but Paul’s letter bears apostolic witness that none today can claim. He is also well aware of this young church’s tenuous situation amid persecution from their countrymen. Thus Paul rightly asserts the authority and import of his words.

The Thessalonians are to “note” those who choose to defy the apostolic command and are to “have nothing to do” with them. In a manner akin to keeping away from the idle brother (3:6), they are to disassociate from such a disobedient person (cf. 1 Cor. 5:9, 11). As in 2 Thessalonians 3:6, such shunning does not mean considering the person an enemy or even disavowing the person as a believer (cf. Titus 3:10–11). Rather, the person is to be warned and rebuked. The church avoids such people for the purposes of (1) seeking their good, so that they will repent, and (2) seeking the welfare of the church in society, lest disrepute be brought on the church or other members be tempted to similar disobedience. The connection to 2 Thessalonians 3:6, as well as the context of 3:6–13, may indicate that this command is relevant particularly to the issue of those who refuse to work; however, it is likely that anyone who intentionally and flagrantly transgresses an apostolic command should be similarly warned and disassociated, especially those who teach or exemplify immoral behavior.