Exegetical Paper 3
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Title: The Message of 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12
Name: Patricia Young
Introduction
The Message of 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 holds a significant place with
Reassurance, Preparation, and the Role of Deception. The Second Epistle to the
Thessalonians, written by the Apostle Paul, contains important messages for the
original audience, which can still resonate in today’s church.
1
Paul addresses the issue
of false teachings and provides reassurance while urging preparedness for the coming
of the Lord. Through carefully chosen keywords, Paul emphasizes the urgency of
these messages, enabling his original audience to navigate challenging times. I will
explore the author’s message to his original audience, identify keywords, and discuss
how this message relates to the contemporary church.
Message to the Original Audience
In 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, Paul acknowledges that concerns about the end
times had caused anxiety among the Thessalonian believers. The author’s main
message to his audience is to provide reassurance and clarification regarding the
return of Christ.
2
Paul states that they should not be quickly alarmed or shaken by
false teachings, whether by word or letter, claiming that the day of the Lord has
already come. Believers have received the necessary information to avoid falling prey
to Satan’s deceptions.
3
They must stand firm in the face of societal pressure and hold
on to the authentic messages of Paul.
4
1 Abraham Malherbe,
Letters to the Thessalonians
, p. 366-374.
2
Charles Swindoll
,
S
ummarizes Second Thessalonians: “Woven by the careful hands of a tentmaker,
”
Retrieved from
https://www.preceptaustin.org/2_thessalonians_21_commentary
3
David A. deSilva.
An Introfuction to the New Testament. Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation
. 2
nd
Edition p. 479.
4
Ibid., p. 479.
Keywords
Keywords in this passage play a crucial role in conveying Paul’s message
effectively. The word “concerning” indicates that the Thessalonians’ worries are the
topic of discussion, making it clear that Paul is addressing their specific concerns.
Additionally, the use of “quickly alarmed” suggests that the Thessalonians were easily
swayed by false teachings, highlighting the importance of discernment within the
church. Continuing from verse 3, Paul introduces the concepts of a great rebellion and
the rise of the man lawlessness before the day of the Lord. The author warns the
Thessalonians to remain steadfast and not be deceived, reminding them of what he
had taught them during his previous visit. Paul emphasizes the necessity of being
prepared and ultimately encourages them to hold fast to the traditions and teachings
they had received.
Keywords such as “deceived,” “rebellion,” and “lawlessness” convey the
urgency of the situation. These words emphasize the potential danger of false
teachings and the need for the Thessalonians to be grounded in truth. Paul’s use of
phrases like “hold to the tradition” and “stand firm” illustrates the importance of their
faith and established teachings against the impending deception. The collapse of the
“Day of the Lord” into the present day, threatens to shake the pillar of the Christian
world construction.
5
Relating the message to the contemporary church, the waning against
deception remains relevant. Today, the church faces myriad false teachings, distorted
interpretations, and spiritual influences that can mislead believers. The call for
discernment, vigilance, and a steadfast commitment to the truth of God’s Word still
resonates. We are reminded to cling to the teachings of Scripture, staying rooted in the
5
David A. deSilva.
An Introfuction to the New Testament. Contexts, Methods, and Ministry Formation
.
2
nd
Edition p. 475.
foundations of our faith to avoid being swayed by false doctrines or the spirit of
lawlessness.
Conclusion
In 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12, Paul’s message to his original audience conveys
reassurance and encourages preparedness for the coming of the Lord. Through
carefully chosen keywords, he emphasizes the importance of staying steadfast,
avoiding deception, and holding on to the teachings they received. These messages
are timeless and resonate in today’s church, where the threat of false teachings and
spiritual deception remains prevalent. By heeding Paul’s counsel, we can navigate the
challenges of our times and remain grounded in the truth of God’s Word.
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Bibliography
deSilva, D. A.
An Introduction to the New Testament: Contests, Methods, and
Ministry Formation
. 2
nd
Edition (IVP Academic:2018).
Malherbe, A. J.
Letters to the Thessalonians, The Anchor Yale Bible Study
Commentary
. Yale University press. Retrieved from
https://www.olivetree.com/store/product.php?
productid=25319&utm_source=bestcommentaries.com&utm_medium=partner&
utm_content=johndyer&utm_campaign=bestcommentaries
Swindoll
,
C.
S
ummarizes Second Thessalonians: “Woven by the careful hands of a
tentmaker,
”
Retrieved from
https://www.preceptaustin.org/2_thessalonians_21_commentary