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22THfrontintrokrd60

Introduction to 2 Thessalonians

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 2 Thessalonians

  1. Greetings and thanksgiving (1:1-3)
  2. Christians suffering from persecution
    • They are worthy of the kingdom of God and of his promise of relief from trials (1:4-7)
    • God will judge those who persecute Christians (1:8-12)
  3. Some believers misunderstanding about the second coming of Christ
    • Christs return has not yet happened (2:1-2)
    • Instruction about the events that will precede the return of Christ (2:3-12)
  4. Pauls confidence that God will save the Thessalonian Christians
    • His call to “stand firm” (2:13-15)
    • His prayer that God will comfort them (2:16-17)
  5. Paul requests that the Thessalonian believers pray for him (3:1-5)
  6. Paul give commands about idle believers (3:6-15)
  7. Closing (3:16-17)

Who wrote 2 Thessalonians?

Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians. He was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth.

What is the Book of 2 Thessalonians about?

Paul wrote this letter to the believers in the city of Thessalonica. He encouraged the believers because they were being persecuted. He told them to continue living in a way that pleased God. And he wanted to teach them again about Christs return. He also warned them that they should not be idle but should work as they wait for Christ to return.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “2 Thessalonians” or “Second Thessalonians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Pauls Second Letter to the Church in Thessalonica,” or “The Second Letter to the Christians/believers in Thessalonica.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What is the “second coming” of Jesus?

Paul wrote much in this letter about Jesus eventual return to Earth. When Jesus returns, he will judge all mankind. He will also rule over creation. And he will cause there to be peace everywhere. Paul also explained that a “man of lawlessness” will come before Christs return. This person will obey Satan and cause many people to oppose God. But Jesus will destroy this person when he returns.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?

Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 2 Thessalonians?

For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.

  • “and the man of lawlessness is revealed” (2:3). The ULT, UST, and most modern versions read this way. Older versions have, “and the man of sin is revealed.”
  • “For God chose you as the firstfruits for salvation” (2:13) The ULT, UST, and some other versions read this way. Other versions have, “For God chose you from the first/beginning for salvation.”

(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

32TH1introm9870

2 Thessalonians 1 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Verses 1-2 formally introduce this letter. Letters in the ancient Near East commonly had introductions of this type.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. A paradox occurs in verses 4-5: “We talk about your patience and faith in all your persecutions. We talk about the afflictions that you endure. This is a sign of Gods righteous judgment.” People would not normally think that believing in God while being persecuted is a sign of Gods righteous judgment. But in verses 5-10, Paul explains how God will reward those who believe in him and how he will judge those who afflict them. (2 Thessalonians 1:4-5)

42TH11b6vf0General Information:

Paul is the author of this letter, but he includes Silvanus and Timothy as senders of the letter. He begins by greeting the church at Thessalonica.

52TH11nrxtfigs-exclusive0General Information:

The words “we” and “us” refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. If your language differentiates between inclusive and exclusive pronoun, use an exclusive pronoun here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

62TH11x4ljfigs-you0General Information:

The word “you” is plural and refers to the believers at the church of Thessalonica. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

72TH11hm3etranslate-namesΣιλουανὸς1Silvanus

Silvanus is the Latin form of “Silas.” He is the same person listed in the book of Acts as Pauls fellow traveler. If your readers may not know that these two are the same person, you can use the name “Silas” in the text and “Silvanus” in the footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

82TH12g6rbχάρις ὑμῖν1Grace to you

Paul commonly uses this kind of greeting in his letters. This is more of a request to God to bless them and so this can be represented as a prayer.

92TH13m6z50General Information:

Paul gives thanks for the believers in Thessalonica.

102TH13ea59figs-hyperboleεὐχαριστεῖν ὀφείλομεν τῷ Θεῷ πάντοτε1We ought always to give thanks to God

Paul uses always as a generalization meaning “often” or “regularly.” Alternate translation: “We should often give thanks to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

112TH13h6t9figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothers

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. If your readers understand that it is addressed only to men, you may need to use both the masculine and the feminine forms of that word in your language. If you use a non-figurative word such as “believers”, see that both the genders are addressed. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

122TH13u3m8figs-explicitκαθὼς ἄξιόν ἐστιν1just as it is fitting

This gives the reason for thanking God for the Thessalonian believers. Alternate translation: “for it is the right thing for us to do” OR “we are doing what is proper” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

132TH13emu9figs-metaphorὅτι ὑπεραυξάνει ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν
142TH13xy7kπλεονάζει ἡ ἀγάπη ἑνὸς ἑκάστου, πάντων ὑμῶν, εἰς ἀλλήλους1the love of each one of you all for one another is increasing

Alternate translation: “you sincerely love one another more and more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

152TH13bmn6ἀλλήλους1one another

Here, one another means fellow Christians.

162TH14kx1nfigs-rpronounsαὐτοὺς ἡμᾶς1we ourselves

Here, ourselves is used to emphasize Pauls boasting. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

172TH15dad9figs-activepassiveεἰς τὸ καταξιωθῆναι ὑμᾶς τῆς Βασιλείας τοῦ Θεοῦ1for you to be considered worthy of the kingdom of God

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “that God will consider you worthy to be part of his kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

182TH16wrg20Connecting Statement:

As Paul continues, he talks about God being just.

192TH16cxx1εἴπερ δίκαιον παρὰ Θεῷ1if indeed it is righteous for God

Alternate translation: “for God is certainly right” or “because God is just”

202TH16id3ifigs-metaphorπαρὰ Θεῷ, ἀνταποδοῦναι τοῖς θλίβουσιν ὑμᾶς θλῖψιν1for God to return affliction to those who are afflicting you

Here, to return is a metaphor that means to cause someone to experience the same thing they did to someone else. Alternate translation: “for God to afflict those who are afflicting you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

212TH17hxy2figs-metaphorκαὶ ὑμῖν…ἄνεσιν1and relief to you

These words continue the description of what God is right “to return” to people (verse 6). This is a metaphor that means to cause someone to experience the same thing they did to someone else. Alternate translation: “and to relieve you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

222TH17lu43figs-ellipsisὑμῖν…ἄνεσιν1relief to you

You can make it explicit that God is the one who provides relief. Alternate translation: “for God to provide relief to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

232TH17yix7ἀγγέλων δυνάμεως αὐτοῦ1his mighty angels

Alternate translation: “his powerful angels”

242TH18y3uvἐν πυρὶ φλογός διδόντος ἐκδίκησιν τοῖς μὴ εἰδόσι Θεὸν1in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who have not known God

Alternate translation: “he will punish with blazing fire those who do not know God” or “then with blazing fire he will punish those who do not know God”

252TH19plw5figs-activepassiveοἵτινες δίκην τίσουσιν ὄλεθρον αἰώνιον1who will pay the penalty—eternal destruction

Here, who refers to the people who do not obey the gospel. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “the Lord will punish them with eternal destruction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

262TH110ugk9ὅταν ἔλθῃ…ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ ἐκείνῃ1when he comes on that day

Here, that day is the day when Jesus will return to the world.

272TH110bi2ufigs-activepassiveἐνδοξασθῆναι ἐν τοῖς ἁγίοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ θαυμασθῆναι ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς πιστεύσασιν1to be glorified by his saints and to be marveled at by all those who have believed

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “when his people will glorify him and all those who believed will stand in awe of him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

282TH111ik19figs-hyperboleκαὶ προσευχόμεθα πάντοτε περὶ ὑμῶν1we also pray always for you

Paul is using always as an exaggeration in order to emphasize how often he prays for them. Alternate translation: “we also pray regularly for you” or “we continue to pray for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

292TH111hiv9τῆς κλήσεως1of your calling

Here, calling refers to God appointing or choosing people to be his children and servants, and to proclaim his message of salvation through Jesus.

302TH111r8gkπληρώσῃ πᾶσαν εὐδοκίαν ἀγαθωσύνης1he may fulfill every desire of goodness

Alternate translation: “he would make you able to do good in every way that you desire”

312TH112q994figs-activepassiveὅπως ἐνδοξασθῇ τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ, ἐν ὑμῖν1so that the name of our Lord Jesus might be glorified in you

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “so that you would glorify the name of our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

322TH112pg2ifigs-activepassiveκαὶ ὑμεῖς ἐν αὐτῷ1and you in him

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “and Jesus will glorify you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

332TH112z8k9κατὰ τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν1according to the grace of our God

Alternate translation: “because of Gods grace”

342TH2introjq9r0

2 Thessalonians 2 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

“Being gathered together to be with him”

This passage refers to a time when Jesus calls to himself those who have believed in him. Scholars differ on whether or not this refers to Christs final glorious return. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])

Man of lawlessness

This is the same as “son of destruction” and “lawless one” in this chapter. Paul associates him with Satan actively working in the world. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/antichrist]])

Sits in the temple of God

Paul could be referring to the Jerusalem temple that the Romans destroyed several years after he wrote this letter. Or he could be referring to a future physical temple, or to the church as the spiritual temple of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

352TH21r36t0General Information:

Paul exhorts believers not to be deceived about the day Jesus will come back.

362TH21q1uqδὲ1Now

The word Now marks a change of topic in Pauls instructions.

372TH21cvg5figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothers

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

382TH22b8b2εἰς τὸ μὴ ταχέως σαλευθῆναι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τοῦ νοὸς, μηδὲ θροεῖσθαι1for you not to be quickly shaken in your mind nor to be troubled

Alternate translation: “so that you do not easily let yourselves be disturbed in your thinking”

392TH22d334διὰ πνεύματος, μήτε διὰ λόγου, μήτε δι’ ἐπιστολῆς, ὡς δι’ ἡμῶν1by a spirit, nor by a word, nor by a letter as if from us

Alternate translation: “by a spirit or a spoken word or by written letter that pretends to be coming from us”

402TH22k4dkὡς ὅτι1as if that

Alternate translation: “saying that”

412TH22ib6mἡ ἡμέρα τοῦ Κυρίου1the day of the Lord

Here, the day of the Lord refers to the time when Jesus will come back to the earth for all believers.

422TH23l9c50General Information:

Paul teaches about the man of lawlessness.

432TH23ej66μὴ ἔλθῃ1it may not come

Alternate translation: “the day of the Lord will not come”

442TH23y7chἡ ἀποστασία1the apostacy

Here, the apostacy refers to a future time when many people will turn away from God.

452TH23e86vfigs-activepassiveἀποκαλυφθῇ ὁ ἄνθρωπος τῆς ἀνομίας1the man of lawlessness may be revealed

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God reveals the man of lawlessness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

462TH23tkg9figs-metaphorὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας1the son of destruction

Paul speaks of destruction as a person who bore a son whose goal is to totally destroy everything. Alternate translation: “the one who destroys everything he can” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

472TH24t485figs-activepassiveπάντα λεγόμενον θεὸν ἢ σέβασμα1everything being called god or an object of worship

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people consider to be God or everything that people worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

482TH24wj33ἀποδεικνύντα ἑαυτὸν ὅτι ἔστιν Θεός1showing that he himself is God

Alternate translation: “showing himself as God”

492TH25rsz1figs-rquestionοὐ μνημονεύετε…ταῦτα1Do you not remember … these things?

Paul uses a rhetorical question to remind them of his teaching when he was with them previously. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am sure you remember … these things.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

502TH25lkk7ταῦτα1these things

Here, these things refers to the return of Jesus, the day of the Lord, and the man of lawlessness.

512TH26ask4figs-activepassiveτὸ ἀποκαλυφθῆναι αὐτὸν ἐν τῷ αὐτοῦ καιρῷ1he is revealed in his time

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will reveal the man of lawlessness when the time is right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

522TH27si9iμυστήριον…τῆς ἀνομίας1mystery of lawlessness

Here, the mystery of lawlessness refers to a sacred secret that only God knows.

532TH27fcu7ὁ κατέχων1the one who restrains him

To restrain someone is to hold them back or to keep them from doing what they want to do.

542TH28hn67figs-activepassiveκαὶ τότε ἀποκαλυφθήσεται ὁ ἄνομος1and then the lawless one will be revealed

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “and then God will allow the lawless one to show himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

552TH28vay9figs-metonymyτῷ πνεύματι τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ1with the breath of his mouth

Here, breath represents the power of God. Alternate translation: “by the power of his spoken word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

562TH28hy3yκαὶ καταργήσει τῇ ἐπιφανείᾳ τῆς παρουσίας αὐτοῦ1and will bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming

When Jesus returns to earth and shows himself, he will defeat the lawless one.

572TH29bd5mἐν πάσῃ δυνάμει, καὶ σημείοις, καὶ τέρασιν ψεύδους1with all power, and signs, and false wonders

Alternate translation: “with all kinds of power, and signs, and false wonders”

582TH210tf75ἐν πάσῃ ἀπάτῃ ἀδικίας1in all deceit of unrighteousness

This person will use every sort of evil to deceive people to believe in him instead of God.

592TH210v366τοῖς ἀπολλυμένοις1to those who are perishing

This man who is given power by Satan will deceive everyone who did not believe in Jesus.

602TH210pf48ἀπολλυμένοις1who are perishing

Here, perishing has the concept of everlasting or eternal destruction.

612TH211sj1vδιὰ τοῦτο1because of this

Alternate translation: “because the people do not love the truth”

622TH211en8efigs-metaphorπέμπει αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς ἐνέργειαν πλάνης, εἰς τὸ πιστεῦσαι αὐτοὺς τῷ ψεύδει1God is sending them a working of error for them to believe the lie

Paul is speaking of God allowing something to happen to people as if he is sending them something. Alternate translation: “God is allowing the man of lawlessness to deceive them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

632TH212d63efigs-activepassiveκριθῶσιν πάντες1they might all be judged

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will judge all of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

642TH212pkw8οἱ μὴ πιστεύσαντες τῇ ἀληθείᾳ, ἀλλὰ εὐδοκήσαντες τῇ ἀδικίᾳ1those who have not believed the truth, but have taken pleasure in unrighteousness

Alternate translation: “those who took pleasure in unrighteousness because they did not believe the truth”

652TH213w83a0General Information:

If you are using section headings, you could put one here before verse 13. Suggested heading: “Paul gives thanks to God for the believers and encourages them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/checking/headings]])

662TH213bcd50Connecting Statement:

Paul now changes topics.

672TH213b3hhδὲ1Now

The word translated Now marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to indicate/show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.

682TH213dze5figs-hyperboleἡμεῖς…ὀφείλομεν εὐχαριστεῖν…πάντοτε1we ought always to give thanks

The word always is a generalization. This is used to emphasize the importance of the action. If this is not natural in your language, you can use the alternative renderings given. Alternate translation: “we should continually give thanks” or “we must thank God at all times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

692TH213m418ἡμεῖς…ὀφείλομεν1we ought

Here, we refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person pronouns in your language, this should be an exclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]

702TH213ia4xfigs-activepassiveἀδελφοὶ ἠγαπημένοι ὑπὸ Κυρίου1brothers having been loved by the Lord

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “for the Lord loves you, brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

712TH213v15jfigs-gendernotationsἀδελφοὶ1brothers

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. If your readers understand that it is addressed only to men, you may need to use both the masculine and the feminine forms of that word in your language. If you use a non-figurative word such as “believers”, see that both the genders are addressed. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

722TH213l7a8figs-metaphorἀπαρχὴν εἰς σωτηρίαν1as firstfruits for salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth

Being among the first people to be saved is spoken of as if the Thessalonian believers are firstfruits. Alternate Translation: “to be among the first people who believe” or “to be some of the first people whom God was saving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]

732TH213bpqnfigs-abstractnounsἀπαρχὴν εἰς σωτηρίαν ἐν ἁγιασμῷ Πνεύματος καὶ πίστει ἀληθείας1as firstfruits for salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth

If it would be clearer in your language, you can change the abstract nouns salvation, sanctification, belief, and truth into verbal forms. Alternate translation: “to be among the first people who believe what is true, and whom God has saved and set apart for himself by his Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

742TH214e0gyfigs-ellipsisδιὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἡμῶν1

Here, the phrase through our gospel does not mean that the gospel belongs to Paul and his companions. It refers to the gospel about Jesus that Paul and his companions preached. Alternate translation: “through the gospel that we preached to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

752TH214thmhfigs-explicitεἰς περιποίησιν δόξης τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

The phrase “to the acquiring of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” does not mean that we will take over or divide up the glory of Jesus Christ. It means that the believers will share in Christs glory. Alternate translation: “so that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” or “in order that you might receive glory like our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

762TH214pke7figs-abstractnounsεἰς περιποίησιν δόξης τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “so that you might become glorious like our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

772TH215holvἄρα οὖν1

The words So then connect this verse with verses 13 and 14 as their logical conclusion. Because God did the wonderful things in those verses, the Thessalonians should do what verse 15 says. Alternate translation: “Because God did all of that for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])

782TH215pa9jἀδελφοί1

Here, brothers means fellow believers in Jesus, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

792TH215u9ssστήκετε1So then, brothers, stand firm

Here, the phrase stand firm is used figuratively to mean to not change ones beliefs but, rather, to remain steadfast in what one believes. If this would be unclear in your language, consider using an equivalent expression, or use plain language. Alternate translation: “continue to believe the truth” or “do not give up your faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

802TH215l4vrfigs-metaphorκρατεῖτε τὰς παραδόσεις1hold tight to the traditions

Here, traditions refers to the truths about Christ that Paul and the other apostles taught. Paul speaks of them figuratively as if his readers could hold on to them with their hands. Alternate translation: “do not give up believing those truths” or “continue to believe the true teachings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

812TH215cpdofigs-doubletστήκετε καὶ κρατεῖτε1

These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize the importance of doing this. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “keep on firmly believing” or “do not allow anyone to change your mind in any way about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

822TH215whp8figs-activepassiveἐδιδάχθητε1you were taught

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “we have taught you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

832TH215z2vsfigs-synecdocheδιὰ λόγου1whether by word or by our letter

Here, by word is an expression that means that Paul had been present with them and taught them personally. Alternate translation: “by what we said to you in person” or “when we were talking to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

842TH215jrg4figs-explicitδι’ ἐπιστολῆς ἡμῶν1whether by word or by our letter

You can make clear the implicit information that by our letter refers to what Paul taught to the Thessalonians in an earlier letter (probably 1 Thessalonians). Alternate translation: “by what we wrote to you in a letter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

852TH216g8m1δὲ1Now

The word translated Now marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to indicate/show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.

862TH216njk1translate-blessingαὐτὸς δὲ ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς, καὶ ὁ Θεὸς ὁ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν0Connecting Statement:

Paul ends this section with a blessing. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father” or “We pray that our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])

872TH216yge9figs-inclusiveὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν…ὁ ἀγαπήσας ἡμᾶς καὶ δοὺς1our Lord … who loved us and gave us

The words our and us refer to all believers including the writers. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person plural pronouns in your language, this should be an inclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])

882TH216cm54figs-rpronounsαὐτὸς…Κύριος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς1our Lord Jesus Christ himself

Here, himself gives additional emphasis to the phrase Lord Jesus Christ. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “our Lord Jesus Christ, the very one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

892TH216h3gkfigs-abstractnounsδοὺς παράκλησιν αἰωνίαν, καὶ ἐλπίδα ἀγαθὴν1

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of comfort and hope, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “always comforts us and has given us good things to hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

902TH216iirqfigs-abstractnounsἐν χάριτι1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because of how gracious he is to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

912TH217x3rrfigs-metonymyπαρακαλέσαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας, καὶ στηρίξαι1may he comfort and strengthen your hearts

Here, the word hearts represents both the emotion and will of a person. If hearts does not mean this in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “may he give comfort and strength to your livers” or “may he comfort you and strengthen you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

922TH217yw5ffigs-synecdocheἐν παντὶ ἔργῳ καὶ λόγῳ ἀγαθῷ1every good work and word

If it would be clearer in your language, you can express the phrase work and word in verbs. Alternative translation: “in every good thing that you do and say” or “so that you can do and say everything that is good.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

932TH3introb8hk0

2 Thessalonians 3 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

Idle and lazy persons

In Thessalonica, there apparently was a problem with people in the church who were able to work but refused to do so. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

What should you do if your brother sins?

In this chapter, Paul teaches that Christians need to live in a way that honors God. Christians should also encourage one another and hold each other accountable for what they do. The church is also responsible for encouraging believers to repent if they sin. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

942TH31k33i0General Information:

Paul asks the believers to pray for him and his companions.

952TH31jy75grammar-connect-words-phrasesτὸ λοιπὸν1Finally

Here, the word Finally marks a change in topic. To pray is not the final instruction that Paul gives but it is how Paul opens the last section of his letter where he will discuss a few remaining matters. Alternate translation: “One more thing” or “So, continuing on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])

962TH31m1s5figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothers

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

972TH31v8k2figs-exclusiveἡμῶν1

The pronoun us refers to Paul and his companions. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person pronouns in your language, this should be an exclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

982TH31r54vfigs-metaphorτρέχῃ1so that the word of the Lord might run and might be glorified, just as also with you

Paul speaks of Gods word spreading as if it were running from place to place. He is comparing the rapid spread of Gods word to a person who takes good news to others. Alternate translation: “might spread rapidly” or “might be heard by many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

992TH31yvkmfigs-activepassiveκαὶ δοξάζηται1so that the word of the Lord might run and might be glorified, just as also with you

You can state this in active form, if the passive construction is not natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and that many people would honor it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1002TH31eghofigs-activepassiveκαθὼς καὶ πρὸς ὑμᾶς1

This phrase leaves out some words that many languages might need to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “just as also happened with you” or “which is exactly what you did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1012TH32xg2hfigs-activepassiveῥυσθῶμεν1we might be rescued

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God may save us” or “God may rescue us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1022TH32h11pfigs-doubletἀτόπων καὶ πονηρῶν1

These two terms mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize the amount of evil. If your language does not use repetition to do this or if you do not have two words for these attributes, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “very wicked men” or “many wicked men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1032TH32p1ctfigs-litotesοὐ γὰρ πάντων ἡ πίστις1for not everyone has faith

The phrase not everyone is a negative understatement that emphasizes how rare faith is. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “for only some people believe in the Lord” or “for people who believe in Jesus are few” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

1042TH32appffigs-abstractnounsἡ πίστις1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “believes in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1052TH33yx9gfigs-explicitὃς στηρίξει1who will strengthen

The word strengthen here refers to spiritual strength, not physical strength. If your readers might misunderstand this, it can be made clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “who will strengthen you spiritually” or “who will make you inwardly strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1062TH33p91kτοῦ πονηροῦ1the evil one

This could mean: (1) the evil being Satan. Alternate translation: “Satan” or (2) evil in general. Alternate translation: “evil”

1072TH34xk85figs-nominaladjπεποίθαμεν δὲ1we are confident

The phrase We are also confident may be confusing in some languages. If that is the case in your language, you could translate this as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “we also have faith” or “we also trust” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])

1082TH34w79efigs-metaphorπεποίθαμεν δὲ ἐν Κυρίῳ ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς1

This could mean: (1) Paul has confidence in the Thessalonian believers because of the close relationship that they have with the Lord Jesus. In this case, Paul is speaking figuratively of this relationship as if they were inside the Lord Jesus. Alternative translation: “Because you are united to the Lord, we are also confident” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) (2) Paul has confidence in the Lord Jesus, that he will cause them to do what is right. Alternative translation: “Because we trust in the Lord Jesus to enable you, we are also confident”

1092TH35giz4figs-metonymyὁ…Κύριος κατευθύναι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ1may the Lord direct your hearts

Here, hearts stands for a persons thoughts or mind. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “may the Lord cause you to understand the love of God and the endurance of Christ” or “may the Lord help you to know the love of God and the endurance of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1102TH35wre3figs-metaphorεἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ1to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ

Paul speaks of Gods love and Christs endurance as if they were destinations on a path. If your readers would not understand this figure of speech, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “to know how much God loves you and the endurance that Christ supplies you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1112TH35dzbnfigs-possessionεἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Here, love of God can mean (1) the love that comes from God. Alternate translation: “to know how much God loves you” or (2) the love that people give to God. Alternate translation: “to love God more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1122TH35ia7xfigs-possessionεἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Here, endurance of Christ can mean (1) the endurance that Christ gives to his people. Alternate translation: “to experience the endurance that Christ gives you” or (2) the endurance that Christ had through his suffering. Alternate translation: “to know how much Christ has endured for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])

1132TH36mst3checking/headings0General Information:

In verses 6-15, Paul gives the believers some final instructions about working and not being idle. A heading for this section might be, “Believers Must Work.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/checking/headings]])

1142TH36v33vgrammar-connect-words-phrasesδὲ1Now

Paul here uses the word Now to mark a change in topic. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])

1152TH36x9l8figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί … ἀδελφοῦ1brothers

Here, the words brothers and brother refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters…brother or sister” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1162TH36y4a9figs-metonymyἐν ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ

Here, name figuratively stands for the person of Jesus Christ. It can also mean “with the authority of.” If using this term figuratively is not clear in your language, you can express it directly. Alternate translation: “as if our Lord Jesus Christ himself were speaking” or “with the authority that our Lord Jesus Christ has given us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1172TH36jvw1figs-exclusiveἡμῶν1of our Lord

Here, our refers to all believers. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person plural pronouns in your language, this should be an inclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

1182TH36x2r8figs-metaphorἀτάκτως περιπατοῦντος1

Here Paul speaks figuratively of people who are not living well as if they walk in a haphazard manner. If your readers would not understand this metaphor, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation: “who is living in a bad way” or “who is not living correctly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1192TH36se1gτὴν παράδοσιν1

Here, the traditions refers to the teachings that the apostles received from Jesus and are passing along to all believers. Alternate translation: “the teachings” or “the instructions”

1202TH37h222figs-explicitμιμεῖσθαι ἡμᾶς1to imitate us

to imitate may be a difficult word to translate in your language. In that case, you can make this explicit. Alternate translation: “to act the way that my fellow workers and I act” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1212TH37b1i1figs-doublenegativesοὐκ ἠτακτήσαμεν ἐν ὑμῖν1we did not behave disorderly among you

Paul uses a double negative to emphasize the positive. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “we lived among you as those who had much discipline” or ”we worked diligently when we were with you“ (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1222TH38ruh3translate-unknownἄρτον1

Paul refers to bread here because it was the most common and basic food for them. If your readers would not be familiar with bread or if that is a kind of food that would be considered unusual or extravagant, you could use a general expression for ordinary food. Alternate translation: “food” or “anything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])

1232TH38d9h1figs-merismνυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι1working night and day

Here, night and day are a merism and they mean “all the time.” If your readers would misunderstand this to mean that they worked without taking any rest, then you can make it clear. Alternate translation: “working throughout that time” or “we worked continuously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

1242TH38w8fqfigs-doubletἐν κόπῳ καὶ μόχθῳ1in toil and hardship

Here, toil and hardship have very similar meanings. Paul used this repetition to emphasize that they worked very hard. If you do not have two similar words that you can use here, or if it would be unnatural for you to use such repetition, you can emphasize this in another way. Alternate translation: “with great effort” or “in very difficult circumstances” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

1252TH39sn3kfigs-doublenegativesοὐχ ὅτι οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν, ἀλλ’1not because we do not have authority, but

Paul uses a double negative to emphasize the positive. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “and we certainly have the right to receive food from you, but instead we worked for our food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1262TH39lrjrfigs-abstractnounsἑαυτοὺς τύπον δῶμεν ὑμῖν1

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of example, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “we might show you the right way in order for you” or “we might demonstrate the way to live for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1272TH39z0upμιμεῖσθαι1

See how you translated imitate in verse 7.

1282TH310c652figs-doublenegativesεἴ τις οὐ θέλει ἐργάζεσθαι, μηδὲ ἐσθιέτω1If anyone is not willing to work, do not even let him eat

You can state this in positive form, if this form is difficult to understand in your language. Alternate translation: “If a person wants to eat, he must work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

1292TH311ey6cfigs-metaphorτινας περιπατοῦντας…ἀτάκτως1some who are walking idly

Here, walking stands for behavior in life. you can use an equivalent metaphor from your culture, if it is available. Otherwise, you can express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “some who are living idle lives” or “some who are being lazy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1302TH311iv1zἀλλὰ περιεργαζομένους1but meddling

Meddlers are people who interfere in the affairs of others without being asked to help.

1312TH312bm6zfigs-abstractnounsμετὰ ἡσυχίας1with quietness

Here, with quietness is the opposite of meddling. Paul exhorts the meddlers to stop getting involved in other peoples affairs. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of quietness, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in a quiet and peaceful manner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

1322TH313jx8tgrammar-connect-logic-contrastδέ1But

Paul here uses the word But to contrast the lazy believers with the hardworking believers. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Concerning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])

1332TH313e59vfigs-youpluralὑμεῖς1you

The word you refers to all the Thessalonian believers. So, it should be in plural form. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

1342TH313usu9figs-gendernotationsἀδελφοί1brothers

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1352TH314mzs4figs-metonymyτῷ λόγῳ ἡμῶν1if anyone does not obey our word

Paul is figuratively referring to his command to the Thessalonian believers as a word. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “our instructions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1362TH314nv3vfigs-idiomτοῦτον σημειοῦσθε1note this one

Paul wants the Thessalonians to notice who this person is. Alternate translation: “point out that person” or “make sure everyone knows who he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1372TH314y552figs-explicitἵνα ἐντραπῇ1so that he may be put to shame

Paul instructs believers to avoid lazy believers as a disciplinary action. If necessary, you can make this explicit to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: “in order that he will know that his laziness is wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1382TH315idj6figs-gendernotationsἀδελφόν1

Although the term brother is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “a fellow believer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])

1392TH316nef4checking/headings0General Information:

In verses 16-18, Paul makes closing remarks to the believers at Thessalonica. A heading for this section might be, “Closing Remarks.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/checking/headings]])

1402TH316z1zsgrammar-connect-words-phrasesδὲ0

The word Now marks a change in topic. Use a natural way to do this in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])

1412TH316whb9translate-blessingαὐτὸς…ὁ Κύριος τῆς εἰρήνης, δῴη ὑμῖν1may the Lord of peace himself give you

Paul ends the letter with blessings that are also prayers.Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing or prayer in your language. Alternate translation: “I pray that the Lord of peace himself may give you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])

1422TH316zl1sfigs-rpronounsαὐτὸς…ὁ Κύριος τῆς εἰρήνης1the Lord of peace himself

Here, himself emphasizes that the Lord is the source of peace and that he will personally give peace to believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])

1432TH317c2cbὁ ἀσπασμὸς τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ, Παύλου, ὅ ἐστιν σημεῖον ἐν πάσῃ ἐπιστολῇ, οὕτως γράφω1This greeting is in my own hand—Paul—which is a sign in every letter. In this manner I write

Alternate translation: “I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand, which I do in every letter, as a sign that this letter is truly from me because this is how I write”

1442TH317e3saτῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ1

Here, the phrase in my own hand is an idiom meaning “in my own handwriting.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I am writing myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1452TH317wg3ffigs-explicitοὕτως γράφω1In this manner I write

Paul makes it clear that this letter is from him and is not a forgery. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “You can know that the letter is from me because this is how I write” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1462TH318h18btranslate-blessing1

Paul ends the letter with one more blessing. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “I pray that the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ will be with you all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])