2 Thessalonians 3

Christian Standard Bible

Pray for Us

3 In addition, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you,^{(A) 2} and that we may be delivered^(B) from wicked and evil people, for not all have faith.^{[a] 3} But the Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and guard you from the evil one.^{(C) 4} We have confidence in the Lord about you, that you are doing and will continue to do what we command. ⁵ May the Lord direct your hearts to God’s love and Christ’s endurance.^(D)

Warning against Irresponsible Behavior

⁶ Now we command you, brothers and sisters, in the name^(E) of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from every brother or sister^(F) who is idle and does not live^[b] according to the tradition^(G) received^(H) from us. ⁷ For you yourselves know how you should imitate^(I) us: We were not idle among you; ⁸ we did not eat^(J) anyone’s food free of charge;^(K) instead, we labored^(L) and toiled,^(M) working^(N) night and day, so that we would not be a burden^(O) to any of you. ⁹ It is not that we don’t have the right^(P) to support, but we did it to make ourselves an example to you so that you would imitate^(Q) us. ¹⁰ In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.”^{(R) 11} For we hear that there are some among you who are idle. They are not busy but busybodies.^{(S) 12} Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and provide for themselves.^{[c] 13} But as for you, brothers and sisters, do not grow weary^(T) in doing good.

¹⁴ If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don’t associate with him, so that he may be ashamed. ¹⁵ Yet don’t consider him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

Final Greetings

¹⁶ May the Lord of peace^(U) himself give you peace always in every way.^(V) The Lord be with all of you.^{(W) 17} I, Paul, am writing this greeting with my own hand,^(X) which is an authenticating mark in every letter; this is how I write. ¹⁸ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.