2 thessalonians 3:6 - Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother who walks in rebellion, and not after the tradition which they received from us.
Select Bible Verse
Filter Categories
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
K
L
M
N
O
P
R
S
T
U
V
W
What does "2 thessalonians 3:6" mean?
This verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:6 is a strong directive from Paul to the Thessalonian church, addressing a problem of disruptive behavior within the community. Let's break down its meaning:
"Now we command you, brothers...": Paul is speaking with authority, likely due to his position as an apostle and founder of the church. He's not merely suggesting, but commanding. "Brothers" emphasizes the familial nature of the Christian community, even while addressing a serious issue.
"...in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ...": This phrase underscores the authority behind the command. Paul isn't acting on his own whim but invoking the authority and teachings of Jesus.
"...that you withdraw yourselves...": This is the core instruction. "Withdraw yourselves" means to separate, disassociate, or distance themselves. It's not necessarily excommunication (formal expulsion), but a conscious decision to limit fellowship and interaction.
"...from every brother who walks in rebellion...": This identifies the target of the withdrawal. "Rebellion" translates a Greek word that can refer to disorderliness, idleness, or a refusal to work and contribute to the community. It's not simply about disagreeing on doctrine (though that could be a separate issue), but about actively disrupting the order and well-being of the church.
"...and not after the tradition which they received from us.": This clarifies the nature of the "rebellion." "Tradition" refers to the teachings and practices that Paul and his companions had passed down to the Thessalonians, including the expectation of working to support oneself (as demonstrated in 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10). Those who are "rebellious" are deviating from these established and authoritative teachings.
In essence, the verse means: Paul commands the Thessalonians, on the authority of Jesus, to distance themselves from fellow believers who are living in a disorderly manner and not following the teachings they received from Paul and his companions (especially regarding the importance of working and not being a burden on others).
Key Interpretations and Considerations:
The Context of Idleness: This verse is often interpreted in the context of the preceding verses and Paul's overall concern about idleness in the Thessalonian church. Some members were apparently refusing to work, living off the generosity of others, and potentially causing disruption.
The Purpose of Withdrawal: The withdrawal is intended as a corrective measure. It's not meant to be vindictive or judgmental but to encourage the rebellious individuals to recognize their error and return to a more disciplined way of life. The hope is that the social pressure will lead to repentance and restoration.
Not Excommunication: It's crucial to note that "withdrawal" isn't necessarily the same as formal excommunication. It's a less severe form of discipline aimed at encouraging change.
Potential for Abuse: Like any disciplinary measure, this command could be misapplied or abused. It's important to exercise discernment, humility, and love when applying it, ensuring that the "rebellion" is genuine and not simply a matter of personal preference or minor disagreement.
Balance with Love and Restoration: While the verse calls for separation, other passages in the New Testament emphasize the importance of love, forgiveness, and restoration. The goal is always to bring erring brothers and sisters back into fellowship.
In summary, 2 Thessalonians 3:6 is a challenging verse that highlights the importance of maintaining order and discipline within the Christian community, while also emphasizing the need for love, compassion, and the hope of restoration.
2 thessalonians 3:6 - Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw yourselves from every brother who walks in rebellion, and not after the tradition which they received from us.
What does "2 thessalonians 3:6" mean?
This verse from 2 Thessalonians 3:6 is a strong directive from Paul to the Thessalonian church, addressing a problem of disruptive behavior within the community. Let's break down its meaning:
"Now we command you, brothers...": Paul is speaking with authority, likely due to his position as an apostle and founder of the church. He's not merely suggesting, but commanding. "Brothers" emphasizes the familial nature of the Christian community, even while addressing a serious issue.
"...in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ...": This phrase underscores the authority behind the command. Paul isn't acting on his own whim but invoking the authority and teachings of Jesus.
"...that you withdraw yourselves...": This is the core instruction. "Withdraw yourselves" means to separate, disassociate, or distance themselves. It's not necessarily excommunication (formal expulsion), but a conscious decision to limit fellowship and interaction.
"...from every brother who walks in rebellion...": This identifies the target of the withdrawal. "Rebellion" translates a Greek word that can refer to disorderliness, idleness, or a refusal to work and contribute to the community. It's not simply about disagreeing on doctrine (though that could be a separate issue), but about actively disrupting the order and well-being of the church.
"...and not after the tradition which they received from us.": This clarifies the nature of the "rebellion." "Tradition" refers to the teachings and practices that Paul and his companions had passed down to the Thessalonians, including the expectation of working to support oneself (as demonstrated in 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10). Those who are "rebellious" are deviating from these established and authoritative teachings.
In essence, the verse means: Paul commands the Thessalonians, on the authority of Jesus, to distance themselves from fellow believers who are living in a disorderly manner and not following the teachings they received from Paul and his companions (especially regarding the importance of working and not being a burden on others).
Key Interpretations and Considerations:
The Context of Idleness: This verse is often interpreted in the context of the preceding verses and Paul's overall concern about idleness in the Thessalonian church. Some members were apparently refusing to work, living off the generosity of others, and potentially causing disruption.
The Purpose of Withdrawal: The withdrawal is intended as a corrective measure. It's not meant to be vindictive or judgmental but to encourage the rebellious individuals to recognize their error and return to a more disciplined way of life. The hope is that the social pressure will lead to repentance and restoration.
Not Excommunication: It's crucial to note that "withdrawal" isn't necessarily the same as formal excommunication. It's a less severe form of discipline aimed at encouraging change.
Potential for Abuse: Like any disciplinary measure, this command could be misapplied or abused. It's important to exercise discernment, humility, and love when applying it, ensuring that the "rebellion" is genuine and not simply a matter of personal preference or minor disagreement.
Balance with Love and Restoration: While the verse calls for separation, other passages in the New Testament emphasize the importance of love, forgiveness, and restoration. The goal is always to bring erring brothers and sisters back into fellowship.
In summary, 2 Thessalonians 3:6 is a challenging verse that highlights the importance of maintaining order and discipline within the Christian community, while also emphasizing the need for love, compassion, and the hope of restoration.