Session 12 2 Thessalonians 2:13–3:5

BE STEADFAST (2 THESS. 2:13-15)

listen for how Paul expressed gratitude to the believers.

13 But we ought to thank God always for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord,
because from the beginning God has chosen you for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit
and through belief in the truth.
14 He called you to this through our gospel,
so that you might obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

15 So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold to the traditions you were taught,
whether by what we said or what we wrote.

HIGHLIGHT:

Paul’s gratitude for the Thessalonians’ salvation.
Point out that salvation is always the result of the active grace of God.
No one earns it based on works.
Salvation is the result of God’s choice to make salvation available.

GUIDE:

Note that Paul transitioned from expressing gratitude to offering commands in verse 15.

a command is not meant to constrain, but rather to provide freedom and protection.
locate commands related to being steadfast in verse 15.

Discuss:

• How would the things for which Paul was grateful serve as motivators for the Thessalonians to stand firm? (p. 103)

TRANSITION:

Prayers should be encouraging.
Paul shared several things that can and should encourage us even today.