Keraia
2 Thessalonians 3

2 Thessalonians 3:15

A Warning against Idleness · 2 Thessalonians 3:6–15
Read 2 Thessalonians 3

Translations

Modern
Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Traditional
Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Literal
And do not deem him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Latin
…et nolite quasi inimicum existimare, sed corripite ut fratrem.

Original

Greek
English
Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

Notes

2 Thessalonians 3:15

do not regard him as an enemy: In the ancient world, people broke social ties with enemies and took revenge against them. The apostle Paul warns the Thessalonians that discipline against Christians who disobey should not lead to this kind of attack (3:14). Instead, the church should treat them like family members, and act in hope that they will correct their behavior (1 Thessalonians 5:12, 14).

2 Thessalonians 3:6–15

In his previous letter, Paul addressed the issue of church members who were lazy and refused to work (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12; 5:14). Some ignored his message and example, so he provides more guidance on how to treat these members.

Theme notes and profiles

Paul (Saul) Laziness and Hard Work

Glossary

Biblical Concept of Law Discipline Second Letter to the Thessalonians

Topics

All Christians should be As Missionaries in Admonishing Others Church Discipline Church: Rules of Discipline In, Mosaic and Christian Commandments: Precepts of Paul--Explicitly Stated or Implied in Didactic Epistles Confrontation Correcting a Brother Fellowship with the Wicked Forbidden Fraternity: General Scriptures Concerning Reproof: Ministers should Give with Christian Love