2 Thessalonians 3:17

Modern

This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. This is my mark in every letter; it is the way I write.

Traditional

The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write.

Literal

The greeting is in my own hand—Paul, which is my sign in every letter. In this way I write.

Latin

Salutatio, mea manu Pauli: quod est signum in omni epistola, ita scribo.

Greek

English

This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. This is my mark in every letter; it is the way I write.

A secretary wrote this letter for Paul (Romans 16:22; 1 Peter 5:12). Now Paul picks up the pen to add a final greeting written by his own hand (see 1 Corinthians 16:21; Galatians 6:11; Colossians 4:18; Philemon 1:19). He does this because he suspects someone is using his name and circulating a letter he did not write (2 Thessalonians 2:2). He emphasizes this step to prove the letter is truly from him.

Theme notes and profiles

1 Corinthians 16:21
This greeting is in my own hand—Paul.
Colossians 4:18
This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. Remember my chains. Grace be with you.
2 Thessalonians 1:5
All this is clear evidence of God’s righteous judgment. And so you will be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you are suffering.
Joshua 2:12
Now therefore, please swear to me by the LORD that you will indeed show kindness to my family, because I showed kindness to you. Give me a sure sign
1 Samuel 17:18
Take also these ten portions of cheese to the commander of their unit. Check on the welfare of your brothers and bring back an assurance from them.

Paul: Apostle to the Gentiles, author of many NT epistles