2TH front intro krd6 0 # Introduction to 2 Thessalonians<br><br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>### Outline of the Book of 2 Thessalonians<br><br>1. Greetings and thanksgiving (1:1-3)<br>1. Christians suffering from persecution<br> * They are worthy of the kingdom of God and of his promise of relief from trials (1:4-7)<br> * God will judge those who persecute Christians (1:8-12)<br>1. Some believers’ misunderstanding about the second coming of Christ<br> * Christ’s return has not yet happened (2:1-2)<br> * Instruction about the events that will precede the return of Christ (2:3-12)<br>1. Paul’s confidence that God will save the Thessalonian Christians<br> * His call to “stand firm” (2:13-15)<br> * His prayer that God will comfort them (2:16-17)<br>1. Paul requests that the Thessalonian believers pray for him (3:1-5)<br>1. Paul give commands about idle believers (3:6-15)<br>1. Closing (3:16-17)<br><br>### Who wrote 2 Thessalonians?<br><br>Paul wrote 2 Thessalonians. He was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.<br><br>Paul wrote this letter while staying in the city of Corinth.<br><br>### What is the Book of 2 Thessalonians about?<br><br>Paul wrote this letter to the believers in the city of Thessalonica. He encouraged the believers because they were being persecuted. He told them to continue living in a way that pleased God. And he wanted to teach them again about Christ’s return. He also warned them that they should not be idle but should work as they wait for Christ to return.<br><br>### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “2 Thessalonians” or “Second Thessalonians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Paul’s Second Letter to the Church in Thessalonica,” or “The Second Letter to the Christians/believers in Thessalonica.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>### What is the “second coming” of Jesus?<br><br>Paul wrote much in this letter about Jesus’ eventual return to Earth. When Jesus returns, he will judge all mankind. He will also rule over creation. And he will cause there to be peace everywhere. Paul also explained that a “man of lawlessness” will come before Christ’s return. This person will obey Satan and cause many people to oppose God. But Jesus will destroy this person when he returns.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>### What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?<br><br>Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.<br><br>### What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 2 Thessalonians?<br><br>For the following verses, modern versions of the Bible differ from older versions. The ULT text has the modern reading and puts the older reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in the general region, translators should consider using the reading found in those versions. If not, translators are advised to follow the modern reading.<br>* “and the man of lawlessness is revealed” (2:3). The ULT, UST, and most modern versions read this way. Older versions have, “and the man of sin is revealed.”<br>* “For God chose you as the firstfruits for salvation” (2:13) The ULT, UST, and some other versions read this way. Other versions have, “For God chose you from the first/beginning for salvation.”<br><br>(See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])
2TH 1 intro m987 0 # 2 Thessalonians 1 General Notes<br><br>## Structure and formatting<br><br>Verses 1-2 formally introduce this letter. Letters in the ancient Near East commonly had introductions of this type.<br><br>## Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>### Paradox<br><br>A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. A paradox occurs in verses 4-5: “We talk about your patience and faith in all your persecutions. We talk about the afflictions that you endure. This is a sign of God’s righteous judgment.” People would not normally think that believing in God while being persecuted is a sign of God’s righteous judgment. But in verses 5-10, Paul explains how God will reward those who believe in him and how he will judge those who afflict them. ([2 Thessalonians 1:4-5](./04.md))
2TH 1 1 b6vf 0 General Information: Paul is the author of this letter, but he includes Silvanus and Timothy as senders of the letter. He begins by greeting the church at Thessalonica.
2TH 1 1 nrxt figs-exclusive 0 General Information: The words “we” and “us” refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. If your language differentiates between inclusive and exclusive pronoun, use an exclusive pronoun here. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2TH 1 1 x4lj figs-you 0 General Information: The word “you” is plural and refers to the believers at the church of Thessalonica. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
2TH 1 1 hm3e translate-names Σιλουανὸς 1 Silvanus **Silvanus** is the Latin form of “Silas.” He is the same person listed in the book of Acts as Paul’s fellow traveler. If your readers may not know that these two are the same person, you can use the name “Silas” in the text and “Silvanus” in the footnote. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2TH 1 2 g6rb χάρις ὑμῖν 1 Grace to you Paul commonly uses this kind of greeting in his letters. This is more of a request to God to bless them and so this can be represented as a prayer.
2TH 1 3 ea59 figs-hyperbole εὐχαριστεῖν ὀφείλομεν τῷ Θεῷ πάντοτε 1 We ought always to give thanks to God Paul uses **always** as a generalization meaning “often” or “regularly.” Alternate translation: “We should often give thanks to God” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TH 1 3 h6t9 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Here, **brothers** means fellow Christians, including both men and women. If your readers understand that it is addressed only to men, you may need to use both the masculine and the feminine forms of that word in your language. If you use a non-figurative word such as “believers”, see that both the genders are addressed. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 1 3 u3m8 figs-explicit καθὼς ἄξιόν ἐστιν 1 just as it is fitting This gives the reason for thanking God for the Thessalonian believers. Alternate translation: “for it is the right thing for us to do” OR “we are doing what is proper” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 1 3 xy7k πλεονάζει ἡ ἀγάπη ἑνὸς ἑκάστου, πάντων ὑμῶν, εἰς ἀλλήλους 1 the love of each one of you all for one another is increasing Alternate translation: “you sincerely love one another more and more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 1 4 kx1n figs-rpronouns αὐτοὺς ἡμᾶς 1 we ourselves Here, **ourselves** is used to emphasize Paul’s boasting. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
2TH 1 5 dad9 figs-activepassive εἰς τὸ καταξιωθῆναι ὑμᾶς τῆς Βασιλείας τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 for you to be considered worthy of the kingdom of God You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “that God will consider you worthy to be part of his kingdom” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 1 6 id3i figs-metaphor παρὰ Θεῷ, ἀνταποδοῦναι τοῖς θλίβουσιν ὑμᾶς θλῖψιν 1 for God to return affliction to those who are afflicting you Here, **to return** is a metaphor that means to cause someone to experience the same thing they did to someone else. Alternate translation: “for God to afflict those who are afflicting you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 1 7 hxy2 figs-metaphor καὶ ὑμῖν…ἄνεσιν 1 and relief to you These words continue the description of what God is right “to return” to people (verse 6). This is a metaphor that means to cause someone to experience the same thing they did to someone else. Alternate translation: “and to relieve you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 1 7 lu43 figs-ellipsis ὑμῖν…ἄνεσιν 1 relief to you You can make it explicit that God is the one who provides relief. Alternate translation: “for God to provide relief to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2TH 1 8 y3uv ἐν πυρὶ φλογός διδόντος ἐκδίκησιν τοῖς μὴ εἰδόσι Θεὸν 1 in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who have not known God Alternate translation: “he will punish with blazing fire those who do not know God” or “then with blazing fire he will punish those who do not know God”
2TH 1 9 plw5 figs-activepassive οἵτινες δίκην τίσουσιν ὄλεθρον αἰώνιον 1 who will pay the penalty—eternal destruction Here, **who** refers to the people who do not obey the gospel. You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “the Lord will punish them with eternal destruction” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 1 10 bi2u figs-activepassive ἐνδοξασθῆναι ἐν τοῖς ἁγίοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ θαυμασθῆναι ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς πιστεύσασιν 1 to be glorified by his saints and to be marveled at by all those who have believed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “when his people will glorify him and all those who believed will stand in awe of him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 1 11 ik19 figs-hyperbole καὶ προσευχόμεθα πάντοτε περὶ ὑμῶν 1 we also pray always for you Paul is using **always** as an exaggeration in order to emphasize how often he prays for them. Alternate translation: “we also pray regularly for you” or “we continue to pray for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TH 1 11 hiv9 τῆς κλήσεως 1 of your calling Here, **calling** refers to God appointing or choosing people to be his children and servants, and to proclaim his message of salvation through Jesus.
2TH 1 11 r8gk πληρώσῃ πᾶσαν εὐδοκίαν ἀγαθωσύνης 1 he may fulfill every desire of goodness Alternate translation: “he would make you able to do good in every way that you desire”
2TH 1 12 q994 figs-activepassive ὅπως ἐνδοξασθῇ τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ, ἐν ὑμῖν 1 so that the name of our Lord Jesus might be glorified in you You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “so that you would glorify the name of our Lord Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 1 12 pg2i figs-activepassive καὶ ὑμεῖς ἐν αὐτῷ 1 and you in him You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “and Jesus will glorify you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 intro jq9r 0 # 2 Thessalonians 2 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### “Being gathered together to be with him”<br><br>This passage refers to a time when Jesus calls to himself those who have believed in him. Scholars differ on whether or not this refers to Christ’s final glorious return. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe]])<br><br>### Man of lawlessness<br><br>This is the same as “son of destruction” and “lawless one” in this chapter. Paul associates him with Satan actively working in the world. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/antichrist]])<br><br>### Sits in the temple of God<br><br>Paul could be referring to the Jerusalem temple that the Romans destroyed several years after he wrote this letter. Or he could be referring to a future physical temple, or to the church as the spiritual temple of God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 2 1 cvg5 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Here, **brothers** means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 2 2 b8b2 εἰς τὸ μὴ ταχέως σαλευθῆναι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τοῦ νοὸς, μηδὲ θροεῖσθαι 1 for you not to be quickly shaken in your mind nor to be troubled Alternate translation: “so that you do not easily let yourselves be disturbed in your thinking”
2TH 2 2 d334 διὰ πνεύματος, μήτε διὰ λόγου, μήτε δι’ ἐπιστολῆς, ὡς δι’ ἡμῶν 1 by a spirit, nor by a word, nor by a letter as if from us Alternate translation: “by a spirit or a spoken word or by written letter that pretends to be coming from us”
2TH 2 2 k4dk ὡς ὅτι 1 as if that Alternate translation: “saying that”
2TH 2 2 ib6m ἡ ἡμέρα τοῦ Κυρίου 1 the day of the Lord Here, **the day of the Lord** refers to the time when Jesus will come back to the earth for all believers.
2TH 2 3 e86v figs-activepassive ἀποκαλυφθῇ ὁ ἄνθρωπος τῆς ἀνομίας 1 the man of lawlessness may be revealed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God reveals the man of lawlessness” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 3 tkg9 figs-metaphor ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας 1 the son of destruction Paul speaks of **destruction** as a person who bore a **son** whose goal is to totally destroy everything. Alternate translation: “the one who destroys everything he can” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 2 4 t485 figs-activepassive πάντα λεγόμενον θεὸν ἢ σέβασμα 1 everything being called god or an object of worship You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people consider to be God or everything that people worship” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 5 rsz1 figs-rquestion οὐ μνημονεύετε…ταῦτα 1 Do you not remember … these things? Paul uses a rhetorical question to remind them of his teaching when he was with them previously. This can be expressed as a statement. Alternate translation: “I am sure you remember … these things.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2TH 2 6 ask4 figs-activepassive τὸ ἀποκαλυφθῆναι αὐτὸν ἐν τῷ αὐτοῦ καιρῷ 1 he is revealed in his time You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will reveal the man of lawlessness when the time is right” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 8 hn67 figs-activepassive καὶ τότε ἀποκαλυφθήσεται ὁ ἄνομος 1 and then the lawless one will be revealed You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “and then God will allow the lawless one to show himself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 8 vay9 figs-metonymy τῷ πνεύματι τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ 1 with the breath of his mouth Here, **breath** represents the power of God. Alternate translation: “by the power of his spoken word” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TH 2 8 hy3y καὶ καταργήσει τῇ ἐπιφανείᾳ τῆς παρουσίας αὐτοῦ 1 and will bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming When Jesus returns to earth and shows himself, he will defeat the **lawless one**.
2TH 2 9 bd5m ἐν πάσῃ δυνάμει, καὶ σημείοις, καὶ τέρασιν ψεύδους 1 with all power, and signs, and false wonders Alternate translation: “with all kinds of power, and signs, and false wonders”
2TH 2 10 tf75 ἐν πάσῃ ἀπάτῃ ἀδικίας 1 in all deceit of unrighteousness This person will use every sort of evil to deceive people to believe in him instead of God.
2TH 2 11 en8e figs-metaphor πέμπει αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς ἐνέργειαν πλάνης, εἰς τὸ πιστεῦσαι αὐτοὺς τῷ ψεύδει 1 God is sending them a working of error for them to believe the lie Paul is speaking of **God** allowing something to happen to people as if he is **sending them** something. Alternate translation: “God is allowing the man of lawlessness to deceive them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 2 12 d63e figs-activepassive κριθῶσιν πάντες 1 they might all be judged You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God will judge all of them” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 12 pkw8 οἱ μὴ πιστεύσαντες τῇ ἀληθείᾳ, ἀλλὰ εὐδοκήσαντες τῇ ἀδικίᾳ 1 those who have not believed the truth, but have taken pleasure in unrighteousness Alternate translation: “those who took pleasure in unrighteousness because they did not believe the truth”
2TH 2 13 w83a 0 General Information: If you are using section headings, you could put one here before verse 13. Suggested heading: “Paul gives thanks to God for the believers and encourages them.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/checking/headings]])
2TH 2 13 b3hh δὲ 1 Now The word translated **Now** marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to indicate/show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.
2TH 2 13 dze5 figs-hyperbole ἡμεῖς…ὀφείλομεν εὐχαριστεῖν…πάντοτε 1 we ought always to give thanks The word **always** is a generalization. This is used to emphasize the importance of the action. If this is not natural in your language, you can use the alternative renderings given. Alternate translation: “we should continually give thanks” or “we must thank God at all times” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2TH 2 13 m418 ἡμεῖς…ὀφείλομεν 1 we ought Here, **we** refers to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person pronouns in your language, this should be an exclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]]
2TH 2 13 ia4x figs-activepassive ἀδελφοὶ ἠγαπημένοι ὑπὸ Κυρίου 1 brothers having been loved by the Lord If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “for the Lord loves you, brothers” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 13 v15j figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοὶ 1 brothers Here, **brothers** means fellow Christians, including both men and women. If your readers understand that it is addressed only to men, you may need to use both the masculine and the feminine forms of that word in your language. If you use a non-figurative word such as “believers”, see that both the genders are addressed. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 2 13 l7a8 figs-metaphor ἀπαρχὴν εἰς σωτηρίαν 1 as firstfruits for salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth Being among the first people to be saved is spoken of as if the Thessalonian believers are **firstfruits**. Alternate Translation: “to be among the first people who believe” or “to be some of the first people whom God was saving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]
2TH 2 13 bpqn figs-abstractnouns ἀπαρχὴν εἰς σωτηρίαν ἐν ἁγιασμῷ Πνεύματος καὶ πίστει ἀληθείας 1 as firstfruits for salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth If it would be clearer in your language, you can change the abstract nouns **salvation**, **sanctification**, **belief**, and **truth** into verbal forms. Alternate translation: “to be among the first people who believe what is true, and whom God has saved and set apart for himself by his Spirit” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TH 2 14 e0gy figs-ellipsis διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἡμῶν 1 Here, the phrase **through our gospel** does not mean that the gospel belongs to Paul and his companions. It refers to the gospel about Jesus that Paul and his companions preached. Alternate translation: “through the gospel that we preached to you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2TH 2 14 thmh figs-explicit εἰς περιποίησιν δόξης τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 The phrase “to the acquiring of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” does not mean that we will take over or divide up the glory of Jesus Christ. It means that the believers will share in Christ’s glory. Alternate translation: “so that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” or “in order that you might receive glory like our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 2 14 pke7 figs-abstractnouns εἰς περιποίησιν δόξης τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **glory**, you could express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “so that you might become glorious like our Lord” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TH 2 15 holv ἄρα οὖν 1 The words **So then** connect this verse with verses 13 and 14 as their logical conclusion. Because God did the wonderful things in those verses, the Thessalonians should do what verse 15 says. Alternate translation: “Because God did all of that for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result]])
2TH 2 15 pa9j ἀδελφοί 1 Here, **brothers** means fellow believers in Jesus, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 2 15 u9ss στήκετε 1 So then, brothers, stand firm Here, the phrase **stand firm** is used figuratively to mean to not change one’s beliefs but, rather, to remain steadfast in what one believes. If this would be unclear in your language, consider using an equivalent expression, or use plain language. Alternate translation: “continue to believe the truth” or “do not give up your faith” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 2 15 l4vr figs-metaphor κρατεῖτε τὰς παραδόσεις 1 hold tight to the traditions Here, **traditions** refers to the truths about Christ that Paul and the other apostles taught. Paul speaks of them figuratively as if his readers could hold on to them with their hands. Alternate translation: “do not give up believing those truths” or “continue to believe the true teachings” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 2 15 cpdo figs-doublet στήκετε καὶ κρατεῖτε 1 These two phrases mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize the importance of doing this. If your language does not use repetition to do this, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “keep on firmly believing” or “do not allow anyone to change your mind in any way about” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2TH 2 15 whp8 figs-activepassive ἐδιδάχθητε 1 you were taught If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you could say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “we have taught you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 2 15 z2vs figs-synecdoche διὰ λόγου 1 whether by word or by our letter Here, **by word** is an expression that means that Paul had been present with them and taught them personally. Alternate translation: “by what we said to you in person” or “when we were talking to you.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2TH 2 15 jrg4 figs-explicit δι’ ἐπιστολῆς ἡμῶν 1 whether by word or by our letter You can make clear the implicit information that **by our letter** refers to what Paul taught to the Thessalonians in an earlier letter (probably 1 Thessalonians). Alternate translation: “by what we wrote to you in a letter” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 2 16 g8m1 δὲ 1 Now The word translated **Now** marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to indicate/show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.
2TH 2 16 njk1 translate-blessing αὐτὸς δὲ ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς, καὶ ὁ Θεὸς ὁ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν 0 Connecting Statement: Paul ends this section with a blessing. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father” or “We pray that our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
2TH 2 16 yge9 figs-inclusive ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν…ὁ ἀγαπήσας ἡμᾶς καὶ δοὺς 1 our Lord … who loved us and gave us The words **our** and **us** refer to all believers including the writers. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person plural pronouns in your language, this should be an inclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2TH 2 16 cm54 figs-rpronouns αὐτὸς…Κύριος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς 1 our Lord Jesus Christ himself Here, **himself** gives additional emphasis to the phrase **Lord Jesus Christ**. Use a way that is natural in your language to indicate this emphasis. Alternate translation: “our Lord Jesus Christ, the very one” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
2TH 2 16 h3gk figs-abstractnouns δοὺς παράκλησιν αἰωνίαν, καὶ ἐλπίδα ἀγαθὴν 1 If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of **comfort** and **hope**, you could express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “always comforts us and has given us good things to hope for” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TH 2 16 iirq figs-abstractnouns ἐν χάριτι 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **grace**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because of how gracious he is to us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TH 2 17 x3rr figs-metonymy παρακαλέσαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας, καὶ στηρίξαι 1 may he comfort and strengthen your hearts Here, the word **hearts** represents both the emotion and will of a person. If **hearts** does not mean this in your language, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “may he give comfort and strength to your livers” or “may he comfort you and strengthen you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TH 2 17 yw5f figs-synecdoche ἐν παντὶ ἔργῳ καὶ λόγῳ ἀγαθῷ 1 every good work and word If it would be clearer in your language, you can express the phrase **work and word** in verbs. Alternative translation: “in every good thing that you do and say” or “so that you can do and say everything that is good.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2TH 3 intro b8hk 0 # 2 Thessalonians 3 General Notes<br><br>## Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>### Idle and lazy persons<br><br>In Thessalonica, there apparently was a problem with people in the church who were able to work but refused to do so. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>### What should you do if your brother sins?<br><br>In this chapter, Paul teaches that Christians need to live in a way that honors God. Christians should also encourage one another and hold each other accountable for what they do. The church is also responsible for encouraging believers to repent if they sin. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])
2TH 3 1 jy75 grammar-connect-words-phrases τὸ λοιπὸν 1 Finally Here, the word **Finally** marks a change in topic. To **pray** is not the final instruction that Paul gives but it is how Paul opens the last section of his letter where he will discuss a few remaining matters. Alternate translation: “One more thing” or “So, continuing on” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
2TH 3 1 m1s5 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Here, **brothers** means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 3 1 v8k2 figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 The pronoun **us** refers to Paul and his companions. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person pronouns in your language, this should be an exclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2TH 3 1 r54v figs-metaphor τρέχῃ 1 so that the word of the Lord might run and might be glorified, just as also with you Paul speaks of God’s **word** spreading as if it were running from place to place. He is comparing the rapid spread of God’s word to a person who takes good news to others. Alternate translation: “might spread rapidly” or “might be heard by many people” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 3 1 yvkm figs-activepassive καὶ δοξάζηται 1 so that the word of the Lord might run and might be glorified, just as also with you You can state this in active form, if the passive construction is not natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and that many people would honor it” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 3 1 egho figs-activepassive καθὼς καὶ πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 This phrase leaves out some words that many languages might need to be complete. If your readers might misunderstand this, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “just as also happened with you” or “which is exactly what you did” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2TH 3 2 xg2h figs-activepassive ῥυσθῶμεν 1 we might be rescued You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God may save us” or “God may rescue us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2TH 3 2 h11p figs-doublet ἀτόπων καὶ πονηρῶν 1 These two terms mean basically the same thing and are used together to emphasize the amount of evil. If your language does not use repetition to do this or if you do not have two words for these attributes, you could use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “very wicked men” or “many wicked men” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2TH 3 2 p1ct figs-litotes οὐ γὰρ πάντων ἡ πίστις 1 for not everyone has faith The phrase **not everyone** is a negative understatement that emphasizes how rare faith is. If this is confusing in your language, you can express the meaning positively. Alternate translation: “for only some people believe in the Lord” or “for people who believe in Jesus are few” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2TH 3 2 appf figs-abstractnouns ἡ πίστις 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **faith**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “believes in Jesus” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TH 3 3 yx9g figs-explicit ὃς στηρίξει 1 who will strengthen The word **strengthen** here refers to spiritual strength, not physical strength. If your readers might misunderstand this, it can be made clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “who will strengthen you spiritually” or “who will make you inwardly strong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 3 3 p91k τοῦ πονηροῦ 1 the evil one This could mean: (1) the evil being Satan. Alternate translation: “Satan” or (2) evil in general. Alternate translation: “evil”
2TH 3 4 xk85 figs-nominaladj πεποίθαμεν δὲ 1 we are confident The phrase **We are also confident** may be confusing in some languages. If that is the case in your language, you could translate this as a noun phrase. Alternate translation: “we also have faith” or “we also trust” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj]])
2TH 3 4 w79e figs-metaphor πεποίθαμεν δὲ ἐν Κυρίῳ ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς 1 This could mean: (1) Paul has confidence in the Thessalonian believers because of the close relationship that they have with the Lord Jesus. In this case, Paul is speaking figuratively of this relationship as if they were inside the Lord Jesus. Alternative translation: “Because you are united to the Lord, we are also confident” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]]) (2) Paul has confidence in the Lord Jesus, that he will cause them to do what is right. Alternative translation: “Because we trust in the Lord Jesus to enable you, we are also confident”
2TH 3 5 giz4 figs-metonymy ὁ…Κύριος κατευθύναι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 may the Lord direct your hearts Here, **hearts** stands for a person’s thoughts or mind. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “may the Lord cause you to understand the love of God and the endurance of Christ” or “may the Lord help you to know the love of God and the endurance of Christ” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TH 3 5 wre3 figs-metaphor εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ Paul speaks of God’s **love** and Christ’s **endurance** as if they were destinations on a path. If your readers would not understand this figure of speech, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “to know how much God loves you and the endurance that Christ supplies you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 3 5 dzbn figs-possession εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here, **love of God** can mean (1) the love that comes from God. Alternate translation: “to know how much God loves you” or (2) the love that people give to God. Alternate translation: “to love God more” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
2TH 3 5 ia7x figs-possession εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 Here, **endurance of Christ** can mean (1) the endurance that Christ gives to his people. Alternate translation: “to experience the endurance that Christ gives you” or (2) the endurance that Christ had through his suffering. Alternate translation: “to know how much Christ has endured for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-possession]])
2TH 3 6 mst3 checking/headings 0 General Information: In verses 6-15, Paul gives the believers some final instructions about working and not being idle. A heading for this section might be, “Believers Must Work.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/checking/headings]])
2TH 3 6 v33v grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 1 Now Paul here uses the word **Now** to mark a change in topic. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
2TH 3 6 x9l8 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί … ἀδελφοῦ 1 brothers Here, the words **brothers** and **brother** refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters…brother or sister” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 3 6 y4a9 figs-metonymy ἐν ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ Here, **name** figuratively stands for the person of Jesus Christ. It can also mean “with the authority of.” If using this term figuratively is not clear in your language, you can express it directly. Alternate translation: “as if our Lord Jesus Christ himself were speaking” or “with the authority that our Lord Jesus Christ has given us” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TH 3 6 jvw1 figs-exclusive ἡμῶν 1 of our Lord Here, **our** refers to all believers. If you have exclusive and inclusive first person plural pronouns in your language, this should be an inclusive pronoun. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2TH 3 6 x2r8 figs-metaphor ἀτάκτως περιπατοῦντος 1 Here Paul speaks figuratively of people who are not living well as if they walk in a haphazard manner. If your readers would not understand this metaphor, you could use an equivalent metaphor from your culture. Alternatively, you could express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternative translation: “who is living in a bad way” or “who is not living correctly” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 3 6 se1g τὴν παράδοσιν 1 Here, **the traditions** refers to the teachings that the apostles received from Jesus and are passing along to all believers. Alternate translation: “the teachings” or “the instructions”
2TH 3 7 h222 figs-explicit μιμεῖσθαι ἡμᾶς 1 to imitate us **to imitate** may be a difficult word to translate in your language. In that case, you can make this explicit. Alternate translation: “to act the way that my fellow workers and I act” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 3 7 b1i1 figs-doublenegatives οὐκ ἠτακτήσαμεν ἐν ὑμῖν 1 we did not behave disorderly among you Paul uses a double negative to emphasize the positive. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “we lived among you as those who had much discipline” or ”we worked diligently when we were with you“ (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2TH 3 8 ruh3 translate-unknown ἄρτον 1 Paul refers to **bread** here because it was the most common and basic food for them. If your readers would not be familiar with **bread** or if that is a kind of food that would be considered unusual or extravagant, you could use a general expression for ordinary food. Alternate translation: “food” or “anything” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown]])
2TH 3 8 d9h1 figs-merism νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι 1 working night and day Here, **night and day** are a merism and they mean “all the time.” If your readers would misunderstand this to mean that they worked without taking any rest, then you can make it clear. Alternate translation: “working throughout that time” or “we worked continuously” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2TH 3 8 w8fq figs-doublet ἐν κόπῳ καὶ μόχθῳ 1 in toil and hardship Here, **toil** and **hardship** have very similar meanings. Paul used this repetition to emphasize that they worked very hard. If you do not have two similar words that you can use here, or if it would be unnatural for you to use such repetition, you can emphasize this in another way. Alternate translation: “with great effort” or “in very difficult circumstances” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2TH 3 9 sn3k figs-doublenegatives οὐχ ὅτι οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν, ἀλλ’ 1 not because we do not have authority, but Paul uses a double negative to emphasize the positive. If this double negative would be misunderstood in your language, you could translate it as a positive statement. Alternate translation: “and we certainly have the right to receive food from you, but instead we worked for our food” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2TH 3 9 lrjr figs-abstractnouns ἑαυτοὺς τύπον δῶμεν ὑμῖν 1 If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **example**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “we might show you the right way in order for you” or “we might demonstrate the way to live for you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TH 3 9 z0up μιμεῖσθαι 1 See how you translated **imitate** in verse 7.
2TH 3 10 c652 figs-doublenegatives εἴ τις οὐ θέλει ἐργάζεσθαι, μηδὲ ἐσθιέτω 1 If anyone is not willing to work, do not even let him eat You can state this in positive form, if this form is difficult to understand in your language. Alternate translation: “If a person wants to eat, he must work” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2TH 3 11 ey6c figs-metaphor τινας περιπατοῦντας…ἀτάκτως 1 some who are walking idly Here, **walking** stands for behavior in life. you can use an equivalent metaphor from your culture, if it is available. Otherwise, you can express the meaning in a non-figurative way. Alternate translation: “some who are living idle lives” or “some who are being lazy” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2TH 3 12 bm6z figs-abstractnouns μετὰ ἡσυχίας 1 with quietness Here, **with quietness** is the opposite of meddling. Paul exhorts the meddlers to stop getting involved in other people’s affairs. If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of **quietness**, you could express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in a quiet and peaceful manner” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2TH 3 13 jx8t grammar-connect-logic-contrast δέ 1 But Paul here uses the word **But** to contrast the lazy believers with the hardworking believers. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a contrast. Alternate translation: “Concerning” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast]])
2TH 3 13 e59v figs-youplural ὑμεῖς 1 you The word **you** refers to all the Thessalonian believers. So, it should be in plural form. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])
2TH 3 13 usu9 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφοί 1 brothers Here, **brothers** means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 3 14 mzs4 figs-metonymy τῷ λόγῳ ἡμῶν 1 if anyone does not obey our word Paul is figuratively referring to his command to the Thessalonian believers as a **word**. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “our instructions” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2TH 3 14 nv3v figs-idiom τοῦτον σημειοῦσθε 1 note this one Paul wants the Thessalonians to notice who this person is. Alternate translation: “point out that person” or “make sure everyone knows who he is” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TH 3 14 y552 figs-explicit ἵνα ἐντραπῇ 1 so that he may be put to shame Paul instructs believers to avoid lazy believers as a disciplinary action. If necessary, you can make this explicit to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: “in order that he will know that his laziness is wrong” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 3 15 idj6 figs-gendernotations ἀδελφόν 1 Although the term **brother** is masculine, Paul is using the word here in a generic sense that includes both men and women. Alternate translation: “a fellow believer” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations]])
2TH 3 16 nef4 checking/headings 0 General Information: In verses 16-18, Paul makes closing remarks to the believers at Thessalonica. A heading for this section might be, “Closing Remarks.” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/checking/headings]])
2TH 3 16 z1zs grammar-connect-words-phrases δὲ 0 The word **Now** marks a change in topic. Use a natural way to do this in your language. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases]])
2TH 3 16 whb9 translate-blessing αὐτὸς…ὁ Κύριος τῆς εἰρήνης, δῴη ὑμῖν 1 may the Lord of peace himself give you Paul ends the letter with blessings that are also prayers.Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing or prayer in your language. Alternate translation: “I pray that the Lord of peace himself may give you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
2TH 3 16 zl1s figs-rpronouns αὐτὸς…ὁ Κύριος τῆς εἰρήνης 1 the Lord of peace himself Here, **himself** emphasizes that the Lord is the source of peace and that he will personally give peace to believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns]])
2TH 3 17 c2cb ὁ ἀσπασμὸς τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ, Παύλου, ὅ ἐστιν σημεῖον ἐν πάσῃ ἐπιστολῇ, οὕτως γράφω 1 This greeting is in my own hand—Paul—which is a sign in every letter. In this manner I write Alternate translation: “I, Paul, write this greeting with my own hand, which I do in every letter, as a sign that this letter is truly from me because this is how I write”
2TH 3 17 e3sa τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ 1 Here, the phrase **in my own hand** is an idiom meaning “in my own handwriting.” If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “I am writing myself” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2TH 3 17 wg3f figs-explicit οὕτως γράφω 1 In this manner I write Paul makes it clear that this letter is from him and is not a forgery. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “You can know that the letter is from me because this is how I write” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2TH 3 18 h18b translate-blessing 1 Paul ends the letter with one more blessing. Use a form that people would recognize as a blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “I pray that the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ will be with you all” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing]])
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