2 Thessalonians 3:6
Now we command you, brethren, in the Name of our Lord Iesus Christ, that ye withdraw your selues from euery brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which hee receiued of vs. 2 Thessalonians 3:6 (KJV)
Certainly! Let’s delve into a Bible study on 2 Thessalonians 3:6, using the King James Version (KJV) translation.
Second Thessalonians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica. In chapter 3 Paul addresses certain issues within the church.
Paul asserts that he is giving this command “in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” By invoking the name of Jesus, Paul emphasizes the importance and seriousness of what he is about to say; it carries divine authority.
Paul commands the Thessalonian believers to “withdraw” from certain individuals. The Greek verb used is ἀποστῆναι (or the form ἀποστῆτε), meaning to stand apart, keep away, or separate oneself. It implies maintaining a distance from those who are acting in a disorderly manner.
The command is to be applied to “every brother that walketh disorderly.” The term “brother” refers to fellow believers within the Christian community. The disorderly conduct could encompass various forms of behavior contrary to the teachings and traditions they had received from Paul.
Paul clarifies that those from whom believers are to withdraw are not adhering to the traditions passed on by Paul and the apostolic teaching. This implies a deviation from the established teachings and practices of the Christian faith.
The purpose of this command is likely twofold. First, it serves as a form of discipline and correction for those who are behaving disorderly. Second, it acts as a protective measure for the rest of the church, preventing the negative influence of those who are not following the apostolic tradition.
To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this verse, it is beneficial to read the surrounding verses (2 Thessalonians 3:1‑15) and the entire letter. Examining related passages on church discipline and guidance in other New Testament letters, such as 1 Corinthians 5 and Titus 3:10, can also provide additional insights.
