2 Thessalonians 3:4

“And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you.”

Historical Context:The book of 2 Thessalonians is a letter written by the apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica. The believers in Thessalonica were facing persecution and confusion regarding the return of Jesus Christ. Paul wrote this letter to provide encouragement, instruction, and clarification on several matters.

Confidence in the Lord:In this verse, Paul expresses his confidence in the Lord concerning the Thessalonian believers. It reveals Paul’s trust in the power and faithfulness of God. Paul’s confidence was not based solely on the believers’ abilities or strength but on their reliance on the Lord.

Obedience to Paul’s Commands:Paul mentions that the Thessalonians were expected to obey the things he commanded them. It’s important to note that Paul’s commands were not arbitrary rules, but rather instructions grounded in the teachings of Christ and the apostles. Paul’s authority as an apostle allowed him to guide the early Christian communities and provide them with sound doctrine.

Doing God’s Will:By stating that the Thessalonians would “do and will do the things” Paul commanded, he affirms their commitment to doing God’s will. This implies that the Thessalonians were actively engaged in living out their faith and following the teachings they had received. Paul’s confidence in their obedience reflects their dedication to the Lord.

Application to our lives:This verse reminds us of the importance of obedience to God’s commands and instructions. As believers, we are called to align our lives with God’s will, seeking to live in obedience to His Word. It also emphasises the need for confidence in the Lord’s faithfulness and power. We can rely on God to provide us with the strength, wisdom, and guidance to fulfil His purposes in our lives.

In conclusion, 2 Thessalonians 3:4 emphasises the confidence Paul had in the Thessalonian believers’ ability to obey the commands he had given them. It highlights the importance of doing God’s will and underscores the significance of our trust in the Lord to accomplish His purposes in and through us.