2 Thessalonians

2 Thessalonians front

Introduction to 2 Thessalonians

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the book of 2 Thessalonians

1. Greetings and thanksgiving (1:1–2)
2. Believers suffer from persecution (1:3–12)
   • God uses persecution to increase faith, love, and endurance in believers (1:3–4)
   • God is just: (1:5–12)
   • God will make believers worthy of his kingdom
   • God will give relief to believers
   • God will punish those who persecute believers
3. Some believers misunderstand about the second coming of Christ (2:1–12)
   • Christ’s return has not yet happened (2:1–2)
   • Instruction about the events that will precede the return of Christ (2:3–12)
4. Paul’s confidence that God will save the Thessalonian believers (2:13–17)
   • Paul calls the Thessalonian believers to “stand firm” (2:13–15)
   • Paul prays that God will comfort them (2:16–17)
5. Paul requests that the Thessalonian believers pray for him (3:1–5)
6. Paul give commands about idle believers (3:6–15)
7. Closing (3:16–17)

Who wrote 2 Thessalonians?

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 believers. After he became a believer, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

Paul is the author of this letter, but he includes Silvanus and Timothy as senders of the letter. Paul wrote this letter while he, Silvanus, and Timothy were staying in the city of Corinth.

What is the book of 2 Thessalonians about?

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. He also 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.

How should the title of this book be translated?

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: How to Translate Names)

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What is the “second coming” of Jesus?

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.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

What did Paul mean by the expression “in Christ,” “in the Lord,” etc.?

Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union between Christ and the believers. Please see the introduction to the book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

How are pronouns used in this letter?

In this letter, the words “we” and “us” refer to Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy, unless otherwise noted. If your language differentiates between inclusive and exclusive pronouns, use an exclusive pronoun for these. (See: Exclusive and Inclusive ‘We’)

In this letter, the words “you” and “your” are plural and refer to the Thessalonian believers. (See: Forms of ‘You’ — Singular)

What are the major issues in the text of the book of 2 Thessalonians?

For the following verses, some ancient manuscripts have a different reading than others. The ULT follows the reading that scholars consider to be the most accurate and puts the other reading in a footnote. If a translation of the Bible exists in your area that your people are familiar with, consider using the reading that it follows. If not, translators are advised to follow the reading in the ULT. * “and the man of lawlessness is revealed” (2:3). The ULT, UST, and most modern versions read this way. Other versions follow the reading, “and the man of sin is revealed.” * “For God chose you as the firstfruits for salvation” (2:13) The ULT, UST, and some other versions read this way. The other reading is, “For God chose you from the first/beginning for salvation.”

(See: Textual Variants)

2 Thessalonians 1

2 Thessalonians 1 General Notes

Structure and Formatting

Verses 1–2 formally introduce this letter. Letters in the ancient Near East commonly had introductions of this type in which the sender identified himself, then the recipient, then gave a greeting.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A paradox is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible.

A paradox occurs in verses 4–5 where Paul talks about the Thessalonian believers’ faithfulness through persecution as “evidence of the righteous judgment of God.” People would not normally think that believing in God while being persecuted is a sign of God’s righteous judgment. But the fact that God gave them the ability to persevere in their faith is evidence that God claims them as his own and will judge them as worthy of his kingdom. In verses 5–10, Paul goes on to explain more of God’s righteous judgment, that God will reward those who believe in him and that he will punish those who afflict his people. (2 Thessalonians 1:4–5)

Another paradox occurs in verse 9 where Paul describes the penalty for rejecting God as “eternal destruction.” Normally when something is destroyed it ceases to exist. But in this case, the people who reject God will experience eternal separation from God, as the verse goes on to explain. Being separated from God destroys all that was enjoyable about their lives, and this continuous destruction is what they experience through eternity. (2 Thessalonians 1:9)

2 Thessalonians 1:1

Silvanus

Quote: Σιλουανὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names

Silvanus is the Latin form of “Silas.” Silvanus is the name of a man, 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 could use the name “Silas” in the text and “Silvanus” in the footnote.

Paul and Silvanus and Timothy, to the church

Quote: Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος; τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

You may want to fill in the words necessary to make this a complete sentence. Alternate translation: “Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy send this letter to the church”

Paul and Silvanus and Timothy

Quote: Παῦλος, καὶ Σιλουανὸς, καὶ Τιμόθεος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Although Paul wrote this letter, he identifies Silvanus and Timothy as also sending it. This means that they were with him and were in agreement with it. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could make that clear, as in the UST.

in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: ἐν Θεῷ Πατρὶ ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the believers as though they were occupying space inside of God and Jesus. This metaphor expresses the idea that believers are spiritually united to God and Jesus. If this might be misunderstood in your language, you could express the meaning plainly. Alternative translation: “united to God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” or “sharing life with God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”

2 Thessalonians 1:2

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

Many languages have different ways to offer good wishes as they greet. Paul greeted his letter recipients with a blessing. Use a form that would be a good wish or blessing in your language. Alternate translation: “We pray that God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace” or “I wish you grace and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” or “May the grace and peace of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be your portion” or “May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ show grace and give peace to your hearts”

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη ἀπὸ Θεοῦ Πατρὸς καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind Grace and peace, you can express these ideas as verbs or in another way. Alternate translation: “May God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be gracious to you and give rest to your inner being” or “...be favorable to you and make you at ease” or “...be kind to you and set your heart at rest”

2 Thessalonians 1:3

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/checking/headings

General Information:

In verses 3–12, Paul gives thanks for the believers in Thessalonica and prays for them. A heading for this section might be, “Thanks and Prayers.”

We ought always to give thanks

Quote: εὐχαριστεῖν ὀφείλομεν & πάντοτε (1)

Paul here uses the word ought to express that he has a moral obligation to God to give thanks for the believers in Thessalonica. Use a natural expression for this in your language. Alternate translation: “We are bound always to thank” or “We can do no other than to thank” or “We must give thanks continually to”

We ought always to give thanks to God

Quote: εὐχαριστεῖν ὀφείλομεν τῷ Θεῷ πάντοτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Paul uses always as a generalization meaning “often” or “regularly.” Alternate translation: “We should often give thanks to God”

We ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers

Quote: εὐχαριστεῖν ὀφείλομεν τῷ Θεῷ πάντοτε περὶ ὑμῶν, ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

If your readers might think that Paul is expressing an obligation only and that he does not actually pray for the Thessalonians, you could express the reality explicitly. Alternate translation: “We always thank God for you, brothers, as we ought”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

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 nonfigurative word such as “believers”, see that both the genders are addressed. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

just as it is fitting

Quote: καθὼς ἄξιόν ἐστιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

If it is difficult to express just as it is fitting in your language or if it is unclear what it refers to, consider starting a new sentence here to state it clearly. Alternate translation: “When we give thanks for you we are doing the right thing” or “Giving thanks for you is right for us to be doing” or “ & is the right thing to do”

your faith is increasing greatly

Quote: ὑπεραυξάνει ἡ πίστις ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind faith, you can express this idea as a verb. Alternate translation: “you believe in Christ more and more” or “you increasingly trust in Christ” or “you rely on Christ more each day”

the love of each one of you all for one another is increasing

Quote: πλεονάζει ἡ ἀγάπη ἑνὸς ἑκάστου, πάντων ὑμῶν, εἰς ἀλλήλους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind love, you can express this idea as a verb. Alternate translation: “each of you sincerely loves one another more and more”

one another

Quote: ἀλλήλους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Here, one another means fellow believers. Alternate translation: “each other” or “each believer”

2 Thessalonians 1:4

we ourselves

Quote: αὐτοὺς ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Here, ourselves is added to we to emphasize that even the apostle Paul and his associates are boasting about the Thessalonian believers. Alternate translation: “even we” or “we are the ones who”

your endurance and faith

Quote: τῆς ὑπομονῆς ὑμῶν, καὶ πίστεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of endurance and faith or if it is unclear how these two terms relate, you can express these same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “how you patiently continue to trust in Jesus” or “how you persevere in believing in the Lord”

in all your persecutions and afflictions

Quote: ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς διωγμοῖς ὑμῶν, καὶ ταῖς θλίψεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The two words persecutions and afflictions are saying very similar things. The repetition is used to emphasize how difficult life has been for the Thessalonian believers. If two words are difficult to find in your language or if your language does not use repetition in this way, you can use one word with this meaning and make the emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “as you have been going through all these very difficult times” or “as people make you suffer in all the ways”

faith in all your persecutions

Quote: πίστεως ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς διωγμοῖς ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, faith in all your persecutions does not mean to believe in or trust in persecutions. If your readers might be confused by that, you could express it more clearly. Alternate translation: “faith in Jesus Christ during all the times you are persecuted”

2 Thessalonians 1:5

evidence of the righteous judgment of God, for you to be considered worthy

Quote: ἔνδειγμα τῆς δικαίας κρίσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ, εἰς τὸ καταξιωθῆναι ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The evidence that Paul is referring to here is the faithful endurance of the Thessalonian believers while suffering persecution, which he mentioned in verse 4. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could state that explicitly. It may also be helpful to start a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Your endurance while suffering is a clear indication of God’s righteous judgment, that he considers you worthy” or “Your faithfulness through persecution shows that God is just and right to consider you worthy”

for you to be considered worthy of the kingdom of God

Quote: εἰς τὸ καταξιωθῆναι ὑμᾶς τῆς Βασιλείας τοῦ Θεοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “that God will consider you worthy to be part of his kingdom”

for which you also suffer

Quote: ὑπὲρ ἧς καὶ πάσχετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, also could mean: (1) the Thessalonian believers are suffering for the kingdom of God as well as being counted worthy of it. Alternate translation: “being a part of which is also the reason that you are suffering” (2) the Thessalonian believers are suffering along with other believers. Alternate translation: “which is why you are going through sufferings along with many others”

2 Thessalonians 1:6

if indeed {it is} righteous for God

Quote: εἴπερ δίκαιον παρὰ Θεῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-condition-fact

Paul is speaking as if this were a hypothetical possibility, but he means that it is actually true. If your language does not state something as a condition if it is certain or true, and if your readers might think that what Paul is saying is not certain, then you could translate his words as an affirmative statement. Alternate translation: “Since you know that God is just” or “for God is certainly right”

for God to return affliction to the ones afflicting you

Quote: παρὰ Θεῷ, ἀνταποδοῦναι τοῖς θλίβουσιν ὑμᾶς θλῖψιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, to return means to cause someone to experience the same thing that they did to someone else as though the same action were bouncing back onto the people who did that action. Use a natural expression for this kind of reciprocal action. Alternate translation: “for God to afflict those who are afflicting you” or “for God to pay back those who are afflicting you” “for God to do the same to those who are afflicting you”

to return affliction to the ones afflicting you

Quote: ἀνταποδοῦναι τοῖς θλίβουσιν ὑμᾶς θλῖψιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of affliction, you can express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “to afflict those who are afflicting you” or “to trouble those who are troubling you”

2 Thessalonians 1:7

and relief to you

Quote: καὶ ὑμῖν & ἄνεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The words and relief to you continue the description of what God is right “to return” to people (verse 6). If this would not be understood in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “and it is righteous for God to give relief to you”

and relief to you, the ones being afflicted with us

Quote: καὶ ὑμῖν τοῖς θλιβομένοις, ἄνεσιν μεθ’ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, you who are being afflicted refers to the Thessalonian believers, and us refers to Paul and his associates. Other people are afflicting both groups because of their faith in Jesus. Alternate translation: “and relief to you who are being afflicted just as we are being afflicted”

relief to you

Quote: ὑμῖν & ἄνεσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind relief, you can express this idea with a verb or in another way. Alternate translation: “to relieve you” or “to rescue you”

the ones being afflicted

Quote: τοῖς θλιβομένοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “whom other people are afflicting” or “from the affliction that others are causing you”

at the revealing of the Lord Jesus

Quote: ἐν τῇ ἀποκαλύψει τοῦ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, at the revealing is an indication of the time when the suffering believers will have relief from their suffering. Alternate translation: “at the time when the Lord Jesus is revealed” or “when everyone sees the Lord Jesus coming”

2 Thessalonians 1:8

taking vengeance on the ones

Quote: διδόντος ἐκδίκησιν τοῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea behind vengeance, you can express this idea in another way. Since this is part of God’s justice, do not use a word that implies that God is doing something illegal or inappropriate. Alternate translation: “punishing the people” or “judging the ones”

on the ones not having known God

Quote: τοῖς μὴ εἰδόσι Θεὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, the ones not having known God refers to those who have refused the relationship with God that he had offered to them. Alternate translation: “on those who did not want to know God” or “on those who have rejected God”

and on the ones not obeying the gospel

Quote: καὶ τοῖς μὴ ὑπακούουσιν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase, not obeying the gospel could refer to: (1) the same people as those not having known God. Alternate translation: “and who are not obeying the gospel” (2) a separate group. Alternate translation: “and also on those who are not obeying the gospel”

obeying the gospel

Quote: ὑπακούουσιν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

The phrase, obeying the gospel is an idiom that means to live according to everything that God tells us in the gospel message. Alternate translation: “living according to the message of the gospel” or “heeding the admonitions that are part of the gospel message”

the gospel of our Lord Jesus

Quote: τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Paul is using the general possessive form of our Lord Jesus to describe the gospel. The specific meaning here is that the gospel is about Jesus. Alternate translation: “the gospel that is about our Lord Jesus” or “the gospel message that tells us about our Lord Jesus”

2 Thessalonians 1:9

who will pay the penalty

Quote: οἵτινες δίκην τίσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, who refers to the people who are not obeying the gospel, not to the Lord Jesus. You may prefer to start a new sentence here. Alternate translation: “Those people will pay the penalty”

who will pay the penalty

Quote: οἵτινες δίκην τίσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of the word penalty, you can express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “who will be punished by God” or “whom God will punish”

will pay the penalty

Quote: δίκην τίσουσιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the phrase pay the penalty is an idiom meaning to suffer the consequences of doing something bad. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent idiom or use plain language. Alternate translation: “will suffer the consequences” or “will undergo the retribution”

eternal destruction

Quote: ὄλεθρον αἰώνιον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, eternal destruction further describes the penalty that people will experience if they refuse to “obey the gospel.” The destruction that these people will experience is eternal, that is, it never ends. Therefore, do not translate with the meaning that these people will cease to exist. They will continue to exist, but continually experience the ruin of their lives. If necessary, put this information in a footnote. Alternate translation: “God will punish them eternally”

away from the face of the Lord

Quote: ἀπὸ προσώπου τοῦ Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, the face of the Lord is an idiom meaning the presence of the Lord. Alternate translation: “away from our Lord Jesus” or “separated from the presence of the Lord Jesus”

the glory of his power

Quote: τῆς δόξης τῆς ἰσχύος αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, the possessive form is describing power that has glory. If this is not clear in your language, you could use the adjective “glorious” to describe the power. Alternate translation: “his glorious power”

the glory of his power

Quote: τῆς δόξης τῆς ἰσχύος αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the ideas of glory and power, you can express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “experiencing how magnificent and powerful he is”

2 Thessalonians 1:10

when he comes on that day

Quote: ὅταν ἔλθῃ & ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ ἐκείνῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, that day is the day when Jesus will return to the world. If it would be helpful to your readers, you could express that explicitly. Alternate translation: “on the day when Jesus returns to the world”

to be glorified by his saints and to be marveled at by all the ones having believed

Quote: ἐνδοξασθῆναι ἐν τοῖς ἁγίοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ θαυμασθῆναι ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς πιστεύσασιν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “as his saints glorify him and all those who have believed marvel at him”

to be glorified by his saints and to be marveled at

Quote: ἐνδοξασθῆναι ἐν τοῖς ἁγίοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ θαυμασθῆναι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

Here, the two verbs to be glorifiedand to be marveled at indicate the result of Jesus’ coming, not the purpose. Use a connector here that indicates result. Alternate translation: “as his saints glorify him and all those who have believed marvel at him” or “with the result that his saints will glorify him and all those who have believed will marvel at him”

to be glorified by his saints and to be marveled at by all the ones having believed

Quote: ἐνδοξασθῆναι ἐν τοῖς ἁγίοις αὐτοῦ, καὶ θαυμασθῆναι ἐν πᾶσιν τοῖς πιστεύσασιν (1)

The saints and the ones having believed are one group of people, not two. If your readers might be confused by this, you could combine these into one phrase. Alternate translation: “with the result that all of his saints, that is, the believers, will glorify him and marvel at him” or “as all of his people glorify him and marvel at him”

our testimony to you has been believed

Quote: ἐπιστεύθη τὸ μαρτύριον ἡμῶν ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “you have believed our witness when we shared it with you” or “when we testified about the saving power of Jesus Christ, you believed what we said”

2 Thessalonians 1:11

For this

Quote: εἰς ὃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, For this connects verse 11 to verse 10, so that verse 11 gives the means or method (prayer for the Thessalonian believers) for reaching the purpose that verse 10 has just described (for Jesus to “be glorified … and marveled at”). Use a natural way in your language for introducing this relationship. Alternate translation: “This is why” or “To this end”

we also pray always for you

Quote: καὶ προσευχόμεθα πάντοτε περὶ ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Paul is using always as an exaggeration in order to emphasize how often he prays for them. If it would be helpful in your language, you could use an equivalent expression from your language. Alternate translation: “we also pray regularly for you” or “we continue to pray for you”

of the calling

Quote: τῆς κλήσεως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Here, calling refers to God appointing or choosing people to belong to him and to proclaim his message of salvation through Jesus. Alternate translation: “to appoint you to belong to him”

he may fulfill every desire of goodness and work of faith in power

Quote: πληρώσῃ πᾶσαν εὐδοκίαν ἀγαθωσύνης, καὶ ἔργον πίστεως ἐν δυνάμει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas behind desire, goodness, faith, and power, you can express these ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “he may make you able to do all of the good things that you want to do because you trust in Jesus and because God is powerful” or “he may empower you to act on what you believe in order to do good things in every way that you desire, because God is powerful”

and he may fulfill

Quote: καὶ πληρώσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, and he may fulfill adds another reason why Paul and his associates pray always for the Thessalonian believers. This part of the sentence assumes some of the words from earlier in the sentence. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could supply these words from the earlier part of the sentence. Alternate translation: “and we also pray so that he may fulfill”

2 Thessalonians 1:12

so that

Quote: ὅπως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, so that introduces the purpose for which Paul and his associates pray all of the things mentioned in verse 11. It is a repetition of the same purpose that was given in verse 10, using similar words. Alternate translation: “and we also pray so that”

the name of our Lord Jesus

Quote: τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, the name of our Lord Jesus stands for the person of the Lord Jesus. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “the reputation of our Lord Jesus” or “our Lord Jesus”

so that the name of our Lord Jesus might be glorified in you

Quote: ὅπως ἐνδοξασθῇ τὸ ὄνομα τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ, ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. This could mean: (1) the Thessalonian believers will glorify Jesus. Alternate translation: “so that you would glorify the name of our Lord Jesus” (2) others will glorify Jesus because of what he has done for the Thessalonian believers. Alternate translation: “so that people would glorify the name of our Lord Jesus because of you”

and you in him

Quote: καὶ ὑμεῖς ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and Jesus might glorify you”

and you in him

Quote: καὶ ὑμεῖς ἐν αὐτῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

The phrase and you in him leaves out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If this would be misunderstood in your language, you could make a complete sentence by supplying these words from earlier in the sentence. Alternate translation: “and so that you might be glorified in him” or “and so that he might glorify you”

according to the grace of our God

Quote: κατὰ τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you can express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “according to how exceedingly kind our God and the Lord Jesus Christ are to you” or “as our God and the Lord Jesus Christ continue to abundantly bless you”

of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: τοῦ Θεοῦ ἡμῶν καὶ Κυρίου Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)

The phrase translated as our God and the Lord Jesus Christ could refer to: (1) two persons of the Trinity, God the Father and Jesus the Son. (2) one person, Jesus, who is both God and Lord. Alternate translation: “of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ”

2 Thessalonians 2

2 Thessalonians 2 General Notes

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Man of lawlessness

This person is also called “the son of destruction” and “the lawless one” in this chapter. He is not Satan, but he is empowered by Satan and is the leader of those who do Satan’s evil work in the world in the last days. He is certainly one of the “antichrists” mentioned by John (1 John 2:18) and may be the final one, described as a beast in Revelation 13. (See: antichrist)

Sits in the temple of God

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: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

2 Thessalonians 2:1

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/checking/headings

General Information:

In verses 1–12, Paul exhorts believers not to be deceived about the day Jesus will come back and warns them about the coming man of lawlessness. A heading for this section might be, “The Man of Lawlessness” or “The Deception before Jesus Returns.”

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word translated Now marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.

about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering to him

Quote: ὑπὲρ τῆς παρουσίας τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ ἡμῶν ἐπισυναγωγῆς ἐπ’ αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-time-simultaneous

The coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering to him are two actions that happen at the same time. You can make this clear in your translation with an appropriate connecting word or phrase. Alternate translation: “regarding the time of our Lord Jesus coming when we will be gathered together unto him”

about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering to him

Quote: ὑπὲρ τῆς παρουσίας τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ ἡμῶν ἐπισυναγωγῆς ἐπ’ αὐτόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If it is more natural in your language, you could use active verbs for the events of coming and gathering. Alternate translation: “about the time when our Lord Jesus will come and gather us to himself”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

2 Thessalonians 2:2

for you not to be quickly shaken in your mind

Quote: εἰς τὸ μὴ ταχέως σαλευθῆναι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τοῦ νοὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

The phrase shaken in your mind refers to a person’s thoughts being unsettled. You could also express this positively. Alternate translation: “for you to remain firm in your thinking”

and not to be troubled

Quote: μηδὲ θροεῖσθαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

The phrase to be troubled refers to a person’s emotions being unsettled. You could also express this positively. Alternate translation: “and remain peaceful when a message comes” or “and keep calm when you hear something”

neither by a spirit nor by a word nor by a letter as if from us

Quote: μήτε διὰ πνεύματος, μήτε διὰ λόγου, μήτε δι’ ἐπιστολῆς, ὡς δι’ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some words here that might be necessary in your language. If it is helpful, you could supply these words. Alternate translation: “when you receive a message either by means of a spirit or by means of a spoken word or by means of a written letter that pretends to be coming from us”

as if from us

Quote: ὡς δι’ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some words here that might be necessary in your language. If it is helpful, you could supply these words. Alternate translation: “that claims to have come from us” or “trying to deceive you that it is from us”

as if

Quote: ὡς ὅτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Paul is leaving out some words here that might be necessary in your language. If it is helpful, you could supply these words. Alternate translation: “that talks as if” or “that falsely claims that”

the day of the Lord

Quote: ἡ ἡμέρα τοῦ Κυρίου (1)

Here, the day of the Lord refers to the time when Jesus will come back to the earth for all believers.

2 Thessalonians 2:3

May no one deceive you in any way

Quote: μή τις ὑμᾶς ἐξαπατήσῃ κατὰ μηδένα τρόπον (1)

Alternate translation: “Do not permit anyone to fool you” or “Do not believe at all the wrong words that people are telling you about this”

for unless the apostacy comes first

Quote: ὅτι ἐὰν μὴ ἔλθῃ ἡ ἀποστασία πρῶτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

Here, Paul is leaving out some of the words that a sentence would need in many languages to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the previous verse. Alternate translation: “for the day of the Lord will not come unless the apostacy comes first”

the apostacy

Quote: ἡ ἀποστασία (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, the apostacy refers to a future time when many people will turn away from God. If your language does not use an abstract noun for this idea, you can express it in another way. Alternate translation: “the time when many people will rebel against God”

the man of lawlessness is revealed

Quote: ἀποκαλυφθῇ ὁ ἄνθρωπος τῆς ἀνομίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the man of lawlessness arrives” or “the man of lawlessness makes himself known”

the man of lawlessness

Quote: ὁ ἄνθρωπος τῆς ἀνομίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a man who is characterized by lawlessness. By this Paul means that this man will oppose all of God’s commandments and instructions. If this is not clear in your language, you could express this another way. Alternate translation: “the lawless man” or “the man who opposes God’s rule”

the son of destruction

Quote: ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Here, son of destruction is an idiom meaning a person who is destined for destruction. Alternate translation: “the one who will be destroyed” or “the one whom God will destroy”

the son of destruction

Quote: ὁ υἱὸς τῆς ἀπωλείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-events

God will destroy this person some time after the events of verse 4. If it would be helpful in your language, consider moving this phrase to the end of verse 4.

2 Thessalonians 2:4

everything being called god or an object of worship

Quote: πάντα λεγόμενον θεὸν ἢ σέβασμα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “everything that people call God or whatever they worship”

he himself sits

Quote: αὐτὸν & καθίσαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-pastforfuture

Here, he himself sits is part of a description of the kinds of things that this person does. If it is confusing in your language to use the present tense for this, you could use the future tense, since this will happen in the future. Alternate translation: “he himself will sit”

showing that he himself is God

Quote: ἀποδεικνύντα ἑαυτὸν ὅτι ἔστιν Θεός (1)

Here, showing that he himself is God does not mean that this man is God, but only that he is displaying himself to the world as though he were God. Alternate translation: “showing himself as God” or “attempting to demonstrate to people that he himself is God”

2 Thessalonians 2:5

Do you not remember that, still being with you, I was telling you these things

Quote: οὐ μνημονεύετε ὅτι, ἔτι ὢν πρὸς ὑμᾶς, ταῦτα ἔλεγον ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion

Paul is not asking for information here, but is using the question form to remind the Thessalonians of what he taught when he was with them previously. If you would not use a rhetorical question for this purpose in your language, you could translate his words as a statement. See the UST.

these things

Quote: ταῦτα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, these things refers to the topics that Paul mentioned in verses 3 and 4, including the rebellion against God, the man of lawlessness, and the return of Jesus on the day of the Lord.

2 Thessalonians 2:6

And now you know the one restraining {him

Quote: καὶ νῦν τὸ κατέχον οἴδατε (1)

There are two possibilities for understanding the function of the word now here. (1) It goes with the one restraining {him}. Alternate translation: “And you know what is restraining him now” or (2) it goes with you know. Alternate translation: “And now you know what is restraining him”

his revealing in his time

Quote: τὸ ἀποκαλυφθῆναι αὐτὸν ἐν τῷ αὐτοῦ καιρῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “the proper time, when God will allow him to reveal himself”

2 Thessalonians 2:7

For

Quote: γὰρ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

Here, the word translated For serves to connect this sentence as a contrast to what Paul has said about lawlessness, starting in verse 3. Until here, Paul was talking about lawlessness in the future, but now he wants to clarify that people are already being lawless.Use a natural way in your language for introducing this contrast. Alternate translation: “Now” or “Actually,”

the mystery of lawlessness is already working

Quote: τὸ & μυστήριον ἤδη ἐνεργεῖται τῆς ἀνομίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

Here, lawlessness is characterized as a mystery because we cannot understand why people rebel against God’s wise instructions unless we understand the spiritual forces at work, which Paul explains here. If your language does not use abstract nouns for these ideas, you can express them in another way. Alternate translation: “people are already mysteriously rebelling against God” or “Satan is already secretly leading people to reject God’s laws, as this man will do”

the one restraining {him

Quote: ὁ κατέχων (1)

To restrain someone is to hold him back or to keep him from doing what he wants to do. Alternate translation: “the one who has been holding him back”

he comes

Quote: γένηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, he refers to the one who is restraining the man of lawlessness. If this is not clear to your readers, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “the one who restrains the man of lawlessness moves”

he comes out of the way

Quote: ἐκ μέσου γένηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks of the person who is restraining the man of lawlessness as though he were standing in front of him and blocking his path. If this does not make sense in your language, you could use an equivalent metaphor or you could express the meaning in a nonfigurative way. Alternative translation: “he stops restraining him”

2 Thessalonians 2:8

and then the lawless one will be revealed

Quote: καὶ τότε ἀποκαλυφθήσεται ὁ ἄνομος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can state this in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. Alternate translation: “and then God will allow the lawless one to show himself”

with the breath of his mouth

Quote: τῷ πνεύματι τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

In this figure of speech, breath represents the power of God and mouth represents the spoken word of Jesus. If your readers would not understand this, you could use an equivalent expression or plain language. Alternate translation: “by the power of his spoken word”

will kill with the breath of his mouth, and will bring to nothing by the appearance of his coming

Quote: ἀνελεῖ τῷ πνεύματι τοῦ στόματος αὐτοῦ, καὶ καταργήσει τῇ ἐπιφανείᾳ τῆς παρουσίας αὐτοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism

These two phrases describe the same event. Paul says the same thing twice, in slightly different ways, to emphasize how much more powerful Jesus is than the man of lawlessness. If it is confusing for your readers to talk about killing someone and then bringing him to nothing, you could reverse the order of the phrases, as in the UST, or you can combine the phrases into one. Alternate translation: “will destroy by his glorious appearance and with the breath of his mouth”

2 Thessalonians 2:9

the arrival of whom is according to a work of Satan

Quote: οὗ ἐστιν ἡ παρουσία, κατ’ ἐνέργειαν τοῦ Σατανᾶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here, Paul is using the possessive form to describe work that Satan does. If this is not clear in your language, you could state this explicitly. Alternate translation: “Satan will bring this man and will work through him”

of whom

Quote: οὗ (1)

Here, whom refers back to the man of lawlessness. Alternate translation: “of the man of lawlessness”

in all power and signs and false wonders

Quote: ἐν πάσῃ δυνάμει, καὶ σημείοις, καὶ τέρασιν ψεύδους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, all is hyperbole. It can apply to: (1) only power, with the meaning “much” or “great.” Alternate translation: “with great power to do signs and false wonders” or (2) power, signs, and wonders, with the meaning “many kinds of.” Alternate translation: “with many kinds of power, signs, and false wonders” or (3) a combination of the two. Alternate translation: “with much power to do all kinds of signs and false wonders”

in all power and signs and false wonders

Quote: ἐν πάσῃ δυνάμει, καὶ σημείοις, καὶ τέρασιν ψεύδους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of power, you can express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “with very powerful signs and false wonders” or “who made him very powerful to do signs and false wonders”

and signs and false wonders

Quote: καὶ σημείοις, καὶ τέρασιν ψεύδους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The words signs and wonders often occur together and mean basically the same thing. The repetition is used to emphasize how amazing they are. If your language does not have two words for this or does not use repetition to do this, you can use one word and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “and amazing false miracles”

2 Thessalonians 2:10

all

Quote: πάσῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

Here, all is hyperbole and could mean: (1) “a high degree of” or (2) “many kinds of”

in all deceit of unrighteousness

Quote: ἐν πάσῃ ἀπάτῃ ἀδικίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Here Paul uses the possessive form to describe deceit that results from unrighteousness. If the relationship of the words is not clear in your language, you could express it more explicitly. Alternate translation: “because he is so unrighteous, he will be very deceptive”

in all deceit of unrighteousness to the ones perishing

Quote: ἐν πάσῃ ἀπάτῃ ἀδικίας, τοῖς ἀπολλυμένοις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of deceit and unrighteousness, you can express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “because he is so unrighteous, he will completely deceive those who are perishing”

because of which

Quote: ἀνθ’ ὧν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

What follows this phrase is the reason that the people are perishing. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a reason. You may want to start a new sentence here and end what came before it with a period. Alternate translation: “They are perishing because”

they did not receive the love of the truth

Quote: τὴν ἀγάπην τῆς ἀληθείας οὐκ ἐδέξαντο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of love and truth, you can express the same ideas in another way. Also, your language might prefer an expression other than love for something as impersonal as truth. Alternate translation: “they did not want to consider the true message about Jesus to be important”

for them to be saved

Quote: εἰς τὸ σωθῆναι αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

This phrase could express: (1) the result of receiving the love of the truth. Alternate translation: “and thus be saved” or (2) the purpose of loving the truth. Alternate translation: “so that they could be saved”

for them to be saved

Quote: εἰς τὸ σωθῆναι αὐτούς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who does the action, that would be God. Alternate translation: “for God to save them” or “so that God would save them”

2 Thessalonians 2:11

because of this

Quote: διὰ τοῦτο (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

What follows because of this is the result of the action of the people who “did not receive the love of the truth” in verse 10. Use a connector that shows that what the people did in verse 10 is the reason for what follows in this verse. Alternate translation: “for this reason” or “because the people did not receive the love of the truth”

God is sending to them a working of error for them to believe the lie

Quote: πέμπει αὐτοῖς ὁ Θεὸς ἐνέργειαν πλάνης, εἰς τὸ πιστεῦσαι αὐτοὺς τῷ ψεύδει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Paul is speaking of God allowing something to happen to people as if he is sending something to them. Alternate translation: “God is allowing them to think wrongly so that they believe the lies of the man of lawlessness”

a working of error

Quote: ἐνέργειαν πλάνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

Paul is using the possessive form to describe a working that is characterized by error. This means something that works to produce error in them. Alternate translation: “the ability to think in a wrong way”

for them to believe

Quote: εἰς τὸ πιστεῦσαι αὐτοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

Here, for introduces a purpose clause. Paul is stating the purpose for which God sends the working of error. Use a natural way in your language for introducing a purpose clause. Alternate translation: “so that they may believe”

for them to believe

Quote: εἰς τὸ πιστεῦσαι αὐτοὺς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, them refers to the people who “did not receive the love of the truth” in verse 10. If this might confuse your readers, you could express the meaning explicitly. Alternate translation: “so that these people may believe” or “in order that the people who did not receive the love of the truth may believe”

2 Thessalonians 2:12

so that

Quote: ἵνα (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-goal

This phrase introduces a purpose clause. This follows the purpose clause of verse 11, so you may want to link them together. Alternate translation: “and furthermore, so that” or “and therefore”

they might all be judged

Quote: κριθῶσιν πάντες (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can express the idea in active form or in another way that is natural in your language. If you must state who did the action, that would be God. Alternate translation: “God may judge all of them”

the ones

Quote: οἱ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/writing-pronouns

Here, the ones refers back to the people that Paul has described with similar terms in verse 10. These are the same people who “did not receive the love of the truth” and instead accepted the “deceit of unrighteousness.” You may want to start a new sentence here and end what came before with a period. Alternate translation: “Those are the people”

the ones not having believed the truth, but having taken pleasure in the unrighteousness

Quote: οἱ μὴ πιστεύσαντες τῇ ἀληθείᾳ, ἀλλὰ εὐδοκήσαντες τῇ ἀδικίᾳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of truth and unrighteousness, you can express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “those who have not believed the true message but have enjoyed doing sinful things” or “those people who have rejected the true message about the Lord and instead have chosen to do what is wrong”

2 Thessalonians 2:13

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/checking/headings

General Information:

Paul now changes topics. 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.”

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)

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.

we ought always to give thanks

Quote: ἡμεῖς & ὀφείλομεν εὐχαριστεῖν & πάντοτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole

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 could use the alternative renderings given. Alternate translation: “we should continually give thanks” or “we must thank God at all times”

we ought

Quote: ἡμεῖς & ὀφείλομεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

Here, we refers to three men, Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy. If you have exclusive and inclusive first-person pronouns in your language, this should be an exclusive pronoun.

brothers having been loved by the Lord

Quote: ἀδελφοὶ ἠγαπημένοι ὑπὸ Κυρίου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “for the Lord loves you, brothers”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

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 nonfigurative word such as “believers”, see that both the genders are addressed. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

as} firstfruits for salvation

Quote: ἀπαρχὴν εἰς σωτηρίαν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Being among the first people to be saved is spoken of as if the Thessalonian believers were firstfruits. Alternate translation: “to be among the first people who believe” or “to be some of the first people whom God was saving”

as} firstfruits for salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and belief in the truth

Quote: ἀπαρχὴν εἰς σωτηρίαν ἐν ἁγιασμῷ Πνεύματος καὶ πίστει ἀληθείας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If it would be helpful in your language, you could 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”

2 Thessalonians 2:14

through our gospel

Quote: διὰ τοῦ εὐαγγελίου ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

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”

to the acquiring of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: εἰς περιποίησιν δόξης τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

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”

to the acquiring of the glory of our Lord

Quote: εἰς περιποίησιν δόξης τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of glory, you can express the same idea with a different form. Alternate translation: “so that you might become glorious like our Lord”

2 Thessalonians 2:15

So then

Quote: ἄρα οὖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-result

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. Use a natural way to introduce a conclusion in your language. Alternate translation: “Therefore” or “Because God did all of that for you”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brothers means fellow believers in Jesus, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

stand firm

Quote: στήκετε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, the phrase stand firm is used 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”

hold tight to the traditions

Quote: κρατεῖτε τὰς παραδόσεις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, traditions refers to the truths about Christ that Paul and the other apostles taught. Paul speaks of them 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”

stand firm and hold tight to

Quote: στήκετε καὶ κρατεῖτε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

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 can 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”

you were taught

Quote: ἐδιδάχθητε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

If your language does not use the passive form in this way, you can say this with an active form. Alternate translation: “we have taught you”

by word

Quote: διὰ λόγου (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

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.”

by our letter

Quote: δι’ ἐπιστολῆς ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

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”

2 Thessalonians 2:16

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word translated Now marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.

Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father

Quote: αὐτὸς δὲ ὁ Κύριος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς, καὶ ὁ Θεὸς ὁ Πατὴρ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

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”

our … our … us

Quote: ἡμῶν & ἡμῶν & ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

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, these should be inclusive pronouns.

our Lord Jesus Christ himself

Quote: αὐτὸς & Κύριος ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦς Χριστὸς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

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”

gave {us} eternal comfort and good hope

Quote: δοὺς παράκλησιν αἰωνίαν, καὶ ἐλπίδα ἀγαθὴν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use abstract nouns for the ideas of comfort and hope, you can express the same ideas in another way. Alternate translation: “always comforts us and has given us good things to hope for”

through grace

Quote: ἐν χάριτι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of grace, you can express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “because of how gracious he is to us”

2 Thessalonians 2:17

may he comfort and strengthen your hearts

Quote: παρακαλέσαι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας, καὶ στηρίξαι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

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”

in every good work and word

Quote: ἐν παντὶ ἔργῳ καὶ λόγῳ ἀγαθῷ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche

If it would be helpful in your language, you could express the phrase work and word with verbs. Alternative translation: “in every good thing that you do and say” or “so that you could do and say everything that is good.”

2 Thessalonians 3

2 Thessalonians 3 General Notes

Special Concepts in this Chapter

Idle and lazy persons

In Thessalonica, there apparently was a problem with people in the church who were able to work but refused to do so. (See: Assumed Knowledge and Implicit Information)

What should you do if your brother sins?

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: repent, repentance and sin, sinful, sinner, sinning)

2 Thessalonians 3:1

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/checking/headings

General Information:

In verses 1–5, Paul asks the believers to pray for him and his companions and encourages them. A heading for this section might be, “Pray for Us.”

Finally

Quote: τὸ λοιπὸν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

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”

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

us

Quote: ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

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.

might run

Quote: τρέχῃ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

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”

and might be glorified

Quote: καὶ δοξάζηται (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

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”

just as also with you

Quote: καθὼς καὶ πρὸς ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis

This phrase leaves out some words that many languages might need to be complete. If it would be helpful in your language, you could supply these words from the context. Alternate translation: “just as also happened with you” or “which is exactly what you did”

2 Thessalonians 3:2

we might be rescued

Quote: ῥυσθῶμεν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive

You can state this in active form. Alternate translation: “God may save us” or “God may rescue us”

perverse and evil

Quote: ἀτόπων καὶ πονηρῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

The two terms perverse and evil 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 can use one phrase and provide emphasis in another way. Alternate translation: “very wicked men” or “many wicked men”

for not everyone {has} the faith

Quote: οὐ γὰρ πάντων ἡ πίστις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes

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”

has} the faith

Quote: ἡ πίστις (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of faith, you can express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “believes in Jesus”

2 Thessalonians 3:3

who will strengthen

Quote: ὃς στηρίξει (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The word strengthen here refers to spiritual strength, not physical strength. If it would be helpful in your language, you could make this clear in your translation. Alternate translation: “who will strengthen you spiritually” or “who will make you inwardly strong”

the evil one

Quote: τοῦ πονηροῦ (1)

This could mean: (1) the evil being Satan. Alternate translation: “Satan” or (2) evil in general. Alternate translation: “evil”

2 Thessalonians 3:4

We are also confident

Quote: πεποίθαμεν δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-nominaladj

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”

We are also confident in the Lord about you

Quote: πεποίθαμεν δὲ ἐν Κυρίῳ ἐφ’ ὑμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

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 of this relationship as if they were inside the Lord Jesus. Alternative translation: “Because you are united to the Lord, we are also confident” (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”

2 Thessalonians 3:5

may the Lord direct your hearts to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ

Quote: ὁ & Κύριος κατευθύναι ὑμῶν τὰς καρδίας εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

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”

to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ

Quote: εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

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 nonfigurative way. Alternate translation: “to know how much God loves you and the endurance that Christ supplies you”

to the love of God and to the endurance of Christ

Quote: εἰς τὴν ἀγάπην τοῦ Θεοῦ, καὶ εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

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”

to the endurance of Christ

Quote: εἰς τὴν ὑπομονὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-possession

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”

2 Thessalonians 3:6

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/checking/headings

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.”

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word translated Now marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.

brothers, … brother

Quote: ἀδελφοί & ἀδελφοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, the words brothers and brother refer to fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters … brother or sister”

in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ

Quote: ἐν ὀνόματι τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Here, name stands for the person of Jesus Christ. It can also mean “with the authority of.” If using this term is not clear in your language, you could 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”

our

Quote: ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive

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.

walking disorderly

Quote: ἀτάκτως περιπατοῦντος (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here Paul speaks 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 nonfigurative way. Alternative translation: “who is living in a bad way” or “who is not living correctly”

the traditions

Quote: 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”

2 Thessalonians 3:7

to imitate us

Quote: μιμεῖσθαι ἡμᾶς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

The phrase to imitate may be a difficult word to translate in your language. In that case, you could make this explicit. Alternate translation: “to act the way that my fellow workers and I act”

we did not behave disorderly among you

Quote: οὐκ ἠτακτήσαμεν ἐν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

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”

2 Thessalonians 3:8

bread

Quote: ἄρτον (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

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”

working night and day

Quote: νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism

Here, night and day forms a merism, which means “all the time.” If it would be helpful in your language to explain that they did not work without taking any rest whatsoever, then you could make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: “working throughout that time with little rest” or “we worked almost continuously”

in toil and hardship

Quote: ἐν κόπῳ καὶ μόχθῳ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet

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 could emphasize this in another way. Alternate translation: “with great effort” or “in very difficult circumstances”

2 Thessalonians 3:9

not because we do not have authority, but

Quote: οὐχ ὅτι οὐκ ἔχομεν ἐξουσίαν, ἀλλ’ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

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”

we might offer ourselves {as} an example to you

Quote: ἑαυτοὺς τύπον δῶμεν ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

If your language does not use an abstract noun for the idea of example, you can 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”

to imitate

Quote: μιμεῖσθαι (1)

See how you translated imitate in verse 7.

2 Thessalonians 3:10

If anyone is not willing to work, do not even let him eat

Quote: εἴ τις οὐ θέλει ἐργάζεσθαι, μηδὲ ἐσθιέτω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives

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”

2 Thessalonians 3:11

some walking idly

Quote: τινας περιπατοῦντας & ἀτάκτως (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor

Here, walking stands for behavior in life. you can use an equivalent metaphor from your culture, if it is available. Otherwise, you could express the meaning in a nonfigurative way. Alternate translation: “some who are living idle lives” or “some who are being lazy”

but meddling

Quote: ἀλλὰ περιεργαζομένους (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-unknown

Meddlers are people who interfere in the affairs of others without being asked to help.

2 Thessalonians 3:12

with quietness

Quote: μετὰ ἡσυχίας (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns

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 can express the same idea in another way. Alternate translation: “in a quiet and peaceful manner”

2 Thessalonians 3:13

But

Quote: δέ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-logic-contrast

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”

you

Quote: ὑμεῖς (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-you

The word you refers to all the Thessalonian believers, so it should be in plural form.

brothers

Quote: ἀδελφοί (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

Here, brothers means fellow Christians, including both men and women. Alternate translation: “brothers and sisters”

2 Thessalonians 3:14

our word

Quote: τῷ λόγῳ ἡμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy

Paul is 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”

note this one

Quote: τοῦτον σημειοῦσθε (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

Paul wants the Thessalonians to notice who this person is. Alternate translation: “point out that person” or “make sure everyone knows who he is”

so that he may be put to shame

Quote: ἵνα ἐντραπῇ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

Paul instructs believers to avoid lazy believers as a disciplinary action. If necessary, you could make this explicit to make the meaning clear. Alternate translation: “in order that he will know that his laziness is wrong”

2 Thessalonians 3:15

a brother

Quote: ἀδελφόν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-gendernotations

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”

2 Thessalonians 3:16

Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/checking/headings

General Information:

In verses 16–18, Paul makes closing remarks to the believers at Thessalonica. A heading for this section might be, “Closing Remarks.”

Now

Quote: δὲ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/grammar-connect-words-phrases

The word translated Now marks a change in topic. You can use a natural way in your language to show that this is a new section with a different topic than the previous section.

may the Lord of peace himself give you

Quote: αὐτὸς & ὁ Κύριος τῆς εἰρήνης, δῴη ὑμῖν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

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”

the Lord of peace himself

Quote: αὐτὸς & ὁ Κύριος τῆς εἰρήνης (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rpronouns

Here, himself emphasizes that the Lord is the source of peace and that he will personally give peace to believers.

2 Thessalonians 3:17

This greeting {is} in my own hand—Paul—which is a sign in every letter. In this manner I write

Quote: ὁ ἀσπασμὸς τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ, Παύλου, ὅ ἐστιν σημεῖον ἐν πάσῃ ἐπιστολῇ, οὕτως γράφω (1)

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”

is} in my own hand

Quote: τῇ ἐμῇ χειρὶ (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom

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 myself am writing”

In this manner I write

Quote: οὕτως γράφω (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit

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 could know that the letter is from me because this is how I write”

2 Thessalonians 3:18

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ {be} with you all

Quote: ἡ χάρις τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν, Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ, μετὰ πάντων ὑμῶν (1)
Support Reference: rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-blessing

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”