2 Thessalonians 3

2 Thessalonians 3:1

HAue free course] that it may spread and enlarge it selfe throughout the world without any let Be glorified] that it may bring forth its admirable effects, in the converting of Nations, &c. Or, that it may be known in its divine Majestie, to have obedience of beliefe given to it. Or, that it may be honoured by their conversation who make profession of it.

2 Thessalonians 3:2

Unreasonable] the Italian, insolent; the Greek word signifieth, men of evill conversation. And it seems that here are meant, bold, and encouraged enemies of the Gospell, as Jewes, heretickes, &c For] we ought to suppose. Whereof there will be many in the world: for the preaching of the Gospell doth not finde obedience of beliefe in all men: And in unbeleevers it doth stirre up contrary motions, of impiety, rebellion, and opposition.

2 Thessalonians 3:3

Stablish you] in faith, and all good things, against the divels snares and plots.

2 Thessalonians 3:4

In the Lord] namely, by meanes of his grace and power.

2 Thessalonians 3:5

The patient] or to patience in Christ, that is to say, a truely Christian patience.

2 Thessalonians 3:6

In the name] from him, and by his authority Ye withdraw] not to breake the conjunction of bond and necessitie: but to abstaine from all voluntary, open, and pleasing conversation, and communication, which sheweth a delight, or likenesse of behaviour; and nourisheth and fomenteth vice: and and brings danger of contagion, contrarie to the dutie of all believers: as well towards themselves which is to abstaine from all evill, as towards their neighbours, which is to correct them and direct them to goodnesse.

2 Thessalonians 3:11

For we] we must supply; I give you warning of this, because that we, &c Busie bodies] or that live curiously, busying themselves with other mens businesses to carrie tales, or tell news, Acts 17:21. 1 Timothy 5:13.

2 Thessalonians 3:12

By our Lord] that is to say, in his name, by his command. Or, as they desire to doe any thing that is pleasing to him.

2 Thessalonians 3:14

Have no company] by conversing familiarly with him Vers. 6. Or by any Ecclesiasticall communion, which must be forbidden him, untill he be amended.

2 Thessalonians 3:15

Count him not] let this severity be grounded upon charity, and be used with wisedome for the sinners amendment, whose vice is to be hated but his person beloved, and endeavoured to be saved.

2 Thessalonians 3:16

Of Peace] namely, the Authour and approver of holy concord, amongst such as are his.

2 Thessalonians 3:17

So I write] this may have a relation to th former words of this verse, written with the Apostles owne hand, which was well knowne to the Churches, that they might be markes of his true Epistles. Or, it may have a relation to the following verse.