2 Thessalonians 3:1–18

Pray for Us

3 Finally, * brothers, pray for us that the Lord’s message may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you, z 2 and that we may be delivered a from wicked and evil men, for not all have faith. b 3 But the Lord is faithful; He will strengthen and guard you from the evil one. c 4 We have confidence in the Lord about you, that you are doing and will do what we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts to God’s love and Christ’s endurance. d

Warning against Irresponsible Behavior

6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name e of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from every brother f who * walks irresponsibly and not according to the tradition g received h from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you must imitate i us: We were not irresponsible among you; 8 we did not eat j anyone’s food k free of charge; l instead, we labored m and struggled, n working o night and day, so that we would not be a burden p to any of you. 9 It is not that we don’t have the right q to support, but we did it to make ourselves an example to you so that you would imitate r us. 10 In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.” s 11 For we hear that there are some among you who walk irresponsibly, not working at all, but interfering with the work of others. t 12 Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ that quietly working, they may eat their own food. u 13 Brothers, do not grow weary v in doing good.

14 And if anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don’t associate with him, so that he may be ashamed. 15 Yet don’t treat him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

Final Greetings

16 May the Lord of peace w Himself give you peace always in every way. x The Lord be with all of you. y 17 This greeting is in my own hand z—Paul. This is a sign in every letter; this is how I write. 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.