Welcome to episode 28 of Grasp the Bible.  In this episode, we wrap up our study of the Book of 2 Thessalonians, covering chapter 3.  The series is called “Waiting and Watching.”  Today, we discuss the establishment of Christian living and cover: 

• Paul’s request (vv. 1-2) 
• Paul’s reassurance (vv. 3-5) 
• Isolating troublemakers (v. 6) 
• A model work ethic (vv. 7-10) 
• Working in a quiet manner (vv. 11-12) 
• Paul’s closing commands (vv. 13-15) 
• Paul’s Final Remarks (vv. 16-18) 

Key takeaways: 

• Although Paul is working tirelessly to share the gospel in Corinth, he knows that results will come only if people pray for it. 
• Although Christians face difficulties and even persecution, God continues to protect those who remain faithful to His calling.  
• The church is a family made up of brothers and sisters in the Lord.  Members of properly functioning families contribute by working in some way.  When they don’t, they are reprimanded with the goal of having them contribute.  The same in the church.  All able-bodied members need to contribute to meet the needs of the church.  When they don’t, they need to be corrected, but in love and with grace, so that they may be productive in the church. 
• Peace, a right relationship with God and the tranquility of soul it produces, comes through the work of Christ and should characterize our lives and our churches.  Peace does not come from within us, nor is it dependent on our circumstances. 

Quotable: 

The peace of Christ is anchored in the presence of Christ.  If you are a Christian, Jesus is with you through your most challenging times...he will never leave you alone. 

Application: 

• Your pastor needs prayer to do the often times difficult work that God has called him to do.  Please pray for him regularly. 
• When living out your faith in the workplace, in school, or in your family just seems like too much, don’t give up.  Remain faithful...persevere...and God will give you the strength to continue. 
• Our practice must always be to work and pay our own way, using the extra we accumulate to help the needy rather than to wait for others to help us. 
• Church discipline, when needed, must be carried out in a restorative manner.  The offender must be confronted, but with love and grace, with the goal of bringing the person back into full fellowship. 
• In the midst of church turmoil, persecution, and challenges from the outside world, the peace of Jesus is available to his followers. 

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