2 Thessalonians 2:15-17

Paul's Exhortation and Prayer for Thessalonica

Paul wanted them to hold their ground (in contrast to verse 2) by keeping the truths given over to them through inspired speakers and writers. God's children need to hold on to inspired words that have been handed down to them but not the doctrines of men that have been taught or practiced from generation to generation (Matthew 15:1-9; Colossians 2:8).

Paul's desire was that the Lord, Savior and King of all believers, with his Father, who loved the lost (John 3:16), would encourage and strengthen them in righteous words and works. It should be noted that the Father and Son are considered to be the common source of these things, thus acknowledging their equality. Christians have the eternal comfort of heaven before them because of the unmerited favor they bestowed (2 Thessalonians 2:15-17).