2 Thessalonians

Finally, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the word of God may spread quickly and be glorified everywhere, as it was with you. 

May God protect us from wicked and evil people, since not everyone has faith. 

The Lord is faithful; he will strengthen you and keep you safe from the evil one. 

Furthermore, we have this confidence in the Lord: that you are doing, and will continue to do, what we command. 

May the Lord direct your hearts toward the love of God and the perseverance of Christ.

Against Idleness

We urge you, beloved, to stay away from believers who are living in idleness, contrary to the traditions we passed on to you.

You know you should follow our example: we worked while we were with you, 

And we did not eat food received free from anyone without paying for it; but with toil and labor we worked day and night to avoid being a burden to any of you. 

We could have acted differently, but we chose to set an example for you. 

Furthermore, while we were with you, we made it clear: If anyone is unwilling to work, they should not eat. 

However, we heard that some of you are living in idleness—busybodies doing no work. 

In the name of Christ Jesus, our Lord, we command these people to work quietly and support themselves. 

And you, brothers and sisters, do not become tired of doing what is right. 

If anyone disregards our instructions as expressed in this letter, take note of this person and avoid associating with him so that he may be ashamed. 

Nevertheless, do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

May the Lord of peace give you his peace always and in every way. May the Lord be with you all. 

I, Paul, am writing this greeting by my own hand. This is my signature on all my letters. This is how I sign my name. 

May the grace of Christ Jesus our Lord be with you.