Pre-sermon Passage Orientation
November 16
2 Thessalonians 3:6-18
Head:
The final section of 2 Thessalonians contains Paul’s admonition for agency. On the superficial level, this includes working for food and pay. On another level, it includes applying the teaching of the letter. Paul previously wrote about the importance of sanctification which is tied to living according to the “traditions” (teaching of the apostles). In the last major section, Paul reinforces the need for active faith lived out by believers.
Heart:
Paul writes about quiet living, personal responsibility, shame over not living according to Scripture, treating people who don’t live like they are supposed to as brothers, not enemies. All of these concepts seem foreign to modern sensibilities. Are there any of these areas you see in yourself?
Hands:
How do you make sure what you are doing is worth doing? In all of life the verse applies, but think currently about busybodiness in your walk with Christ. Busybodies are active but not engaged or productive. If we are not careful, we can allow spiritual activity replace godliness or Christ seeking.
Habits:
Idleness relates to a lifestyle of inactivity. A rest or break can be good and is even advocated for in Scripture, but the idleness in 2 Thessalonians 3 is a continual trait. How do you not let rest become your normal. How can you keep active in your life and faith as a pattern of living?