2 Thessalonians 2:13-3:6

Stand Firm 13But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers and sisters loved by the Lord, because God chose you as firstfruits Some manuscripts because from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth.

14He called you to this through our gospel, that you might share in the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

15So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings Or traditions we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter. 16May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

Request for Prayer 1As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. 3But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command.

5May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.

Warning Against Idleness 6In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching Or tradition you received from us.