2 Thessalonians 3:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Thessalonians 3:15
15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Chapter Context
2 Thessalonians 3 is a eschatological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, faith, salvation. Written during shortly after 1 Thessalonians (c. 50-51 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Confusion about Christ's return caused some believers to abandon daily responsibilities.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Thessalonians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Thessalonians 3:15
15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Analysis
Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother—Yet qualifies the shunning (v. 14). Count him not as an enemy (mē hōs echthron hēgeisthe, μὴ ὡς ἐχθρὸν ἡγεῖσθε)—don't treat as an outsider or opponent. But admonish him as a brother (nouthetreite hōs adelphon, νουθετεῖτε ὡς ἀδελφόν)—warn, correct, instruct him as family.
This distinguishes church discipline from excommunication. The disobedient brother remains a brother—family under discipline, not expelled. Noutheteō (νουθετέω, admonish) combines warning with instruction, confronting while offering a path to restoration. Discipline without hatred, distance without divorce—tough love that pursues the wanderer.
Historical Context
Jewish synagogues practiced excommunication (being 'put out,' John 9:22). Paul's milder discipline keeps the door open for repentance. This reflects Jesus's treatment of straying sheep—pursue, not abandon. Early church discipline was consistently redemptive, not merely punitive.
Reflection
- How do you correct fellow believers without treating them as enemies?
- What discipline have you received that felt like punishment versus loving correction?
- How can you pursue a wayward Christian's restoration while maintaining appropriate boundaries?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Proverbs 9:9, 25:12, 1 Corinthians 4:14, 5:5, Galatians 6:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:14