MPV Commentary
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Matthew 12
Read the modernized Jamieson-Fausset-Brown commentary, aligned with each Bible book and chapter, in clear, updated English.
Currently viewing commentary for Matthew 12
The Thessalonians were being misled by false teachings that claimed the day of the Lord was imminent. Paul reminds them to stand firm and hold fast to what they had been taught, rather than giving in to these false traditions.
Paul emphasizes that God's choice of believers is not a reason for complacency, but rather a motivation to persevere in their faith. He encourages them to work out their salvation with diligence, knowing that it is God who works in them to will and do His good pleasure.
The Thessalonians had been deceived by false traditions that claimed the day of the Lord was near. Paul warns against these false teachings, which were not based on Scripture but rather on human tradition. He reminds them that their faith should be grounded in the written Word of God, not in oral traditions or interpretations of Scripture.
Paul's emphasis is on the sufficiency of Scripture for salvation and the importance of testing all teachings against the written Word. He notes that even the apostles' words were not always inspired, but only when they claimed to be so. The canon of Scripture was complete, and now it stands as the sole unerring guide.
Paul refers to his first epistle to the Thessalonians, which he wrote to correct their misunderstanding about the day of the Lord. He encourages them to stand firm in their faith and to hold fast to what they had been taught, rather than giving in to false traditions.
The Lord Jesus Christ is the one who ensures the efficacy of our prayer, and it is through His love that we have received everlasting consolation and good hope for the future. Paul's heart is to comfort his readers and to remind them of the good word and work of God, which should be their foundation in times of uncertainty.
Paul's desire is to see the Thessalonians established in the truth, rather than being swayed by false teachings or traditions. He wants them to know that they are beloved of the Lord and chosen from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth.