Bob Utley You Can Understand the Bible - 2 Thessalonians 1

Online Resource Library

Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | Download

Bob Utley You Can Understand the Bible - 2 Thessalonians 1


Verse Commentaries:



Chapter Level Commentary:
2 Thessalonians 1

PARAGRAPH DIVISIONS OF MODERN TRANSLATIONS

UBS4 NKJV NRSV TEV NJB
Salutation Greetings Salutation Greetings Address 2Th_1:1-2 2Th_1:1-2 2Th_1:1-2 2Th_1:1 2Th_1:1-2 2Th_1:2 The Judgment at Christ's Coming God's Final Judgment and Glory Thanksgiving The Judgment at Christ's Coming Thanksgiving and Encouragement. The Last Judgment 2Th_1:3-12 2Th_1:3-12 2Th_1:3-4 2Th_1:3-4 2Th_1:3-5 The Judgment of God 2Th_1:5-12 2Th_1:5-10 2Th_1:6-10 2Th_1:11-12 2Th_1:11-12 * Although they are not inspired, paragraph divisions are the key to understanding and following the original author's intent. Each modern translation has divided and summarized the paragraphs. Every paragraph has one central topic, truth, or thought. Each version encapsulates that topic in its own distinct way. As you read the text, ask yourself which translation fits your understanding of the subject and verse divisions.

In every chapter we must read the Bible first and try to identify its subjects (paragraphs), then compare our understanding with the modern versions. Only when we understand the original author's intent by following his logic and presentation can we truly understand the Bible. Only the original author is inspired—readers have no right to change or modify the message. Bible readers do have the responsibility of applying the inspired truth to their day and their lives.

Note that all technical terms and abbreviations are explained fully in the following documents: hyperlink, hyperlink, and hyperlink.

READING CYCLE THREE (from "hyperlink")

FOLLOWING THE ORIGINAL AUTHOR'S INTENT AT THE PARAGRAPH LEVEL

This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.

Read the chapter in one sitting. Identify the subjects. Compare your subject divisions with the five translations above. Paragraphing is not inspired but it is the key to following the original author's intent which is the heart of interpretation. Every paragraph has one and only one subject.

1. First paragraph

2. Second paragraph

3. Third paragraph

4. Etc.



CONTEXTUAL INSIGHTS TO 2Th_1:1-10

A. 2 Thessalonians develops the eschatological themes of 1 Thessalonians.



B. 2Th_1:3-10 is one sentence in Greek. They describe Paul's confidence in the believers and confidence in God's judgment on the unbelievers. This is a very strong passage on God's final judgment. The earthly roles, the blessed and unblessed, of the persecutor and persecuted will be reversed.



C. 2Th_1:11-12 is a summary of 2Th_1:3-10.



DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

This is a study guide commentary which means that you are responsible for your own interpretation of the Bible. Each of us must walk in the light we have. You, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit are priority in interpretation. You must not relinquish this to a commentator.

These discussion questions are provided to help you think through the major issues of this section of the book. They are meant to be thought provoking, not definitive.

1. What is the central theme of chapter 1? How is it different from 1 Thessalonians 1?

2. Why is suffering normal for believers? (2Th_1:5)

3. Is God vindictive and vengeful? If not, what does 2Th_1:8 mean?

4. Is Hell forever?