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2Thessalonians, Chapter Three, Lesson Two

CHRIST HONORING FELLOWSHIP            Page 3
V. 6 (cont’d.)

** What would be wrong with fellowshipping with this type of person, who claims to be a Christian, but lives their life in rebellion to the Word of God?

1) Our acceptance of their lifestyle is an implicit form of approval. cf. 1Timothy 5:22

2) Bad company corrupts good morals. cf. 1Corinthians 15:33-34

Morals can be defined as “principles of right and wrong actions or behavior”. If our fellowship simply blends in with unruly or undisciplined individuals, we will become more like them with each passing day. All see - Psalm 1:1-3

** Not only were these individuals overtly doing wrong things in the fellowship, but what were they failing to do while claiming to be part of the fellowship?

They were not keeping “the traditions” (or teaching) which Paul, Silas and Timothy had given to them. They were not living in submission to the Word of God!

V. 7 ** Paul does not leave his reader with merely a command of what to stay away from, he also includes the pattern which they are to closely adhere to. What is that?

“For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example...” We have seen this word before in 1Thessalonians 4:1 where Paul said, “you ought to walk and please God.” The little word dei means, “it is necessary” and Paul wants to remind them of the lifestyle which is necessary for a truly “Christ Honoring Fellowship”.

** What reason does Paul give for them to follow his lifestyle example?

“...because we did not act in an undisciplined manner among you...” Paul’s life was structured, orderly, efficient and effective for accomplishing the glory of God.
cf. 1Timothy 4:7-8 and All see - 2Timothy 2:4-6

** How does that kind of lifestyle compare with the description of these unruly individuals in verse 11?

They were just the opposite, leading a completely undisciplined life. The let go and let God approach.

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