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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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