1 Timothy 3:15-16 - 1599 Geneva Bible

15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest yet know, how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and ground of truth.
16 And without controversy, great is the mystery of godliness, which is, God is manifested in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of Angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and received up in glory.


Father, thank you yet again for giving me another day to read and study your word. I ask only that you reveal to me, that which you wish for me to know – Amen

Brethren:


The Apostle herein sayest that God manifested Himself in the form of a man. He was then crucified, yet justified for and by His obedience to the Father. His life and rebirth (via the resurrection) was then preached unto the Gentiles, of which Paul was sent. Herein then is the mystery of the Godhead explained, to wit; Christ was born, Christ suffered and died, Christ rose again. All three sitting in the throne-room of the Living God, and all three are one with God. - R.P. Woitowitz


“The Pastor hath always to think, how that he is occupied in the house of the living God, wherein the treasure of the truth is kept. To wit, in respect of men: for the Church resteth upon that cornerstone, Christ, and is the preserver of the truth, but not the mother. There is nothing more excellent than this truth, whereof the Church is the keeper and preserver here amongst men, the ministry of the word being appointed to that end and purpose: for it teacheth us the greatest matters that may be thought of, to wit, that God is become visible in the person of Christ by taking our nature upon him, whose Majesty notwithstanding in so great weakness was manifested many ways, insomuch that the sight of it pierced the very Angels: and to conclude, he being preached unto the Gentiles was received of them, and is now placed above in glory unspeakable. The power of the Godhead showeth itself so marvelously in that weak flesh of Christ, that though he were a weak man, yet all the world knoweth he was, and is God” - GNV Study notes

“The church is the house of God; He dwells therein. Christ as a pillar holds forth a proclamation. The mystery of godliness is Christ. He is God, who was made flesh, and was manifest in the flesh. God was pleased to manifest himself to man by his own Son taking the nature of man. Though reproached as a sinner, and put to death as a malefactor: Christ was raised again by the spirit and so was justified with which he was loaded. God was manifest in the flesh, to take away our sins, to redeem us [to Himself] from all iniquity and to purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Matthew Henry

1 Timothy 3:8-13 - 1599 Geneva Bible

8 Likewise must Deacons be grave, not double tongued, not given unto much wine, neither to filthy lucre,
9 Having the mystery of the faith in pure conscience.
10 And let them first be proved, then let them minister, if they be found blameless.
11 Likewise their wives must be honest, not evil speakers, but sober, and faithful in all things.
12 Let the Deacons be the husbands of one wife, and such as can rule their children well, and their own households.
13 For they that have ministered well, get themselves a good decree, and great liberty in the faith, which is in Christ Jesus


Father, thank you for giving me another day. Open my heart to your glorious word – amen

Brethren:


The Apostle now lays out the needed qualities for being a deacon. Basically, the same as bishops (pastors), to wit:
Sobriety, not covetous or greedy for money, (for the public trust was placed in their hands to distributed as needed by the church), speak freely the truth of the Gospel without guile. Husbands of one wife, and can run their households effectively.
R.P. Woitowitz

“The deacons were at first appointed to distribute the charity of the church and to manage its concerns, yet pastors, and evangelists were among them. The deacons had a great trust reposed in them. They must be grave, serious, prudent men. It is not fit that public trusts should be lodged in the hands of any, till they are found fit for the business with which they are to be trusted.” Matthew Henry

1 Timothy 3:6-7 - 1599 Geneva Bible

6 He may not be a young scholar, lest he being puffed up fall into the condemnation of the devil.
7 He must also be well reported of, even of them which are without, lest he fall into rebuke, and the snare of the devil.


Father, open up my mind and heart to your word today. - Amen

Brethren:

The final two requirements for being a bishop (pastor) in the early Christian church, to wit:
The candidate must not be a young scholar as he might become proud and fall back into the hands of the Devil. Secondly, he must be well beyond any reproach, in particular from the non-believers, who will seek to discredit him at all times. Let no guile be found in him, so that they, the non-believers will be put to shame.
R.P. Woitowitz

“Not a novice or 'one newly come to the faith.' The Greek word, which occurs nowhere else in the New Testament, means, properly, that which is 'newly planted.' Thus it would mean a plant that was not strong, or not fitted to bear the severity of storms; that had not as yet struck its roots deep, and could not resist the fierceness of a cold blast. Then the word comes to mean a new convert; one who has had little opportunity to test his own faith, or to give evidence to others that he would be faithful to the trust committed to him. The word does not refer so much to one who is young “in years,” as one who is young “in faith.” Still, all the reasons which apply against introducing a very recent convert into the ministry, will apply commonly with equal force against introducing one young in years. We are not to suppose that this is the only reason against introducing a recent convert into the ministry, but it is a sufficient reason. He would be likely to be elated by being entrusted at once with the highest office in the church, and by the commendations and flattery which he might receive. No condition is wholly proof against this; but he is much less likely to be injured who has had much experience of the depravity of his own heart, and whose mind has been deeply imbued with the spirit of the gospel. Condemnation on account of pride. It is here intimated that the cause of the apostasy of Satan was pride; a cause which is as likely to have been the true one as any other. Who can tell but it may have been produced by some new honor which was conferred on him in heaven, and that his virtue was not found sufficient for the untried circumstances in which he was placed?


Who are without the church; that is, of those who are not Christians. This includes, of course, 'all' classes of those who are not Christians - pagans, infidels, Jews, moral people, and scoffers. The idea is, that he must have a fair reputation with them for integrity of character. His life must be in their view upright. He must not be addicted to anything which they regard as inconsistent with good morals. His deportment must be such that they shall regard it as not inconsistent with his profession. He must be true and just and honest in his dealings with his fellow-men, and so live that they cannot say that he has wronged them. He must not give occasion for scandal or reproach in his contact with the other sex, but must be regarded as a man of a pure life and of a holy walk. The 'reason' for this injunction is obvious.

It is his business to endeavor to do such people good, and to persuade them to become Christians. “But no minister of the gospel can possibly do such people good, unless they regard him as an upright and honest man.” No matter how he preaches or prays; no matter how orthodox, learned, or apparently devout he may be, all his efforts will be in vain unless they regard him as a man of incorruptible integrity. If they hate religion themselves, they insist justly that since he has professed it he shall be governed by its principles; or if they feel its importance, they will not be influenced to embrace it by a man that they regard as hypocritical and impure. Go to a man whom you have defrauded, or who regards you as having done or attempted wrong to any other one, and talk to him about the necessity of religion, and he will instinctively say that he does not 'want' a religion which will not make its professor true, honest, and pure. It is impossible, therefore, for a minister to over-estimate the importance of having a fair character in the view of the world, and no man should be introduced into the ministry, or sustained in it, who has not a fair reputation.” - Albert Barnes

1 Timothy 3:1-5 - 1599 Geneva Bible

1 This is a true saying, If any man desire the office of a Bishop, he desireth a worthy work.
2 A Bishop therefore must be unreproveable, the husband of one wife, watching, temperate, modest, harborous, apt to teach,
3 Not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre, but gentle, no fighter, not covetous.
4 One that can rule his own house honestly, having children under obedience with all honesty.
5 For if any cannot rule his own house, how shall he care for the Church of God?


Heavenly Father, thank you for this morning and allowing your servant to have yet another day. I am greatfull and come with humble adoration to your throne-room this morning. Help me my Lord to understand your word. Open my mind and my heart. - Amen


Brethren:


The Apostle Paul starts now in this chapter to outline the hierarchy of the church and positions of authority. Thus he writes that a bishop in all things must be beyond reproach or any condemnation. They basically need to be advisers in all aspects to the congregation without spot, blemish or wrinkle. Should the fall into sin, they are to be removed immediately to avoid any form of impropriety. This today is a major flaw in the church. They are now involved in various scandals and are moved along. My friends, this should NOT be so. Can they be redeemed and return as a brother in good standing? Yes, but can no longer hold any position of authority in the church. (Read Titus 2:6)
R.P. Woitowitz


“Let us consider the qualifications of a Christian bishop, and then we shall soon discover who is fit for the office.

First – [the] Christian bishop must be blameless; ανεπιληπτον, a person against whom no evil can be proved; one who is everywhere invulnerable; for the word is a metaphor, taken from the case of an expert and skillful pugilist, who so defends every part of his body that it is impossible for his antagonist to give one hit. So this Christian bishop is one that has so conducted himself, as to put it out of the reach of any person to prove that he is either unsound in a single article of the Christian faith, or deficient in the fulfillment of any duty incumbent on a Christian. He must be irreprehensible; for how can he reprove that in others which they can reprove in him?

Second - must be the husband of one wife. He should be a married man, but he should be no polygamist; and have only one wife, i.e. one at a time. It does not mean that, if he has been married, and his wife die, he should never marry another. Some have most foolishly spiritualized this, and say, that by one wife the Church is intended! This silly quibbling needs no refutation. The apostle's meaning appears to be this: that he should not be a man who has divorced his wife and married another; nor one that has two wives at a time. It does not appear to have been any part of the apostle's design to prohibit second marriages, of which some have made such a serious business. But it is natural for some men to tithe mint and cummin in religion, while they neglect the weightier matters of the law.

Third - must be vigilant; νηφαλεον, from νη, not and πιω, to drink. Watchful; for as one who drinks is apt to sleep, so he who abstains from it is more likely to keep awake, and attend to his work and charge. A bishop has to watch over the Church, and watch for it; and this will require all his care and circumspection. Instead of νηφαλεον, many MSS. read νηφαλιον· this may be the better orthography, but makes no alteration in the sense.

Fourth - must be sober; σωφρονα, prudent or, according to the etymology of the word, from σως, sound, and φρην, mind, a man of a sound mind; having a good understanding, and the complete government of all his passions. A bishop should be a man of learning, of an extensive and well cultivated mind, dispassionate, prudent, and sedate.

Fifth - must be of good behavior; κοσμιον, orderly, decent, grave, and correct in the whole of his appearance, carriage, and conduct. The preceding term, σωφρονα, refers to the mind; this latter, κοσμιον, to the external manners. A clownish, rude, or boorish man should never have the rule of the Church of God; the sour, the sullen, and the boisterous should never be invested with a dignity which they would most infallibly disgrace.” - Adam Clarke

1 Timothy 2:8-10 - 1599 Geneva Bible

8 I will therefore that the men pray, everywhere lifting up pure hands without wrath, or doubting.
9 Likewise also the women, that they array themselves in comely apparel, with shamefastness and modesty, not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly apparel,
10 But (as becometh women that profess the fear of God) with good works.



Father God, help me to read your word today. Teach me with your wisdom for I am just a man that sometimes struggles to understand it. - Amen

Brethren:

The Apostle Paul doth list and express the proper means of prayer to wit:
Without anger, without doubt, and with love and charity.
God honors sincere prayer. He also sayest that women do not teach but listen in silence and subjugation to the man. With this, I would like to agree, and for the most part do agree. However, today's world has men abandoning their positions of authority, and have prompted women to take a dominant role in the church. I would wish that men would return to their first love and become more active again in the Christian church and family. Yet, this does not negate that women should neglect their own salvation, and allows them to teach the children so that they might stay on the path. (See Epehesains 5:25; Colossians 3:19)
R.P. Woitowitz

“Under the gospel, prayer is not to be confined to any one particular house of prayer, but men must pray everywhere. We must pray in our closets, pray in our families, pray at our meals, pray when we are on journeys and pray in the solemn assemblies, whether more public or private. We must pray in charity; without wrath or malice or anger at any person. We must pray in faith, without doubting and without disputing. Good works are the best ornament this are in the site of God, of great price. Good women may and ought to tech their children at home, the principles of true [faith] and religion.”
Matthew Henry

1 Timothy 2:5-6 - 1599 Geneva Bible

5 For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and man, which is the man Christ Jesus,
6 Who gave himself a ransom for all men, to be that testimony in due time,

Glorious Savior, help me to understand your word this morning – Amen

Brethren:


Christ is our Mediator, there is no way to the Father, except through Him. He is between, God and mankind. He, God, coming in the form of a man gave of Himself so that we as sinners might be redeemed from the wages of sin; eternal death. He died for us once and for all, for all. This then is His testimony.
R.P Woitowitz

“What the Mediator gave as a ransom for men is "himself", his body and his soul, which were both made an offering for sin; and his life, which is the result of union between soul and body; his whole human nature as in union with his divine person, and so might be truly said to be himself: this he gave into the hands of men, of justice and of death; and that voluntarily, which shows his great love to his people; and also as a "ransom", or a ransom price for them, in their room and stead; to ransom them from the slavery of sin, and damnation by it, from the captivity of Satan, and the bondage of the law, and from the grave, death, hell, ruin, and destruction: and this ransom was given for "all"; not for every individual of mankind, for then all would be delivered, freed, and saved, whereas they are not; or else the ransom price is paid in vain, or God is unjust to receive a sufficient ransom price from Christ, and yet not free the captive, but punish the person for whom he has received satisfaction; neither of which can be said.” John Gill

1 Timothy 2:1-4 - 1599 Geneva Bible

1 I Exhort therefore, that first of all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
2 For Kings, and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and a peaceable life, in all godliness, and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.
4 Who will that all men shall be saved, and come unto the acknowledging of the truth.


Father God, this morning, I pray thee that you open my eyes to the words of your glorious gospel – Amen


Brethren:

We are expected, nay appointed, by God to pray for all mankind regardless of rank or stature. From the highest to the lowest, so that we might lead a quiet life without turmoil or strife. This reasoning is two fold, for if we are content in life with no threats we can then, secondly devote more time to God in worship. He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, so let us pray likewise for their salvation. Love God, love others, these are the two greatest commands given unto us.
“Live justly, show kindness, walk humbly with your God” - Micah 6:8
R.P. Woitowitz


“Our duty as Christians is summed up in two words; godliness, that is the right [and correct] worshiping of God; and honesty; that is the good conduct towards all men. What is acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour we should abound in.” - Matthew Henry

1 Timothy 1:18-19 - 1599 Geneva Bible

18 This commandment commit I unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies, which went before upon thee, that thou by them shouldest fight a good fight,
19 Having faith and a good conscience, which some have put away, and as concerning faith, have made shipwreck.

Father God, open my heart and mind to your word this morning; amen

Brethren:

Just a short notation this morning. The Apostle Paul doth closes the first chapter by instructing Timothy to remain steadfast in the faith and in Christ Jesus.
R.P. Woitowitz


“How solemn and important, honourable and delightful, is the trust which God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ have committed to gospel-ministers! how thankful should they be for it, and how desirous of an abundance of grace and mercy from these Divine Persons, to help, pity, and prosper them, that they may be supported under their numerous trials from without and from within, and enabled to be faithful in their Lord's work, according to the qualifications that he has given them, and the reasonable expectations which they afford. They may indeed meet with many virulent and subtle adversaries; some, furious persecutors like Paul before his conversion; others, apostates like Hymeneus and Alexander; and others, who would propagate fabulous traditions and strange doctrines, and introduce doubtful disputations and vain janglings, to the overthrowing of the faith of many, instead of promoting spiritual edification. But as all such are to be shunned and rejected, while the truly sincere and pious are to be affectionately loved as genuine children in the faith, with what courage may the servants of Christ stand to their charge, in which they are called to war a good warfare! and with what pleasure may they recommend the glorious gospel of the blessed God, in hopes that other sinners, by their preaching, may embrace the same offers and the same grace which have been proposed and bestowed upon them! for they well know, and can assure all around them, on the credit of a divine testimony, that Jesus Christ came into the world to save even the chief of sinners. O wondrous, super-abounding grace! It turns the hearts, and pardons the sins of blasphemers, persecutors, and injurious persons, and frees them from the condemnation of the law, which does not stand in force against those who are righteous through faith in Christ, but only against obstinate, impenitent unbelievers, who persist in ungodliness and immorality, which are forbidden by the good and holy law of God, and are equally contrary to the sound doctrine of the gospel. But how should sinners tremble at the thought of continuing to oppose and reject the gospel, and of making a wrong use of the law: and how solicitous should preachers and hearers be, that they may live under the power of evangelical love, as proceeding from a sanctified heart; and also, that unfeigned faith and a good conscience may be always preserved together; lest, by violating conscience, they soon make shipwreck of faith! and with what gratitude and praise should all who are experimentally acquainted with Christ, according to the gospel revelation of him, unite their adorations of him, together with the Father and the Holy Spirit, as he in his divine nature is inseparably, one with them, the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God! to whom be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.” Thomas Coke

1 Timothy 1:14-16 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

14 But the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love, which is in Christ Jesus.
15 This is a true saying, and by all means worthy to be received, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.
16 Notwithstanding for this cause was I received to mercy, that Jesus Christ should first show on me all long suffering unto the ensample of them, which shall in time to come believe in him unto eternal life.

O' gracious and merciful God open my mind and my heart to your words today that I might become a better man and act in your righteousness, amen

Brethren:

The Apostle Paul sayest herein that God showed him mercy by redeeming him on the road to Damascus. He was, as noted in the Book of Acts, recorded by Luke, given a mandate to destroy the early Christian church and Christians along the way where ever he might find them. He indeed was the worst the chief sinner in his own words. Yet God come to him and chose him to be an instrument of His glory and mercy in order to spread the Gospel of Christ to the gentiles.

R.P. Woitowitz

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners - This is one of the most glorious truths in the book of God; the most important that ever reached the human ear, or can be entertained by the heart of man. All men are sinners; and as such condemned, justly condemned, to eternal death. Christ Jesus became incarnate, suffered, and died to redeem them; and, by his grace and Spirit, saves them from their sins. This saying or doctrine he calls, first, a faithful or true saying; πιστος ὁ λογος, it is a doctrine that may be credited, without the slightest doubt or hesitation; God himself has spoken it; and the death of Christ and the mission of the Holy Ghost, sealing pardon on the souls of all who believe, have confirmed and established the truth.

Secondly, it is worthy of all acceptation; as all need it, it is worthy of being received by all. It is designed for the whole human race, for all that are sinners is applicable to all, because all are sinners; and may be received by all, being put within every man's reach, and brought to every man's ear and bosom, either by the letter of the word, or, where that revelation is not yet come, by the power of the Divine Spirit, the true light from Christ that lightens every man that cometh into the world. From this also it is evident that the death of Christ, and all its eternally saving effects, were designed for every man.

Of whom I am chief - Ὡν πρωτος ειμι εγω . Confounding Paul the apostle, in the fullness of his faith and love, with Saul of Tarsus, in his ignorance, unbelief, and persecuting rage, we are in the habit of saying: "This is a hyperbolical expression, arguing the height of the apostle's modesty and humility and must not be taken according to the letter." I see it not in this light; I take it not with abatement; it is strictly and literally true: take the whole of the apostle's conduct, previously to his conversion, into consideration, and was there a greater sinner converted to God from the incarnation to his own time? Not one; he was the chief; and, keeping his blasphemy, persecution, and contumely in view, he asserts: Of all that the Lord Jesus came into the world to save, and of all that he had saved to that time, I am chief. And who, however humble now, and however flagitious before, could have contested the points with him? He was what he has said, and as he has said it. And it is very probable that the apostle refers to those in whom the grace and mercy of God were, at the first promulgation of the Gospel, manifested: and comparing himself with all these he could with propriety say, ὡν πρωτος ειμι, of whom I am the first; the first who, from a blasphemer, persecutor (and might we not add murderer? see the part he took in the martyrdom of Stephen), became a preacher of that Gospel which I had persecuted. And hence, keeping this idea strictly in view, he immediately adds: Howbeit, for this cause I obtained mercy; that in me First, πρωτῳ, Jesus Christ might show forth all longsuffering, for a pattern To Them which should Hereafter, των μελλοντων believe on him to life everlasting. And this great display of the pardoning mercy of God, granted in so singular a manner, at the very first promulgation of the Gospel, was most proper to be produced as a pattern for the encouragement of all penitent sinners to the end of time. If Jesus Christ, with whom there can be no respect of persons, saved Saul of Tarsus, no sinner need despair.” - Adam Clarke

1 Timothy 1:12-13 1599 Geneva Bible (GNV)

12 Therefore I thank him which hath made me strong, that is, Christ Jesus our Lord: for he counted me faithful, and put me in his service:
13 When before I was a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and an oppressor: but I was received to mercy: for I did it ignorantly through unbelief.


Brethren:


We should all be so thankful as was Paul, for he, as the song/hymn/scripture says:


“for He saved the worst among you, when He saved a wretch like me”.

Who among us has felt so unworthy as to hang our heads in shame, and unrighteousness. But all praise and glory be to God our Creator for lifting us up from our current state and cleansing us from all unrighteousness via Christ our Savior.
R.P. Woitowitz

“The meaning is, I thank him for putting me into the ministry, and enabling me to be faithful therein; who was before a blasphemer — Of Christ; a persecutor — Of his church; and injurious — In my behavior toward it; or rather a reviler. But I obtained mercy: He does not say, because I was unconditionally elected, but, because I did it ignorantly. Because, though I acted in a very rash, savage, and criminal manner, yet I did not therein contradict the sentiments of my own conscience; in unbelief: Not knowing nor believing that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah, or that those whom I persecuted were his servants. Not that his ignorance took away his sin, but it left him capable of mercy, which he would hardly have been, had he acted as he did in contradiction to the conviction of his own mind: for had he knowingly opposed what he apprehended to be truth, (especially truth of such unspeakable importance to the glory of God and the salvation of mankind,) out of regard to his secular interest, he would doubtless have been left to perish under a judicial blindness and hardness of heart. It is probable, as Paul was “then a scholar at Gamaliel’s feet, he might not have been present when any of Christ’s miracles were performed, as Christ spent but little time at Jerusalem. The popular cry was strong against him, and the Pharisees and rulers treated him with so much contempt, and were so full of malignity toward him, and so ready to advance the most slanderous reports to the prejudice of his character, that it is the less to be wondered at that this rash, hot youth was borne down by the torrent. Yet we see how far Paul was from thinking all this, and whatever could be added to it, a sufficient excuse. Instead of insinuating, with some, that the miracle wrought for his conversion to Christianity was a reward for his extraordinary integrity and virtue while a Jewish zealot, he speaks of himself as one of the greatest sinners upon earth, and thereby shows, by the way, how much guilt a man may contract without acting directly contrary to the convictions of his mind, if he has neglected an impartial care in forming his principles of action.” - Joseph Benson

1 Timothy 1:8-10 - 1599 Geneva Bible

8 And we know, that the Law is good, if a man use it lawfully.
9 Knowing this, that the Law is not given unto a righteous man, but unto the lawless and disobedient, to the ungodly, and to sinners, to the unholy, and to the profane, to murderers of fathers and mothers, to manslayers,
10 To whoremongers, to buggerers, to menstealers, to liars, to the perjured, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to wholesome doctrine,


Brethren:

God gave the law as a teacher, not to make man righteous for no man is righteous, no, not one. (Read Psalm 14:1-3). Righteousness comes from God, and through the acceptance of the Sacrifice of Christ. God is indeed merciful and filled with Grace. It is only through Christ, that we can know the Father.
R.P. Woitowitz


“The design of the gospel is answered when sinners, through repentance towards God, and faith in Jesus Christ are brought to exercise Christian love. And as believers were righteous persons in God's appointed way, the law was not against them. But unless we are made righteous by faith in Christ, really repenting and forsaking sin we are yet under the curse of the law, even according to the gospel of the blessed God and are unfit to share the holy happiness of heaven.” - Matthew Henry

1 Timothy 1:3-5 - 1599 Geneva Bible

3 As I besought thee to abide still in Ephesus, when I departed into Macedonia, so do, that thou mayest warn some, that they teach none other doctrine,
4 Neither that they give heed to fables and genealogies which are endless, which breed questions rather than godly edifying which is by faith.
5  For the end of the commandment is love out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned.


Brethren:

The Apostle herein instructs Timothy to remain steadfast in the faith, and in the Gospel of Christ as taught to him by Paul. Do not stray from the from it, but use it instead to teach. Doing so in loving firmness. (Read Romans 13:10). For love is pure and undefiled when it comes from God and is passed along to the believer.
R.P. Woitowitz


“Charge some to teach no other doctrine, than that I have taught. Let them put nothing in place of it [and likewise] add nothing to it. And this was particularly the end of the commandment which Timothy was to enforce. The foundation is faith, the end love. But this can only subsist in the heart purified by faith and is always attended with good conscience.” - Charles Weslesy

2 Thessalonians 3:13-15 - 1599 Geneva Bible

13 And ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.
14 If any man obey not this our saying in this letter, note him, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
15 Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.


Brethren:

God has also purposed us to continue to do good works (Read James 2:18). Therefore let us not tire, but find strength in Christ to carry forward. Admonish and correct all in love. Remember firstly, that our duty is to preach the Gospel of Christ to all people. That said, let us never weary in trying to return the unrepentant to the fold.
R.P. Woitowitz


“The idea is, that they were not to be discouraged from doing good to the truly worthy and deserving by the idleness and improper conduct of some who asked their assistance. They were, indeed, shiftless and worthless. They would not labor; they spent their time in inter-meddling with the concerns of their neighbors, and they depended for their support on the charity of others. The tendency of this, as all persons feel who have ever been applied to by such persons for aid, is, to indispos us to do good to any. We almost insensibly feel that all who ask for aid are of the same character; or, not being able to discriminate, we close our hands alike against all. Against this the apostle would guard us, and he says that though there may be many such persons, and though we may find it difficult to distinguish the worthy from the unworthy, we should not become so disheartened as not to give at all. Nor should we be weary though the applications for assistance are frequent. They are indeed frequent. God designs that they should be. But the effect should not be to dishearten us, or to make us weary in well-doing, but to fill us with gratitude - for it is a privilege to be permitted to do good. It is the great distinguishing characteristic of God that he always does good. It was that which marked the character of the Redeemer, that he “went about doing good;” and whenever God gives us the opportunity and the means of doing good, it should be to us an occasion of special thanksgiving. A man ought to become “weary” of everything else sooner than of evincing benevolence.

This shows the true spirit in which discipline is to be administered in the Christian church. We are not to deal with a man as an adversary over whom we are to seek to gain a victory, but as an erring brother - a brother still, though he errs. There was necessity for this caution. There is great danger that when we undertake the work of discipline we shall forget that he who is the subject of it is a brother, and that we shall regard and treat him as an enemy. Such is human nature. We set ourselves in array against him. We cut him off as one who is unworthy to walk with us. We triumph over him, and consider him at once as an enemy of the church, and as having lost all claim to its sympathies. We abandon him to the tender mercies of a cold and unfeeling world, and let him take his course. Perhaps we follow him with anathemas, and hold him up as unworthy the confidence of mankind. Now all this is entirely unlike the method and aim of discipline as the New Testament requires. There all is kind, and gentle, though firm; the offender is a man and a brother still; he is to be followed with tender sympathy and prayer, and the hearts and the arms of the Christian brotherhood are to be open to receive him again when he gives any evidence of repenting.” - Albert Barnes

2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 - 1599 Geneva Bible

10 For even when we were with you, this we warned you of, that if there were any, which would not work, that he should not eat.
11 For we hear, that there are some which walk among you inordinately, and work not at all, but are busybodies.
12 Therefore them that are such, we warn and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that they work with quietness, and eat their own bread.


Brethren:


God hath so made man that he should have a purpose, and should stay busy with the work of his own hands and not be concerned with the business of others. There is plenty for one to do to keep idle hands from being lazy. Therefore it behooves us to stay occupied with our work or our faith. Be busy at all times, so that you do not let the devil find you idle.
R.P. Woitowitz

“How great a fault idleness is, he declareth by that that God created no man in vain or to no purpose, neither is there any unto whom he hath not allotted as it were a certain standing and room. Whereupon it followeth, that the order which God hath appointed, is troubled by the idle, yea, broken, which is great sin and wickedness. He [Paul] reprehendeth a vice which is joined with the former, whereupon follow an infinite sort of mischiefs: to wit, that there are none more busy in other men’s matters than they which neglect their own. The Lord commandeth, and the Apostles pray in the name of Christ, first that no men be idle, and next, that every man do quietly and carefully see to do his duty in that office and calling wherein the Lord hath placed him.” GNV Study Notes

“Those who have received the gospel are to live according to the gospel. Such as could work and would not, were not to be maintained in idleness. Christianity is not to countenance slothfulness. Industry is a duty required as Christians. The servant who waits for the coming of his Lord aright, must be working as his Lord has commanded. If we are idle, the devil and a corrupt heart will soon find us somewhat to do. The mind of a man is a busy thing; if it is not employed in doing good, it will be doing evil.” Matthew Henry

2 Thessalonians 3:3-6 - 1599 Geneva Bible

3 But the Lord is faithful, which will stablish you, and keep you from evil.
4 And we are persuaded of you through the Lord, that ye both do, and will do the things which we warn you of.
5 And the Lord guide your hearts to the love of God, and the waiting for of Christ.
6 We warn you, brethren, in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walked inordinately, and not after the instruction, which he received of us.


Brethren:

Steer clear of the ungodly person. Offer first the Gospel of Christ, and if they reject it move on. Likewise stay away from things that smack of carnality.
R.P Woitowitz


“The apostle is now come to the main thing itself he has in view in this part of the epistle, which is to encourage a regard to the discipline of God's house; and to exhort this church to excommunicate, or remove from communion, all disorderly persons; and those who are to do this he points out, and calls upon, and even commands; and these are the fraternity, the "brethren", the society of believers, all the members of the church; for to them to whom belongs the power of receiving members, to them only belongs the power of excluding offenders: the executive power lies in the hands of the elders or pastors of churches; they are the persons by whom the church receives or casts out members; but the power of judgment, or of determining who shall be received into, or who shall be removed from communion, lies in the church, and not in the pastors and elders only; whoever therefore take upon them to receive, or refuse, or cast out members of themselves, and at their own pleasure, act the part of Diotrephes.


By a brother is meant, not one in a natural or civil sense, who is so by blood, or by neighbourhood, by being of the same country, or of the same human species, since all are of one blood; but one in an ecclesiastical sense, a church member, who is called a brother, though he may not be really a child of God, one of the brethren of Christ, or born of the Spirit; yet being a fellow citizen with the saints, and of the household of God externally, he bears this character; and such an one only is cognizable by a church, who have nothing to do to judge them that are without, only them that are within: and "every brother" in this sense falls under their notice; everyone that is a member, whether male or female, for this word includes both; and as the sisters, as well as the brethren, stand in the same relation, are in the same church state, partake of the same ordinances, and enjoy the same privileges, they are obliged to regard the same rules of the Gospel, and duties of religion, and, in case of disorder, to be withdrawn from: and this also regards every brother, of whatsoever state or condition, bond or free, high or low, rich or poor; no partiality is to be used, no preference to be given to one above the other; a poor member in a disorder is not to be bore hard upon, while a rich one is winked and connived at.”
John Gill

2 Thessalonians 2:13-15 - 1599 Geneva Bible

13 But we ought to give thanks always to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because that God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and the faith of truth,
14 Whereunto he called you by our Gospel, to obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
15 Therefore, brethren, stand fast and keep the instructions, which ye have been taught, either by word, or by our Epistle.



Brethren:


Stand fast and stay the course for the race is won by those that endure to the end. (Read 1Corinthians 9:24-25; Hebrews 12:1-2) Do not waiver, nor be ye distracted by the things of this world. God has a place for each of you in His coming Kingdom. Stay true to the sanctification that God hate bestowed upon you, through the Gospel as put forth with the Apostle Paul.
R.P Woitowitz Sr.

“After his extended description of Anti-Christ and its attendant warning, the apostle now turns back to his Thessalonian Christians with words of cheer and thanksgiving to God: But us it behooves to give thanks to God always in your behalf, brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God from the beginning chose you to salvation in sanctification of the Spirit and by faith in the truth, through which He also called you through our Gospel, to the attainment of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul felt the obligation resting upon him, he felt bound to give thanks to God for the election and salvation of his readers, whom he affectionately calls brethren that were beloved by the Lord, people that were enjoying His love, as they were indeed. He knew that God had lifted out, selected, chosen them from the beginning. The eternal decree of God concerning their salvation had begun to go into effect when Paul preached the Gospel among them. And it had resulted in their salvation, begun and guaranteed in the sanctification of the Spirit and in their firm belief in the truth of the Gospel-message. They were sure of their redemption in and through Jesus, and because this faith lived in their hearts, its Source and Author, the Holy Spirit, was able to continue His work of sanctification in them. At the same time they were being confirmed in their faith in the truth as they had learned it. ALL this was the result of the gracious call of God through the Gospel which Paul preached to them. Under these circumstances the final result could not be in doubt for as much as a moment, namely, the attainment, the acquisition, the taking possession of the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ; they should be assured of their participation in the life of Christ's glorification”
Paul E. Kretzmann

2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 - 1599 Geneva Bible

10 And in all deceivableness of unrighteousness, among them that perish, because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved.
11 And therefore God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe lies,
12 That all they might be damned which believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

Brethren:


Our Creator is just and righteous. He cannot bare to look upon sin, and as such it will not be part of the coming kingdom. That said, he allows it to exist by those that love wickedness and hate the truth. He has given them over to their own carnality. On the Day of Judgment they will stand before Him and be damned for eternity. Therefore look towards your own salvation.
R.P. Woitowitz Sr.


“The persons are described who are his (Satan's) will subjects. There sin is this: They did not love the truth and therefore did not believe it; and they were pleased with false notions God leaves them themselves, then sin follow in it's course, and spiritual judgments here, and eternal punishments thereafter” - Matthew Henry

2 Thessalonians 2:8-9 - 1599 Geneva Bible

8 And then shall that wicked man be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the Spirit of his mouth, and shall abolish with the brightness of his coming,
9 Even him whose coming is by the effectual working of Satan, with all power, and signs, and lying wonders,

Brethren:

The son of Perdition shall be revealed. Even to the ancient church he was hidden, yet working towards usurping the very throne of God. Towards that end. Yet God had kept him in check until such time that he would be revealed.

“That wickedness shall at length be detected by the word of the Lord, and utterly be abolished by Christ’s coming. Word for word, that lawless fellow: that is to say, he that shall tread God’s law clean underfoot. Bring to naught. With his word: for the true Ministers of the word are as a mouth, whereby the Lord breathe out that mighty and everlasting word, which shall break his enemies in sunder, as it were an iron rod. He foretells that Satan will bestow all his might and power, and use all false miracles that he can to establish that seat, and that with great success, because the wickedness of the world doth so deserve it: yet so, that only the unfaithful shall perish through his deceit. Which are partly false, and partly wrought to establish a falsehood” - Study notes from the GNV Translation

2 Thessalonians 2:2-4 - 1599 Geneva Bible

2 That ye be not suddenly moved from your mind, nor troubled neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter, as it were from us, as though the day of Christ were at hand.
3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a departing first, and that that man of sin be disclosed, even the son of perdition.
4 Which is an adversary, and exalteth himself against all that is called God, or that is worshipped: so that he doth sit as God in the Temple of God, showing himself that he is God.

Brethren:

The Apostle herein warns of the Antichrist, the son of perdition. He instructs the church to be wary of any and all false prophets. Whether they come during his time or in the future. Come he shall and sit in the very temple of God. He will likewise take many with him in the great falling away, fooling even the elect.

“Let no man deceive you by any means or any of the above means; by pretending to a revelation from the Spirit; or to have had it from the mouth of anyone of the apostles; or to have a letter as from them, declaring the day of Christ to be instant; or by any other means whatever; do not be imposed upon by them for the following reasons, for there were things to be done before the coming of Christ, which were not then done, and which required time: for that day shall not come.

He is an adversary of Christ, the antichrist; who opposes him in his kingly office, styling himself the head and spouse of the church, assuming to himself all power in heaven and in earth, taking upon him to dispense with the laws of Christ, and to make new ones; who opposes him in his priestly office, by pretending to offer him up again in the sacrifice of the mass, and by making angels and saints departed, intercessors and advocates; and also in his prophetic office, by teaching for doctrines the commandments of men, and setting up unwritten traditions before the word of God, requiring the worshiping of images, angels, and saints, when Christ requires that the Lord God only should be worshiped and served; and by introducing the doctrine of works and of merit instead of grace, and with a multitude of other things, in which he most manifestly appears to be diametrically opposite and contrary to Christ.”
John Gill

2 Thessalonians 1:6-8 - 1599 Geneva Bible

6 For it is a righteous thing with God, to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you,
7 And to you which are troubled, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall show himself from heaven with his mighty Angels,
8 In flaming fire, rendering vengeance unto them, that do not know God, and which obey not unto the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,

Brethren:

Our God, is a God of justice and mercy. He will deal with ALL people accordingly. He does not show partiality, nor is he a respecter of persons,(Read Acts Acts 10:34-35). All people will answer to His call and face Him in the day of judgment. There will be fear among the ungodly, wicked, and evil doers and joy in those that love Him.


“That which is righteous in itself, is righteous in the sight of God, but it is not always so with men; men may think it a righteous thing that they should be rewarded for persecuting the followers of Christ, supposing they hereby do God good service; but on the contrary, with God, and in his sight and account, it is a righteous thing, or a point of justice. Persecution is an affliction, or a trouble to the saints; persecutors trouble them in their minds and bodies, in their persons and property; they trouble their minds by casting reflections and reproaches upon them, by severe revilings, and cruel mockings, which all are not alike able to bear; and they trouble and afflict their bodies by imprisonment and bonds, by scourging and beating, and various cruel and torturing deaths; and they disturb them in the possession of their estates, by spoiling their goods, and confiscating them to their own use; and it is but according to "lex talionis", the law of retaliation, to render tribulation to such troublers of God's Israel; and to them it is recompensed, either in this world, or in the world to come: sometimes in this world persecutors are manifest instances of God's judgments and wrath upon them, as Herod, who stretched out his hands to vex certain of the church, killed James the brother of John, and imprisoned Peter, and was smitten by the angel of the Lord, and was eaten of worms; and the Jews, who were now the only and the implacable persecutors of the saints, in a short time had the wrath of God come upon them to the uttermost, even upon their nation, city, and temple, upon their persons and property. And if not in this life, it is a certain thing that hereafter such shall have indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish; they shall be cast into outward darkness, into the lake of fire; and the hottest place in hell will be their portion, even devouring flames, and everlasting burnings; and are what is designed by tribulations here.” John Gill

1 Thessalonians 5:18, 20-22 - 1599 Geneva Bible

18 In all things, give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus toward you.
20 Despise not prophesying.
21 Try all things, and keep that which is good.
22 Abstain from all appearance of evil.

Brethren:

Give thanks to God through prayer daily. Be joyful in all things, and in all state of affairs, be content with that which you have, and not desirous of that which you hath not. Seek God daily; listen to and read His word every day. Abstain from all and all things that appear to be evil. Seek the good things and blessings that God has bestowed upon you. For that is where your treasure truly lies. (Read Philippians 4:4-8)
R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“To God the Father, in the name of Christ; thanks are to be given to him for all things, as the Ethiopic version renders it; for all temporal good things; for our beings, the preservation of them; for food and raiment, and all the mercies of life; for the means of grace, the word and ordinances, and the ministers of the Gospel; for spiritual blessings, for electing, redeeming, regenerating, adopting, pardoning, justifying, and persevering grace: for a meetness for heaven, a right unto it, and a good hope of it; and especially for Jesus Christ, for such an husband, such an head, such a surety and Saviour, and advocate with the Father, as he is; and for life, peace, joy, comfort, righteousness, and salvation in him: and thanks should be given to God in every circumstance of life; in adversity, as Job did; when not in so comfortable and agreeable a frame of soul as to be wished for, since it might be worse, and is not black despair; even under the temptations of Satan, since they might be greater and heavier, and since the grace of God is sufficient to bear up under them, and deliver out of them, and since there is such a sympathizing high priest and Saviour; and in afflictions of every kind, since they are all for good, temporal, or spiritual, or eternal.

The prophecies of the Old Testament concerning the first coming of Christ, concerning his person, office, and work, his obedience, sufferings, and death, his resurrection from the dead, ascension and session at God's right hand; for though all these are fulfilled, yet they have still their usefulness.

Prove all things that are said by the prophets, all the doctrines which they deliver; hear them, though they have not the gift of tongues, and all desirable advantages; do not reject them on that account, and refuse to hear them, for so, many useful men may be laid aside, and the Spirit of God in them be quenched; try their gifts, and attend to their doctrines, yet do not implicitly believe everything they say, but examine them according to the word of God the test and standard of truth; search the Scriptures, whether the things they say are true or not. Not openly erroneous persons, and known heretics, are to be heard and attended on, but the ministers of the word, or such who are said to have a gift of prophesying; these should make use of it, and the church should try and judge their gift, and accordingly encourage or discourage; and also their doctrines, and if false reject them, and if true receive them.

Hold fast to what is good, honest, pleasant, profitable, and agreeable to sound doctrine, to the analogy of faith, and the Scriptures of truth, and is useful and edifying, instructive both as to principle and practice; such should be held fast, that no man take it away; and be retained, though a majority may be against it, for the multitude is not always on the side of truth; and though it may be rejected by men of learning and wealth, as Christ and his doctrines were rejected by the Scribes and Pharisees, and rulers of the people; and though it may be reproached as a novel, upstart notion, or a licentious one, since these were charges against the doctrine of Christ, and his apostles; and though it may be attended with affliction and persecution, yet none of these things should move from it, or cause to let it go.

Abstain from all appearance of evil and of doctrinal evil. Not only open error and heresy are to be avoided, but what has any show of it, or looks like it, or carries in it a suspicion of it, or may be an occasion thereof, or lead unto it; wherefore all new words and phrases of this kind should be shunned, and the form of sound words held fast; and so of all practical evil, not only from sin itself, and all sorts of sin, lesser or greater."
John Gill

1 Thessalonians 5:15 1599 - Geneva Bible

15 See that none recompense evil for evil unto any man: but ever follow that which is good, both toward yourselves, and toward all men.

Brethren:

Be patient with all, be good to all. Never repay evil for evil, let God avenge. Live peaceably with all.
Read Proverbs 17:20, 20:22; Matthew 5:39; Romans 12:17; 1 Peter3:9

“The Thessalonians did suffer evil from the world around, but as their Master, they were not to return it. This we need as a constant reminder, for the flesh too quickly resents unfair treatment. But to return evil for evil only makes me the same as my persecutor and untrue to my Christian character. We may find it even more of a test if treated badly by a child of God, but of course the same applies. He must answer for his conduct, no doubt, but I must answer for mine. To have the heart set on good is the real preservative here. If it is so, I shall be loathe to do evil, no matter what the provocation.”

L. M. Grant

1 Thessalonians 5:9-10 - 1599 Geneva Bible

9 For God hath not appointed us unto wrath, but to obtain salvation by the means of our Lord Jesus Christ.
10 Which died for us, that whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.

Brethren:

God hath called us to be holy for He is holy
God hath called us to be righteous for He is righteous
God hath called us to be watchful for He is returning
God hath called us to do good works in order to show our faith
God hath called us to exhort each other daily for He he love us
God hath called us to pray unceasingly for the unsaved for He has no desire for the death of the wicked, but that all should come to repentance.
R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“Salvation is alone by Christ, he alone has wrought it out; it is in him, and in no other; he was appointed to this work, was called and sent, and came to do it, and has done it; and God's elect, who were chosen in him, are appointed in the counsel and purpose of God, to obtain, possess, and enjoy this salvation; and which, as this appointment may be known, as it was by these Thessalonians; the Gospel having come to them, not in word only, but in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as it is an encouragement to faith and hope, so it excites to sobriety and watchfulness, and the discharge of every duty. The doctrine of predestination does not lead to despair, but encourages the hope of salvation; and it is no licentious doctrine, for election to salvation by Christ is through sanctification of the Spirit, and unto holiness; and good works are the fruits of it, and are what God has foreordained his people should walk in.

Christ died for his people, who were dead in trespasses and sins, that they might live spiritually a life of sanctification from him, and a life of justification on him, and by him; and that they might live a life of communion with him; and that they might live eternally with him, in soul and body, in heaven, and reign with him there, and partake of his glory; and this all the saints will, whether they be found dead or alive at his coming; for the dead will immediately arise, those that sleep in the dust will awake at once, and they that are alive will be changed, and both will be caught up in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and be for ever with him: now the consideration of the death of Christ, and this end of it, which will certainly be answered, serves greatly to encourage hope of salvation by him, and faith in him, and an earnest expectation of his second coming.”
John Gill

1 Thessalonians 5:1-4 - 1599 Geneva Bible

1 But of the times and seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.
2 For ye yourselves know perfectly, that the day of the Lord shall come, even as a thief in the night.
3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety, then shall come upon them sudden destruction, as the travail upon a woman with child, and they shall not escape.
4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day shall come on you, as it were a thief.


Brethren:

God wishes for us to be prepared. To be ever watchful, whilst going out our Christian duties of serving Him, and serving others. Let us therefore resolve to be as the five good virgins by keeping our lamps at the ready. (Read Acts 1:7; Mathew25:1-12)
R.P. Woitowitz

“It is needless or useless to ask about the particular time of Christ's coming. Christ did not reveal this to His apostles. The coming of Christ will e a great surprise to men. It will be terrible to the ungodly. There will be no means to escape. Let us endeavor to awaken ourselves and each other.”
Matthew Henry

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 - 1599 Geneva Bible

16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, and with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trumpet of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:
17 Then shall we which live and remain, be caught up with them also in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
18 Wherefore, comfort yourselves one another with these words

Brethren:

A continuation of the previous verses. Christ WILL come again. The Christ shall arise first, then we, (the believers) shall likewise be caught up in His glory and triumph. Let us therefore be ready at all times to answer the trumpet. (Read 1 Corinthians 15:52)
R.P. Woitowitz Sr

“A supernatural announcement will precede the Lord Jesus" return for His own. God will announce the event with a shout, an angelic voice, and a trumpet blast. Probably believers will hear them if not all people living on the earth. These may be three descriptions of one event or three separate events. It appears that these three events will take place literally. In any case, God will herald the return of Christ from heaven. Note that only the dead "in Christ" experience resurrection. That Isaiah , God will reunite their resurrected, glorified bodies with their spirits. Note that it is not the Lord"s return by itself that Paul offered as encouragement here but the reunion of dead and living saints and their shared glory in His presence.”
Dr. Thomas Constable

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 - 1599 Geneva Bible

13 I would not brethren, have you ignorant concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not even as others which have no hope.
14 For if we believe that Jesus is dead, and is risen, even so them which sleep in Jesus, will God bring with him.
The Apostle herein says do not be overly mournful and concerned about those that have passed away before us, for they also will rise in Christ, as Christ has already risen. God is not so unjust as to let those that have passed away in Christ to leave them in the grave.
R.P. Woitowitz

“Perhaps what he says here was part of what he wanted to teach them, as not having seen it proper before to enter into these discoveries; namely, whether the last generation should die at all or no; and whether the dead saints should be raised before the living were transformed. But, having heard that they still lamented over their dead, like their heathen neighbors, and perhaps that they still hired mourners,—were apt to repine at the Divine providence,—to lament, and be excessively dejected; he here delivers two most important truths, to dry up their tears: 1. He briefly repeats what he had taught already, strongly asserting the resurrection of the pious dead to an eternal life of holiness and happiness, in consequence of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, and according to his express and repeated promises. 2. He makes this new discovery,—that the last generation of saints should not die at all, but be on a sudden changed into immortals. From which he concludes, that the Christians ought to leave off their excessive lamentations for their deceased friends, and no longer imitate their heathen neighbors, who, though they might have some obscure notions and expectations of the immortality of the soul, had no such hopes as the Christian of a resurrection from the dead, and of an eternal life of such holy and glorious enjoyments; in the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ, and of the holy angels, and of all the wisest, worthiest, and best of men, who will be perfect and happy as well as they; he state of the bodies of the pious dead in their graves is not only here, but in many other passages of scripture, described as a short sleep, compared with that eternal life into which they shall awake in the morning of the resurrection. This 14th verse ought to be read in a parenthesis, it being a repetition of what the Apostle had more fully instructed them in before. The resurrection of Christ was the grand fact upon which the whole Christian religion depended; and with it, the resurrection of mankind in general, but more especially of the just, was joined in the closest connection. This is what the Apostle elsewhere shews at large; here he only reminds the Thessalonians of it in a short parenthesis, and passes on to the further discovery mentioned in the preceding note.”
Thomas Coke

1 Thessalonians 4:9-12 1599 Geneva Bible

9 But as touching brotherly love, ye need not that I write unto you: for ye are taught of God to love one another.
10 Yea, and that thing verily ye do unto all the brethren, which are throughout all Macedonia: but we beseech you brethren, that ye increase more and more,
11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to meddle with your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you.
12 That ye may behave yourselves honestly toward them that are without, and that nothing be lacking unto you.

God requires a calm and gentle heart, a mind that is calm, at ease and has settled upon the going about of one's own business. Do not idly sit back for as the old adage goes to say; “idle hands are the Devil's playground” Walk and increase in love so that those that hate God and what He is cannot find fault in you. (Read 1 John 2:8,4:22)
R.P. Woitowitz Sr.

“They were remarkable for this; and though the apostle appears to have had this as a topic on which he intended to write to them, yet, from the account which he received of their prosperous state by Timothy, he finds that it is unnecessary to spend any time in inculcating a doctrine which they fully understood and practiced. Though in general the Church at Thessalonica was pure and exemplary, yet there seem to have been some idle, tattling people among them, who disturbed the peace of others; persons who, under the pretense of religion, gadded about from house to house; did not work, but were burdensome to others; and were continually meddling with other people's business, making parties, and procuring their bread by religious gossiping. To these the apostle gives those directions which the whole Church of God should enforce wherever such troublesome and dangerous people are found; viz.: That they should study to be quiet, ἡσυχαζειν, to hold their peace, as their religious cant will never promote true religion; that they should do their own business, and let that of others alone; and that they should work with their own hands, and not be a burden to the Church of God, or to those well meaning but weak and inconsiderate people who entertain them, being imposed on by their apparent sanctity and glozing conversation. An idle person, though able to discourse like an angel, or pray like an apostle, cannot be a Christian; all such are hypocrites and deceivers; the true members of the Church of Christ walk, work, and labor.”
Adam Clarke