The Meaning of 2 Thessalonians 2:2 Explained

2 Thessalonians 2:2

KJV: That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.

YLT: that ye be not quickly shaken in mind, nor be troubled, neither through spirit, neither through word, neither through letters as through us, as that the day of Christ hath arrived;

Darby: that ye be not soon shaken in mind, nor troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter, as if it were by us, as that the day of the Lord is present.

ASV: to the end that ye be not quickly shaken from your mind, nor yet be troubled, either by spirit, or by word, or by epistle as from us, as that the day of the Lord is just at hand;

KJV Reverse Interlinear

That  ye  be  not  soon  shaken  in  mind,  or  be troubled,  neither  by  spirit,  nor  by  word,  nor  by  letter  as  from  us,  as  that  the day  of Christ  is at hand. 

What does 2 Thessalonians 2:2 Mean?

Study Notes

day of
.
Day of the Lord (Day of Jehovah) vs.
Isaiah 2:10-22 ; Isaiah 4:1-6 ; Isaiah 11:10-13 ; Isaiah 13:9-16 ; Isaiah 24:21-23 ; Isaiah 26:20 ; Isaiah 26:21 ; Isaiah 63:1-6 ; Isaiah 66:15-24 ; Jeremiah 25:29-33 ; Jeremiah 46:10 ; Ezekiel 30:3 ; Revelation 19:11-21

Context Summary

2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 - Untroubled By Threatening Rumors
The Apostle sets himself to correct certain erroneous impressions which had unsettled the church in Thessalonica. Notice how reverently he speaks of our Savior. Once and again he alludes to Him as the Lord Jesus Christ. He is surely coming, and as surely will His saints be gathered to Him, as the drops of moisture are drawn up from ponds and oceans, to cluster in the clouds in radiant beauty around the sun.
But certain events must take place first. There must be a great apostasy and the unveiling of "the mystery of lawlessness," which even at that time was already at work. First, the man of sin; then, the Son of man. First, He that set Himself forth as God; then, God manifest in the flesh. First, the revelation of sin; then, the revelation of perfect salvation. Daniel 11:36 seems to have suggested Paul's words, which have been applied to Nero or Caligula, to Judaism or the Papal Church, and to some future manifestation of Satanic hatred toward the Church of God. But whatever form it may assume, the coming of Jesus will absolutely destroy this power of Antichrist. Let us be warned by the doom of those that are involved in this great apostasy, and ever cherish the love of the truth of Christ, that we may be saved. [source]

Chapter Summary: 2 Thessalonians 2

1  Paul urges them to continue stedfast in the truth received;
3  shows that there shall be a departure from the faith,
9  and a discovery of Antichrist, before the day of the Lord comes;
15  repeats his exhortation to stand firm, and prays for them

Greek Commentary for 2 Thessalonians 2:2

To the end that [εις το]
One of Paul‘s favourite idioms for purpose, εις το — eis to and the infinitive. [source]
Ye be not quickly shaken [μη ταχεως σαλευτηναι υμας]
First aorist passive infinitive of σαλευω — saleuō old verb to agitate, to cause to totter like a reed (Matthew 11:7), the earth (Hebrews 12:26). Usual negative μη — mē and accusative of general reference υμας — humas with the infinitive. From your mind (απο του νοος — apo tou noos). Ablative case of nous, mind, reason, sober sense, “from your witte” (Wycliffe), to “keep their heads.” Nor yet be troubled Old verb τροεω — throeō to cry aloud (from τροος — throos clamour, tumult), to be in a state of nervous excitement (present passive infinitive, as if it were going on), “a continued state of agitation following the definite shock received Either by spirit (μητε δια πνευματος — mēte dia pneumatos). By ecstatic utterance (1 Thessalonians 5:10). The nervous fear that the coming was to be at once prohibited by μηδε — mēde Paul divides into three sources by μητε μητε μητε — mēte, μητε δια λογου — mēteμητε δι επιστολης ως δι ημων — mēte No individual claim to divine revelation (the gift of prophecy) can justify the statement. Or by word Oral statement of a conversation with Paul (Lightfoot) to this effect as from us. An easy way to set aside Paul‘s first Epistle by report of a private remark from Paul. Or by epistle as from us (ενιστημι — mēte di' epistolēs hōs di' hēmōn). In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 Paul had plainly said that Jesus would come as a thief in the night and had shown that the dead would not be left out in the rapture. But evidently some one claimed to have a private epistle from Paul which supported the view that Jesus was coming at once, as that the day of the Lord is now present (τα ενεστωτα — hōs hoti enestēken hē hēmera tou kuriou). Perfect active indicative of τα μελλοντα — enistēmi old verb, to place in, but intransitive in this tense to stand in or at or near. So “is imminent” (Lightfoot). The verb is common in the papyri. In 1 Corinthians 3:22; Romans 8:38 we have a contrast between ως οτι — ta enestōta the things present, and ta mellonta the things future (to come). The use of hōs hoti may be disparaging here, though that is not true in 2 Corinthians 5:19. In the Koiné{[28928]}š it comes in the vernacular to mean simply “that” (Moulton, Proleg., p. 212), but that hardly seems the case in the N.T. (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1033). Here it means “to wit that,” though “as that” or “as if” does not miss it much. Certainly it flatly denies that by conversation or by letter he had stated that the second coming was immediately at hand. “It is this misleading assertion that accounts both for the increased discouragement of the faint-hearted to encourage whom Paul writes 1:3-2:17, and for the increased meddlesomeness of the idle brethren to warn whom Paul writes 3:1-18” (Frame). It is enough to give one pause to note Paul‘s indignation over this use of his name by one of the over-zealous advocates of the view that Christ was coming at once. It is true that Paul was still alive, but, if such a “pious fraud” was so common and easily condoned as some today argue, it is difficult to explain Paul‘s evident anger. Moreover, Paul‘s words should make us hesitate to affirm that Paul definitely proclaimed the early return of Jesus. He hoped for it undoubtedly, but he did not specifically proclaim it as so many today assert and accuse him of misleading the early Christians with a false presentation. [source]
From your mind [απο του νοος]
Ablative case of nous, mind, reason, sober sense, “from your witte” (Wycliffe), to “keep their heads.” [source]
Nor yet be troubled [μηδε τροεισται]
Old verb τροεω — throeō to cry aloud (from τροος — throos clamour, tumult), to be in a state of nervous excitement (present passive infinitive, as if it were going on), “a continued state of agitation following the definite shock received Either by spirit (μητε δια πνευματος — mēte dia pneumatos). By ecstatic utterance (1 Thessalonians 5:10). The nervous fear that the coming was to be at once prohibited by μηδε — mēde Paul divides into three sources by μητε μητε μητε — mēte, μητε δια λογου — mēteμητε δι επιστολης ως δι ημων — mēte No individual claim to divine revelation (the gift of prophecy) can justify the statement. Or by word Oral statement of a conversation with Paul (Lightfoot) to this effect as from us. An easy way to set aside Paul‘s first Epistle by report of a private remark from Paul. Or by epistle as from us (ενιστημι — mēte di' epistolēs hōs di' hēmōn). In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 Paul had plainly said that Jesus would come as a thief in the night and had shown that the dead would not be left out in the rapture. But evidently some one claimed to have a private epistle from Paul which supported the view that Jesus was coming at once, as that the day of the Lord is now present (τα ενεστωτα — hōs hoti enestēken hē hēmera tou kuriou). Perfect active indicative of τα μελλοντα — enistēmi old verb, to place in, but intransitive in this tense to stand in or at or near. So “is imminent” (Lightfoot). The verb is common in the papyri. In 1 Corinthians 3:22; Romans 8:38 we have a contrast between ως οτι — ta enestōta the things present, and ta mellonta the things future (to come). The use of hōs hoti may be disparaging here, though that is not true in 2 Corinthians 5:19. In the Koiné{[28928]}š it comes in the vernacular to mean simply “that” (Moulton, Proleg., p. 212), but that hardly seems the case in the N.T. (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1033). Here it means “to wit that,” though “as that” or “as if” does not miss it much. Certainly it flatly denies that by conversation or by letter he had stated that the second coming was immediately at hand. “It is this misleading assertion that accounts both for the increased discouragement of the faint-hearted to encourage whom Paul writes 1:3-2:17, and for the increased meddlesomeness of the idle brethren to warn whom Paul writes 3:1-18” (Frame). It is enough to give one pause to note Paul‘s indignation over this use of his name by one of the over-zealous advocates of the view that Christ was coming at once. It is true that Paul was still alive, but, if such a “pious fraud” was so common and easily condoned as some today argue, it is difficult to explain Paul‘s evident anger. Moreover, Paul‘s words should make us hesitate to affirm that Paul definitely proclaimed the early return of Jesus. He hoped for it undoubtedly, but he did not specifically proclaim it as so many today assert and accuse him of misleading the early Christians with a false presentation. [source]
Either by spirit [μητε δια πνευματος]
By ecstatic utterance (1 Thessalonians 5:10). The nervous fear that the coming was to be at once prohibited by μηδε — mēde Paul divides into three sources by μητε μητε μητε — mēte, μητε δια λογου — mēteμητε δι επιστολης ως δι ημων — mēte No individual claim to divine revelation (the gift of prophecy) can justify the statement. [source]
Or by word [ως οτι ενεστηκεν η ημερα του κυριου]
Oral statement of a conversation with Paul (Lightfoot) to this effect as from us. An easy way to set aside Paul‘s first Epistle by report of a private remark from Paul. Or by epistle as from us (ενιστημι — mēte di' epistolēs hōs di' hēmōn). In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 Paul had plainly said that Jesus would come as a thief in the night and had shown that the dead would not be left out in the rapture. But evidently some one claimed to have a private epistle from Paul which supported the view that Jesus was coming at once, as that the day of the Lord is now present (τα ενεστωτα — hōs hoti enestēken hē hēmera tou kuriou). Perfect active indicative of τα μελλοντα — enistēmi old verb, to place in, but intransitive in this tense to stand in or at or near. So “is imminent” (Lightfoot). The verb is common in the papyri. In 1 Corinthians 3:22; Romans 8:38 we have a contrast between ως οτι — ta enestōta the things present, and ta mellonta the things future (to come). The use of hōs hoti may be disparaging here, though that is not true in 2 Corinthians 5:19. In the Koiné{[28928]}š it comes in the vernacular to mean simply “that” (Moulton, Proleg., p. 212), but that hardly seems the case in the N.T. (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1033). Here it means “to wit that,” though “as that” or “as if” does not miss it much. Certainly it flatly denies that by conversation or by letter he had stated that the second coming was immediately at hand. “It is this misleading assertion that accounts both for the increased discouragement of the faint-hearted to encourage whom Paul writes 1:3-2:17, and for the increased meddlesomeness of the idle brethren to warn whom Paul writes 3:1-18” (Frame). It is enough to give one pause to note Paul‘s indignation over this use of his name by one of the over-zealous advocates of the view that Christ was coming at once. It is true that Paul was still alive, but, if such a “pious fraud” was so common and easily condoned as some today argue, it is difficult to explain Paul‘s evident anger. Moreover, Paul‘s words should make us hesitate to affirm that Paul definitely proclaimed the early return of Jesus. He hoped for it undoubtedly, but he did not specifically proclaim it as so many today assert and accuse him of misleading the early Christians with a false presentation. [source]
as from us []
. An easy way to set aside Paul‘s first Epistle by report of a private remark from Paul. Or by epistle as from us (ενιστημι — mēte di' epistolēs hōs di' hēmōn). In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 Paul had plainly said that Jesus would come as a thief in the night and had shown that the dead would not be left out in the rapture. But evidently some one claimed to have a private epistle from Paul which supported the view that Jesus was coming at once, as that the day of the Lord is now present (τα ενεστωτα — hōs hoti enestēken hē hēmera tou kuriou). Perfect active indicative of τα μελλοντα — enistēmi old verb, to place in, but intransitive in this tense to stand in or at or near. So “is imminent” (Lightfoot). The verb is common in the papyri. In 1 Corinthians 3:22; Romans 8:38 we have a contrast between ως οτι — ta enestōta the things present, and ta mellonta the things future (to come). The use of hōs hoti may be disparaging here, though that is not true in 2 Corinthians 5:19. In the Koiné{[28928]}š it comes in the vernacular to mean simply “that” (Moulton, Proleg., p. 212), but that hardly seems the case in the N.T. (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1033). Here it means “to wit that,” though “as that” or “as if” does not miss it much. Certainly it flatly denies that by conversation or by letter he had stated that the second coming was immediately at hand. “It is this misleading assertion that accounts both for the increased discouragement of the faint-hearted to encourage whom Paul writes 1:3-2:17, and for the increased meddlesomeness of the idle brethren to warn whom Paul writes 3:1-18” (Frame). It is enough to give one pause to note Paul‘s indignation over this use of his name by one of the over-zealous advocates of the view that Christ was coming at once. It is true that Paul was still alive, but, if such a “pious fraud” was so common and easily condoned as some today argue, it is difficult to explain Paul‘s evident anger. Moreover, Paul‘s words should make us hesitate to affirm that Paul definitely proclaimed the early return of Jesus. He hoped for it undoubtedly, but he did not specifically proclaim it as so many today assert and accuse him of misleading the early Christians with a false presentation. [source]
Or by epistle as from us [ενιστημι]
In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 Paul had plainly said that Jesus would come as a thief in the night and had shown that the dead would not be left out in the rapture. But evidently some one claimed to have a private epistle from Paul which supported the view that Jesus was coming at once, as that the day of the Lord is now present Perfect active indicative of τα μελλοντα — enistēmi old verb, to place in, but intransitive in this tense to stand in or at or near. So “is imminent” (Lightfoot). The verb is common in the papyri. In 1 Corinthians 3:22; Romans 8:38 we have a contrast between ως οτι — ta enestōta the things present, and ta mellonta the things future (to come). The use of hōs hoti may be disparaging here, though that is not true in 2 Corinthians 5:19. In the Koiné{[28928]}š it comes in the vernacular to mean simply “that” (Moulton, Proleg., p. 212), but that hardly seems the case in the N.T. (Robertson, Grammar, p. 1033). Here it means “to wit that,” though “as that” or “as if” does not miss it much. Certainly it flatly denies that by conversation or by letter he had stated that the second coming was immediately at hand. “It is this misleading assertion that accounts both for the increased discouragement of the faint-hearted to encourage whom Paul writes 1:3-2:17, and for the increased meddlesomeness of the idle brethren to warn whom Paul writes 3:1-18” (Frame). It is enough to give one pause to note Paul‘s indignation over this use of his name by one of the over-zealous advocates of the view that Christ was coming at once. It is true that Paul was still alive, but, if such a “pious fraud” was so common and easily condoned as some today argue, it is difficult to explain Paul‘s evident anger. Moreover, Paul‘s words should make us hesitate to affirm that Paul definitely proclaimed the early return of Jesus. He hoped for it undoubtedly, but he did not specifically proclaim it as so many today assert and accuse him of misleading the early Christians with a false presentation. [source]
Shaken [σαλευθῆναι]
From σάλος the tossing or swell of the sea. See Luke 21:25. Comp. Matthew 11:7; Matthew 24:29; Acts 4:31; Hebrews 12:26. [source]
In mind [ἀπὸ τοῦ νοὸς]
More correctly, from your mind. Νοῦς signifies the judgment, sober sense. Comp. 1 Corinthians 14:15, and see on Romans 7:23. They are to “keep their heads” under the temptation to fanatical extravagances concerning the Lord's appearing. [source]
Be troubled [θρεῖσθαι]
From θροός clamor, tumult. The meaning is be unsettled or thrown into confusion. [source]
By spirit [διὰ πνεύματος]
By prophetic utterances of individuals in Christian assemblies, claiming the authority of divine revelations. [source]
By word [διὰ λόγου]
Oral expressions falsely imputed to Paul. [source]
By letter as from us [δἰ ἐπιστολῆς ὡς δἰ ἡμῶν]
Const. as from us with word and letter. The reference is to a letter or letters forged in Paul's name; not to the first Thessalonian Epistle, as misunderstood by the readers. [source]
As that [ὡς ὅτι]
Indicating the contents of such communications. [source]
Is at hand [ἐνέστηκεν]
Better than Rev. is now present. Lightfoot, happily, is imminent. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for 2 Thessalonians 2:2

Matthew 24:6 See that ye be not troubled [ορατε μη τροειστε]
Asyndeton here with these two imperatives as Mark 8:15 ορατε βλεπετε — orate blepete (Robertson, Grammar, p. 949). Look out for the wars and rumours of wars, but do not be scared out of your wits by them. Τροεω — Throeō means to cry aloud, to scream, and in the passive to be terrified by an outcry. Paul uses this very verb (μηδε τροεισται — mēde throeisthai) in 2 Thessalonians 2:2 as a warning against excitement over false reports that he had predicted the immediate second coming of Christ. [source]
1 Corinthians 7:26 By reason of the present distress [δια την ενεστωσαν αναγκην]
The participle ενεστωσαν — enestōsan is second perfect active of ενιστημι — enistēmi and means “standing on” or “present” (cf. Galatians 1:4; Hebrews 9:9). It occurs in 2 Thessalonians 2:2 of the advent of Christ as not “present.” Whether Paul has in mind the hoped for second coming of Jesus in this verse we do not certainly know, though probably so. Jesus had spoken of those calamities which would precede his coming (Matthew 24:8.) though Paul had denied saying that the advent was right at hand (2 Thessalonians 2:2). Αναγκη — Anagkē is a strong word (old and common), either for external circumstances or inward sense of duty. It occurs elsewhere for the woes preceding the second coming (Luke 21:23) and also for Paul‘s persecutions (1 Thessalonians 3:7; 2 Corinthians 6:4; 2 Corinthians 12:10). Perhaps there is a mingling of both ideas here. Namely. This word is not in the Greek. The infinitive of indirect discourse (υπαρχειν — huparchein) after νομιζω — nomizō is repeated with recitative οτι — hoti “That the being so is good for a man” (οτι καλον αντρωπωι το ουτως ειναι — hoti kalon anthrōpōi to houtōs einai). The use of the article το — to with ειναι — einai compels this translation. Probably Paul means for one (αντρωπωι — anthrōpōi generic term for man or woman) to remain as he is whether married or unmarried. The copula εστιν — estin is not expressed. He uses καλον — kalon (good) as in 1 Corinthians 7:1. [source]
2 Corinthians 5:19 To wit, that [ως οτι]
Latin puts it quoniam quidem. It is an unclassical idiom, but occurs in the papyri and inscriptions (Moulton, Prol., p. 212; Robertson, Grammar, p. 1033). It is in Esther 4:14. See also 2 Corinthians 11:21; 2 Thessalonians 2:2. It probably means “how that.” [source]
Galatians 1:4 Out of this present evil world [ἐκ τοῦ αἰῶνος τοῦ ἐνεστῶτος πονηροῦ]
Lit. out of the world, the present (world which is ) evil. For αἰών ageor period, see John 1:9, and additional note on 2 Thessalonians 1:9. Here it has an ethical sense, the course and current of this world's affairs as corrupted by sin. Comp. 2 Corinthians 4:4. Ἑνεστῶτος , present, as contrasted with the world to come. Elsewhere we have ὁ νῦν αἰών thenow world (1 Timothy 6:17); ὁ αἰὼν τοῦκοσμοῦ theperiod of this world (Ephesians 2:2); ὁ αἰὼν οὗτος thisworld or age (Romans 7:2). Ἑνεστῶτος , not impending, as some expositors, - the period of wickedness and suffering preceding the parousia (2 Thessalonians 2:3), which would imply a limitation of Christ's atoning work to that period. Comp. 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 2 Timothy 3:1; 1 Corinthians 7:26. The sense of present as related to future is clear in Romans 8:38; 1 Corinthians 3:22; Hebrews 9:9. For the evil character of the present world as conceived by Paul, see Romans 12:2; 1 Corinthians 2:6; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Ephesians 2:2. [source]
Philippians 1:6 Until the day of Jesus Christ [αχρι ημερας Χριστου Ιησου]
The second coming as in Phlippians 1:10. See note on 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 2 Corinthians 1:14; Romans 13:12. Paul never sets the time for the Lord‘s return, but he is cheered by that blessed hope. [source]
Philippians 1:6 This very thing [αυτο τουτο]
Accusative of the inner object with πεποιτως — pepoithōs “this thing itself.” Will perfect it (επιτελεσει — epitelesei). Future active indicative of επιτελεω — epiteleō will fully (επι — epi̇) finish. God began and God will consummate it (see note on 2 Corinthians 8:6 and note on Galatians 3:3 where both words occur together as here), but not without their cooperation and partnership. Until the day of Jesus Christ The second coming as in Phlippians 1:10. See note on 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:18; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 2 Corinthians 1:14; Romans 13:12. Paul never sets the time for the Lord‘s return, but he is cheered by that blessed hope. [source]
1 Thessalonians 5:27 I charge [ἐνορκίζω]
N.T.oRev. stronger and more literal, I adjure. oClass. This strong appeal may perhaps be explained by a suspicion on Paul's part that a wrong use might be made of his name and authority (see 2 Thessalonians 2:2), so that it was important that his views should be made known to all. Lightfoot refers to 2 Thessalonians 3:17, as showing a similar feeling in his anxiety to authenticate his letter. [source]
1 Thessalonians 5:21 Prove all things [πάντα δοκιμάζετε]
A general exhortation, not confined to prophesyings; but Paul elsewhere insists that a test be applied to phenomena which claim to be supernatural. See on discerning of spirits, 1 Corinthians 12:10; see on 1 Corinthians 14:29, and comp. 2 Thessalonians 2:2, and 1 John 4:1-3. For δοκιμάζετε prove, see on 1 Peter 1:7. In lxx, Proverbs 27:21; Psalm 11:6, δοκίμιον is a crucible or furnace. [source]
1 Thessalonians 5:2 The day of the Lord [ἡμέρα κυρίου]
The day of Christ's second coming. In Paul's Epistles this is expressed by ἡ ἡμέρα theday, absolutely, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 3:13; Romans 13:12: ἡ ἡμέρα ἐκείνη thatday, 2 Thessalonians 1:10: ἡμέρα χριστοῦ theday of Christ, Philemon 1:10; Philemon 2:16: ἡμέρα κυρίου or τοῦ κυρίου dayof the Lord, 1 Corinthians 5:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:2: ἡμέρα τοῦ κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἱησοῦ ( Χριστοῦ ), 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14. These expressions refer to a definite time when the Lord is expected to appear, and Paul expects this appearance soon. Attempts to evade this by referring such expressions to the day of death, or to the advance toward perfection after death until the final judgment, are forced, and are shaped by dogmatic conceptions of the nature of Biblical inspiration. In the O.T. the phrase day of the Lord denotes a time in which God will conspicuously manifest his power and goodness or his penal justice. See Isaiah 2:12; Ezekiel 13:5; Joel 1:15; Joel 2:11; and comp. Romans 2:5. The whole class of phrases is rare in N.T. outside of Paul's Epistles. [source]
1 Thessalonians 1:1 Unto the church of the Thessalonians [τηι εκκλησιαι Τεσσαλονικεων]
The dative case in address. Note absence of the article with Τεσσαλονικεων — Thessalonikeōn because a proper name and so definite without it. This is the common use of εκκλησια — ekklēsia for a local body (church). The word originally meant “assembly” as in Acts 19:39, but it came to mean an organization for worship whether assembled or unassembled (cf. Acts 8:3). The only superscription in the oldest Greek manuscripts (Aleph B A) is Προς Τεσσαλονικεις Α — Pros Thessalonikeis A (To the Thessalonians First). But probably Paul wrote no superscription and certainly he would not write A to it before he had written II Thessalonians (B). His signature at the close was the proof of genuineness (2 Thessalonians 3:17) against all spurious claimants (2 Thessalonians 2:2). Unfortunately the brittle papyrus on which he wrote easily perished outside of the sand heaps and tombs of Egypt or the lava covered ruins of Herculaneum. What a treasure that autograph would be! In God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (εν τεωι πατρι και κυριωι ησου Χριστωι — en theōi patri kai kuriōi Jēsou Christōi). This church is grounded in (εν — en with the locative case) and exists in the sphere and power of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. No article in the Greek, for both τεωι πατρι — theōi patri and κυριωι ησου Χριστωι — kuriōi Jēsou Christōi are treated as proper names. In the very beginning of this first Epistle of Paul we meet his Christology. He at once uses the full title, “Lord Jesus Christ,” with all the theological content of each word. The name “Jesus” (Saviour, Matthew 1:21) he knew, as the “Jesus of history,” the personal name of the Man of Galilee, whom he had once persecuted (Acts 9:5), but whom he at once, after his conversion, proclaimed to be “the Messiah,” This position Paul never changed. In the great sermon at Antioch in Pisidia which Luke has preserved (Acts 13:23) Paul proved that God fulfilled his promise to Israel by raising up “Jesus as Saviour” Now Paul follows the Christian custom by adding Χριστος — Christos (verbal from χριω — chriō to anoint) as a proper name to Jesus (Jesus Christ) as later he will often say “Christ Jesus” (Colossians 1:1). And he dares also to apply κυριος — kurios (Lord) to “Jesus Christ,” the word appropriated by Claudius (Dominus, Κυριος — Kurios) and other emperors in the emperor-worship, and also common in the Septuagint for God as in Psalm 32:1. (quoted by Paul in Romans 4:8). Paul uses Κυριος — Kurios of God (1 Corinthians 3:5) or of Jesus Christ as here. In fact, he more frequently applies it to Christ when not quoting the Old Testament as in Romans 4:8. And here he places “the Lord Jesus Christ” in the same category and on the same plane with “God the father.” There will be growth in Paul‘s Christology and he will never attain all the knowledge of Christ for which he longs (Philemon 3:10-12), but it is patent that here in his first Epistle there is no “reduced Christ” for Paul. He took Jesus as “Lord” when he surrendered to Jesus on the Damascus Road: “And I said, What shall I do, Lord? And the Lord said to me” (Acts 22:10). It is impossible to understand Paul without seeing clearly this first and final stand for the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul did not get this view of Jesus from current views of Mithra or of Isis or any other alien faith. The Risen Christ became at once for Paul the Lord of his life. Grace to you and peace (χαρις υμιν και ειρηνη — charis humin kai eirēnē). These words, common in Paul‘s Epistles, bear “the stamp of Paul‘s experience” (Milligan). They are not commonplace salutations, but the old words “deepened and spiritualised” (Frame). The infinitive (χαιρειν — chairein) so common in the papyri letters and seen in the New Testament also (Acts 15:23; Acts 23:26; James 1:1) here gives place to χαρις — charis one of the great words of the New Testament (cf. John 1:16.) and particularly of the Pauline Epistles. Perhaps no one word carries more meaning for Paul‘s messages than this word χαρις — charis (from χαιρω — chairō rejoice) from which χαριζομαι — charizomai comes. Peace This introduction is brief, but rich and gracious and pitches the letter at once on a high plane. [source]
2 Thessalonians 2:15 Traditions [παραδόσεις]
See on 1 Corinthians 11:2. Not emphasizing a distinction between written and oral tradition. Tradition, in the scriptural sense, may be either written or oral. It implies on the part of a teacher that he is not expressing his own ideas, but is delivering or handing over ( παραδίδωμι ) a message received from some one else. See 1 Corinthians 11:23. The prominent idea of παράδοσις is therefore that of an authority external to the teacher. Comp. by word nor by letter, 2 Thessalonians 2:2. [source]
2 Thessalonians 3:17 The token in every epistle [σημειον εν πασηι επιστοληι]
Mark (2 Thessalonians 3:14) and proof of the genuineness of each epistle, Paul‘s signature. Already there were spurious forgeries (2 Thessalonians 2:2). Thus each church was enabled to know that Paul wrote the letter. If only the autograph copy could be found! [source]
2 Thessalonians 2:3 For it will not be [οτι]
There is an ellipse here of ουκ εσται — ouk estai (or γενησεται — genēsetai) to be supplied after οτι — hoti Westcott and Hort make an anacoluthon at the end of 2 Thessalonians 2:4. The meaning is clear. οτι — Hoti is causal, because, but the verb is understood. The second coming not only is not “imminent,” but will not take place before certain important things take place, a definite rebuff to the false enthusiasts of 2 Thessalonians 2:2. Except the falling away come first (εαν μη ελτηι η αποστασια πρωτον — ean mē elthēi hē apostasia prōton). Negative condition of the third class, undetermined with prospect of determination and the aorist subjunctive. Αποστασια — Apostasia is the late form of αποστασις — apostasis and is our word apostasy. Plutarch uses it of political revolt and it occurs in 1 Maccabees 2:15 about Antiochus Epiphanes who was enforcing the apostasy from Judaism to Hellenism. In Joshua 22:22 it occurs for rebellion against the Lord. It seems clear that the word here means a religious revolt and the use of the definite article (η — hē) seems to mean that Paul had spoken to the Thessalonians about it. The only other New Testament use of the word is in Acts 21:21 where it means apostasy from Moses. It is not clear whether Paul means revolt of the Jews from God, of Gentiles from God, of Christians from God, or of the apostasy that includes all classes within and without the body of Christians. But it is to be first (πρωτον — prōton) before Christ comes again. Note this adverb when only two events are compared (cf. Acts 1:1). And the man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition First aorist passive subjunctive after εαν μη — ean mē and same condition as with ελτηι — elthēi The use of this verb αποκαλυπτω — apokaluptō like αποκαλυπσιν — apokalupsin of the second coming in 2 Thessalonians 1:7, seems to note the superhuman character (Milligan) of the event and the same verb is repeated in 2 Thessalonians 2:6, 2 Thessalonians 2:8. The implication is that the man of sin is hidden somewhere who will be suddenly manifested just as false apostles pose as angels of light (2 Corinthians 11:13.), whether the crowning event of the apostasy or another name for the same event. Lightfoot notes the parallel between the man of sin, of whom sin is the special characteristic (genitive case, a Hebraism for the lawless one in 2 Thessalonians 2:8) and Christ. Both Christ and the adversary of Christ are revealed, there is mystery about each, both make divine claims (2 Thessalonians 2:4). He seems to be the Antichrist of 1 John 2:18. The terrible phrase, the son of perdition, is applied to Judas in John 17:12 (like Judas doomed to perdition), but here to the lawless one (ο ανομος — ho anomos 2 Thessalonians 2:8), who is not Satan, but some one definite person who is doing the work of Satan. Note the definite article each time. [source]
1 Timothy 4:1 Expressly [ρητως]
Late adverb, here alone in N.T., from verbal adjective ρητος — rētos (from root ρεω — reō). The reference is to the Holy Spirit, but whether to O.T. prophecy (Acts 1:16) or to some Christian utterance (2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 14:1.) we do not know. Parry recalls the words of Jesus in Matthew 24:10, Matthew 24:24. [source]
2 Timothy 1:12 That day [ἐκείνην τὴν ἡμέραν]
The day of Christ's second appearing. See on 1 Thessalonians 5:2. In this sense the phrase occurs in the N.T. Epistles only 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; but often in the Gospels, as Matthew 7:22; Matthew 26:29; Mark 13:32, etc. The day of the Lord's appearing is designated by Paul as ἡ ἡμέρα , absolutely, the day, Romans 13:12; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 1 Thessalonians 5:4: ἡμέρα τοῦ κυρίου theday of the Lord, 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14; 1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:2: the day of Jesus Christ or Christ, Philemon 1:6, Philemon 1:10; Philemon 2:16day when God shall judge, Romans 2:16: the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, Romans 2:5: the day of redemption, Ephesians 4:30. [source]
2 Timothy 1:12 Against that day [εις εκεινην την ημεραν]
The day of Christ‘s second coming. See also 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8; 2 Thessalonians 1:10, and often in the Gospels. Elsewhere, the day of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14), the day of Christ or Jesus Christ (Philemon 1:6, Philemon 1:10; Philemon 2:16), the day (1 Thessalonians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 3:13; Romans 13:12), the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:20), the day of judgment (Romans 2:5, Romans 2:16). [source]
2 Timothy 3:1 In the last days [εν εσχαταις ημεραις]
See note on James 5:3 and 1 Timothy 4:1. Grievous (χαλεποι — chalepoi). Hard. See Ephesians 5:16. Shall come Future middle of ενιστημι — enistēmi (intransitive use), old verb, to stand on or be at hand, as in 2 Thessalonians 2:2. [source]
2 Timothy 3:1 Shall come [ενστησονται]
Future middle of ενιστημι — enistēmi (intransitive use), old verb, to stand on or be at hand, as in 2 Thessalonians 2:2. [source]
2 Timothy 1:12 Yet I am not ashamed [αλλ ουκ επαισχυνομαι]
Plain reference to the exhortation to Timothy in 2 Timothy 1:8. Him whom I have believed (ωι πεπιστευκα — hōi pepisteuka). Dative case of the relative (ωι — hōi) with the perfect active of πιστευω — pisteuō the antecedent to the relative not expressed. It is not an indirect question. Paul knows Jesus Christ whom he has trusted. I am persuaded See 2 Timothy 1:5. To guard (πυλαχαι — phulaxai). First aorist active infinitive of πυλασσω — phulassō the very word used in 1 Timothy 6:20 with παρατηκην — parathēkēn as here, to guard against robbery or any loss. That which I have committed unto him Literally, “my deposit,” as in a bank, the bank of heaven which no burglar can break (Matthew 6:19.). See this word also in 2 Timothy 1:14. Some MSS. have the more common παρακατατηκη — parakatathēkē (a sort of double deposit, παρα — para beside, down, κατα — kata). Against that day (εις εκεινην την ημεραν — eis ekeinēn tēn hēmeran). The day of Christ‘s second coming. See also 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8; 2 Thessalonians 1:10, and often in the Gospels. Elsewhere, the day of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14), the day of Christ or Jesus Christ (Philemon 1:6, Philemon 1:10; Philemon 2:16), the day (1 Thessalonians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 3:13; Romans 13:12), the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:20), the day of judgment (Romans 2:5, Romans 2:16). [source]
2 Timothy 1:12 I am persuaded [πεπεισμαι]
See 2 Timothy 1:5. To guard (πυλαχαι — phulaxai). First aorist active infinitive of πυλασσω — phulassō the very word used in 1 Timothy 6:20 with παρατηκην — parathēkēn as here, to guard against robbery or any loss. That which I have committed unto him Literally, “my deposit,” as in a bank, the bank of heaven which no burglar can break (Matthew 6:19.). See this word also in 2 Timothy 1:14. Some MSS. have the more common παρακατατηκη — parakatathēkē (a sort of double deposit, παρα — para beside, down, κατα — kata). Against that day (εις εκεινην την ημεραν — eis ekeinēn tēn hēmeran). The day of Christ‘s second coming. See also 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8; 2 Thessalonians 1:10, and often in the Gospels. Elsewhere, the day of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14), the day of Christ or Jesus Christ (Philemon 1:6, Philemon 1:10; Philemon 2:16), the day (1 Thessalonians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 3:13; Romans 13:12), the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:20), the day of judgment (Romans 2:5, Romans 2:16). [source]
2 Timothy 1:12 That which I have committed unto him [την παρατηκην μου]
Literally, “my deposit,” as in a bank, the bank of heaven which no burglar can break (Matthew 6:19.). See this word also in 2 Timothy 1:14. Some MSS. have the more common παρακατατηκη — parakatathēkē (a sort of double deposit, παρα — para beside, down, κατα — kata). Against that day (εις εκεινην την ημεραν — eis ekeinēn tēn hēmeran). The day of Christ‘s second coming. See also 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8; 2 Thessalonians 1:10, and often in the Gospels. Elsewhere, the day of the Lord (1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14), the day of Christ or Jesus Christ (Philemon 1:6, Philemon 1:10; Philemon 2:16), the day (1 Thessalonians 5:4; 1 Corinthians 3:13; Romans 13:12), the day of redemption (Ephesians 4:20), the day of judgment (Romans 2:5, Romans 2:16). [source]
1 Peter 4:7 But the end of all things is at hand [παντων δε το τελος ηγγικεν]
Perfect active indicative of εγγιζω — eggizō to draw near, common late verb (from εγγυς — eggus), same form used by the Baptist of the Messiah‘s arrival (Matthew 3:2) and by James in James 5:8 (of the second coming). How near Peter does not say, but he urges readiness (1 Peter 1:5.; 1 Peter 4:6) as Jesus did (Mark 14:38) and Paul (1 Thessalonians 5:6), though it is drawing nearer all the time (Romans 12:11), but not at once (2 Thessalonians 2:2). [source]
2 Peter 3:10 The day of the Lord [ημερα κυριου]
So Peter in Acts 2:20 (from Joel 3:4) and Paul in 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:4; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 5:5; and day of Christ in Philemon 2:16 and day of God in 2 Peter 2:12 and day of judgment already in 2 Peter 2:9; 2 Peter 3:7. This great day will certainly come Future active of ηκω — hēkō old verb, to arrive, but in God‘s own time. [source]
Revelation 17:9 The mind [ὁ νοῦς]
I. Νοῦς is the organ of mental perception and apprehension - of conscious life, the mind, comprising the faculties of perceiving and understanding, of feeling, judging, determining. (a) The intellectual faculty or understanding (Luke 24:45). So here, according to some. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
(b) The reason, regarded as the faculty of perceiving divine things: of recognizing goodness and hating evil (Romans 1:28; Romans 7:23; Ephesians 4:17). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
(c) The power of calm and impartial judgment (2 Thessalonians 2:2). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
II. Νοῦς isa particular mode of thinking and judging: moral consciousness as a habit of mind or opinion. Hence thoughts, feelings, purposes (Romans 14:5; 1 Corinthians 1:10). Some render here meaning. [source]

Revelation 1:10 On the Lord's day [ἐν κυριακῇ ἡμέρᾳ]
The phrase occurs only here in the New Testament. The first day of the week, the festival of the Lord's resurrection. Not, as some, the day of judgment, which in the New Testament is expressed by ἡ ἡμέρα τοῦ Κυρίου theday of the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2:2); or ἡμέρα Κυρίου theday of the Lord, the article being omitted (2 Peter 3:10); or ἡμέρα Χριστοῦ theday of Christ (Philemon 2:16). The usual New Testament expression for the first day of the week is ἡ μία τῶν σαββάτων (Luke 24:1; see on Acts 20:7). [source]
Revelation 16:14 Unto the war of the great day of God, the Almighty [εις τον πολεμον της ημερας της μεγαλης του τεου του παντοκρατορος]
Some take this to be war between nations, like Mark 13:8, but it is more likely war against God (Psalm 2:2) and probably the battle pictured in Revelation 17:14; Revelation 19:19. Cf. 2 Peter 3:12, “the day of God,” his reckoning with the nations. See Joel 2:11; Joel 3:4. Paul uses “that day” for the day of the Lord Jesus (the Parousia) as in 1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14; Philemon 1:6; Philemon 2:16; 2 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8. [source]
Revelation 16:14 Working signs [ποιουντα σημεια]
“Doing signs” (present active participle of ποιεω — poieō). The Egyptian magicians wrought “signs” (tricks), as did Simon Magus and later Apollonius of Tyana. Houdini claimed that he could reproduce every trick of the spiritualistic mediums.Which go forth (α εκπορευεται — ha ekporeuetai). Singular verb with neuter plural (collective) subject.Unto the kings The three evil spirits (dragon and the two beasts) spur on the kings of the whole world to a real world war. “There have been times when nations have been seized by a passion for war which the historian can but imperfectly explain” (Swete).To gather them together (συναγαγειν — sunagagein). Second aorist active infinitive of συναγω — sunagō to express purpose (that of the unclean spirits).Unto the war of the great day of God, the Almighty Some take this to be war between nations, like Mark 13:8, but it is more likely war against God (Psalm 2:2) and probably the battle pictured in Revelation 17:14; Revelation 19:19. Cf. 2 Peter 3:12, “the day of God,” his reckoning with the nations. See Joel 2:11; Joel 3:4. Paul uses “that day” for the day of the Lord Jesus (the Parousia) as in 1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14; Philemon 1:6; Philemon 2:16; 2 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8. [source]
Revelation 16:14 Unto the kings [επι τους βασιλεις]
The three evil spirits (dragon and the two beasts) spur on the kings of the whole world to a real world war. “There have been times when nations have been seized by a passion for war which the historian can but imperfectly explain” (Swete).To gather them together (συναγαγειν — sunagagein). Second aorist active infinitive of συναγω — sunagō to express purpose (that of the unclean spirits).Unto the war of the great day of God, the Almighty Some take this to be war between nations, like Mark 13:8, but it is more likely war against God (Psalm 2:2) and probably the battle pictured in Revelation 17:14; Revelation 19:19. Cf. 2 Peter 3:12, “the day of God,” his reckoning with the nations. See Joel 2:11; Joel 3:4. Paul uses “that day” for the day of the Lord Jesus (the Parousia) as in 1 Thessalonians 5:2; 2 Thessalonians 1:10; 2 Thessalonians 2:2; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:14; Philemon 1:6; Philemon 2:16; 2 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 4:8. [source]

What do the individual words in 2 Thessalonians 2:2 mean?

for - not quickly to be shaken you in - mind nor to be troubled neither by spirit nor word by letter as if us as that is present the day of the Lord
εἰς τὸ μὴ ταχέως σαλευθῆναι ὑμᾶς ἀπὸ τοῦ νοὸς μηδὲ θροεῖσθαι μήτε διὰ πνεύματος μήτε λόγου δι’ ἐπιστολῆς ὡς ἡμῶν ὡς ὅτι ἐνέστηκεν ἡμέρα τοῦ Κυρίου

τὸ  - 
Parse: Article, Accusative Neuter Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
ταχέως  quickly 
Parse: Adverb
Root: ταχέως  
Sense: quickly, shortly.
σαλευθῆναι  to  be  shaken 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Infinitive Passive
Root: σαλεύω  
Sense: a motion produced by winds, storms, waves, etc.
τοῦ  - 
Parse: Article, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
νοὸς  mind 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: νοῦς  
Sense: the mind, comprising alike the faculties of perceiving and understanding and those of feeling, judging, determining.
μηδὲ  nor 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: μηδέ  
Sense: and not, but not, nor, not.
θροεῖσθαι  to  be  troubled 
Parse: Verb, Present Infinitive Middle or Passive
Root: θροέω  
Sense: to cry aloud, make a noise by outcry.
μήτε  neither 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: μήτε  
Sense: and not, neither … nor, not so.
πνεύματος  spirit 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Neuter Singular
Root: πνεῦμα  
Sense: a movement of air (a gentle blast.
μήτε  nor 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: μήτε  
Sense: and not, neither … nor, not so.
λόγου  word 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: λόγος  
Sense: of speech.
ἐπιστολῆς  letter 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: ἐπιστολή  
Sense: a letter, epistle.
ὡς  as  if 
Parse: Adverb
Root: ὡς 
Sense: as, like, even as, etc.
ἡμῶν  us 
Parse: Personal / Possessive Pronoun, Genitive 1st Person Plural
Root: ἐγώ  
Sense: I, me, my.
ὅτι  that 
Parse: Conjunction
Root: ὅτι  
Sense: that, because, since.
ἐνέστηκεν  is  present 
Parse: Verb, Perfect Indicative Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: ἐνίστημι  
Sense: to place in or among, to put in.
ἡμέρα  day 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Feminine Singular
Root: ἡμέρα  
Sense: the day, used of the natural day, or the interval between sunrise and sunset, as distinguished from and contrasted with the night.
τοῦ  of  the 
Parse: Article, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
Κυρίου  Lord 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: κύριος  
Sense: he to whom a person or thing belongs, about which he has power of deciding; master, lord.