2 Thessalonians 2:17

Comfort. Greek parakaleo (see on Matthew 5:4). The verb is in the singular, as is that translated “stablish.” The comforting and the stablishing come from both the Father and the Son (see on 2 Thessalonians 2:16).

You. Textual evidence attests (cf. p. 10) the omission of this word, making the verb “stablish” applicable to “your hearts.” Only divine power can truly stabilize the heart, hence Paul’s prayer that Christ and God would do this for the Thessalonians.

Every good word and work. Textual evidence attests (cf. p. 10) a reversal of word order, giving the reading “every good work and word.” The two nouns “work” and “word” represent the area in which God comforts and stabilizes the believers’ hearts. The assured heart will direct the production of acceptable works and words.