2 Thessalonians 3:6

Now we command you. With this phrase Paul begins to record his explicit directives to the Thessalonians (cf. on v. 4). In his first epistle he had appealed to the church to warn the fanatical faction in their midst (1 Thess. 5:14). His appeal appears to have been only partially successful, for he now resorts to stronger measures, and issues commands (cf. on 1 Thess. 4:2, 11).

Our. Textual evidence may be cited (cf. p. 10) for the omission of this word. For comment on the significance of the phrase, “In the name of our Lord,” see on Acts 3:6; 1 Cor. 5:4. Paul invokes the Lord’s name as support for the commands he himself is now giving to the believers (cf. on 1 Thess. 4:2; 2 Thess. 3:12).

Withdraw. Gr. stellomai, “to keep away,” “to set oneself from,” “to withdraw.” This breaking off of intimate intercourse on the part of reliable church members was to bring the erring ones to their senses, in order that they might “be ashamed” (v. 14), and turn from their evil ways. It was a necessary step in church discipline (cf. Matt. 18:15–17), but it was not excommunication. That final act was reserved for more serious offenses (see on 1 Cor. 5:5).

Every brother. Paul’s instruction is comprehensive; he wants all cases to be dealt with.

Disorderly. Gr. ataktōs (see on 1 Thess. 5:14).

Tradition. Gr. paradosis (see on ch. 2:15).

He received. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “they received.” Important textual evidence may be cited for the reading “ye received,” and this has strong support from the context (v. 7).