Study Desk

Christ died for us so that, whether we are dead or alive when he returns, we can live with him forever.

So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing.

So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do.

Don't be so easily shaken or alarmed by those who say that the day of the Lord has already begun. Don't believe them, even if they claim to have had a spiritual vision, a revelation, or a letter supposedly from us.

So God will cause them to be greatly deceived, and they will believe these lies.

We never accepted food from anyone without paying for it. We worked hard day and night so we would not be a burden to any of you.

Take note of those who refuse to obey what we say in this letter. Stay away from them so they will be ashamed.

They want to be known as teachers of the law of Moses, but they don't know what they are talking about, even though they speak so confidently.

But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life.

Hymenaeus and Alexander are two examples. I threw them out and handed them over to Satan so they might learn not to blaspheme God.

Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity.

So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach.

Also, people outside the church must speak well of him so that he will not be disgraced and fall into the devil's trap.

so that if I am delayed, you will know how people must conduct themselves in the household of God. This is the church of the living God, which is the pillar and foundation of the truth.

Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress.

Give these instructions to the church so that no one will be open to criticism.

So I advise these younger widows to marry again, have children, and take care of their own homes. Then the enemy will not be able to say anything against them.

Don't drink only water. You ought to drink a little wine for the sake of your stomach because you are sick so often.

All slaves should show full respect for their masters so they will not bring shame on the name of God and his teaching.

So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content.