Having given them his messages, Paul longs that they would live like this! And we can be thankful too that we have the Word of God still to read and obey. It does us little good to do the first without doing the second.
V.2-6 They were in danger of listening to bad teachers. Don’t think of these as bad men (immoral) for probably they were very highly respected religious leaders.
V.3-5 They needed to be strengthened by receiving this truth.
V.7-12 Then there were dangers in another direction. There were some who were excited about all these great coming events, and though there was no need to work because the Lord was coming! We also are to continue on in our daily work, but waiting for Him to come at any moment. Notice the strong instructions — not wanting to work so no food.
V.13 Lovely contrast and an encouragement for us all.
V.18 A beautiful thought to close with.