2 Thessalonians 3:4 – “We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command.”
Extended Explanation
Paul is writing to believers he loves and trusts. In this verse, he tells them that he’s confident-not because of how strong or reliable they are on their own, but because of what God is doing in them. He says, “We have confidence in the Lord…” That’s key. Paul’s trust is based on God’s work in the lives of the Thessalonians.
He’s encouraging them by recognizing that they’re already living in obedience. They’ve been listening, growing, and following his instructions. But he’s also urging them to keep going-“you are doing and will continue to do.” Obedience to God’s Word isn’t a one-time thing. It’s a daily walk.
Paul isn’t being harsh or controlling here. He’s speaking as a spiritual leader who cares deeply and knows that God is at work among them. This verse is both a vote of confidence and a call to keep walking in the right direction.
Historical Context
The believers in Thessalonica were relatively new in their faith but had already shown strong commitment. Paul had written to them before in 1 Thessalonians and was now writing again to correct confusion and encourage continued faithfulness-especially in light of misunderstandings about Jesus’ return and some people becoming idle or disorderly.
Paul had given them clear teachings and commands-not just suggestions, but instructions grounded in the truth of Christ. Some in the church were ignoring those teachings, particularly when it came to work and daily living. This verse affirms those who are staying the course and encourages them to remain faithful.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights how Christian obedience is empowered by God. Paul doesn’t say, “We trust you because you’re such great people.” Instead, he says, “We have confidence in the Lord.” That means our ability to obey, grow, and continue in faith doesn’t come from ourselves-it comes from God working in us.
It also shows that obedience matters. God doesn’t just save us and leave us as we are. He calls us to follow Him in everyday life, and His Word gives clear commands to guide us. Real faith shows up in real-life choices.
Literary Analysis
This verse is both encouraging and instructional. The structure is simple and smooth. Paul starts with confidence, then points to its source-the Lord-and then refers to the Thessalonians’ past and future obedience.
The present (“you are doing”) and future (“you will continue to do”) tenses are important. They show a pattern of growth and consistency. Paul assumes spiritual maturity is ongoing-it’s not about one moment of obedience, but a life shaped by God’s Word.
The use of the word “command” may sound strong, but it reflects Paul’s role as an apostle. He’s not offering personal opinions; he’s giving Spirit-led instruction meant to lead believers into deeper faithfulness.
Biblical Cross-References
- Philippians 1:6 – “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.”
- John 14:15 – “If you love me, keep my commands.”
- Romans 6:17 – Thanks to God that you have become obedient from the heart.
- James 1:22 – “Do not merely listen to the word… Do what it says.”
- 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – “We instructed you how to live in order to please God… now we ask and urge you to do this more and more.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that spiritual growth is a journey. God isn’t asking for perfection all at once-He’s looking for a heart that listens, obeys, and keeps moving forward. If we’re truly following Jesus, that will show up in our decisions, our work, our relationships, and our habits.
It’s also a comfort. We don’t have to carry the weight of our spiritual progress alone. God is the one who strengthens and guides us. We can trust that, as we obey, He is helping us to continue in the right path.
And if we’ve stumbled, we can get back up-because God’s grace is still at work in us.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God doesn’t just love us by saving us-He keeps loving us by walking with us, helping us grow, and giving us what we need to live in a way that honors Him. He’s patient, encouraging, and involved. Paul’s confidence wasn’t in people behaving perfectly, but in a faithful God who works in people.
A loving God gives commands not to burden us, but to bless us. His commands lead to life, peace, and purpose.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the one who calls us to follow Him (Luke 9:23), and He gives us both the example and the power to obey. Everything Paul taught was grounded in the message and life of Jesus-His death, resurrection, and lordship.
Jesus said, “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15). He also promised to send the Holy Spirit to help His followers live obedient lives (John 14:26). So when Paul expresses confidence in the Thessalonians’ obedience, it’s rooted in the fact that Jesus is alive and working in them by His Spirit.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Am I growing in obedience to God’s Word, or have I become spiritually stagnant?
- Where do I see God giving me strength to keep doing what’s right?
- Are there any areas in my life where I need to return to obedience?
- How can I encourage other believers who are walking faithfully?
- Do I believe that God is actively working in me to help me follow Him?