3:15 3:15

2 Thessalonians 3:16

3:17 3:17

Bible Versions

¶ Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord [be] with you all.
Now {G1161} the Lord {G2962} of peace {G1515} himself {G846} give {G1325} you {G5213} peace {G1515} always {G1223}{G3956} by {G1722} all {G3956} means {G5158}. The Lord {G2962} be with {G3326} you {G5216} all {G3956}.
Now may the Lord of shalom himself give you shalom always in all ways. The Lord be with all of you.
Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with you all.

Second Thessalonians 3:16 is a beautiful and powerful benediction, or blessing, from the Apostle Paul to the believers in Thessalonica. It serves as a comforting assurance of God's character and His desire to impart His divine peace.

Context

This verse appears near the conclusion of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians. Throughout this epistle, Paul addresses concerns about false teachings, idleness among some believers, and the persecution they were enduring. Leading up to this benediction, Paul has encouraged them to stand firm, pray for him and his companions, and to carry out their duties diligently. This final blessing for peace and God's presence is a fitting close, offering comfort and strength amidst their challenges and uncertainties.

Key Themes

  • The Lord of Peace Himself: This title emphasizes God's intrinsic nature. He is not just a giver of peace, but the very source and embodiment of it. He is `Kyrios tēs eirēnēs`, the sovereign Lord over all peace. This points to a peace that transcends worldly understanding, a `shalom` that encompasses wholeness, well-being, and harmony with God. For more on God's peace, see Philippians 4:7.
  • Peace Always by All Means: Paul's prayer is for a comprehensive and enduring peace. "Always" (`pantote`) signifies continuity, while "by all means" (`en panti tropō`) indicates that God's peace is available in every situation, through every circumstance, and by every divine method. It’s a peace that is not dependent on external conditions but flows from the believer's relationship with God.
  • The Lord Be With You All: This is a classic biblical assurance of God's abiding presence. It echoes promises found throughout Scripture, from God's promise to Moses (Exodus 33:14) to Christ's promise to His disciples (Matthew 28:20). The presence of God is the ultimate guarantee of peace and strength for the Christian community.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "Lord of peace" (`Kyrios tēs eirēnēs`) powerfully highlights God's role as the originator and sustainer of true peace. This isn't merely the absence of conflict, but a profound sense of spiritual well-being and harmony with God, a concept often associated with the Hebrew term `shalom`. The inclusion of "himself" (`autos`) further emphasizes that this peace comes directly from God's own being, not through an intermediary.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Thessalonians 3:16 offers immense comfort and a profound truth: genuine peace originates from God. In a world filled with anxiety and turmoil, we are reminded that we can access a peace that transcends understanding, not by our own efforts, but as a gift from the "Lord of peace." This verse encourages us to:

  • Seek God's Presence: True peace is found in fellowship with Him.
  • Trust His Sovereignty: Knowing He is "Lord of peace" allows us to surrender our worries.
  • Live in His Assurance: Rely on His promise to be with us "always by all means," no matter the challenge.

This benediction serves as a constant reminder that God is actively involved in sustaining His people with His presence and His perfect peace.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 29:11

    The LORD will give strength unto his people; the LORD will bless his people with peace.

  • John 16:33

    These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

  • Matthew 1:23

    Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

  • John 14:27

    Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

  • Romans 15:33

    Now the God of peace [be] with you all. Amen.

  • Romans 16:20

    And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you. Amen.

  • Judges 6:24

    Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: unto this day it [is] yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.
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