3:16 3:16

2 Thessalonians 3:17

3:18 3:18

Bible Versions

The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write.
The salutation {G783} of Paul {G3972} with mine own {G1699} hand {G5495}, which {G3739} is {G2076} the token {G4592} in {G1722} every {G3956} epistle {G1992}: so {G3779} I write {G1125}.
The greeting in my own handwriting: From Sha’ul. This is the mark of genuineness in every letter, this is what my handwriting looks like.
This greeting is in my own hand—Paul. This is my mark in every letter; it is the way I write.
The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write.

In 2 Thessalonians 3:17, the Apostle Paul concludes his letter with a personal authentication, ensuring the recipients of its genuineness. This brief statement carries significant weight, serving as a signature in an era where letters were crucial for communication and doctrine.

Context

This verse appears at the very end of Paul's second epistle to the Thessalonians, immediately preceding the final benediction. The historical context is vital: there were issues with false teachings and possibly even forged letters circulating in Paul's name, especially concerning the Day of the Lord (see 2 Thessalonians 2:2). To combat this deception and establish the authority of his message, Paul adopted a consistent practice of writing the final greeting or a portion of the letter in his own hand.

Key Themes

  • Authenticity and Verification: Paul's handwritten salutation served as a clear mark of the letter's authenticity. In an age without widespread printing, this personal signature was the primary method of verifying authorship and distinguishing genuine apostolic teaching from fraudulent claims.
  • Apostolic Authority: By personally signing, Paul reinforced the divine authority behind the epistle's commands and instructions. It was not merely advice but authoritative revelation for the church.
  • Personal Connection: While Paul often dictated his letters to an amanuensis (scribe), adding a personal handwritten note or greeting provided a direct, intimate touch to his communication with the churches, underscoring his affection and concern for them.
  • Combating Deception: This practice was a deliberate strategy to counteract the spread of counterfeit letters or misinterpretations attributed to him, providing the Thessalonians with a reliable "token" or sign to identify his true writings.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV uses the word "salutation" (Greek: aspasmos - ἀσπασμός), which refers to a greeting or farewell. In this context, it is the closing greeting written by Paul himself. The term "token" (Greek: semeion - σημεῖον) signifies a sign, mark, or distinguishing characteristic. Paul's own handwriting was this unique "sign" that identified his epistles.

Related Scriptures

Paul mentions this practice in other letters, confirming it was his standard procedure:

  • In 1 Corinthians 16:21, he states, "The salutation of me Paul with mine own hand."
  • Similarly, in Colossians 4:18, he writes, "The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace be with you. Amen."
  • While not a general "token," Paul's handwritten note in Philemon 1:19 ("I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it...") further highlights the legal and personal weight he attached to his own writing.
  • The specific problem this practice addressed is evident in 2 Thessalonians 2:2, where he warns against being "shaken... by letter as from us."

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Thessalonians 3:17 underscores the importance of the authenticity and divine inspiration of Scripture. Just as Paul authenticated his letters, we can trust that the Bible we hold is the true and authoritative Word of God. It also reminds us of the need for discernment in an age of abundant information, encouraging us to carefully evaluate sources and cling to sound doctrine. The personal touch Paul added also speaks to the value of genuine, heartfelt communication within the Christian community.

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.

  • 1 Corinthians 16:21

    The salutation of [me] Paul with mine own hand.

  • 2 Thessalonians 1:5

    ¶ [Which is] a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:

  • 1 Samuel 17:18

    And carry these ten cheeses unto the captain of [their] thousand, and look how thy brethren fare, and take their pledge.

  • Joshua 2:12

    Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father's house, and give me a true token:

  • Colossians 4:18

    The salutation by the hand of me Paul. Remember my bonds. Grace [be] with you. Amen.
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