Prayer request
1 Oh, and pray for us, sisters and brothers, so that the Word of the Master may pick up speed and be exalted, just as it has with you, 2 and that we are rescued from disgusting and evil people since not everyone is of the faith. 3 Yet the Master is faithful to establish you and guard you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Master concerning you, that you will continue doing what we solemnly commission you to do. 5 May the Master guide your hearts toward the love of God and the endurance of Christ.
Caution against freeloaders and troublemakers
6 Now we are solemnly commissioning you, sisters and brothers, in the Name of our Master Jesus Christ, to separate yourselves from every believer who has a habit of slacking and not staying with the tradition they accepted from us. 7 For you know you are to imitate us, and we were not lazy among you. 8 Neither did we accept handouts from anyone, but worked very hard night and day so we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 And it isn’t as though we don’t have the right, but that we wanted to be a model for you to follow. 10 Even while we were still with you, we made the rule that if anyone refuses to work then they should go hungry. 11 For we are hearing that some among you are not being busy, but busybodies. 12 So we insist, and appeal by Master Jesus Christ, that they mind their own business and earn their own keep.
13 Don’t give up doing the right things, brothers and sisters. 14 If anyone does not heed this word we’ve written to you, take note of them and do not associate with them so they’ll be ashamed. 15 Yet don’t treat them as an enemy but warn them as a believer.
Final greetings
16 Now may the Master of Peace give you peace in everything and in every way; may the Master be with you all. 17 May the favor of our Master Jesus Christ be with all of you.