King James Version

What Does 2 Thessalonians 3:2 Mean?

2 Thessalonians 3:2 in the King James Version says “And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith. unreasonable: Gr. absurd” — study this verse from 2 Thessalonians chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith. unreasonable: Gr. absurd”

2 Thessalonians 3:2 · KJV

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Context

1

Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: have: Gr. run

2

And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith. unreasonable: Gr. absurd

3

But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.

4

And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith—the second prayer request: delivered from (rhysthōmen apo, ῥυσθῶμεν ἀπό, rescued from) unreasonable and wicked men (atopōn kai ponērōn anthrōpōn, ἀτόπων καὶ πονηρῶν ἀνθρώπων). Atopos (ἄτοπος) means 'out of place, absurd, perverse,' and ponēros (πονηρός) means 'evil, malicious.'

For all men have not faith (ou gar pantōn hē pistis, οὐ γὰρ πάντων ἡ πίστις)—explains their opposition. Without faith, men become unreasonable and wicked toward God's word. Universal gospel offer doesn't guarantee universal reception. Some actively resist, requiring divine deliverance for gospel workers.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Acts 17:5-9 records the Thessalonian Jews' violent opposition to Paul—forming a mob, dragging converts before authorities, accusing treason. Paul faced similar hostility in every city. Prayer for deliverance wasn't theoretical but urgent—his life was constantly threatened.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you pray for persecuted Christians facing 'unreasonable and wicked' opponents today?
  2. Why does lack of faith so often produce active hostility rather than mere indifference?
  3. What 'unreasonable' opposition have you faced for sharing the gospel, and how did you respond?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
καὶ1 of 14

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἵνα2 of 14

“that”

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ῥυσθῶμεν3 of 14

“we may be delivered”

G4506

compare g4511); to rush or draw (for oneself), i.e., rescue

ἀπὸ4 of 14

“from”

G575

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

τῶν5 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀτόπων6 of 14

“unreasonable”

G824

out of place, i.e., (figuratively) improper, injurious, wicked

καὶ7 of 14

“And”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

πονηρῶν8 of 14

“wicked”

G4190

hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455

ἀνθρώπων·9 of 14

“men”

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

οὐ10 of 14

“men have not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

γὰρ11 of 14

“for”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

πάντων12 of 14

“all”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ἡ13 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πίστις14 of 14

“faith”

G4102

persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Thessalonians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Thessalonians 3:2 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Thessalonians 3:2 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Corinthians 4:3-4Romans 15:31Deuteronomy 32:20Luke 18:82 Corinthians 1:8-10Romans 10:16

Test Your Knowledge

2 Thessalonians 3 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Thessalonians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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