King James Version

What Does 2 Thessalonians 3:3 Mean?

2 Thessalonians 3:3 in the King James Version says “But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.” — study this verse from 2 Thessalonians chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

2 Thessalonians 3:3 · KJV

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.

5

And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. patient: or, patience of Christ

Read 2 Thessalonians 3 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil—But contrasts unfaithful humans (v. 2) with the Lord is faithful (pistos de estin ho Kyrios, πιστὸς δέ ἐστιν ὁ Κύριος). God's pistis (πίστις, faithfulness/reliability) guarantees two actions: stablish you (stērixei hymas, στηρίξει ὑμᾶς, fix firmly) and keep you from evil (phylaxei apo tou ponērou, φυλάξει ἀπὸ τοῦ πονηροῦ).

Tou ponērou (τοῦ πονηροῦ) can mean 'the evil one' (Satan) or 'evil' generally—probably both. God's faithfulness counters human faithlessness; His stability answers human instability. While Paul needs prayer (vv. 1-2), ultimate security rests on God's character, not circumstances or human effort. This is Reformed assurance: perseverance is certain because God is faithful.

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Historical & Cultural Context

The Thessalonians, young in faith and under persecution, needed assurance their faith would endure. Paul grounds confidence in God's immutable nature, not their fluctuating feelings. This doctrine of preservation combated despair among suffering believers.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does God's faithfulness comfort you when your own faith feels weak?
  2. In what areas of temptation do you need God to 'keep you from evil'?
  3. How does knowing God will 'stablish' you free you from anxious self-effort?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
πιστὸς1 of 13

“faithful”

G4103

objectively, trustworthy; subjectively, trustful

δέ2 of 13

“But”

G1161

but, and, etc

ἐστιν3 of 13

“is”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ὁ4 of 13
G3588

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

κύριος5 of 13

“the Lord”

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

ὃς6 of 13

“who”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

στηρίξει7 of 13

“shall stablish”

G4741

to set fast, i.e., (literally) to turn resolutely in a certain direction, or (figuratively) to confirm

ὑμᾶς8 of 13

“you”

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

καὶ9 of 13

“and”

G2532

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

φυλάξει10 of 13

“keep”

G5442

to watch, i.e., be on guard (literally of figuratively); by implication, to preserve, obey, avoid

ἀπὸ11 of 13

“you from”

G575

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

τοῦ12 of 13
G3588

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

πονηροῦ13 of 13

“evil”

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

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 3:3 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 3:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Timothy 4:181 Thessalonians 5:241 Corinthians 10:13Psalms 121:71 Corinthians 1:9John 17:15

Test Your Knowledge

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

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