Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Thessalonians 3:1

"Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run and be glorified, even as also [it is] with you;" — 2 Thessalonians 3:1 (ASV)

Finally — The practical portion is introduced in the same way as in the First Epistle (1 Thessalonians 4:1): “for the rest,” or “as for what I have yet to say.”

Pray for us — St. Chrysostom remarks, “He himself had prayed for them; now he asks them to pray for him.” How much of a Christian teacher’s power, which increases over time, comes from the accumulated intercession of his spiritual children! St. Paul leaves people praying for him everywhere (Romans 15:30; 2 Corinthians 1:11; Ephesians 6:18–19; Colossians 4:3; 1 Thessalonians 5:25).

In all these cases, the request is for active help in his work of evangelizing. It is, as St. Chrysostom says, “not that he might be kept from danger, for he was appointed for that” (compare 2 Timothy 2:9). The word “that” in the original text stands for “in order that,” and does not merely introduce the subject of the prayer.

May have free course — This is quite literal, as a marginal note might say: may run along. This idea contains both speed and security: no hesitation about the next turn, no anxious searching for the path, and no opposition from demons and evil men. Bengel compares this to Psalm 147:15.

And be glorified — The word does not merely mean “to obtain applause” or “win distinction,” like a successful runner. It always implies the recognition or acknowledgment of inherent, admirable qualities (see the notes on 2 Thessalonians 1:12 and 1 Thessalonians 2:6).

Even as it is with you — Such praise would encourage the Thessalonians to pray for him with greater fervor and assurance. The phrase “with you” in the Greek means “in your direction” or “when one turns to you.” People had only to look toward Thessalonica, and they were forced to recognize the character of the gospel.