Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Thessalonians 2:15

"So then, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye were taught, whether by word, or by epistle of ours." — 2 Thessalonians 2:15 (ASV)

“So then” turns the discussion to a practical responsibility derived from God’s elective purpose (vv.13–14). Against a background of such an imminent world crisis as described in vv.1–10, the beneficiaries of God’s saving work cannot afford to lapse into lethargy, but must respond with loyal steadfastness (“stand firm”; GK 5112) and must keep a firm hold on the traditions (“teachings”; GK 1438) taught them by Paul and his associates. A continuation in basic Christian doctrines would have alleviated the instability and alarm that prompted the writing of this letter (cf. v.2). Paul himself received Christian traditions subsequent to his conversion (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:3–5), and through divine revelation he had originated other traditions (1 Thessalonians 4:15). These he had passed on to his converts both “by word of mouth” and “by letter” in his previous contacts with them. In light of their inclusion in God’s saving purpose (vv.13–14), he commands them to remain unmovable and cling tenaciously to these doctrines.