Verses 1-7
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Be obedient to leaders, and be prepared for any kind of good work needed to serve someone else.
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Also, be kind to everyone. Why?
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Remember that we were once sinners, but God was kind to us, forgiving our sins by His grace.
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Extend the same kindness to others!
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Verses 8-9
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This passage, plus 1 Timothy and Titus as a whole, are excellent for instructing leaders in what they should be focused on teaching to their churches!
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First, teach the basics continually (never stop talking about the basics) : Christ and His walk, repentance from sin, faith in Christ, God's grace, the work of the Holy Spirit, etc.
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And second, teach God-honoring lifestyles: Obedience to God in your personal life, home life, work life...God's mercy does not excuse us from doing good works.
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Do not focus on teaching matters that do not bring growth in these areas.
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Verses 10-11
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If a person in the church is causing contention and not submitting to these basic teachings of the Word, rebuke them, and give them two chances to correct their ways.
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Upon the third confrontation, remove them from the church (2 Thessalonians 3:14-15).
Verses 12-15
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All in three verses, Paul mentions diligence, haste, and urgency.
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Do everything diligently and urgently, and you will lack nothing.
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The best time to take action on something is now! Don't procrastinate, take action, and do it with energy!
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And to be productive for God's kingdom, maintain good works and meet urgent needs!
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Prioritize meeting the most urgent needs of both yourself and others! If you focus on issues that aren't urgent or unimportant, you will feel busy but accomplish nothing meaningful.
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