¹¹ to seek to lead a quiet life,^(A) to mind your own business,^[a] and to work^(B) with your own hands, as we commanded you, ¹² so that you may walk properly^[b](C) in the presence of outsiders^[c] and not be dependent on anyone.^[d](D)

The Comfort of Christ’s Coming

¹³ We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, concerning those who are asleep, so that you will not grieve like the rest, who have no hope.^{(E) 14} Since we believe that Jesus died and rose^(F) again,^(G) in the same way God will bring with Him those who have fallen asleep through^[e] Jesus.^{(H) 15} For we say this to you by a revelation from the Lord:^[f](I) We who are still alive at the Lord’s coming^(J) will certainly have no advantage over^[g] those who have fallen asleep.^{(K) 16} For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout,^[h](L) with the archangel’s^(M) voice, and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ^(N) will rise first. ¹⁷ Then^(O) we who are still alive will be caught up together with them in the clouds^(P) to meet the Lord in the air and so we will always be with the Lord. ¹⁸ Therefore encourage^[i] one another with these words.

Exhortations and Blessings

¹² Now we ask you, brothers, to give recognition^(A) to those who labor among you and lead you in the Lord and admonish you, ¹³ and to regard them very highly in love because of their work. Be at peace^(B) among yourselves. ¹⁴ And we exhort you, brothers:^(C) warn those who are irresponsible,^[a] comfort the discouraged, help the weak, be patient^(D) with everyone. ¹⁵ See to it that no one repays evil for evil^(E) to anyone,^(F) but always pursue what is good for one another and for all.^(G)

²³ Now may the God of peace^(L) Himself sanctify you completely. And may your spirit,^(M) soul, and body be kept sound and blameless for the coming^(N) of our Lord^(O) Jesus Christ.^{(P) 24} He who calls^(Q) you^(R) is faithful, who also will do it.