2 Thessalonians 3:14
What does 2 Thessalonians 3:14 mean?
A plain-English look at 2 Thessalonians 3:14 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 2 Thessalonians 3:14 means
If anyone refuses to obey the apostolic word in this letter, the church is to note that person and refrain from close company with him, so that he may feel shame. This is a measured form of church discipline—social distancing meant to awaken the conscience. The aim is not destruction but restoration. Public patterns of disobedience call for public response; otherwise, sin spreads and standards erode. By withdrawing everyday fellowship, the community communicates seriousness while leaving the door open for repentance. The church guards its witness and protects the flock, even as it seeks to win the straying brother back.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000And if any man obeyeth not our word by this epistle, note that man, that ye have no company with him, to the end that he may be ashamed.
KJV
King James Version · 1611And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901And if any man obeyeth not our word by this epistle, note that man, that ye have no company with him, to the end that he may be ashamed.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949And if any man does not give attention to what we have said in this letter, take note of that man, and keep away from him, so that he may be shamed.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862and if any one do not obey our word through the letter, this one note ye, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed,
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890But if any one obey not our word by the letter, mark that man, and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed of himself;
Context
After urging perseverance in good (verse 13), Paul outlines a practical disciplinary step for the unrepentant. Verse 14 gives the action; verse 15 gives the heart posture. This twofold guidance ensures that the church will neither ignore sin nor treat the sinner as an enemy. Placed here, the instruction shows how love and order work together: the body maintains holiness while aiming at healing.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Corinthians 10:6
and being in readiness to avenge all disobedience, when your obedience shall be made full.
- 1 Corinthians 5:9
I wrote unto you in my epistle to have no company with fornicators;
- 2 Corinthians 2:9
For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye are obedient in all things.
- Deuteronomy 16:12
And thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in Egypt: and thou shalt observe and do these statutes.
- Numbers 12:14
And Jehovah said unto Moses, If her father had but spit in her face, should she not be ashamed seven days? let her be shut up without the camp seven days, and after that she shall be brought in again.
- Ezekiel 16:61
Then shalt thou remember thy ways, and be ashamed, when thou shalt receive thy sisters, thine elder sisters and thy younger; and I will give them unto thee for daughters, but not by thy covenant.
Related questions readers ask
Keep reading
Want to dig deeper? Explore 2 Thessalonians 3
Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on 2 Thessalonians 3.
Topics that quote it
Topic
Bible Verses About Burnout
Scripture offers solace and guidance for those experiencing burnout, encouraging rest, renewed hope, and reliance on God.
Topic
Bible Verses About Faithfulness
Faithfulness describes a person’s loyal and steadfast devotion to God, and also God’s unchanging, unfailing character.
Topic
Bible Verses About the Faithfulness of God
God’s faithfulness is a cornerstone of our hope, revealing His unwavering character and His commitment to His promises through all generations.
What the Bible says about…