1 Finally, brothers, pray for us that the Lord’s message may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you,
2 and that we may be delivered from wicked and evil men, for not all have faith.
3 But the Lord is faithful; He will strengthen and guard you from the evil one.
4 We have confidence in the Lord about you, that you are doing and will do what we command.
5 May the Lord direct your hearts to God’s love and Christ’s endurance.
6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from every brother who walks irresponsibly and not according to the tradition received from us.
7 For you yourselves know how you must imitate us: We were not irresponsible among you;
8 we did not eat anyone’s food free of charge; instead, we labored and struggled, working night and day, so that we would not be a burden to any of you.
9 It is not that we don’t have the right to support, but we did it to make ourselves an example to you so that you would imitate us.
10 In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.”
11 For we hear that there are some among you who walk irresponsibly, not working at all, but interfering with the work of others.
12 Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ that quietly working, they may eat their own food.
13 Brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.
14 And if anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don’t associate with him, so that he may be ashamed.
15 Yet don’t treat him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.
16 May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace always in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
17 This greeting is in my own hand — Paul. This is a sign in every letter; this is how I write.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.