Fathers

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What the Fathers say

2 Thessalonians 2:15

Eastern Fathers

John Chrysostom

Not by letters alone did Paul instruct his disciple in his duty, but before by words also which he shows, both in many other passages, as where he says, "whether by word or our Epistle," and especially here. Let us not therefore suppose that anything relating to doctrine was spoken imperfectly. For many things he delivered to him without writing. …

Homily on Second Timothy 3 ↗

Basil of Caesarea

In answer to the objection that the doxology in the form "with the Spirit" has no written authority, we maintain that if there is no other instance of that which is unwritten, then this must not be received. But if the greater number of our mysteries are admitted into our constitution without written authority, then, in company with the many others, let us receive this one. For I hold it apostolic to abide also by the unwritten traditions. …

On the Spirit 29.71 ↗

Theophylact of Ohrid

From this it is clear that the apostles transmitted much without letters as well, through the word, that is, by living speech, and not only through epistles. Meanwhile, both the one and the other are equally trustworthy. Therefore we must also recognize Church Tradition as trustworthy. There is Tradition — seek nothing more. Here the apostle also shows that there were many who were wavering in the faith.

Commentary on 2 Thessalonians ↗

Western Saints

Ambrose of Milan

Again, that thou mayest know that the Father is, and the Son is, and that the work of the Father and of the Son is one, follow the saying of the Apostle: "Now may God Himself, and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ direct our way unto you." Both Father and Son are named, but there is unity of direction, because unity of power.

Exposition of the Christian Faith, Book 2 ↗

Thomas Aquinas

Then when he says, "therefore, brethren", he admonishes them to hold fast the truth. And first he sets out his admonition; second, a prayer, at "now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself." And he does the first because our works depend on free will; but he adds the second because they need the help of grace. And first he admonishes them to stand fast, when he says "stand fast" in the truth. "Stand, and do not be held again under yoke of slavery" (Gal 5:1). …

Commentary on 2 Thessalonians ↗