# Exposition on 2 Thessalonians - Author: [Pelagius](https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/authors/pelagius/) - Latin title: *Expositio in epistulam II ad Thessalonicenses* - Date: ca. 405–410 (approximate) - Source: Alexander Souter, ed., Pelagius's Expositions of Thirteen Epistles of St Paul, vol. 2: Text and Apparatus Criticus, Texts and Studies 9.2 (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1926) (Latin text: A. Souter (Texts and Studies 9.2, 1926); OCR of the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam scan, read by Tesseract) - Translation: Claude, from the original text, unless a passage says otherwise; each passage below gives the translator - Editions and translations: Alexander Souter, Pelagius's Expositions of Thirteen Epistles of St Paul, 3 vols., Texts and Studies 9 (Cambridge, 1922–1931) - Work page: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/ - Passages: 34 ## Argumentum (prefatory note) - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-0 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:439 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Pelagius's argument: Paul praises the Thessalonians' growth and warns them against those who claim Christ's coming is imminent. ### Latin text Iustum [quippe] erat ut super[ius]crescente eorum fide et caritate et illorum quoque laudatio augeretur. simul et illut eis praenuntiat, quod nouo argumento eos quidam a fide depellere temptaturi essent, quo dicerent Christum uelociter adfuturum, et quem uellent pro Christo facile inducerent ad 8uadendum. ### English translation (Claude) It was right that, as their faith and love grew greater, their praise too should increase. At the same time he also forewarns them that certain people would try to drive them from the faith by a new argument, saying that Christ would come very soon, so that they might easily persuade them to accept whomever they wished in place of Christ. ### Translation notes - Souter brackets "indeed" and "-ius"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. pref. (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:439; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-1 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:439 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lemma of 2 Thess 1:1. ### Latin text Paulus et Siluanus et Timotheus ecclesiae T[h]essalonicensium in deo patre nostro et [ domino ] Christo lesu. [2 gratia uobis et pax a deo patre nostro et domino lesu Christo.] ### English translation (Claude) "Paul and Silvanus and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and Christ Jesus." ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:1: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 1:2: quotation, low confidence ### Translation notes - Souter brackets "the Lord" and the lemma of 1:2 ("Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ"); omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.1 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:439; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-1). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-3 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:439–440 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Paul gives thanks for their growing faith and love. ### Latin text gratias agere deo debemus semper pro uobis, fratres, sic ut dignum est . Qui sibi talem ecclesiam conquisiuit. Quoniam supercrescit Jides uestra. Ideo et laus augetur. Et abundat caritas unius cuiusque omnium uesirum in inuicem , ### English translation (Claude) "We ought to give thanks to God always for you, brothers, as is fitting." Who has won such a church for himself. "Because your faith grows exceedingly." Therefore the praise too increases. "And the love of each one of you all toward one another abounds," ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:3: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.3 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:439–440; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-3). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-4 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Their patient faith under persecution makes them a model for all. ### Latin text ita ut [ et ] nos ipsi in uobis gloriemur [in] ecclesiis dei. In tantum profecistis, ut non solum alii uos inferiores quique conlaudent, sed etiam nos ipsi uos praeferamus omnibus imitandos. Pro patientia et fide uestra in omnibus persecutionibus uestris et pressuris quas sustinetis. Nisi futura crederetis, ista minime sufferre uelletis. ### English translation (Claude) "so that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God." You have made such progress that not only do all others, being inferior, praise you, but we ourselves set you before all as models for imitation. "For your patience and faith in all your persecutions and the afflictions that you endure." Unless you believed in the things to come, you would not be willing to bear these things. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:4: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Souter brackets "also" and "in"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.4 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-4). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-5 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Their endurance shows faith in God's just judgment and makes them worthy of his kingdom. ### Latin text In exemplum iusti iudicii dei. Ut exemplum detis iustum dei iudicium expectandi, quern ita creditis esse uenturum. Ut digni habeamini [in] regno dei , pro quo et patimini. Hi[i] digni sunt [regno dei], qui gloriam eius scientes, nullam passionem putant esse condignam. ### English translation (Claude) "As an example of the just judgement of God." That you may give an example of awaiting God's just judgement, which you believe will so come. "That you may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which you also suffer." Those are worthy who, knowing its glory, think no suffering comparable to it. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:5: quotation, high confidence - Rom 8:18: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - "No suffering comparable": Rom 8:18. Souter brackets "in" and "of the kingdom of God"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.5 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-5). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-6 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God will surely repay persecutors and give rest to the persecuted. ### Latin text Si tamen iustum est aput deum retribuere deprimentibus uos angustiam. Hie ‘ si tamen confirmantis est, non dubitantis, quasi si dicat : si tamen fons iustitiae potest iudicare quod iustum est : nam sicut indubitanter pro nomine domini patientibus requiem, ita incunctanter tribulationem his qui eos tribulant, repromisit. ### English translation (Claude) "If indeed it is just with God to repay with affliction those who afflict you." Here "if indeed" is that of one confirming, not doubting, as if he said: if indeed the fountain of righteousness can judge what is just; for as without doubt he has promised rest to those who suffer for the Lord's name, so without hesitation he has promised tribulation to those who afflict them. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:6: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.6 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-6). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-7 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440–441 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Rest awaits the afflicted at Christ's coming with his angels. ### Latin text Et uobis qui pressuram sustinetis , requiem nobiscum. Quia nobiscum tribulamini. In reuelatione[m] domini lesu [Christi] de caelo cum angelis uirtutis eius. Qui uenient uindicare. ### English translation (Claude) "And to you who endure affliction, rest with us." Because you are afflicted with us. "At the revelation of the Lord Jesus from heaven with the angels of his power." Who will come to take vengeance. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:7: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Souter brackets "Christ"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.7 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:440–441; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-7). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-8 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:441 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Hell's fire is real and can punish in degrees, against those who reduce it to remorse of conscience. ### Latin text In Jlamma ignis dare uindictam. Si potuit flamma dei imperio tres pueros omnino non tangere, quare non eadem potentia aliis seu[er]ior aliis mitior fieri posse credatur? hoc contra eos qui propterea poenam conscientiae somniarunt, quia hoc illis inpossibile uidebatur. In eos qui ignorant deum , [ et ] non qui oboediunt euangelio domini nostri lesu [Christ!]. Non solum qui non nouerunt deum, sed etiam qui non obaudiunt euangelii disciplinis. ### English translation (Claude) "In a flame of fire, inflicting vengeance." If the flame at God's command could not touch the three young men at all, why should it not be believed that by the same power it can become harsher for some and milder for others? This is against those who dreamed of a punishment of conscience, because this seemed impossible to them. "Upon those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus." Not only those who have not known God, but also those who do not obey the teachings of the gospel. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:8: quotation, high confidence - Dan 3:27: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The three young men: Dan 3:24–27. Pelagius opposes those who held that the punishment of the wicked is only of conscience (an Origenist view); translated exactly. Souter brackets "and" and "Christ"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.8 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:441; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-8). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-9 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:441 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The punished will exist to suffer punishment and will be condemned before the Lord. ### Latin text Qui [etiam] poenas dabunt in interitu[m] [aeternas]. Poena sin[e] eo qui patitur non potest dici. A facie domini et [a] maiestate uirtutis eius. A cuius conspectu sententiam damnationis accipient. ### English translation (Claude) "Who will suffer punishment in destruction." A punishment cannot be spoken of without someone who suffers it. "From the face of the Lord and from the majesty of his power." From whose presence they will receive the sentence of condemnation. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:9: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Pelagius's comment means that "destruction" does not mean annihilation. Souter brackets "also", "eternal", and "from"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.9 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:441; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-9). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-10 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:441–442 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Christ will be glorified in his shining saints, and the wicked will marvel at their salvation. ### Latin text Cum uenerit glorijicari in sanctis [w]. Ipse in suis glorificandus est membris, quae solis splendore fulgebunt. Et admira[bilis fie]ri in omnibus qui cred[ider]unt. ‘ Mirabuntur ’ impii et inrisores humilitatis ‘in subitatione salutis insperat[a]e ’ iustorum. Quia creditum est testimomum nostrum super uos [in die illo ]. Quia multi de die illo nostro testimonio credidistis. ### English translation (Claude) "When he comes to be glorified in his saints." He is to be glorified in his members, which will shine with the splendour of the sun. "And to be made wonderful in all who have believed." The wicked and the mockers of humility "will marvel at the suddenness of the unexpected salvation" of the righteous. "Because our testimony was believed upon you." Because many of you believed our testimony about that day. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:10: quotation, high confidence - Matt 13:43: allusion, medium confidence ### Extrabiblical texts - Wis 5:2 (Wisdom of Solomon): quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - "Splendour of the sun": Matt 13:43. The quotation is Wis 5:2. Souter brackets "in that day" and a letter; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.10 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:441–442; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-10). ## 2 Thessalonians 1:11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-1-11 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:442 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God asks of us what we can do and grants by his grace what we cannot. ### Latin text In quo et[iam ] oramus semper pro uobis , ut dignetur uos uocatione sua deus nosier . Ut digni inueniamini ad id quod uocati estis, quia priores inuitati non [fu]erant digni. Et impleat omnem bonam uoluntatem in benignitate, et opus fidei in uirtute. Adiutorio gratiae et consolatione scientiae et uirtutum, quae opus sunt fidei. \2[Ut clarificetur nomen domini nostri lesu Christi in uobis , et uos in illo. Ut et Christi nomen in uestris actibus clarum sit, et uos in eius signis et uirtutibus gloriosi.] Secundum graiiam dei et domini nostri lesu Christi. Expetit a nobis quod possumus, ut quod [per] nos non possumus largiatur. ### English translation (Claude) "For which also we pray always for you, that our God may count you worthy of his calling." That you may be found worthy of that to which you are called, because those first invited were not worthy. "And fulfil every good will in kindness, and the work of faith in power." By the help of grace and the comfort of knowledge and of virtues, which are the work of faith. "According to the grace of God and of our Lord Jesus Christ." He asks of us what we can do, so that what we cannot do by ourselves he may grant. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 1:11: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 1:12: quotation, high confidence - Matt 22:8: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Those first invited: Matt 22:8. The section includes the lemma of 1:12, which with its comment Souter brackets ("That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in him. That Christ's name may be glorious in your actions, and you glorious in his signs and mighty works"); omitted except the closing words of 1:12, which are not bracketed. Pelagius's statement on grace is translated exactly. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 1.11 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:442; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/1-11). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-1 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:442 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Paul appeals to them by Christ's coming and the gathering of the elect. ### Latin text Rogamus autem uos, [fratres,] per aduentum domini nostri lesu Christi. Quo uobis carius nihil esse sum certus. Et nostrum congregationem in ipsum. Quando ‘ a qua[t]tuor uentis caeli congregabuntur electi,’ ut, ‘ubi fuerit corpus, illi[c] concurrant et aquilae.’ ### English translation (Claude) "Now we ask you, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." Than which I am sure nothing is dearer to you. "And our gathering together to him." When "the elect will be gathered from the four winds of heaven," so that "where the body is, there the eagles too will gather." ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:1: quotation, high confidence - Matt 24:31: quotation, high confidence - Matt 24:28: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Quotations: Matt 24:31; Matt 24:28. Souter brackets "brothers"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.1 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:442; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-1). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-2 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:442–444 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The man of lawlessness will set himself above God, try to restore the temple and its law, and be received by the Jews in place of Christ. ### Latin text Ut non cito moueamini mente neque terreamini. Praefacilis est qui de domini aduentu contra euangelicam vt in templo dei sedeat, ostendens se iamquam sit deus . Supra omnipotentiam et aetemitatem se iactabit, et sacramenta cultur[a]e diulnae corrigere uel augere se dicet, et templum HienisoIyma[e] reficere temptabit omnesqu[a]e legis caerimonias reparare, tantum ut ueritatis Christi euangelium soluat, quae res Iudaeos eum pro Christo suscipere persuadebit, in suo, non in dei nomine uenientem. ### English translation (Claude) "That you be not soon shaken in mind nor troubled." He is too easily led who, concerning the Lord's coming, against the gospel ... "so that he sits in the temple of God, showing himself as if he were God." He will boast himself above omnipotence and eternity, and will say that he corrects or increases the mysteries of divine worship, and will try to rebuild the temple of Jerusalem and restore all the ceremonies of the law, only so as to dissolve the gospel of Christ's truth; and this will persuade the Jews to receive him in place of Christ, coming in his own name, not in God's. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:2: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 2:4: quotation, high confidence - John 5:43: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - Text is lost here: the rest of the comment on 2:2 and the lemmas and comments of 2:3 and most of 2:4 are missing; "..." marks the gap. "In his own name": John 5:43. Pelagius's statements about the Jews are translated exactly. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.2 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:442–444; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-2). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:5 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-5 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:444–445 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The Antichrist will be revealed when the present empire is removed, and Christ will destroy him at his coming. ### Latin text Non [enim] meministis quod [cum adhuc penes uos essem ] hdec dicebantur uobis , et nunc quid detineat scitis. Hoc est, quae rnora est ut [non] ueniat. Ut reueletur [ipse] in suo tempore . Quod reuddbitur Me iniquus. Donee regnum quod nunc tenet, de medio auferatur pruts quam antickristus reueletur. Quem dominus Iesus interficiet spiritu oris sui. Celeri imperio uel solo flatu. Et euaembit irdustratione aduentus sui. Quia, Bicut fulgur, ubique corns cabit in mundo, solutis per ignem commotis que elementis. ### English translation (Claude) "Do you not remember that I told you these things? And now you know what restrains." That is, what delay there is that he should come. "That he may be revealed in his own time." "Then that wicked one will be revealed." Until the kingdom that now holds is taken out of the way, before the Antichrist is revealed. "Whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of his mouth." By a swift command or by his breath alone. "And will destroy by the brightness of his coming." Because, like lightning, he will flash everywhere in the world, when the elements are shaken and dissolved by fire. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:5: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 2:6: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 2:7: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 2:8: quotation, high confidence - Matt 24:27: allusion, medium confidence - 2 Pet 3:10: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The section includes the lemmas of 2:6–8. "The kingdom that now holds" is commonly taken as the Roman Empire. "Like lightning": Matt 24:27; the elements dissolved by fire: 2 Pet 3:10. Souter brackets "for", "when I was still with you", "not", and "himself"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.5 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:444–445; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-5). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-9 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:445 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lemma of 2 Thess 2:9. ### Latin text [Eum] cuius est aduentus secundum operationem] Satanae in omni uirtute, [et] prodigiis et signis mendadbus ### English translation (Claude) "Whose coming is according to the working of Satan in all power and lying signs and wonders" ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:9: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Souter brackets "Him" and "and"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.9 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:445; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-9). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-10 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:445 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The Antichrist's false signs deceive those who do not love the truth; God permits rather than sends the error. ### Latin text et [in] omni seductione iniquitatis his qui pereunt. Sicut [saluator] ante praedixit: dabunt signa ita ut seducantur, si fieri potest, etiam electi’ per fantasiam simulationemque uirtutum, sicut Iamnes et Mambres coram Faraone feceront. Eo quod caritatem ueritatis non receperunt, ut salui fierent. Qui ueritatem non diligunt, diligunt uanitatem. [Et] ideo mittet illis deus operationem erroris [in hoc] ,ut credent mendado. Permittet uenire : nam si deus mittit, non est operatio Satanae. ### English translation (Claude) "and in all deception of wickedness for those who are perishing." As the Saviour foretold: "They will give signs, so that even the elect would be deceived, if it were possible," by illusion and pretence of mighty works, as Jannes and Jambres did before Pharaoh. "Because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved." Those who do not love the truth love vanity. "And therefore God will send them the working of error, so that they believe a lie." He will permit it to come: for if God sends it, it is not the working of Satan. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:10: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 2:11: quotation, high confidence - Matt 24:24: quotation, high confidence - 2 Tim 3:8: allusion, high confidence - Exod 7:11: allusion, medium confidence ### Extrabiblical texts - Jan. Jam. 1 (Jannes and Jambres): allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - The section includes the lemma of 2:11. Quotation: Matt 24:24. Jannes and Jambres: 2 Tim 3:8; Exod 7:11. Pelagius's reading of "send" as "permit" is translated exactly. Souter brackets "Saviour", "And", and "in this"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.10 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:445; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-10). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-12 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:445–446 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Those who believe the Antichrist's tricks will have no excuse for having rejected Christ's works. ### Latin text Ut iudicentur] omnes qui non crediderunt ueritati, sed habuerunt uoluptatem iniquitatem. Ut non se per incarnationis Christi obscuritatem excusent, diuinis non credidisse uirtutibus, cum homini crediderint diabolica arte fallenti. ### English translation (Claude) "That all may be judged who did not believe the truth, but took pleasure in iniquity." So that they may not excuse themselves, on the ground of the obscurity of Christ's incarnation, for not having believed divine mighty works, when they believed a man deceiving them by the devil's art. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:12: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - A running head was removed from the text. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.12 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:445–446; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-12). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:13 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-13 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:446 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God chose them because he foresaw their readiness to believe, as with the Macedonian vision. ### Latin text Nos autem debemus deo gratias agere semper pro uobis,fratres dilecti[ssimi\ a deo . Qui caritatem recipimus ueritatis et pro[p]ter hoc nos diligit deus. Quod elegerit nos deus ab initio in salute[m]9 in sarictificatione[m] spiritus et hde[i] ueritatis . Uidens paratos ad credendum, sicut ei, alio ire cupienti, de uiro Macedone reuelatum est. ### English translation (Claude) "But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by God." Who received the love of truth, and for this reason God loves us. "Because God chose us from the beginning unto salvation, in sanctification of the Spirit and faith of the truth." Seeing them ready to believe, as was revealed to him concerning the man of Macedonia when he wanted to go elsewhere. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:13: quotation, high confidence - Acts 16:9: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The man of Macedonia: Acts 16:6–10. Pelagius explains election as God's foreseeing their readiness to believe; translated exactly. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.13 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:446; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-13). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:14 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-14 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:446 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Believers must hold the apostles' traditions, not add others; apostolic tradition is what the whole world keeps. ### Latin text In qua [et] uocauit uos per euangelium nostrum in adquisitionem gloriae domini nostri Iesu Christi . Ad hoc uocati siimus, ut Christi gloriam adquiramus: ‘scimus’ enim f quoniam, [cum] apparuerit, similes ei erimus.’ Itaque, fratres, state. In fide ueritatis immobiles. Et tenete traditiones [nostras] quae aceepistis , sine per uerbum siue per epistulam nostrum. Quando suas uult teneri, non uult extraneas superaddi : apostolica autem traditio est, quae in toto mundo celebratur, ut baptismi sacramenta. ### English translation (Claude) "To which he also called you through our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." We have been called for this, to obtain Christ's glory: for "we know that when he appears, we shall be like him." "So then, brothers, stand." Unmoved in the faith of the truth. "And hold the traditions which you received, whether by word or by our letter." When he wants his own to be held, he does not want strange ones added; but that is apostolic tradition which is celebrated in the whole world, such as the sacraments of baptism. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:14: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 2:15: quotation, high confidence - 1 John 3:2: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - The section includes the lemma of 2:15. The quotation is 1 John 3:2. Souter brackets "also", "when", and "our"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.14 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:446; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-14). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:16 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-16 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:446–447 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Naming the Son before the Father here refutes Arius; God loved us before we deserved it. ### Latin text Ipse autem dominus noster Iesus Christus et deus [et] pater \noster\ qui dilexzt nos . £t[iam] cum non mereremur, ut mereremur. contra Amum, qui ideo patrem maiorem putat, quia prior in scripturis soleat nominari. Et dedit consolationem aetemam. Promissionum. Siue: ‘Spiritum consolatorem/ qui[a] 6r[a]ece paracletus nominatur. Et spem bonam. Esse potest et spes mala. In gratia\m\ ### English translation (Claude) "Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us." Even when we did not deserve it, so that we might deserve it. Against Arius, who thinks the Father greater because he is usually named first in the Scriptures. "And gave eternal consolation." Of the promises. Or: "the Spirit, the Comforter," because in Greek he is called Paraclete. "And good hope." There can also be bad hope. "In grace" ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:16: quotation, high confidence - John 14:26: allusion, medium confidence ### Translation notes - Souter brackets "and", "our", and "-iam"; omitted. "The Spirit, the Comforter": John 14:26. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.16 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:446–447; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-16). ## 2 Thessalonians 2:17 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-2-17 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God strengthens believers in deed first, then in word. ### Latin text et hortetur corda uestra et confirmet. Uirtutibus uel reuelatione. In omni opere et uerbo bono . Prius opere et sic sermone. ### English translation (Claude) "comfort your hearts and establish them." By mighty works or by revelation. "In every good work and word." First by work, and so by word. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 2:17: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 2.17 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/2-17). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:1 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-1 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Paul asks prayer for the gospel's spread, setting an example of humility. ### Latin text De cetero , fratres, orate pro nobis . Dat humilitatis exemplum et occasionem caritatis, ut pro alterutro audacius exoremus. simul notandum in qui bus causis pro se orari poscat apostolus. Ut uerbum domini currat et glorificetur , sicut et aput nos. Currat af[f]luentia, magnificetur auditorum profectu. ### English translation (Claude) "Finally, brothers, pray for us." He gives an example of humility and an occasion of love, so that we may pray for one another more boldly. At the same time note for what causes the apostle asks to be prayed for. "That the word of the Lord may run and be glorified, as also among you." Let it run in abundance, be magnified by the progress of the hearers. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:1: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.1 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-1). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:2 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-2 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Paul asks deliverance from evil men who do not believe. ### Latin text Et ut eripiamur ab ini quis et malis hominibus; non enim omnium est fides. Non omnes credunt, et ideo contradicunt[ur]. ### English translation (Claude) "And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and evil men; for not all have faith." Not all believe, and so they oppose. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:2: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.2 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-2). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:3 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-3 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447–448 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: God abandons only those who abandon him and strengthens believers by teaching and grace. ### Latin text Fidelis autem deus. Qui non relinquit nisi se relinquentes. Qui confirmabit uos et custodiet a modo. In fide per doctrinam et gratiam. ### English translation (Claude) "But God is faithful." Who does not abandon any except those who abandon him. "Who will strengthen you and guard you from now on." In faith, through teaching and grace. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:3: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Pelagius's gloss "through teaching and grace" is translated exactly. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.3 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:447–448; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-3). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:4 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-4 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Paul trusts their obedience and prays that the Lord lead them into love and patience. ### Latin text Confdimus autem in domino de uobis retires,] quod ea quae praecepimus [uobis], et fedstis et fadetis: dominus autem dirigat corda uestra in dilectionem dei et patientia[m] Christi. Reuelando quanta sint quae amoris sui causa contumelias patientibus repromisit. ### English translation (Claude) "And we are confident in the Lord about you, that you both do and will do the things we command. And may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and the patience of Christ." By revealing how great are the things he has promised to those who suffer insults for love of him. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:4: quotation, high confidence - 2 Thess 3:5: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - The section includes the lemma of 3:5. Souter brackets "brothers" and "to you"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.4 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-4). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:6 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-6 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The holy must separate from disorderly brothers who will not amend. ### Latin text Denuntiamus [autem ] uobis, f retires , in nomine domini nostri Iesu Christi, ut separetis uos ab omni f retire inquiete ambulante , et non secundum traditionem quam acceperunt a nobis . Quia in prima lenius commo[n]uimus et emendare noluerunt, [ut] uel hoc modo quo sanetd se ab eis separant, erubescent. Huius plane loci auctoritate subtrahendum est ab omni Ghristiano qui non secundum apostolica incedit praecepta. ### English translation (Claude) "And we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which they received from us." Because in the first letter we warned them more gently and they would not amend, so that at least in this way, when the holy separate themselves from them, they may blush. Clearly, by the authority of this passage, one must withdraw from every Christian who does not walk according to the apostolic precepts. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:6: quotation, high confidence - 1 Thess 4:11: allusion, high confidence ### Translation notes - The first letter: 1 Thess 4:11; 5:14. Souter brackets "and"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.6 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-6). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:7 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-7 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The apostles are the pattern for believers. ### Latin text Ipsi enim scitis quo modo oporte{a]t imitori nos . Qui sumus forma credentium. [ Quia non inquieti fuimus inter uos ### English translation (Claude) "For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us." We who are the pattern of believers. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:7: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Souter brackets the lemma "Because we were not disorderly among you"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.7 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-7). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:8 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-8 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lemma of 2 Thess 3:8, bracketed by Souter. ### Latin text neque panemgratisdb aliquo manduca[u£\inus, sed in labors et infatigatione node ac die operantes , ne aliquem uestrum grauaremus,] ### English translation (Claude) ["nor did we eat anyone's bread for nothing, but in labour and toil we worked night and day, so as not to burden any of you,"] ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:8: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - The whole section is the lemma of 3:8, which Souter brackets as not part of Pelagius's text; it is translated here in square brackets so that the section is not empty. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.8 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-8). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:9 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-9 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448–449 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Paul gave up his right to support as an example against greed and idleness. ### Latin text Non quasi non habuerimus potestatem . Quia ‘dignus est operarius mercede sua. Sed ut nosmet ipsos formam daremus uobis ut nos imitaremini . Ne cui occasionem auaritiae uel otii, qui fojis est inquietudinis, praeberemus. ### English translation (Claude) "Not because we did not have the right." Because "the labourer is worthy of his wages." "But to give ourselves as a pattern for you to imitate us." Lest we give anyone an occasion of greed or idleness, which is the source of restlessness. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:9: quotation, high confidence - Luke 10:7: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - The quotation is Luke 10:7; 1 Tim 5:18. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.9 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:448–449; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-9). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:10 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-10 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Those who will not work should not eat; this both punishes and corrects idleness. ### Latin text Nam cum et aput uos essemus , hoc denuntiabamus uobis. Quia. praeuidebamus aliquos tales futnros. Quoniam si quis non uult operari. Aut sedeant quieti, aut, si ueri sunt apostoli, nos sequantur, si non auaritiae, sed dei causa ambulare se dicunt. Nec manducet. Haec sit inquietudinis non solum poena sed etiam emendatio. ### English translation (Claude) "For even when we were with you, we commanded you this." Because we foresaw that some would be such. "That if anyone will not work." Let them either sit quietly, or, if they are true apostles, follow us, if they say they travel not for greed but for God's sake. "Neither let him eat." Let this be not only the punishment of restlessness but also its correction. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:10: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.10 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-10). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:11 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-11 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The command applies to the restless busybodies, not to those who sit quietly. ### Latin text Audiuimus [ enim ] quosdam ambulare inter uos inquiete , [et] nihil operantes. Reddit superiors sententiae causas, ad quos legitime debeat pertinere, scilicet ad inquiete ambulantes, non quiete sedentes. Sed curiose agentes. Quid in qua ciuitate uel prouincia [geratur] et domo. ### English translation (Claude) "For we have heard that some walk among you disorderly, doing no work." He gives the reasons for the sentence above, to whom it properly applies: namely to those who walk restlessly, not to those who sit quietly. "But being busybodies." About what is happening in which city or province and house. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:11: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - Souter brackets "for", "and", and "is happening"; omitted. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.11 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-11). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:12 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-12 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: The idle must work quietly and eat their own bread. ### Latin text His autem qui eiits modi sunt , praecipimus et obsecramus in domino lesu Christo . Nec ipsos post alteram correptionem desini[ui]t commonere. Ut cum silentio operantes , suum panem manducent. Non cum inquietudine alienum. ### English translation (Claude) "Now those who are such we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ." Even after the second rebuke he did not cease to admonish them. "That working quietly, they eat their own bread." Not someone else's with restlessness. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:12: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.12 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-12). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:13 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-13 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Paul forbids giving only to the idle, not the practice of charity. ### Latin text Uos autem , fratres , nolite dejicere bene facientes. Non omnibus, sed talibus dari prohibeo, ne putetis me boni operis consuetudinem amputare. ### English translation (Claude) "But you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good." I forbid giving not to all, but to such people, lest you think I am cutting off the habit of good works. ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:13: quotation, high confidence ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.13 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-13). ## 2 Thessalonians 3:14 - URL: https://sophiascriptura.com/fathers/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/0/#p-3-14 - Source: Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449 - Translation: Claude (claude-opus-5-5), 2026-09-27 Summary: Lemma of 2 Thess 3:14, cut off in the text. ### Latin text Quod si quis non obaudit ### English translation (Claude) "And if anyone does not obey" ### Scripture references - 2 Thess 3:14: quotation, high confidence ### Translation notes - The text breaks off here; the rest of the commentary on 2 Thessalonians is missing in this text. ### Citation (SBL) Pelagius, Comm. 2 Thess. 3.14 (Souter, Texts and Studies 9.2 2:449; trans. Sophia Scriptura, https://sophiascriptura.com/p/pelagius-expositiones-2-thessalonicenses/3-14).