2 Thessalonians 2:15. "Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.” THE TRADITIONS. Committed to our trust is something far beyond our ken– The word of God in doctrinal print that at first was committed to them Who saw the Lord face to face or received from those who had The traditions – the spoken teachings – that most people never heard.
Now we have those same traditions – doctrines given in the written form. From the Holy Spirit through their pens came truth until the canon was done That we hold in our hands as the Bible containing doctrine for which we stand And hold as a gift from God the words passed on through chosen men.
Some call these words “only traditions,” which have lost their value to us. And they wonder when we say, “The Bible says,” and insist it is practiced thus. It is true that traditions can be harmful or valuable depending on the support of God’s Word. The traditions of men are not to be considered right unless they are from the Lord.
We are called upon to stand fast and hold firmly the teachings given To us by the Holy Spirit of God and to be faithful to the One who gave them. Loyalty is to be expected in those for whom Christ gave His life. And the degree to which we hold God’s truth fast is how much we shed His light.
The challenge to the saints in Bible times is the same challenge to us today. When there is a question about events and disasters, find out what the Bible says. And base your convictions upon unchanging truth from an unchanging God. Those “traditions” that came to us from Him are the ones we still must hold.
Men can change their opinions easily, depending on who it is that gave them. Opinions are not biblical traditions, so we can either take or leave them. If they are founded upon the rock of the scriptures of truth that guide us – Then we can, with confidence, the outcome expect to bless us.
“Father God, in considering biblical traditions in comparison to those of men. I will always need to be aware of what Thy mind is behind the practice. May every decision, every change, and everything I do be according to the traditions of Thy Word. Give me the strength and courage to stand fast for what is right and hold the truth. In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, Amen.”
Paul began with thanksgiving for them and now makes intercession for them. We keep the good "traditions" passed on by Paul and trusted men through the authority of Divine Persons, in contrast to the antichrist and Satan's activities. The Father and Son have given us comfort that lasts forever through the preaching of the Gospel. Disturbed minds can be settled and quiet. The future is secure and blessed because of the grace of God alone. Comfort and strength inside our hearts give rest inwardly. Meaningful service outside of proclaiming the word and stewardship is part of our responsibility. To know the truth within and proclaim it outwardly is the practical side of the Gospel. We are stirred to do both in view of the Lord's return.