2 Thessalonians 2:15-17 15Therefore then, brothers [and sisters], stand firm and hold fast to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word or by letter from us.
Verse 15 provides the simple answer for the challenges the Thessalonians faced. They had been taught by word (logou), which likely refers to the spoken word through preaching and teaching, and by letter from Paul and his team. They had been given what they needed to get started in their spiritual growth. Now it was up to them to continue this growth through faith and obedience.
The traditions refer to the truth of the gospel and how to live out this truth in loving and holy ways. Paul already reminded them of Christian conduct, such as sexual purity, avoiding activities done in the secret of night, and qualities that lead to spiritual growth (1 Thessalonians 4-5). They were learning what it means to live as followers of Jesus.
They needed to stand firm (stēkete) on the foundation of what they had learned. This stance was a position of strength because of upon what they stood. Paul passed on to his churches what was of first importance about the life, death, resurrection, and exaltation of Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:3-5). There is no stronger foundation than this.
They also needed to hold fast (krateite). This word gives the image of hands grasping something firmly and not letting go, as if holding on for dear life. Our life depends on grabbing the gospel and not letting go. The image of grasping also has the nuance of coming to a clear understanding through the study of the words of Jesus and about Jesus. Our lives will be strong against false teaching and persecution if we build them on the foundation of the truth.
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