Holding the Traditions (2)

Last time, we considered the Roman view of "tradition" concluding with the question: Is this what II Thessalonians 2:15 ("Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle") has in mind?

The Greek word translated "traditions" carries the idea of handing something down or passing it on. The ones who handed these things down to the Thessalonians were the apostle Paul and his helpers, Timothy and Silas (1:1). They passed these things on by "word, or ... epistle." "Word" includes preaching (and other forms of oral teaching). Thus Paul writes, "Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told ye these things?" (2:5). "Our epistle" (singular) is I Thessalonians. Thus the tradition of II Thessalonians 2:15 is apostolic testimony handed down either by inspired Scripture (I Thessalonians) or preaching. Remember that the preaching of Paul (and his associates)—faithful explanation and application of God’s Word—was in full accordance with the Scriptures.

What is the content of the "traditions" of II Thessalonians 2:15? Obviously, the heart of it is the gospel of Jesus Christ crucified and risen for the salvation of His church to the glory of God. I and II Thessalonians speak especially of Christ’s return for judgment and salvation. II Thessalonians 2 elaborates on this. Preceding Christ’s return and the "gathering" of the saints unto Him (1) is the "falling away" and the revelation of the "man of sin" (3). The man of sin will set himself up "above all that is called God" (4) and will work miracles in the service of the lie (9). Christ "shall consume [him] with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy [him] with the brightness of his coming" (8). God will use the deception of the man of sin (9-10) in executing His decree of reprobation (11-12). However, those "chosen" "to salvation" "from the beginning" shall be effectually "called" to "belief of the truth," "sanctification of the Spirit" and "obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ" (13-14). Moreover, included in the "traditions" are the "eschatological ethics" which flow from the biblical doctrine of the last times. These are found especially in I Thessalonians 5:6-28 but also throughout I and II Thessalonians.

Thus the "traditions" which we must hold fast are biblical doctrines contained in God-breathed Scripture and church teaching that is consonant with the written Word of God. This teaching does not add to or contradict the Scriptures. It merely explains and applies the Word of God.

What then of the church of Rome and her tradition? And what is the calling of the believer regarding tradition? We shall consider this next time (DV).