The New Rendition of First and Second Thessalonians provides a modern English translation of the Greek text while remaining true to Paul’s intent. This rendering is excerpted from Paul’s Letters to the Thessalonians by Richard D. Draper and Michael D. Rhodes.

This new version clarifies many previously vague or misunderstood passages and enlightens the text for today’s readers. The rendition of Second Thessalonians substantiates the idea that Church leaders were closely attentive to the all-too-rapidly approaching tragedy of the Apostasy. The Epistle also contains information on the Second Coming, notably that Christ will descend with his angels and avenge the righteous. As for the wicked, they will be destroyed in the flesh and then punished; their master, the lawless one, will be overthrown. It also stresses that the Saints must watch out for false prophets and their prophecies concerning the timing of the Second Coming. It also looks at God’s mindfulness of the suffering that his people often endure and his promise that they will be fully rewarded at his coming. He, however, in the present, will strengthen and protect them from the evil one. During this period, God’s people must work to sustain themselves. It also shows that the world is perishing because too many do not love the truth and that they will be punished for their deeds.

This Rendition is part of the BYU New Testament Commentary series. This scholarly project aims to create a faithful modern English translation together with a full, in-depth, carefully researched Latter-day Saint commentary for each book on the New Testament. More of the New Rendition and commentary volumes will be added in coming months and years. As of 2023, volumes have been published on Mark, Luke, First and Second Corinthians, Ephesians, Hebrews, and Revelation.