Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ
This phrase addresses the anticipated return of Jesus Christ, a central tenet of Christian eschatology. The "coming" refers to the Second Coming, a future event when Christ will return to judge the living and the dead. This expectation is rooted in promises found throughout the New Testament, such as in Matthew 24:30 and Acts 1:11. The early church lived with a sense of urgency and hope for this event, which was meant to encourage believers to remain faithful and vigilant.

and our being gathered together to Him
This part of the verse speaks to the gathering of believers, often associated with the rapture, where Christians are united with Christ. This concept is supported by passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, which describes the Lord descending from heaven and the faithful being caught up to meet Him. The imagery of gathering is reminiscent of Old Testament prophecies, such as Isaiah 11:12, where God gathers His people. It signifies the ultimate reunion and fulfillment of God's promises to His followers.

we ask you, brothers
Paul's use of "brothers" indicates a familial relationship among believers, emphasizing unity and mutual care within the Christian community. This appeal is pastoral, reflecting Paul's role as a spiritual leader and his concern for the Thessalonians' understanding and well-being. The request is not merely informational but seeks to address confusion or anxiety about the end times, as seen in the broader context of 2 Thessalonians 2, where Paul clarifies misconceptions about the timing and nature of Christ's return.

not to be easily disconcerted or alarmed
Paul addresses the Thessalonians' emotional and spiritual stability, urging them not to be shaken or disturbed. This reflects the early church's challenges with false teachings and the need for discernment. The Greek word for "disconcerted" implies a sudden, unsettling movement, suggesting that the Thessalonians were experiencing confusion or fear. This exhortation is consistent with Jesus' warnings in Matthew 24:4-6 about not being deceived by false claims regarding the end times.

by any spirit or message or letter
Paul warns against three potential sources of misinformation: spiritual revelations, spoken messages, or written letters. This indicates the variety of ways false teachings could infiltrate the church. The mention of "spirit" suggests false prophecies or spiritual experiences, while "message" and "letter" imply verbal or written communication. This reflects the broader New Testament concern with false prophets and teachers, as seen in 1 John 4:1 and Galatians 1:6-9.

seeming to be from us
The phrase indicates that the false teachings were being presented with an air of apostolic authority, possibly even forged letters. This highlights the early church's struggle with maintaining doctrinal purity and the importance of verifying the authenticity of teachings. The issue of false letters is also addressed in 2 Thessalonians 3:17, where Paul emphasizes the distinguishing marks of his genuine letters.

alleging that the Day of the Lord has already come
The false teaching in question was that the Day of the Lord, a time of divine judgment and fulfillment of prophecy, had already occurred. This claim contradicted Paul's previous teachings and caused confusion among the Thessalonians. The Day of the Lord is a significant eschatological event referenced throughout Scripture, including in Isaiah 13:6-9 and Joel 2:1-2. Paul's correction aligns with Jesus' teachings in Matthew 24:36-44, emphasizing that the timing of the end is known only to God.

Let no one deceive you in any way
This phrase serves as a warning against false teachings and deception. In the early church, there were many false prophets and teachers who sought to lead believers astray. This echoes Jesus' warnings in Matthew 24:4-5 about being cautious of those who would deceive many. The emphasis on deception highlights the importance of discernment and adherence to apostolic teaching, as seen in 1 John 4:1, where believers are urged to test the spirits.

for it will not come until the rebellion occurs
The "it" refers to the Day of the Lord, a time of divine judgment and fulfillment of God's promises. The "rebellion" (Greek: apostasia) suggests a significant falling away or departure from the faith. This concept is linked to prophecies about a great apostasy in the end times, as seen in 1 Timothy 4:1, where some will abandon the faith. Historically, this could be seen as a culmination of various heresies and schisms that have challenged the church throughout history.

and the man of lawlessness—the son of destruction—is revealed
The "man of lawlessness" is a figure associated with end-time events, often identified with the Antichrist. This individual opposes God and exalts himself, as described in Daniel 7:25 and Revelation 13. The term "son of destruction" indicates his destined end, similar to Judas Iscariot, who is also called the "son of perdition" in John 17:12. This figure's revelation is a key event in eschatological timelines, marking a period of intense tribulation and opposition to God's people.

He will oppose and exalt himself above every so-called god or object of worship.
This phrase refers to the "man of lawlessness" or "son of perdition" mentioned earlier in the chapter. The opposition and self-exaltation indicate a direct challenge to all forms of deity and religious reverence, suggesting a figure who seeks to usurp divine authority. This echoes the pride and rebellion of Satan, as seen in Isaiah 14:12-14, where Lucifer desires to ascend above the stars of God. The historical context of the Roman Empire, with its pantheon of gods and emperor worship, provides a backdrop for understanding the audacity of such a claim. The phrase also connects to Daniel 11:36, where a king exalts himself above every god, indicating a prophetic consistency regarding end-times figures who defy divine order.

So he will seat himself in the temple of God,
The act of seating himself in the temple signifies a claim to divine status and authority. Historically, the temple in Jerusalem was the center of Jewish worship and the dwelling place of God's presence. This act of desecration is reminiscent of Antiochus IV Epiphanes, who desecrated the Second Temple, as described in Daniel 11:31 and 1 Maccabees 1:54. Theologically, this act is seen as the ultimate blasphemy, a usurpation of God's rightful place. The reference to the temple also raises questions about eschatological events, such as the rebuilding of a physical temple or a metaphorical understanding of the church as the temple (1 Corinthians 3:16).

proclaiming himself to be God.
This proclamation is the culmination of the man of lawlessness's rebellion, echoing the serpent's temptation in Genesis 3:5, where the promise was to be like God. It reflects the ultimate deception and delusion, as warned in Matthew 24:24, where false Christs and prophets perform signs and wonders. The claim to divinity is a direct affront to the Shema, the Jewish declaration of God's oneness (Deuteronomy 6:4). In Christian eschatology, this act is seen as a precursor to the Second Coming of Christ, who will defeat all false claims to divinity (Revelation 19:11-21). The phrase underscores the importance of discernment and faithfulness in the face of deception.

Do you not remember
This phrase serves as a rhetorical question, emphasizing the importance of recalling previous teachings. In the context of the early church, oral tradition and memory were crucial for preserving apostolic teachings. The Thessalonians were expected to remember Paul's instructions, highlighting the importance of retaining doctrinal truths. This echoes the biblical theme of remembrance found throughout Scripture, such as in Deuteronomy 6:12, where the Israelites are urged to remember God's commandments.

that I told you these things
Paul refers to specific teachings he had previously communicated to the Thessalonians. This likely includes eschatological teachings about the end times, the coming of the "man of lawlessness," and the return of Christ, as outlined earlier in the chapter. The phrase underscores the apostolic authority of Paul's teachings, which were foundational for the early church's understanding of prophecy and the future. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative where prophets and apostles convey God's revelations, as seen in Amos 3:7.

while I was still with you?
This indicates that Paul had personally visited the Thessalonian church and taught them directly. The historical context reveals that Paul founded the church in Thessalonica during his second missionary journey, as recorded in Acts 17:1-9. His physical presence and direct teaching would have been a significant source of encouragement and instruction for the new believers. The phrase also highlights the transient nature of Paul's missionary work, as he often moved from city to city, leaving behind established churches to continue the work of the gospel.

And you know what is now restraining him
The Thessalonians were aware of the restraining force, likely due to Paul's previous teachings. This restraint is often interpreted as a divine or spiritual force preventing the "man of lawlessness" from being revealed prematurely. The identity of the restrainer has been debated, with suggestions including the Holy Spirit, the church, or a governing authority. The concept of restraint aligns with biblical themes of God's sovereignty and timing, as seen in Job 1:12, where God sets limits on Satan's actions.

so that he may be revealed
The "he" refers to the "man of lawlessness" mentioned earlier in the chapter, often associated with the Antichrist. This revelation is part of eschatological events leading to the end times. The idea of revelation is significant in biblical prophecy, as seen in Daniel 7:25 and Revelation 13, where the Antichrist is described as a figure who opposes God and deceives many. The revealing is a divine act, indicating God's control over the unfolding of prophetic events.

at the proper time
This phrase emphasizes God's perfect timing in the unfolding of end-time events. The "proper time" suggests a divinely appointed moment, echoing Ecclesiastes 3:1, which speaks of a time for every purpose under heaven. It reassures believers of God's ultimate plan and timing, as seen in Galatians 4:4, where Christ's coming is described as occurring in the "fullness of time." This timing underscores the theme of divine sovereignty and the assurance that God's purposes will be fulfilled according to His schedule.

For the mystery of lawlessness is already at work
The term "mystery" in biblical context often refers to a divine truth that was previously hidden but is now revealed. Here, it pertains to the pervasive influence of lawlessness, which is a rebellion against God's order. This concept of lawlessness can be traced back to the fall of man in Genesis 3 and is evident throughout Scripture, such as in the days of Noah (Genesis 6:5) and the lawlessness of Israel (Judges 21:25). The Apostle Paul indicates that this spirit of rebellion is not a future event but is already active in the world, aligning with Jesus' teachings on the increase of lawlessness in the end times (Matthew 24:12).

but the one who now restrains it
This phrase suggests the presence of a restraining force or person that holds back the full manifestation of lawlessness. The identity of this restrainer has been widely debated, with interpretations ranging from the Holy Spirit, the church, or a governing authority. The restrainer's role is crucial in God's sovereign plan, preventing the complete revelation of the "man of lawlessness" until the appointed time. This aligns with the biblical theme of God's control over the unfolding of prophetic events, as seen in Daniel 2:21, where God changes times and seasons and removes kings.

will continue until he is taken out of the way
The continuation of the restraining force is temporary, indicating a future point when it will be removed. This removal is a significant eschatological event, paving the way for the revelation of the "man of lawlessness" mentioned earlier in 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4. The phrase suggests a divine timetable, where God allows the progression of events according to His purpose. This concept is echoed in Revelation 17:17, where God puts it into the hearts of rulers to accomplish His will. The removal of the restrainer marks a pivotal moment in the prophetic timeline, leading to the culmination of end-time events and the eventual return of Jesus Christ.

And then the lawless one will be revealed
This phrase refers to the "lawless one," often identified with the Antichrist, a figure of ultimate evil and opposition to God. The revealing of the lawless one is a key event in eschatological prophecy, indicating a time of great tribulation and apostasy. This aligns with other biblical references to the Antichrist, such as in Daniel 7:25 and Revelation 13, where a figure arises to deceive and lead many astray. The term "revealed" suggests a divine allowance for this figure to be made known, indicating God's sovereign control over end-time events.

whom the Lord Jesus will slay with the breath of His mouth
This phrase emphasizes the power and authority of Jesus Christ. The imagery of slaying with the "breath of His mouth" is symbolic of the effortless and divine power of Christ's word, reminiscent of the creative power of God's word in Genesis 1. It also connects to Isaiah 11:4, where the Messiah judges the wicked with the breath of His lips. This demonstrates that Christ's victory over evil is not through human means but through His divine authority and righteousness.

and annihilate by the majesty of His arrival
The term "annihilate" indicates a complete and final destruction, underscoring the totality of Christ's victory over evil. The "majesty of His arrival" refers to the Second Coming of Christ, a central tenet of Christian eschatology. This event is described in various scriptures, such as Matthew 24:30 and Revelation 19:11-16, where Christ returns in glory and power. The majesty of His arrival signifies the ultimate revelation of His divine kingship and the establishment of His eternal kingdom, fulfilling prophecies throughout the Old and New Testaments.

The coming of the lawless one
This phrase refers to the Antichrist, a figure prophesied in the New Testament who embodies opposition to Christ and His teachings. The term "lawless one" highlights his rebellion against God's laws. This concept is rooted in Jewish apocalyptic literature and is echoed in other New Testament passages such as 1 John 2:18 and Revelation 13. The Antichrist is seen as a culmination of evil, a personification of sin and rebellion that will arise before the second coming of Christ.

will be accompanied by the working of Satan
This indicates that the Antichrist's power and influence are not of human origin but are empowered by Satan himself. The "working of Satan" suggests a supernatural element, as Satan is often depicted in the Bible as a deceiver and adversary (1 Peter 5:8, Revelation 12:9). This aligns with the broader biblical narrative of spiritual warfare, where Satan opposes God's plans and seeks to lead people astray.

with every kind of power, sign, and false wonder
The Antichrist will perform miraculous acts that mimic the signs and wonders of God, but these are deceptive in nature. The use of "every kind" implies a wide array of supernatural phenomena designed to deceive. This mirrors the warnings given by Jesus in Matthew 24:24, where false prophets and false Christs will perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. These false wonders serve to validate the Antichrist's authority in the eyes of the deceived, contrasting with the true miracles performed by Jesus and His apostles.

and with every wicked deception
This phrase highlights the pervasive nature of deceit that will characterize the end times. The "wicked deception" refers to the false teachings and misleading signs that will be prevalent, as described in other parts of the New Testament, such as Matthew 24:24, where false prophets and false Christs will perform great signs and wonders. The deception is not just limited to spiritual matters but encompasses all aspects of life, leading people away from the truth of the Gospel.

directed against those who are perishing
The phrase "those who are perishing" refers to individuals who are spiritually lost and separated from God. In 1 Corinthians 1:18, Paul contrasts those who are perishing with those who are being saved, emphasizing the different responses to the message of the cross. The deception is specifically targeted at those who have not accepted the truth of the Gospel, making them vulnerable to falsehoods. This highlights the spiritual battle between truth and deception, as seen in Ephesians 6:12.

because they refused the love of the truth
This part of the verse underscores human responsibility in the rejection of the Gospel. The "love of the truth" implies a deep, affectionate acceptance of the Gospel message, which is the truth of Jesus Christ. John 14:6 identifies Jesus as "the way, the truth, and the life," indicating that rejecting the truth is ultimately rejecting Christ Himself. The refusal is a deliberate choice, as seen in Romans 1:18-25, where people suppress the truth by their wickedness.

that would have saved them
The potential for salvation is present, but it is contingent upon accepting the truth. This phrase emphasizes the availability of salvation through Jesus Christ, as stated in John 3:16, where belief in Him leads to eternal life. The conditional nature of salvation is also reflected in Romans 10:9-10, which speaks of confessing and believing in Jesus as the path to salvation. The tragedy of this rejection is that salvation was within reach, yet it was spurned, leading to eternal consequences.

For this reason
This phrase refers back to the preceding verses, where Paul discusses the rebellion and the man of lawlessness. The "reason" is the rejection of truth and love for wickedness by those who are perishing. This sets the stage for divine judgment, a theme consistent throughout Scripture, where God allows people to follow their chosen paths when they reject Him (Romans 1:24-28).

God will send them
This indicates God's sovereign control over the events of history. While God is not the author of evil, He permits certain actions to fulfill His purposes. This aligns with instances in the Old Testament where God allows or sends certain conditions as judgment, such as the hardening of Pharaoh's heart (Exodus 9:12).

a powerful delusion
The delusion is described as "powerful," indicating its effectiveness in leading people away from the truth. This can be seen as a form of divine judgment, where God allows those who reject the truth to be further entrenched in their deception. This concept is echoed in Isaiah 66:4, where God chooses delusions for those who do not listen to Him.

so that they believe the lie
The "lie" is often interpreted as the false teachings and deceptions propagated by the man of lawlessness. This is reminiscent of the deception in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:4-5), where the serpent's lie led to the fall of humanity. In a broader sense, it reflects the ultimate rejection of Christ, who is the Truth (John 14:6), and the acceptance of falsehood. This serves as a warning to remain vigilant and grounded in biblical truth.

in order that judgment may come upon all
This phrase indicates a divine purpose or result. The context of 2 Thessalonians 2 involves the discussion of the "man of lawlessness" and the end times. The judgment here is a reference to God's righteous judgment, which is a recurring theme throughout Scripture (e.g., Romans 2:5). It underscores the certainty of divine justice and the ultimate accountability of all people before God. The idea of judgment is consistent with the teachings of Jesus, who spoke of separating the righteous from the wicked (Matthew 25:31-46).

who have disbelieved the truth
The "truth" in this context refers to the gospel message and the revelation of Jesus Christ. Disbelief in the truth is a rejection of the salvation offered through Christ, as seen in John 14:6, where Jesus declares Himself the way, the truth, and the life. This disbelief is not merely intellectual but involves a willful rejection of God's revelation. The historical context of the Thessalonian church, which faced persecution and false teachings, highlights the importance of holding fast to the truth of the gospel.

and delighted in wickedness.
This phrase contrasts with the love of truth. Delighting in wickedness implies an active and willing participation in sin, which is contrary to the nature of God. The cultural context of the Greco-Roman world, with its various pagan practices, would have presented numerous temptations for the early Christians. Theologically, this delight in wickedness is indicative of a hardened heart, as seen in Romans 1:32, where people not only practice sin but also approve of those who do. This phrase serves as a warning against complacency and the dangers of moral compromise.

But we should always thank God for you
This phrase emphasizes the importance of gratitude in the Christian life. Paul consistently models thankfulness in his letters, highlighting the spiritual bond between believers. This gratitude is not just a personal feeling but a communal expression of joy for the work God is doing in the lives of others. It reflects the early church's practice of prayer and thanksgiving, as seen in other epistles like Philippians 1:3-5 and Colossians 1:3-4.

brothers who are loved by the Lord
The term "brothers" signifies the familial relationship among believers, transcending ethnic and social boundaries. The phrase "loved by the Lord" underscores the divine initiative in salvation, echoing themes from Deuteronomy 7:7-8, where God's love is the basis for His covenant with Israel. This love is unconditional and eternal, forming the foundation of the believers' identity and security in Christ.

because God chose you from the beginning
This statement reflects the doctrine of election, where God's sovereign choice is emphasized. The concept of being chosen "from the beginning" aligns with Ephesians 1:4, which speaks of being chosen before the foundation of the world. This choice is not based on human merit but on God's grace and purpose, reinforcing the assurance of salvation for believers.

to be saved by the sanctification of the Spirit
Salvation is presented as a process involving the Holy Spirit's sanctifying work. Sanctification refers to being set apart for God's purposes, a theme prevalent in both Old and New Testaments. The Spirit's role in sanctification is crucial, as seen in passages like Romans 15:16 and 1 Peter 1:2, where the Spirit empowers believers to live holy lives, transforming them into the likeness of Christ.

and by faith in the truth
Faith is the means by which believers receive and live out the truth of the Gospel. This phrase highlights the necessity of personal belief and trust in God's revealed truth, as seen in John 17:17, where Jesus prays for His followers to be sanctified by the truth. The truth refers to the Gospel message, which is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16). Faith in this truth is essential for the believer's ongoing relationship with God and their spiritual growth.

To this He called you
This phrase emphasizes the divine initiative in the process of salvation. The calling is not based on human merit but on God's sovereign will. This aligns with passages like Romans 8:30, which speaks of those whom God predestined, He also called. The calling is a personal invitation to enter into a relationship with God, reflecting the biblical theme of God as the initiator of salvation.

through our gospel
The "gospel" refers to the good news of Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. The use of "our gospel" indicates the message preached by Paul and his companions, which is consistent with the apostolic teaching. This highlights the importance of the apostolic witness and the transmission of the gospel message through the early church. The gospel is the means by which God calls individuals to salvation, as seen in Romans 10:14-15.

so that you may share
This phrase points to the purpose of the calling, which is to participate in something greater. The concept of sharing or partaking is common in the New Testament, as seen in 1 Peter 4:13, where believers are encouraged to rejoice as they share in Christ's sufferings. It implies a communal aspect of the Christian faith, where believers are united in their experience and destiny.

in the glory
"Glory" in the biblical sense often refers to the divine presence and majesty of God. In this context, it suggests the future state of believers who will be transformed and glorified, as described in Philippians 3:21. This glory is not only a future hope but also a present reality in the sense that believers reflect God's glory in their lives (2 Corinthians 3:18).

of our Lord Jesus Christ
This phrase identifies the source and focus of the glory. Jesus Christ is central to the Christian faith, and His lordship is a key theme throughout the New Testament. The title "Lord" signifies His authority and divinity, while "Jesus Christ" emphasizes His role as the Messiah. The glory believers are called to share is intrinsically linked to the person and work of Jesus, as seen in passages like John 17:22, where Jesus speaks of giving His glory to His followers.

Therefore, brothers,
The term "brothers" indicates a familial relationship among believers, emphasizing unity and equality within the body of Christ. This reflects the early Christian understanding of the church as a family, transcending social and ethnic boundaries. The use of "therefore" connects this verse to the preceding discussion about the return of Christ and the need for perseverance.

stand firm
This exhortation to "stand firm" is a call to spiritual steadfastness and resilience. In the context of persecution and false teachings, believers are encouraged to remain unwavering in their faith. This echoes other biblical passages such as Ephesians 6:13-14, where Paul instructs believers to put on the full armor of God to withstand evil.

and cling to the traditions
The "traditions" refer to the teachings and practices handed down by the apostles. In the early church, these traditions were vital for maintaining doctrinal purity and unity. This phrase underscores the importance of adhering to apostolic teaching as a safeguard against heresy and false doctrine.

we taught you,
Paul emphasizes the authority of the apostolic teaching, which was delivered directly by him and his companions. This highlights the role of the apostles as the primary transmitters of Christ's teachings, ensuring that the message remained unaltered and authentic.

whether by speech
The reference to "speech" indicates oral teaching, which was a primary method of instruction in the early church. Oral tradition was crucial in a largely illiterate society and was often accompanied by personal interaction and discipleship.

or by letter.
The mention of "letter" points to the written correspondence that became part of the New Testament canon. These letters were circulated among the early churches and served as authoritative guides for faith and practice. This highlights the importance of Scripture as a permanent and reliable source of divine revelation.

Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself
This phrase emphasizes the personal involvement of Jesus Christ in the lives of believers. It highlights His divine authority and active role in providing spiritual blessings. The use of "Himself" underscores the personal relationship believers have with Christ, who is not distant but intimately involved in their lives. This reflects the New Testament theme of Jesus as the mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5).

and God our Father
The inclusion of "God our Father" alongside Jesus Christ emphasizes the unity and cooperation within the Trinity. It reflects the familial relationship believers have with God, who is not just a distant deity but a loving Father. This echoes the teachings of Jesus, who often referred to God as Father, encouraging believers to approach Him with the same intimacy (Matthew 6:9).

who by grace has loved us
The phrase "by grace" highlights the unmerited favor of God. It is a central theme in Pauline theology, emphasizing that salvation and God's love are not earned but freely given (Ephesians 2:8-9). This love is foundational to the Christian faith, as it is the motivation behind God's redemptive plan (John 3:16).

and given us eternal comfort
"Eternal comfort" refers to the everlasting consolation and peace that believers receive through their relationship with God. This comfort is not temporary or dependent on circumstances but is rooted in the eternal promises of God. It connects to the assurance of salvation and the hope of eternal life (Romans 8:38-39).

and good hope
"Good hope" signifies a confident expectation of future blessings, grounded in the promises of God. This hope is not wishful thinking but a sure and steadfast anchor for the soul (Hebrews 6:19). It is a recurring theme in the New Testament, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in faith despite trials (1 Peter 1:3-4).

encourage your hearts
This phrase emphasizes the need for internal fortitude and comfort, especially in the face of trials and persecution. In the context of 2 Thessalonians, Paul is addressing a church that is experiencing confusion and distress due to false teachings about the Day of the Lord. The heart, in biblical terms, often represents the center of one's emotions and will. Encouragement here is akin to the comfort provided by the Holy Spirit, as seen in John 14:26, where the Spirit is described as the Comforter. This encouragement is not merely emotional but is rooted in the truth of the Gospel and the hope of Christ's return.

and strengthen you
The strengthening mentioned is both spiritual and moral, enabling believers to stand firm in their faith. This is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, as seen in Ephesians 3:16, where he prays for believers to be strengthened with power through the Spirit. The Thessalonians needed this strength to withstand false teachings and persecution. The Greek word used here for "strengthen" implies making something more firm or resolute, suggesting a divine empowerment that goes beyond human capability.

in every good word and deed
This phrase highlights the practical outworking of faith. Good words and deeds are the evidence of a life transformed by the Gospel. James 2:17 underscores that faith without works is dead, indicating that true faith manifests in action. The cultural context of the early church placed a high value on community and mutual support, which would have been expressed through acts of kindness and truth-telling. This aligns with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 5:16, where believers are called to let their light shine before others through good works, glorifying the Father in heaven. The emphasis on "every" suggests a comprehensive approach to living out one's faith in all aspects of life.