So then, brothers, stand firm, and hold the traditions which you were taught by us, whether by word, or by letter.
Paul’s purpose in stressing the necessity of holding to the truth is that Christ will be glorified. Speaking of the communion, Paul says, "For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you..." (1 Corinthians 11:23); therefore, the words of Paul were to be obeyed because they came from the Lord.