2 Tessalonicenses 3

Warren Wiersbe · Citado em PreceptAustin

2 Tessalonicenses 3

Wiersbe - Church problems are like physical problems: if left unsolved, they grow and become worse, and they infect more people. The local church is a body; and what germs are to the physical body, sin is to the spiritual body. When Paul wrote his first letter to the Thessalonian church, he warned the idle busybodies to get to work (1 Thes. 4:11). He admonished the church leaders to "warn them that are unruly" (1 Thes. 5:14). The word unruly means "a soldier out of rank," or "out of line." Apparently these troublemakers did not repent, because Paul devoted the rest of his second letter to this problem. (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). Wycliffe Bible Commentary. - With apostolic authority Paul attacks the problem of laziness which was plaguing the Thessalonian church. Reminding his friends of his own diligence, he commands firm yet loving discipline of the idle. (Online) In the first letter Paul had made an alluded to hard work (and gave his example in 1Th 2:9) writing "make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you." (1Th 4:11+) Now we command (paraggello) you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (cf similar command 2Th 3:12) -The combination of command (like an officer his troops) the phrase In Name of our Lord Jesus Christ (the full name) adds significant weight to Paul's command describing his authority as from the Lord. It is like Paul is a 3 star general on the front line, but the order comes based on the authority of the Commander in Chief! Paul is not simply casually passing on an announcement (a meaning which paraggello can sometimes convey - but clearly not here).

2 Tessalonicenses 3

Wiersbe quips "They were also spreading gossip about people in the church. They had time on their hands and gossip on their lips." (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). And not according to the tradition which you received from us - While tradition (literally something handed down) from the Pharisees was negative or false (Mk 7:2-13) here tradition is positive and speaks of verbal instructions that Paul had handed down to the Thessalonians but they had not been written down. It signified the authoritative teaching of Paul. So even though verbally given, they were still divinely inspired teachings. We see instructions that would be in this classification of tradition are 2 Thessalonians 2:5 Do you not remember that while I was still with you, I was telling you these things? 2 Thessalonians 3:10; For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either. Command (direct, instruct, order) (3853) paraggello rom para = beside, alongside, near by, at the side of + aggelos = messenger, angello/aggello = to announce) means to hand on or pass on an announcement from one to another who is at one's side, such as to what must be done, usually with the idea of a command or charge. Paraggello was used in the context of a military command and demanded that the subordinate obey the order from the superior and required unhesitating and unqualified obedience. (cp Lk 5:14, Lk 8:29, Lk 9:21KJV, Acts 1:4, Acts 4:18; Acts 5:28KJV; Acts 15:5KJV; 1Th 4:11). It is like a mandate (an authoritative command) or a call to obedience from one in authority, in this case Paul passing it along in the authority of Jesus! Note that this verb is a key word in 2 Thessalonians 3 occurring 4 times 2 Thess. 3:4; 2 Thess. 3:6; 2 Thess. 3:10; 2 Thess. 3:12; Keep away (4724) stello originally meant “to get ready,” “to equip,” esp. in reference to equipping an army for an expedition or for sailing. Then it came to mean “to bring together” or “to gather up,” as for instance one gathers or tucks up clothes. From this comes the sense of an inner gathering-up or withdrawal, and so of flinching and avoiding. Here it is withdrawal from brethren who are out of step. Stello is only middle in the NT and only 2 uses, one of persons from which one is hold oneself aloof or keep away from (2Th 3:6) The other use speaks of things one is to try to avoid, steer clear of, or be on guard against - "taking precaution so that no one will discredit us in our administration of this generous gift;." (2Cor 8:20) Gilbrant on stello - Stellomai is a rather common verb in Greek generally meaning “make ready.” It is the middle form of the verb stellō meaning “set, place,” or “send.” As early as Herodotus we find the meanings “make ready, prepare, furnish with” and the passive meanings “prepare oneself, to set out, to summon” (cf. Liddell-Scott). With reference to ships it can mean “to furl a sail, shifting a sail to avoid enemy contact,” or “make compact.” Its medical use is “to restrict one’s diet,” hence the idea “to withdraw, shrink,” or “restrict oneself from someone or something” (ibid.). Of the seven occurrences in the Septuagint, Malachi 2:5 uses the idea of withdrawing in fear: “ . . . to shrink (withdraw) in fear from His name” (author’s translation). (Complete Biblical Library) Unruly (814)(ataktos from a = negative + tasso = set in order) means without order, out of step. Adverb; in a disorderly manner; figuratively, of persons who live irresponsibly idly, lazily. It is used only in 2 Thes 3:6,11 describing behavior os some Thessalonians who were causing disorder in the community. BDAG has "in defiance of good order, disorderly, holding religious services without regard to established times arbitrarily 1 Cl 40:2." The related adjective ataktos described soldiers who will not obey orders and is used once in the NT in 1Th 5:14 ("admonish the unruly.") of of persons who evaded responsibilities and were idle or lazy. Tradition (3862) paradosis from paradidomi = deliver in teaching) means literally to give from the presence of, thus to give personally. It signifies an act of transmission or that which is transmitted and thus refers to that which is handed down or transmitted from generation to generation; injunction delivered or from one to another. It was used to refer to the Pharisaic traditions which had been engrafted on the Mosaic Law (Mt 15:2, 6; Mk 7:3, 13(. Paradosis "means literally “to give from the presence of,” thus “to give personally.” It signifies an act of transmission or that which is transmitted. In the New Testament it is used in the latter sense, without indicating the method of transmission or implying any lapse of time such as is usually associated with the English word tradition." (Wuest) In the NT, "tradition" is used of doctrine handed (passed) down from the Lord through the apostles, i.e. transferred (transmitted) as venerated tradition (1 Cor 11:2,23; 2 Thes 2:15, 3:6). 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example, because we did not act in an undisciplined manner among you, KJV 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; ESV 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you, NET 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you know yourselves how you must imitate us, because we did not behave without discipline among you, BGT 2 Thessalonians 3:7 Αὐτοὶ γὰρ οἴδατε πῶς δεῖ μιμεῖσθαι ἡμᾶς, ὅτι οὐκ ἠτακτήσαμεν ἐν ὑμῖν NIV 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, NLT 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you know that you ought to imitate us. We were not idle when we were with you. YLT 2 Thessalonians 3:7 for yourselves have known how it behoveth you to imitate us, because we did not act disorderly among you; CSB 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you yourselves know how you must imitate us: We were not irresponsible among you; NKJ 2 Thessalonians 3:7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; For you yourselves know how: 2Th 3:9 1Co 4:16 1 Cor 11:1 Php 3:17 4:9 1Th 1:6,7 1Ti 4:12 Titus 2:7 1Pe 5:3 because: 2Th 3:6 1Th 2:10 2 Thessalonians 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: 1 Corinthians 11:1 Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ. Philippians 3:17 Brethren, join in following (be followers together) my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 7 You also became imitators of us and of the Lord, having received the word in much tribulation with the joy of the Holy Spirit, MIMIC US Wiersbe - The greatest influence is that of godly living and sacrifice. A Christian leader may appeal to the authority of the Word; but if he cannot point also to his own example of obedience, his people will not listen. This is the difference between authority and stature. A leader earns stature as he obeys the Word and serves His people in the will of God. Authority comes from position; stature comes from practice and example. Stature earns the leader the right to exercise authority. (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example (imitate - ESV, NET) - Know is eido which speaks of knowledge they should have beyond of a shadow of a doubt. They had seen Paul and his fellow missionaries working hard! They cannot claim ignorance! Ought is dei which indicates they were obligated to follow Paul's example (and presumably Silas and Timothy). Robertson on follow our example - It is a daring thing to say, but Paul knew that he had to set the new Christians in the midst of Jews and Gentiles a model for their imitation (Phil. 3:17). Because we did not act in an undisciplined manner among you - This was an understatement! Not is ouk indicating absolute negation. Paul was confident he could deny any idleness or laziness on his part for in 1Th 2:9+ he said "you recall, brethren, our labor and hardship, how working night and day so as not to be a burden (epibareo) to any of you, we proclaimed to you the gospel of God." Act in an undisciplined manner is one Greek word atakteo used only here (Hapax legomenon) and literally meaning to set oneself outside the order ("to be out of ranks of soldiers" ATR) and thus referred to those who were idle, lazy or in some way evaded their responsibilities. BDAG adds atakteo means "Of such as are not at their appointed posts or do not conform to established law or custom, hence acting with self-interest and not for the common good." Example is the most powerful rhetoric --Thomas Brooks Follow...example (3401) mimeomai from mimos = imitator, "mimic") means to imitate, to use a model, to emulate, to follow (someone's actions or way of life), especially to follow an example (good example - 2Th 3:7, 9, Hebrews 13:7) and not to follow a bad example (3 Jn 1:11). 2 Thessalonians 3:8 nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it, but with labor and hardship we kept working night and day so that we would not be a burden to any of you; KJV 2 Thessalonians 3:8 Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: ESV 2 Thessalonians 3:8 nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you. NET 2 Thessalonians 3:8 and we did not eat anyone's food without paying. Instead, in toil and drudgery we worked night and day in order not to burden any of you. BGT 2 Thessalonians 3:8 οὐδὲ δωρεὰν ἄρτον ἐφάγομεν παρά τινος, ἀλλ᾽ ἐν κόπῳ καὶ μόχθῳ νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας ἐργαζόμενοι πρὸς τὸ μὴ ἐπιβαρῆσαί τινα ὑμῶν· NIV 2 Thessalonians 3:8 nor did we eat anyone's food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. NLT 2 Thessalonians 3:8 We never accepted food from anyone without paying for it. We worked hard day and night so we would not be a burden to any of you. YLT 2 Thessalonians 3:8 nor for nought did we eat bread of any one, but in labour and in travail, night and day working, not to be chargeable to any of you; CSB 2 Thessalonians 3:8 we did not eat anyone's food free of charge; instead, we labored and struggled, working night and day, so that we would not be a burden to any of you. eat: 2Th 3:12 Pr 31:27 Mt 6:11 but: Ac 18:3 20:34 1Co 4:12 2Co 11:9 1Th 4:11 night: 1Th 2:9 2 Thessalonians 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: Acts 20:34; “You yourselves know that these hands ministered to my own needs and to the men who were with me. 1 Corinthians 4:12 and we toil, working with our own hands; when we are reviled, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure; PAUL SOUGHT NO "HAND OUTS" Nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it - Bread of course would include any type of food for daily sustenance and more generally would refer to the fact that they made enough funds to support their livelihood. They refused to be "free loaders." Without paying is dorea (preceded by strong negative oude) which is literally "without payment" and is first in the Greek for emphasis. Paul is not say a Christian worker does not have the right to receive support (see Luke 10:7; Gal. 6:6; 1 Tim. 5:17-18). Church support your shepherd, so that he was work in the Word and feed the flock rich "spiritual food." Wiersbe has an interesting note - Have you noticed that God called people who were busy at work? Moses was caring for sheep (Ex. 3). Joshua was Moses' servant before he became Moses' successor (Ex. 33:11). Gideon was threshing wheat when God called him (Judges 6:11ff), and David was caring for his father's sheep (1 Sam. 16:11ff). Our Lord called four fishermen to serve as His disciples, and He Himself had worked as a carpenter. Paul was a tentmaker (Acts 18:1-3) and used his trade to support his own ministry. The Jews honored honest labor and required all their rabbis to have a trade. But the Greeks despised manual labor and left it to their slaves. This Greek influence, plus their wrong ideas about the doctrine of the Lord's return, led these believers into an unchristian way of life. (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). But - Term of contrast marks definite "change of direction." With labor and hardship we kept working night and day - Both labor and hardship pictures intense work. Night and day emphasizes their word was "endless" (not that they did not sleep but undoubtedly they actually did work into the night). So that (INDICATES PURPOSE) we would not be a burden to any of you - Paul did not want to be a financial burden to the Thessalonian saints.

2 Tessalonicenses 3

Wiersbe - As an apostle, Paul had the right to expect financial support; but he deliberately gave up this right that he might be an example to the young believers (see 1 Cor. 9:6-14+). In this attitude, Paul proved himself to be a mature Christian leader. Selfish leaders use people to build up their support, and they are always claiming their rights. A truly dedicated leader will use his rights to build up the people, and will lay aside his rights and privileges for the sake of others. (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). But in order to (hina - purpose clause) offer ourselves as a model (tupos) for you - For the second time (cf 2Th 3:7+) Paul alludes to the fact that they should emulate their model. So that you would follow our example (mimeomai) - They had no excuses for they had seen Paul's model. Follow...example is in the present tense calling for this to be their lifestyle. Right (1849) exousia from éxesti = it is permitted, it is lawful) means the power to do something and was a technical term used in the law courts, of a legal right. "Authority or right is the dominant meaning (of exousia) in the New Testament." (Vincent) Exousía refers to delegated authority and combines the idea of the "right and the might", these attributes having been granted to someone. Model (example) (5179) tupos from túpto = strike, smite with repeated strokes) literally refers to a visible mark or impression made by a stroke or blow from an instrument or object. What is left after the stroke or blow is called a print, a figure or an impression. Stated another way tupos properly means a "model" or "pattern" or "mold" into which clay or wax was pressed (or molds into which molten metal for castings was poured), that it might take the figure or exact shape of the mold. In this passage Tupos was used figuratively of a pattern, mold, model, or copy of Paul, etal, example. Paul used tupos in 1Th 1:7+ describing the believers in Thessalonica as "an example to all the believers in Macedonia and in Achaia." 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either. KJV 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. ESV 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. NET 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, we used to give you this command: "If anyone is not willing to work, neither should he eat." BGT 2 Thessalonians 3:10 καὶ γὰρ ὅτε ἦμεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς, τοῦτο παρηγγέλλομεν ὑμῖν, ὅτι εἴ τις οὐ θέλει ἐργάζεσθαι μηδὲ ἐσθιέτω. NIV 2 Thessalonians 3:10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat." NLT 2 Thessalonians 3:10 Even while we were with you, we gave you this command: "Those unwilling to work will not get to eat." YLT 2 Thessalonians 3:10 for even when we were with you, this we did command you, that if any one is not willing to work, neither let him eat, CSB 2 Thessalonians 3:10 In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: "If anyone isn't willing to work, he should not eat." when: Lu 24:44 Joh 16:4 Ac 20:18 if anyone is not willing to work: Ge 3:19 Pr 13:4 20:4 21:25 24:30-34 1Th 4:11 2 Thessalonians 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries A REPEAT OF HIS PREVIOUS ORDER For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order (paraggello) - ESV = "We would give you this command." Note paraggello is a keyword in this section and emphasizes Paul is not just giving them a suggestion they might or might not accept. And since it is a command (not in the sense of the imperative mood though), it indicates even more that these lazy, out of step believers are without excuse. Wycliffe Bible Commentary - The imperfect tense of we commanded (give you this order) shows that more than once Paul had urged them to diligence with these words (Online copy) If anyone is not willing to work, then he is not to eat, either - If introduces a first class condition, assuming this is true. Not willing is modified by the absolute negative (ou) indicating these lazy believers had absolutely no desire to work! This is arrogant, willful refusal! This is in a sense a variation on the law of "reaping and sowing," for if there is no working, then there is no eating. He is not advocating that they starve to death, but just that they do not mooch off those who are working. It would seem to be that if their stomach growls enough, they might be motivated to get to work! Pr 16:26 says "A worker’s appetite works for him, For his hunger urges him on." Is not to eat is a command in the present imperative. MacArthur alludes to the practical implications of this in society - We are used to "entitlements" in our society. This is the idea that those who will not work hard are entitled to be paid money taken from those who do. The results of the welfare culture are visible for all to see—family breakups, immorality, crime, hopelessness, meaninglessness, and bitterness. (See MacArthur Commentary ) Willing (Wanting, desiring) (2309) thelo refers to exercising of one's will with the underlying sense of to be willing, to desire, to want or to wish. To apply oneself to something. Vine adds Thelo "expresses not simply a desire, but a determined and constant exercise of the will." In secular Greek use thelo as used by Homer spoke of “readiness,” “inclination,” and “desire," so that when one was ready for an event or inclined to undertake a course of action, thelo was the Greek word used. 2 Thessalonians 3:11 For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies. KJV 2 Thessalonians 3:11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. ESV 2 Thessalonians 3:11 For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. NET 2 Thessalonians 3:11 For we hear that some among you are living an undisciplined life, not doing their own work but meddling in the work of others. BGT 2 Thessalonians 3:11 Ἀκούομεν γάρ τινας περιπατοῦντας ἐν ὑμῖν ἀτάκτως μηδὲν ἐργαζομένους ἀλλὰ περιεργαζομένους· NIV 2 Thessalonians 3:11 We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. NLT 2 Thessalonians 3:11 Yet we hear that some of you are living idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people's business. YLT 2 Thessalonians 3:11 for we hear of certain walking among you disorderly, nothing working, but over working, CSB 2 Thessalonians 3:11 For we hear that there are some among you who walk irresponsibly, not working at all, but interfering with the work of others. are leading an undisciplined life: 2Th 3:6 doing no work at all,: 1Th 4:11 1Ti 5:13 1Pe 4:15 2 Thessalonians 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries Related Passages: 1 Timothy 5:13 At the same time they also learn to be idle, as they go around from house to house; and not merely idle, but also gossips and busybodies, talking about things not proper to mention. 1 Peter 4:15 Make sure that none of you suffers as a murderer, or thief, or evildoer, or a troublesome meddler; Wiersbe - Almost every culture has its saying about idleness. The Romans said, "By doing nothing, men learn to do evil." Isaac Watts wrote: "For Satan finds some mischief still, for idle hands to do." The Jewish rabbis taught, "He who does not teach his son a trade, teaches him to be a thief." (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). For we hear (cf "I hear" in 1Co 11:18+) - How he received the news is uncertain, but it was new news and it was bad news. That some among you are leading an undisciplined (ataktos) life - Some (tis) gives no sense of how widespread this "cancer" is, but it matters not, because we know the spiritual principle that "A little leaven leavens the whole lump." (Gal 5:9+) and “Bad company corrupts good morals." (1Cor 15:33+) Leading...lIfe is peripateo referring to their lazy lifestyle, emphasized by the present tense (continuous activity). Robertson is quite picturesque in his description - These theological dead-beats were too pious to work, but perfectly willing to eat at the hands of their neighbours while they piddled and frittered away the time in idleness. Doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies - "Doing no business but being busybodies." Doing no work and acting like busybodies are both in the present tense indicating this was their lifestyle. Acting like busybodies is periergazomai used only here (Hapax legomenon) literally meaning "working around" which at first sounds good, but it came to convey the opposite meaning - to be a busybody, to bustle about uselessly, to be preoccupied with trifling matters, to be intrusively busy ("getting in the way" of the real workers!) In English a busybody is a meddling or prying person who "sticks his/her nose" into the affairs of others! THOUGHT - Have you ever known anyone like this? To say they are annoying is being euphemistic! Work (2038)(ergazomai from ergon = work) means to engage in an activity involving considerable expenditure of effort. To work effectively and here would refer to literal manual type labor. Cuckoo Behavior There are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. —2 Thessalonians 3:11 The European cuckoo bird is a freeloader. When spring comes, it doesn’t construct a home for its yearly brood. Instead, the female invades the nest of some unsuspecting bird and lays her egg there. The cuckoo’s offspring is left to be hatched and cared for by its “foster parent.” While still featherless and blind, the intruder soon dominates the nest by pushing the rightful occupants over the edge to their death. Then it monopolizes all the attention of its new parents. The selfish habits of the cuckoo family sound a lot like the irresponsible behavior that existed among believers in the early Thessalonian church (2 Th. 3:11). Those who sponged off others, lived undisciplined lives, and did no work were warned by the apostle Paul to change their ways. Their refusal to work involved more than just being allergic to perspiration. They were referred to as busybodies and disorderly. “They were,” says one commentator, “at nothing working, yet too busily working.” We must not meddle in affairs To which we're not assigned; Instead, let's do our work for God The way He has designed. —Anon. No one is unemployed who minds his own business. Drones There are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. —2 Thessalonians 3:11 As I sat looking at my beehives, I was especially interested in the activities of a considerable number of bees that seemed to be busybodies. They were always buzzing, going in and out of the hive, but doing no apparent work. These nonproductive ones are called drones. They are male bees—much larger than a worker or even the queen. Their only function is to fertilize a queen and then die. While waiting for a new queen to emerge, the drones spend their time visiting one hive after another. But they do no work; they make no honey; they build no comb; they can’t even sting. And they’re noisy! You should hear them buzz, but it’s all bluff. For a while drones are privileged characters, but when fall comes and the honey flow slackens, the worker bees will kill every drone! Not a one lives through the winter. The time of reckoning comes, and they are denied the reward of the workers. In the apostle Paul’s letter to Timothy, he warned about people who are active in the wrong kinds of activities—going from house to house as busybodies, stirring up trouble instead of serving others (1 Timothy 5:13). In service true of any kind, Lord, happy I shall be, If by my help some soul may find The path that leads to Thee. | —Anon. God's house should be a hive for workers—not a nest for drones. 2 Thessalonians 3:12 Now such persons we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ to work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread. KJV 2 Thessalonians 3:12 Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. ESV 2 Thessalonians 3:12 Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. NET 2 Thessalonians 3:12 Now such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and so provide their own food to eat. BGT 2 Thessalonians 3:12 τοῖς δὲ τοιούτοις παραγγέλλομεν καὶ παρακαλοῦμεν ἐν κυρίῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστῷ, ἵνα μετὰ ἡσυχίας ἐργαζόμενοι τὸν ἑαυτῶν ἄρτον ἐσθίωσιν. NIV 2 Thessalonians 3:12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. NLT 2 Thessalonians 3:12 We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living. YLT 2 Thessalonians 3:12 and such we command and exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness working, their own bread they may eat; CSB 2 Thessalonians 3:12 Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ that quietly working, they may eat their own food. Now such persons we command: 2Th 3:6 work in quiet fashion: Ge 49:14,15 Pr 17:1 Ec 4:6 Eph 4:28 1Th 4:11 1Ti 2:2 eat their own bread: 2Th 3:8 Lu 11:3 2 Thessalonians 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries SETTLE DOWN AND EARN YOUR BREAD! Now such persons we command (paraggello) and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ - Compare similar tone of authority in 2Th 3:6, 10. As above Paul gives a strong command and backs it up with the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is Christ's spokesman. He also adds exhort or "urge" (parakaleo) which adds a "gentle touch" to the firm command and yet does not ameliorate the sense of urgency. To work in quiet fashion and eat their own bread - Literally "that (hina - purpose clause) with quietness working." NLT has "settle down and work to earn their own living." Note the contrast between the previous descriptions of disorder (2Th 3:6, 7, 11) and here the call for quiet. Paul could call them to do this because he had done it (cf 2Th 3:8+). This is the polar opposite of their conduct in 2 Th. 3:11. Wiersbe - Instead of noisily running around, these people should "with quietness ... work, and eat their own bread." Their false views about the return of Christ had worked them into a pitch of excitement. "Your overemotional attitude is wrong," warned Paul. "Settle down and get to work." Work is a great antidote to unbalanced speculation and unthinking activity. (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). Quiet fashion (2271) hesuchia from hesuchos = still) means stillness, quiet. The opposite of causing a disturbance and so it speaks of an orderly manner. Work And Hope We command . . . that they work in quietnes. — 2 Thessalonians 3:12 Most of us will work a variety of jobs in our lifetime—some we love, some we would rather not talk about. I had my share of jobs as I made my way through college and grad school—from picking up old appliances to delivering coupon booklets door-to-door to washing dishes to construction to selling clothes. Even if we don’t enjoy our work, it is better than the alternative (idleness), and it can give our lives real purpose. Our work takes on greater value when we work not just for a paycheck but for the Lord’s approval. A line from English poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge suggests the connection between work and value. He wrote, “Work without hope draws nectar in a sieve, and hope without an object cannot live.” Our work, he suggests, must have hope to maintain its value. But where do we find that hope? It’s an idea found in the Bible. According to Colossians 3:23, we should work “as to the Lord ” because He is the One who will reward us (v.24). We are to be known as hard workers who never grow weary in doing good (2 Th. 3:6-15). Honor God and be a positive testimony to others with the way you work. That will give your work—no matter what it is—true hope. By: Dave Branon Lord, I ask for strength to do The task that You've assigned; Help me work with diligence Lest Your name be maligned. —Fasick Daily work done for God takes on eternal value. 2 Thessalonians 3:13 But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good. KJV 2 Thessalonians 3:13 But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. ESV 2 Thessalonians 3:13 As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good. NET 2 Thessalonians 3:13 But you, brothers and sisters, do not grow weary in doing what is right. BGT 2 Thessalonians 3:13 ὑμεῖς δέ, ἀδελφοί, μὴ ἐγκακήσητε καλοποιοῦντες. NIV 2 Thessalonians 3:13 And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right. NLT 2 Thessalonians 3:13 As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good. YLT 2 Thessalonians 3:13 and ye, brethren, may ye not be weary doing well, CSB 2 Thessalonians 3:13 Brothers, do not grow weary in doing good. NKJ 2 Thessalonians 3:13 But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good. NRS 2 Thessalonians 3:13 Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right. But as for you, brethren: Isa 40:30,31 Mal 1:13 Ro 2:7 1Co 15:28 Ga 6:9,10 Php 1:9 1Th 4:1 Heb 12:3 not grow weary of doing good De 20:8 Ps 27:13 Isa 40:29 Zep 3:16 Lu 18:1 2Co 4:1,16 Heb 12:5 Rev 2:3 2 Thessalonians 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries "DON'T THROW IN THE TOWEL" But as for you, brethren - Paul gives a contrasting statement to encourage those in the church who are working hard.

2 Tessalonicenses 3

Wiersbe - Sin in the life of a believer always affects the rest of the church. As members of His body, we belong to each other and we affect each other. The bad example of a few saints can destroy the devotion, and hinder the service, of the rest of the church. (ED: I CALL IT THE "RIPPLE EFFECT" WHICH HAS THE EFFECT OF RIPPING APART THE UNITY IN THE BODY.) (Borrow Be Ready: Living in Light of Christ's Return). Do not grow weary of doing good - The hard working saints would need this encouragement from Paul so that they did not become discouraged. Don't "throw in the towel (as in a boxing match)!" On doing good see how good deeds are described in Scripture. THOUGHT - We've all had that experience of being discouraged when we are doing good and others in the group are sloughing off. It is very disheartening. If you have been slacking off dear believer, perhaps it is time for you to "pull your load!" If you need some added motivation, Jesus' words should help "Well done, good and faithful slave." (Mt 25:21, cf Lk 19:17+). Is that what you will hear? Grow weary (Lose heart) (1457) egkakeo from ek = out of or an intensifier + kakos = bad, evil) means to grow weary (especially in the spiritual sense), to become tired and it is interesting that it always is used in the NT in a negative construction, to not grow weary or lose heart, which in essence is really a "positive" admonition to keep on keeping on, to endure, to persevere despite obstacles, setbacks and adversaries. Rienecker - It became a Christian technical term expressing the unflagging pursuit of the goal of service to neighbor, or of apostolic ministry, as well as the tautness (having no give or slack -- tightly drawn, chiefly a nautical term signifying in proper order or condition) of the determined heart that does not let up or lose courage. (Linguistic and Exegetical Key to the Greek New Testament) Egkakeo - 6x in NT - Lk. 18:1; 2 Co. 4:1; 2 Co. 4:16; Gal. 6:9; Eph. 3:13; 2 Thess. 3:13 Shirkers Or Workers? Do not grow weary in doing good. —2 Thessalonians 3:13 The apostle Paul had some tough words for shirkers: “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Some circumstances may make it impossible for us to work. But if we’re able-bodied and can find work, we must work with energy and diligence. This is not just good advice but a command from an inspired apostle and from our Lord Jesus Christ (v.12). Sloth is sin. Paul also had a word for workers: “Do not grow weary in doing good” (v.13). Our work may seem mindless, offering little challenge or stimulation, but we can do it “heartily, as to the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). We get weary in our work at times and want to give up, but we can stay the course if we understand that we’re working for our Lord and ultimately for His eyes only (Ephesians 6:7). He is an employer who sees and knows all we do, and He values what we do and why we do it. Knowing that God cares about our work gives meaning to all our actions, even those no one else notices or appreciates. Teach me, Lord, my God and King, In all things Thee to see; And what I do in anything, To do it as for Thee! —Herbert No matter who your boss is, you are really working for God. Time Off Do not grow weary in doing good. —2 Thessalonians 3:13 The teenager’s mom, a bit exasperated by the failure of her youngest child to show the desired maturity, sighed and said, “Two more years of junior high.” To which he, in typical style, replied with a smile, “Mom, why don’t you just take the next 2 years off!” Often there are things we would simply like to avoid by taking “time off.” When we have a chronically sick family member, we may be tempted to just “check out” for a while. When children rebel and make parenting a struggle, we’d prefer a long vacation from the hassle. Then there are those times when we face great spiritual battles that we would like to skip altogether. Paul spoke briefly about such struggles in 2 Thessalonians 3. He mentioned the problem of dealing with people who “walk among you in a disorderly manner, . . . busybodies” (v.11). Facing up to people problems can be frustrating. But Paul gave part of the solution when he said, “Do not grow weary in doing good” (v.13). Another part of the equation is to listen to the psalmist, who said, “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you” (Psalm 55:22). Be not weary in well-doing When you're tempted to give up; Cast on God your every burden, Trust in Him—keep looking up! —Fitzhugh When God stretches your patience He is seeking to enlarge your soul. 2 Thessalonians 3:14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame. KJV 2 Thessalonians 3:14 And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. ESV 2 Thessalonians 3:14 If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed. NET 2 Thessalonians 3:14 But if anyone does not obey our message through this letter, take note of him and do not associate closely with him, so that he may be ashamed. BGT 2 Thessalonians 3:14 Εἰ δέ τις οὐχ ὑπακούει τῷ λόγῳ ἡμῶν διὰ τῆς ἐπιστολῆς, τοῦτον σημειοῦσθε μὴ συναναμίγνυσθαι αὐτῷ, ἵνα ἐντραπῇ· NIV 2 Thessalonians 3:14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. NLT 2 Thessalonians 3:14 Take note of those who refuse to obey what we say in this letter. Stay away from them so they will be ashamed. YLT 2 Thessalonians 3:14 and if any one do not obey our word through the letter, this one note ye, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed, CSB 2 Thessalonians 3:14 And if anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don't associate with him, so that he may be ashamed. If anyone does not obey our instruction: De 16:12 Pr 5:13 Zep 3:2 2Co 2:9 7:15 10:6 Php 2:12 1Th 4:8 Phm 1:21 Heb 13:17 in this letter, 2Th 3:6 Mt 18:17 Ro 16:17 1Co 5:9,11 Tit 3:10 so that he will be put to shame.: Nu 12:14 Ezr 9:6 Ps 83:16 Jer 3:3 6:15 31:18-20 Eze 16:61-63 Eze 36:31,32 Lu 15:18-21 2 Thessalonians 3 Resources - Multiple Sermons and Commentaries DON'T MIX WITH THE "MARKED MAN" If anyone does not obey our instruction (logos) in this letter (epistole), take special note of that person - Does not obey has the absolute negative (ouch) indicating absolute refusal to hear and heed Paul's "logos" (word, instruction). Take special note is the verb semeioo (from semeion = a sign) used only here (another hapax legomenon).