2 Thessalonians 3: Don’t Work Don’t Eat

Read 2 Thessalonians Chapter 3

Introduction: In 2 Thessalonians 3, Paul provides guidance and instruction on Christian living and church discipline. This chapter Paul’s emphasis is on the perseverance of the believers in the face of any form of idleness or unruliness, reminding them of his own example and the importance of hard work. The chapter can be outlined and understood through three main sections, which, together, form an inspiring call for steadfastness in faith and community.

I. The Request for Prayer (2 Thessalonians 3:1-5)
In these verses, Paul begins by asking for prayers for himself and his companions that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored (2 Thessalonians 3:1). He talks about being delivered from wicked and evil people, saying that not all have faith in the Lord (2 Thessalonians 3:2). Paul reassures the Thessalonians of the Lord’s faithfulness, promising to strengthen and protect them from the evil one (2 Thessalonians 3:3). He speaks of confidence in the Lord regarding the obedience of the Thessalonians and encourages them to continue following the teachings they have received (2 Thessalonians 3:4). He prays for God to direct their hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance (2 Thessalonians 3:5).

Cross reference verses:

• 1 Thessalonians 5:17 encourages constant prayer, which echoes Paul’s request for prayer in supporting the ministry’s success and protection.
• Ephesians 6:18-19 also calls for prayer in the Spirit on all occasions, similar to Paul’s call for the Thessalonian church to pray for the apostles.
• 2 Timothy 4:17 speaks of the Lord standing by and strengthening Paul, which parallels the promise of strength and protection in 2 Thessalonians 3:3.

II. Instructions Concerning Idleness (2 Thessalonians 3:6-12)
Here, Paul commands the Thessalonians to keep away from believers living in idleness (won’t work) and not according to the tradition received from the apostles (2 Thessalonians 3:6). He reminds them of his own example, working night and day, not to be a burden to anyone (2 Thessalonians 3:7-8). Although he had the right to financial support, he chose to work to offer himself as a model to follow(2 Thessalonians 3:9). Paul says that if someone is not willing to work, they should not eat (2 Thessalonians 3:10). He addresses the issue of some Thessalonians living idly (sluggards Proverbs 6:6-8), urging them to settle down and earn the food they eat (2 Thessalonians 3:11-12).

Cross reference verses:

• 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 encourages believers to live quietly and mind their own business, which is similar to the advice Paul gives to the idle in 2 Thessalonians 3:12.
• 1 Timothy 5:13 warns against idleness leading to gossip and undue interference in others’ lives, which resonates with the concerns in this section.
• Titus 3:14 encourages good deeds to meet urgent needs, contrasting idleness with productive behavior as Paul instructs.

III. Final Instructions and Greetings (2 Thessalonians 3:13-18)
Despite the issues he talked about, Paul encourages the Thessalonians not to grow weary in doing what is good and right (2 Thessalonians 3:13). He instructs the church to take note of anyone not obeying his words and to have nothing to do with them to shame them, but not to treat them as enemies (2 Thessalonians 3:14-15). Paul ends with a prayer for the Lord of peace to give them peace at all times and in every way, along with a personal greeting in his own handwriting as a sign of authenticity (2 Thessalonians 3:16-17). .

Cross reference verses:

• Galatians 6:9 encourages not to become weary in doing good, echoing the exhortation in 2 Thessalonians 3:13.
• Matthew 18:15-17 gives us the steps for church discipline, which is similar to Paul’s guidance on dealing with disobedient members in the church.
• Colossians 4:18 mentions Paul’s greeting in his own hand, which confirms the authenticity of his letters as in 2 Thessalonians 3:17.

Conclusion: In 2 Thessalonians 3, Paul gives the Thessalonian church with practical and spiritual guidance. He points out the need for constant prayer in support of the gospel, a call to lead a disciplined and working life, and instructions on maintaining order and discipline within the church body. Through this chapter, believers are encouraged to not grow weary of doing good,  to look to Paul’s own life as a model to live by, and to approach church discipline with love and the aim of restoration. This chapter is an inspiring reminder to all Christians to be diligent in their faith, to support one another through prayer, and to act with love and integrity within their churches and communities.