2 Thessalonians 3:6-15

The Rebuke to the Disorderly. Under the influence of the Parousia Hope some Thessalonian Christians abandoned their ordinary occupations and claimed the right to be supported by the Church. Paul points to his own conduct at Thessalonica, and warns the Church to withdraw its support from those who will not work.

2 Thessalonians 3:9. in labour and travail: see 1 Thessalonians 2:9.

2 Thessalonians 3:11. work not at all, etc.: there is a play on the words in the original Greek which it is difficult to reproduce in English. Doing no business but being busybodies is probably the nearest equivalent.

2 Thessalonians 3:13. in well-doing: this is generally interpreted of acts of charity or Christian service, but there is no hint that such a limitation is intended. The phrase indicates every form of honourable action, in the ordinary secular callings of life as well as in the service of the Church.