2 Thessalonians 3:12

Text (2 Thessalonians 3:12)

12 Now them that are such we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

Translation and Paraphrase

12.

But such as these (who are not working) we command and exhort in the Lord Jesus Christ (by His name and authority) that they, while working with quietness (and not meddling in the business of others), eat their own bread (which they have earned themselves).

Notes (2 Thessalonians 3:12)

1.

The idlers in the Thessalonian Church were restless and meddlesome, not quiet and industrious. It is usually true that people who have no business of their own try to meddle in the business of others.

2.

The word quietness in this verse is from the same root as the word quiet in 1 Thessalonians 4:11, where Paul told them to study to be quiet. See notes on that verse.

3.

Every Christian mechanic or professional man should know that he is expected to give his very best service in return for the pay he receives. When we serve our masters, we serve the Lord Christ.

4.

Those who had been idle were to earn and eat THEIR OWN bread. The words, their own, are emphatic.