Exploring the Scripture

2 Thessalonians was written to correct misunderstandings among the faithful about the coming of Jesus Christ and the end times. The Thessalonians had heard that God already had started the final days, and Jesus would return soon. Some believers stopped working, assuming there was no need to plan for the future. They lived off the generosity of others, waiting for the coming of Christ.

In the strongest terms, today’s lection commands faithful church members to stay away from those refusing to work. In keeping with customs throughout the ancient world, Paul (or one of Paul’s disciples writing in his name) is setting a Christian membership guideline. He makes clear the rules for behavior that must be kept among believers. One rule is supporting oneself whenever possible. In verse 15, he stipulates that idlers are not enemies but should be avoided. They should be warned that no one will support their idleness.

Paul worked for a living and paid for any support he received. As a traveling missionary, he would have been justified in expecting church members to supply his housing and meals freely, but he chose instead to set an example for others. His instructions are provided in 1 Thessalonians 2:9 and repeated here.

The new Christian movement encouraged members to share their resources and have “all things in common.” Rich and poor alike were urged to care for one another. But some people took advantage of communal sharing and let others provide for their needs. Before misunderstanding the last days, Paul had commanded, “Anyone unwilling to work should not eat” (v. 10). Everyone was expected to earn a living and contribute to the community for the benefit of all.

Providing for widows, for day laborers whose income was sporadic and minimal, and for those in poor health continued to be a normal part of the loving Christian community. This command never was intended to marginalize or reject those with a legitimate reason for not working. The Thessalonians understood the guideline within its background of continuing normal, productive lives before the coming of Christ.

Verse 11 also mentions “busybodies,” who mooch other people’s information, life circumstances, and personal details. Like the idler, a busybody lives vicariously off other people and disrupts the community by fomenting resentment and distrust. They damage the reputation of other followers and disgrace the church in the eyes of the world. Paul insists everyone be responsible for their life and contribute to the community. He upholds working “quietly” (v. 12) without drama, pomp, and dependence on others.

The summary statement of this passage provides guidance relevant to every facet of life as a disciple: “Brothers and sisters, do not be weary in doing what is right” (v. 13). Following Christ is a full-time commitment. Believers who use theological truths to shirk their responsibility misuse the scriptures for selfish ends. Discipleship requires discipline. But it also requires setting personal boundaries and opportunities for renewal to avoid ministerial burnout. Achieving a balance allows a person to work quietly and feel fulfilled.

Faith Unfiltered Podcast

Hosts Karin Peter and Blake Smith consider how this week's scripture connects to our lives today.

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Central Ideas

1. Expecting the Second Coming, some believers stopped working, assuming there was no future.
2. A healthy Christian community is one where everyone’s skills and abilities contribute to the common good.
3. Like the idler, a busybody lives vicariously off other people and disrupts the community by causing resentment and distrust.
4. Do not become weary of doing what is right.

Questions to Consider

1. What reputation does your congregation have among its neighbors? Do you have a reputation at all, or are you invisible?
2. How do you explain the paradox between the Christian mandate to feed the hungry and Paul’s command, “If you don’t work, you don’t eat?”
3. What if Paul’s command read, “Those who do not do spiritual work will not be spiritually fed?”
4. Who in your congregation works quietly and steadily for the benefit of all?
5. What are you doing to prevent burnout from the constant demands of ministry