Bible Version: New International Version (NIV)
Application Notes: Life Application Study Bible (NIV)
2 THESSALONIANS 3
Request for Prayer
1 As for other matters, brothers and sisters, pray for us that the message of the Lord may spread rapidly and be honored, just as it was with you. 2 And pray that we may be delivered from wicked and evil people, for not everyone has faith. 3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one. 4 We have confidence in the Lord that you are doing and will continue to do the things we command. 5 May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.
Warning Against Idleness
6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 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. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
14 Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.
Final Greetings
16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
17 I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write.
18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
Application Notes
3:1-3 Beneath the surface of the routine of daily life, invisible spiritual powers are waging a fierce struggle. Our main defence is prayer that God will protect us from the evil one and strengthen us. (See Ephesians 6:10-17 and the note there for information on our armour for spiritual warfare.) The following guidelines can help you prepare for and survive satanic attacks: (1) Take the threat of spiritual attack seriously; (2) pray for strength and help from God; (3) study the Bible to recognize Satan's style and tactics; (4) memorize Scripture so it will be a source of help no matter where you are; (5) spend much of your time with those who speak the truth so that you will recognize the truth and be held accountable to it; and (6) practice what you are taught by sound spiritual leaders.
3:6-15 Some people in the Thessalonian church were falsely teaching that because Christ would return any day, people should set aside their responsibilities, quit work, do no future planning, and just wait for the Lord. But their lack of activity only led them into sin. They became a burden to the church, which was supporting them, they wasted time that could have been used for helping others, and they became "busybodies." These church members may have thought that they were being more spiritual by not working, but Paul tells them to be responsible and get back to work. Being ready Christ means obeying him in_ every area of life. Because we know that Christ is coming, we must live in such a way that our faith and our daily practices will please him when he arrives.
3:6-10 Paul was writing here about idle, unproductive, irresponsible people who refuse to work. Paul explained that when he and his companions were in Thessalonica, they worked hard, buying what they needed rather than becoming a burden to any of the believers. The rule they followed was "The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat." There's a difference between leisure and laziness. Relaxation and recreation provide necessary and much-needed balance to our lives; when the time comes to work, however, Christians should jump right in. We should make the most of our talents and time, doing all we can to provide for ourselves and our dependents. Rest when you should be resting, and work when you should be working.
3:11-12 A "busybody" is a gossip. An idle person who doesn't work ends up filling his or her time with less than helpful activities, like gossip. Rumours and hearsay are tantalising, exciting to hear, and make us feel like insiders, but they tear people down. If you often find your nose in other people's business, you may be underemployed. Look for a task to do for Christ or for your family, and get to work.
3:14-15 Paul counselled the church to stop supporting financially those who persisted in idleness. Paul was not talking about those who were not able to make a living or were experiencing difficult times in their lives. He was talking about people who were lazy and took advantage of the kindness of others. Paul was not advising coldness or cruelty but tough love with the purpose of helping people become responsible.
3:18 Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians provides encouragement and reassurance to those who are being persecuted or are under pressure because of their faith. In 2 Thessalonians 1, we are told what suffering can do for us. In 2 Thessalonians 2, we are assured of final victory. In 2 Thessalonians 3, we are encouraged to continue living responsibly in spite of difficult circumstances. Christ's return promises hope, and what we hope for shapes what we live for. When you struggle with hope, remember that our hope is in Jesus--King of kings, Creator, and God, who passionately loves us. This hope is not just for the future; it has a vital impact on how we live now.
Taken from Life Application Study Bible - Third Edition - (NIV)