PAUL’S SECOND LETTER TO THE THESSALONIANS

THE OBLIGATION TO WORK

Our brothers, we command you in the name of Lord Jesus Christ to keep away from all brothers who are living a lazy life and who do not follow the instructions that we gave them.  You yourselves know very well that you should do just what we did.  We were not lazy when we were with you.  We did not accept anyone’s support without paying for it. Instead, we worked and toiled; we kept working day and night so as not to be an expense to any of you.  We did this not because we have no right to demand our support; we did it to be an example for you to follow.  While we were with you, we used to say to you, “Whoever refuses to work is not allowed to eat.”

We say this because we hear that there are some people among you who live lazy lives and who do nothing except meddle in other people’s business.  In the Name of Lord Jesus Christ we command these people and warn them to lead orderly lives and work to earn their own living. 

But you, brothers, must not get tired of doing good.  It may be that someone there will not obey the message we sent you in this letter.  If so, take note of him and have nothing to do with him, so that he will be ashamed. But do not treat him as an enemy; instead warn him as a brother. 

May the Lord Himself who is our Source of Peace, give you peace at all times and in every way.  The Lord be with you all.

(Chapter.3:6-16)

This is the Word of God

Thanks be to God