Twin City church of Christ Blog
“Feb 28, 2024 - The Christian Work Ethic”
Categories: 2024 Reading DevotionalsThe Christian Work Ethic
Reading: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-12
Having encouraged the Thessalonians to “hold to the traditions” of the apostles (2 Thess 2:15), Paul now calls attention to a specific tradition some of them are ignoring. “Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us”(2 Thess 3:6). The word “idleness” contains the idea of disorderly or unruly living, not just laziness. “For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies”(2 Thess 3:11). With little to do and time on their hands, they spread one another’s business and cause disharmony within the Christian community. Then they come to their Christian brothers and ask them to support them. Paul stresses that while he was with them, he did not act this way. “We were not idle…nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you”(2 Thess 3:7, 8). They did not learn this lifestyle from the apostles.
Paul is also concerned about how the other Christians are supporting them. He wants them to “keep away” from such people (3:6) and stresses that “if anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat”(2 Thess 3:10). This last saying means that we should not feed and support those who refuse to take care of themselves. This is not discussing injuries, tragedies, or downturns in the job market, but those who reject work and choose idleness. As much as it might feel like a kindness to feed them, Paul insists that we are encouraging them in their unruly behavior.
Laziness and idleness are no part of Christianity; it is “not in accord with the tradition that you have received.” Christians have a strong work ethic. We work to take care of ourselves and have something to give others. We also understand that our laziness and irresponsibility often makes us a burden on others. “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men”(Col 3:23).
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One Thing to Think About: Am I a hard worker?
One Thing to Pray For: God to bless my work so that I can provide for myself and others
