2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 – Bible Study & Exploration
A Warning Against Idleness and Disruptive Behavior
(Verses 1-4) Paul was not looking for prayer to satisfy his own personal needs. Instead, the apostle was looking for protection of the gospel so that it could go forth and spread among the people and be fruitful.
The best way to be protected against evil and wickedness is to stand firm in the Word of God. Spending time in the word daily will help to build our defenses so we can take our stand against the schemes of the devil.
Avoid Being Idle! Instead, Exercise Diligence!
(Verses 6-18) The meaning for idleness used in this passage is “undisciplined slackness.” There are a few different variations to the meaning.
“Through laziness, the rafters sag; because of idle hands, the house leaks.”
Ecclesiastes 10:18
We see that idleness is the exact opposite of diligence, which is what the Bible commands.
“Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.”
Proverbs 12:24
“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.”
Romans 12:11
“Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.”
Ephesians 4:28
Idleness can be found in both words and actions. Christ spoke of idleness in regard to how we speak and use words. Idleness produces gossip and gossip produces slander.
“But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.”
Matthew 12:36
How to Handle Idle and Disruptive Behavior from Busybodies
Paul acknowledges that idle and disruptive busybodies should be disassociated from the group of believers. It was necessary to do this so that they would feel ashamed in their separation.
This was not in any way meant to be done in the spirit of superiority but rather to demonstrate that this type of divisive behavior will not be condoned. These disruptive types that look to cause division are to be separated from the group. This is done so that believers can separate themselves from the controversy of others.
This separation accomplishes two purposes. One is to not allow the infection of division to spread among the other believers in the group. The second is to allow time for the person causing the disruption to reflect on their actions. Hopefully, then they will be encouraged to repent and restore their behavior to an obedient God loving Christian.
It’s important to remember that these people are still believers among the brothers and sisters in their Christian community. They just need some attention to be drawn to their behavior so they can make the necessary course corrections.
Idleness is a fruitless task. As long as their are people who need Christ then there are plenty of things that the Christian can do to teach others about Christ.
Christ would want us to be working to serve the will and purpose of our heavenly Father.
“As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work.”
John 9:4
“Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”
Matthew 9:37-38
Let us always be found doing the work of our Lord God. For the hour is fast approaching.