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Quarantine Epistles

Quarantine Epistles 277


Earn your Keep. 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12.
For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work but busybodies. Now, such persons, we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. 

Dear Family, 

The apostle Paul now calls the idlers’ bluff. Whatever excuse they had for not working, whether it was the imminent coming of the Lord or some other argument, they were now leeching on others 

Reason (v. 10). It is simple logic that people get their food through work. Even “hunter-gatherers” must hunt and gather. Those who choose to not work should be prepared for the outcome – starvation. 

Reality (v. 11). Those who are not “busy at work” become “busybodies”. Since they have nothing to do, yet the nature of humanity is to work, they find something to do. That which they find to do can be termed meddling. They only interfere with the work and business of others. 

Respite (v. 12). The only way out of the conundrum that the idle have boxed themselves into is to get out and work. It is important to note that Paul “command(s) and encourage(s) in the Lord Jesus Christ.” This is as if to say that it is disobedience against the Lord to be idle. Likewise, a hard-working believer is a good representation of the Lord. Find something for your hands to do. Do not bring shame to the name of the Lord by being idle and leeching on others. 

Your Loving Pastor Chris.