(a) How did Paul treat the problem of idleness among the Thessalonian Christians? (b) Give three reasons why Christians should engage in gainful employment.

Answer Details

(a) How Paul treated the problem of idleness among the Thessalonians (2 Thessalonians 3)

Some Christians at Thessalonica, apparently expecting the imminent return of Christ, had abandoned work and were living in idleness and becoming busybodies. Paul addressed the problem firmly:

• He commanded, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that the brethren keep away from any believer who lives in idleness and not according to the tradition they received.
• He reminded them of his own example: he and his companions were not idle when they were with them, nor did they eat anyone's bread without paying, but worked night and day with toil and labour so as not to burden anyone.
• He explained that they did this to give the Thessalonians an example to imitate, even though as apostles they had the right to support.
• He restated the rule he had given while with them: "If any one will not work, let him not eat."
• He rebuked those who were mere busybodies, not busy at work, and commanded and exhorted them in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and earn their own living.
• He urged the rest of the believers not to grow weary in well-doing, and to note anyone who refused to obey, so that he might be ashamed, though he was to be warned as a brother and not treated as an enemy.

(b) Three reasons why Christians should engage in gainful employment

1. To provide for oneself and one's family and avoid becoming a burden to others.
2. To obey God's command and follow Christian example, since Scripture teaches that whoever will not work should not eat.
3. To have resources to help the needy and support the work of the church rather than living in idleness and becoming a busybody.