Why was the apostle Paul so concerned about nonworking idol church members? How should his admonitions and teachings apply to us today as Christians? Well, we're going to find out today. And we're going to look at 2Thessalonians chapter 3 and verse 6 through13 and keep in mind the question, is it true that “Idle hands are the devil's workshop?”
2 Thessalonians 3: 6-14 NIV
Warning Against Idleness
6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching[a] you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
14 Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed.
Charities
Ross Jutsum State of the Heart – An inter-denominational ministry of music and worship.
New Life for Haiti New Life for Haiti - Home
Bengali Evangelistic Association Bengali Evangelical Association (bengalimission.org)
Bible Gateway BibleGateway.com: A searchable online Bible in over 150 versions and 50 languages.
GCI Grace Communion International (gci.org)