Page 463 - Demo

 THESSALONIANS 
7For you know how one must imitate us. For we did not act in a disorderly way among you, 8nor did we eat food received free from anyone. On the contrary, in toil and drudgery, night and day we worked, so as not to burden any of you.d 9Not that we do not have the right. Rather, we wanted to present ourselves as a model for you, so that you might imitate us.e 10In fact, when we were with you, we instructed you that if anyone was unwilling to work, neither should that one eat.f 11We hear that some are conducting themselves among you in a disorderly way, by not keeping busy but minding the business of others.g 12Such people we instruct and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to work quietly and to eat their own food. 13But you, brothers, do not be remiss in doing good. 14If anyone does not obey our word as expressed in this letter, take note of this person not to associate with him, that he may be put to shame. 15Do not regard him as an enemy but admonish him as a brother.h 16May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.i
IV. FINAL GREETINGS
17This greeting is in my own hand, Paul’s. This is the sign in every letter; this is how I write.j 18The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with all of you.
The Apostle
Paul holding a letter, by Rutilio Manetti (1571-1639)
3:10
If Jesus were coming again tomorrow, would you go to work today? Some people in the community, misled about the coming of Christ, have given up working. Paul reminds them of his own approach: earn your own keep. What should we do as we await the Lord? Work quietly and do good (3:12-13).
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