2 Thessalonians 3:13

But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing From this do-nothing, or ill-doing fraction of the Church the Apostle turns to the rest, who were busy in "well-doing," and bids them persevere. Comp. ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:17, and note; also 1 Thessalonians 1:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:1; 1 Thessalonians 4:10, for the diligent and honourable character which in the main this Church bore.

The pronoun bears marked emphasis: But as for you, brethren, in contrast with "them that are such," 2 Thessalonians 3:12.

On "well-doing," see note to 1 Thessalonians 5:21. The word rendered "well" here is "good" there; it implies a fine qualityof action.

The Greek verb for "be not weary" appears in other passages (e.g. Luke 18:1; Galatians 6:9) as "faint not," and signifies failure of couragerather than of strength: do not falter in well-doing; comp. notes on "stablish your hearts," ch. 2 Thessalonians 2:17 and 1 Thessalonians 3:13. Perhaps the Apostle's rebuke of "busy-bodies" and commendation of "quietness" might have damped the ardour of some whose activity was praiseworthy, had it remained unqualified. The misconduct of the unruly was of a kind to disappoint and grieve all zealous friends of the Church.