2 Thessalonians 3:9

Text (2 Thessalonians 3:9)

9 not because we have not the right, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you, that ye should imitate us.

Translation and Paraphrase

9.

(Now we did) not (labor to support ourselves) because we do not have authority (to demand support from you), but so that we could (both be and) give ourselves (as) an example to you, so that you might imitate us (with confidence that you would be doing what is right).

Notes (2 Thessalonians 3:9)

1.

Numerous Scriptures indicates that ministers of the gospel have the right to receive support. See Matthew 10:10; 1 Corinthians 9:14; 1 Timothy 5:17; Luke 10:7.

2.

This verse repeats the thought of 2 Thessalonians 3:7 that Christian leaders should set an example for people to follow, if they expect the people to rise to greater heights in their service to Christ.

3.

Concerning the word ensample (Gr., tupos) see notes on 1 Thessalonians 1:7, par. 2.

4.

Concerning the matter of being followers (or imitators) of Paul, see notes on 2 Thessalonians 3:7-8, paragraphs 1 and 2.

5.

Paul worked for three reasons.

(1)

To make himself an example of how every Christian should work.

(2)

To deprive his enemies of any opportunity of saying that he was preaching for money. See 2 Corinthians 11:9; 2 Corinthians 11:12.

(3)

Also Paul felt that preaching the gospel without charge was for him a bonus of service that he wanted to give. See 1 Corinthians 9:14-18.