2 Thessalonians 3:10-12

The Command for the Disorderly

Kelcy notes that Paul used the imperfect tense when he said, "we commanded you this", so it means he repeatedly commanded them. Thus, the one who as a habit refused to earn a living was to be refused aid by his brethren. Unfortunately, these same folks, while refusing to do much of anything themselves, were constantly busy telling others what to do. McGarvey says Paul's words could be translated, "who have no business, and yet are busy with everybody's business." From this it can be seen that no one remains truly idle. If one is not busy building up the Lord's work and providing for his own family, he will be busy doing things which will tear them both down (2 Thessalonians 3:10-11; compare 1 Timothy 5:11-15; Matthew 12:30).

Paul spoke with authority, as is shown by his use of the word "command." However, he also spoke in love, with a desire to encourage the brethren in the right direction, as is shown by his use of the word "exhort." He plainly told the disorderly that they needed to go back to work, earn their living and cease being in charge of everyone else's business (2 Thessalonians 3:12).