2 Thessalonians 3:12

12 Now we command and we exhort such people in the Lord Jesus Christ that, working with quietness, they eat their own bread.

2 Thessalonians 3:12 Meaning and Commentary

2 Thessalonians 3:12

Now them that are such
For this was not the case and character of them all. Did such practices generally obtain, no community, civil or religious, could subsist. And the apostle wisely distinguishes them from others, that the innocent might not be involved in the charge.

We command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ;
using both authority and entreaty; taking every way to reclaim them, commanding in the name of Christ and beseeching for the sake of Christ

that with quietness they work:
with their own hands, at their proper callings, and so support themselves, provide for their families, and have something to give to them that are in need; by which means they will live peaceable and quiet lives, in godliness and honesty, and not disturb the peace of neighbourhoods, churches, and families:

and eat their own bread;
got by their own labour, and bought with their money, and not the bread of others, or that of idleness.

2 Thessalonians 3:12 In-Context

10 For even when we were with you, we used to command this to you: that if anyone does not want to work, neither should he eat.
11 For we hear [that] some among you are living irresponsibly, working [at] nothing, but being busybodies.
12 Now we command and we exhort such people in the Lord Jesus Christ that, working with quietness, they eat their own bread.
13 But [as for] you, brothers, do not be discouraged [while] doing what is right.
14 But if anyone does not obey our message through this letter, take note not to associate with him, in order that he may be put to shame.
Scripture quotations marked (LEB) are from the Lexham English Bible. Copyright 2012 Logos Bible Software. Lexham is a registered trademark of Logos Bible Software.