2 Thessalonians 3:12

12 But we command to them that be such men, and beseech in the Lord Jesus Christ, that they work with silence, and eat their own bread. [Forsooth we announce to them that be such manner, and beseech in the Lord Jesus Christ, that they with silence, or stillness, working, 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 also when we were among you, we commanded this thing to you [For why and when we were with you, this thing we announced, or warned, to you], that if any man will not work, neither eat he.

11 For we have heard that some among you go unrestfully, and nothing work, but do curiously. [+Soothly we have heard some among you to wander unquietly, or unpeaceably, nothing working, but doing curiously.]

12 But we command to them that be such men, and beseech in the Lord Jesus Christ, that they work with silence, and eat their own bread. [Forsooth we announce to them that be such manner, and beseech in the Lord Jesus Christ, that they with silence, or stillness, working, eat their own bread.]

13 But do not ye, brethren, fail well-doing.

14 That if any man obey not to our word [sent] by epistle, mark ye him, and commune ye not with him [and commune not with him], that he be ashamed;