10 For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

Other Translations of 2 Thessalonians 3:10

New International Version

10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat."

English Standard Version

10 For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.

The Message

10 Don't you remember the rule we had when we lived with you? "If you don't work, you don't eat."

New King James Version

10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.

New Living Translation

10 Even while we were with you, we gave you this command: "Those unwilling to work will not get to eat."

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Thessalonians 3:10

Commentary on 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15

(Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15)

Those who have received the gospel, are to live according to the gospel. Such as could work, and would not, were not to be maintained in idleness. Christianity is not to countenance slothfulness, which would consume what is meant to encourage the industrious, and to support the sick and afflicted. Industry in our callings as men, is a duty required by our calling as Christians. But some expected to be maintained in idleness, and indulged a curious and conceited temper. They meddled with the concerns of others, and did much harm. It is a great error and abuse of religion, to make it a cloak for idleness or any other sin. The servant who waits for the coming of his Lord aright, must be working as his Lord has commanded. If we are idle, the devil and a corrupt heart will soon find us somewhat to do. The mind of man is a busy thing; if it is not employed in doing good, it will be doing evil. It is an excellent, but rare union, to be active in our own business, yet quiet as to other people's. If any refused to labour with quietness, they were to note him with censure, and to separate from his company, yet they were to seek his good by loving admonitions. The Lords is with you while you are with him. Hold on your way, and hold on to the end. We must never give over, or tire in our work. It will be time enough to rest when we come to heaven.