2 Thessalonians 3:11

KJV

For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} we hear {G191} that there are some {G5100} which walk {G4043} among {G1722} you {G5213} disorderly {G814}, working {G2038} not at all {G3367}, but {G235} are busybodies {G4020}.

Complete Jewish Bible

We hear that some of you are leading a life of idleness — not busy working, just busybodies!

Berean Standard Bible

Yet we hear that some of you are leading undisciplined lives and accomplishing nothing but being busybodies.

American Standard Version

For we hear of some that walk among you disorderly, that work not at all, but are busybodies.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In the Apostle Paul confronts a specific behavioral issue within the Thessalonian church: certain individuals are living disorderly lives, characterized by idleness and meddling in the affairs of others. This verse serves as a sharp rebuke, highlighting the detrimental impact of neglecting personal responsibilities and the resulting disruption to communal harmony, urging believers towards diligent work and orderly conduct consistent with their Christian calling.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the final chapter of Paul's second letter to the Thessalonians, a section primarily dedicated to practical exhortations and a stern warning against idleness. Following his prayers for the church's perseverance and protection from evil (2 Thessalonians 3:1-5) and his instructions on discipline for those who refuse to work (2 Thessalonians 3:6-10), Paul directly addresses the specific problem of "disorderly" conduct. He reinforces his own example of diligent labor, emphasizing that he did not burden anyone while in Thessalonica ([2 Thessalonians 3:7-9](/2_thessalonians/3-7-9 "2 Thessalonians 3:7-9 - Paul's Example of Work")). The immediate verses leading up to [2 Thessalonians 3:11](/2_thessalonians/3-11 "2 Thessalonians 3:11 - The Problem of Idleness") establish the principle that those unwilling to work should not eat ([2 Thessalonians 3:10](/2_thessalonians/3-10 "2 Thessalonians 3:10 - If Anyone Will Not Work")), setting the stage for the direct accusation of the "busybodies" in this verse and the subsequent command for them to work quietly ([2 Thessalonians 3:12](/2_thessalonians/3-12 "2 Thessalonians 3:12 - Command to Work Quietly")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The church in Thessalonica was relatively young, founded during Paul's second missionary journey. A significant challenge they faced was a misunderstanding regarding the timing of Christ's second coming, or the "Day of the Lord." Some believers, anticipating an imminent return, had ceased working, believing that daily labor was unnecessary or even irrelevant in light of the Lord's immediate advent (as seen in [2 Thessalonians 2:1-2](/2_thermonians/2-1-2 "2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 - The Day of the Lord")). This eschatological misunderstanding led to idleness, dependence on other church members, and a general disruption of social order. Paul had previously addressed this issue in his first letter, urging them to "make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands" ([1 Thessalonians 4:11-12](/1_thessalonians/4-11-12 "1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 - Exhortation to Live a Quiet Life")). In [2 Thessalonians](/2_thessalonians/1 "The Second Letter to the Thessalonians"), he reiterates and intensifies this command, providing a more direct and forceful rebuke to those who persisted in their disorderly conduct.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Thessalonians 3:11](/2_thessalonians/3-11 "2 Thessalonians 3:11 - The Problem of Idleness") contributes significantly to several key themes within the letter and broader Pauline theology. Firstly, it underscores the **importance of Christian conduct and order** within the community, emphasizing that faith is not an excuse for irresponsibility but rather a call to diligent living. Secondly, it highlights the **biblical work ethic**, asserting that productive labor is a God-given responsibility and a means of self-sufficiency and contribution, not merely a secular necessity. Paul's own example of working day and night ([2 Thessalonians 3:8](/2_thessalonians/3-8 "2 Thessalonians 3:8 - Paul's Example of Work")) serves as a model. Thirdly, the verse addresses the dangers of **idleness leading to mischief**, specifically linking a lack of productive work to becoming a "busybody" – someone who meddles in others' affairs, causing strife and gossip. This connection is also seen in other Pauline letters, such as [1 Timothy 5:13](/1_timothy/5-13 "1 Timothy 5:13 - The Dangers of Idleness"). Finally, it touches upon the theme of **eschatological responsibility**, correcting the misguided notion that the imminence of Christ's return negates the need for present-day diligence and responsible living.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **disorderly (Greek, _atáktōs'_):** From G814, this adverb describes someone "out of rank" or "out of order," like a soldier who has broken formation or is not marching in step. It signifies a lifestyle that is not aligned with the established pattern of diligence, responsibility, and contribution expected within the Christian community. It implies a lack of discipline and a deviation from proper conduct.
* **working not at all (Greek, _ergázomai mēdeís'_):** The phrase combines G2038, "to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.)," with G3367, "not even one (man, woman, thing)." This directly condemns idleness and a complete cessation of productive labor. It signifies a refusal to engage in the necessary work for self-sustenance and contribution, leading to dependence on others and a breach of communal responsibility.
* **busybodies (Greek, _periergázomai'_):** From G4020, this compound verb literally means "to work all around" or "to bustle about." In context, it implies meddling, being overly active in things that do not concern one, prying into others' affairs, or being "nosey." Paul links this directly to idleness, suggesting that when individuals neglect their own responsibilities (working not at all), they often fill their time by interfering with others, causing gossip, strife, and disruption.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly":** Paul begins by stating the reason for his rebuke, based on reports he has received. The phrase "walk among you" (from G4043, _peripatéō_) refers to their general conduct or manner of life within the community. "Disorderly" (G814, _atáktōs_) indicates that their behavior is out of line with the expected Christian standard of diligence and responsibility, disrupting the harmony and order of the church.
* **"working not at all":** This clause specifies the nature of their disorderly conduct. These individuals have completely ceased to engage in productive labor (G2038, _ergázomai_, with G3367, _mēdeís_). This idleness is a direct violation of Paul's previous instructions and his own example, leading to a burden on the community.
* **"but are busybodies":** This final clause reveals the negative consequence and characteristic activity of their idleness. Instead of working, they are "busybodies" (G4020, _periergázomai_), meaning they are meddling in others' affairs, engaging in gossip, and causing unnecessary trouble. Paul highlights the direct cause-and-effect relationship between idleness and mischievous interference.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs a clear **Cause and Effect** relationship in this verse, directly linking the idleness of certain individuals to their behavior as "busybodies." The lack of productive work is presented as the cause, and meddling in others' affairs is the direct effect. This creates a powerful and memorable critique of their conduct. Additionally, there is an element of **Contrast** implied between the expected orderly Christian life, characterized by diligence and self-sufficiency, and the "disorderly" and meddlesome behavior of those being rebuked. The language itself is quite **Direct and Frank**, leaving no ambiguity about Paul's disapproval of their actions and the need for correction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Thessalonians 3:11](/2_thessalonians/3-11 "2 Thessalonians 3:11 - The Problem of Idleness") profoundly underscores the biblical principle that Christian faith is not merely a spiritual assent but must be expressed through responsible and diligent living in the world. It challenges the misconception that spiritual anticipation (such as the Lord's return) negates the need for practical, everyday responsibilities. Paul consistently teaches that believers are called to be productive members of society and the church, contributing to their own sustenance and the common good, rather than becoming a burden. This verse highlights how idleness can breed not only financial dependence but also destructive social behaviors like gossip and meddling, thereby disrupting the unity and witness of the Christian community. It serves as a timeless reminder that an orderly life, characterized by a diligent work ethic and respect for others' boundaries, is integral to a healthy and vibrant Christian walk.

* [Proverbs 6:6-11](/proverbs/6-6-11 "Go to the Ant, You Sluggard")
* [1 Timothy 5:13](/1_timothy/5-13 "Idle Busybodies")
* [Ephesians 4:28](/ephesians/4-28 "Work with Your Own Hands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
This verse serves as a powerful call to self-examination for every believer. In a world that often glorifies leisure or, conversely, promotes a frantic, unsustainable pace, Paul's words offer a balanced perspective on work and rest. We are challenged to consider how we "walk" – how we conduct our daily lives. Are we diligent in our responsibilities, whether in our vocations, our homes, or our service to the church? Or do we allow idleness to creep in, perhaps disguised as "waiting on the Lord" or simply a lack of purpose? The connection between idleness and becoming a "busybody" is particularly convicting. When our own lives lack productive engagement, it is easy to become overly concerned with, and critical of, the affairs of others. This passage encourages us to cultivate a disciplined life, finding purpose and dignity in honest labor, and to channel our energy into constructive activities that build up, rather than tear down, our communities and relationships. It calls us to live lives of integrity, self-sufficiency, and positive contribution, reflecting the order and purpose of God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I be "walking disorderly" or neglecting my responsibilities?**
* **How might idleness, in any form, be leading me to become a "busybody" or interfering in matters that are not my concern?**
* **What practical steps can I take to cultivate a more diligent work ethic and contribute positively to my family, church, and community?**
* **How does my understanding of Christ's return or other theological truths influence my daily responsibilities and work ethic?**

### FAQ
**What does "disorderly" mean in this context?**

Answer: In [2 Thessalonians 3:11](/2_thessalonians/3-11 "2 Thessalonians 3:11 - The Problem of Idleness"), "disorderly" (Greek: _atáktōs_) refers to someone who is "out of rank" or "out of order," like a soldier who has broken formation. It describes a lifestyle that deviates from the expected pattern of Christian conduct, particularly concerning diligence, responsibility, and contributing to the community. These individuals were not adhering to the principle of working to support themselves and were thus disrupting the communal harmony of the church.

**Why were some people "working not at all" in Thessalonica?**

Answer: The primary reason for this idleness was a misunderstanding of Paul's teaching on the imminent return of Christ. Some believers in Thessalonica, perhaps overzealous in their anticipation of the "Day of the Lord" ([2 Thessalonians 2:1-2](/2_thessalonians/2-1-2 "2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 - The Day of the Lord")), concluded that daily work was unnecessary since the Lord's coming was so near. This led them to neglect their responsibilities, becoming dependent on others and causing social and economic disruption within the church, which Paul had previously addressed in [1 Thessalonians 4:11-12](/1_thessalonians/4-11-12 "1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 - Exhortation to Live a Quiet Life").

**What is the connection between "working not at all" and being "busybodies"?**

Answer: Paul explicitly links idleness to becoming a "busybody" (Greek: _periergázomai_). When individuals neglect their own responsibilities and cease productive work, they often fill their time by meddling in the affairs of others, spreading gossip, and causing strife. This connection highlights a practical truth: a lack of purposeful engagement in one's own life can lead to an unhealthy preoccupation with, and interference in, the lives of others, as also noted in [1 Timothy 5:13](/1_timothy/5-13 "1 Timothy 5:13 - The Dangers of Idleness").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Thessalonians 3:11](/2_thermonians/3-11 "2 Thessalonians 3:11 - The Problem of Idleness") directly addresses a practical issue of conduct within the early church, its underlying principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Jesus Himself lived a life of purposeful action and diligent work, not idleness. He constantly engaged in the "work" of His Father ([John 5:17](/john/5-17 "John 5:17 - Jesus' Work")), whether teaching, healing, or discipling. His life was the epitome of order and purpose, culminating in His ultimate work of redemption on the cross ([John 19:30](/john/19-30 "John 19:30 - It is Finished")). Believers are called to imitate Christ ([Ephesians 5:1-2](/ephesians/5-1-2 "Ephesians 5:1-2 - Imitate God")), and this includes living orderly, productive lives that reflect His character and advance His kingdom. Our work, whether vocational or in service, becomes an act of worship when done "as unto the Lord" ([Colossians 3:23-24](/colossians/3-23-24 "Colossians 3:23-24 - Work Heartily for the Lord")). Furthermore, Christ's sacrifice frees us from the futility of working for our salvation, allowing us to work out of gratitude and love, contributing to the common good of the body of Christ, rather than being a burden or a source of disorder. He is the ultimate example of one who was never idle, but always about His Father's business, bringing order out of chaos and purpose to those who follow Him ([Luke 2:49](/luke/2-49 "Luke 2:49 - About My Father's Business")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Timothy 5:13

And withal they learn [to be] idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.

1 Peter 4:15

But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or [as] a thief, or [as] an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.

2 Thessalonians 3:6

¶ Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.

1 Thessalonians 4:11

And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;