2 Thessalonians 3:14

Commentary on 2 Thessalonians 3:14 (KJV)

The Apostle Paul, in his second letter to the Thessalonians, addresses various issues within the early Christian community, particularly concerning idleness and disorderly conduct among some believers. This verse provides specific instructions on how the church should respond to those who disregard apostolic teaching, particularly the command to work quietly and earn their own living (2 Thessalonians 3:12).

Context

Second Thessalonians was written to clarify misunderstandings and correct behaviors that arose after Paul's first letter. A significant problem was some individuals who, perhaps due to a mistaken belief in the immediate return of Christ, had ceased working and were living idly, becoming busybodies (2 Thessalonians 3:11). Paul had previously emphasized the importance of labor, even setting an example himself (2 Thessalonians 3:8). Verse 14 outlines a step in the process of church discipline aimed at restoring such individuals to proper conduct and fellowship.

Key Themes and Messages

• Church Discipline: This verse outlines a practical step in communal correction within the early church. It is a directive for the congregation to address disruptive behavior.
• Accountability to Apostolic Teaching: Paul emphasizes the authority of his "word by this epistle," highlighting the importance of obedience to the inspired instructions given to the church.
• Social Consequences for Disobedience: The instruction to "note that man, and have no company with him" indicates a form of social pressure exerted by the community. This was not meant as permanent ostracism but as a temporary separation designed to prompt reflection.
• Restoration through Shame: The ultimate purpose of this action is redemptive: "that he may be ashamed." The goal is not punishment or condemnation, but to evoke a sense of regret or embarrassment over their conduct, leading to repentance and a change of behavior.

Linguistic Insights

• The phrase "note that man" comes from the Greek word σημειοῦσθε (sēmeioushte), which means to mark, signify, or distinguish. It implies identifying the individual and bringing attention to their specific behavior within the community.
• "Have no company with him" translates συναναμίγνυσθαι (synanamignysthai), meaning to mix up with, or associate intimately with. This doesn't necessarily mean complete shunning, but rather a cessation of close social interaction, especially shared meals or close fellowship, which were significant aspects of early Christian community life. It was a withdrawal of intimate fellowship, not necessarily a complete withdrawal of all interaction, as the very next verse clarifies (2 Thessalonians 3:15).
• "That he may be ashamed" uses the Greek ἐντραπῇ (entrapē), which means to be put to shame, to blush, or to feel disgrace. The aim is to bring about a healthy, godly shame that leads to repentance, distinct from destructive guilt.

Practical Application

This verse provides principles for how Christian communities can handle persistent disobedience to biblical teaching. It underscores the importance of communal accountability and the need for order within the church. For believers today, it serves as a reminder that:

• Discipline is Redemptive: The ultimate goal of such measures is always the restoration of the individual, not their permanent exclusion. It's an act of tough love, designed to draw a person back into alignment with Christ's teachings and healthy community life.
• Community Standards Matter: Churches have a responsibility to uphold biblical standards of conduct, particularly regarding diligence, honesty, and contributing to the common good.
• Balance is Key: While calling for separation from intimate fellowship, the very next verse (2 Thessalonians 3:15) clarifies that the individual should not be treated as an enemy, but admonished as a brother. This highlights the delicate balance between upholding truth and extending grace.