2 Thessalonians 3:8

KJV

Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you:

KJV (with Strong's)

Neither {G3761} did we eat {G5315} any man's {G3844}{G5100} bread {G740} for nought {G1432}; but {G235} wrought {G2038} with {G1722} labour {G2873} and {G2532} travail {G3449} night {G3571} and {G2532} day {G2250}, that {G4314} we might {G1912} not {G3361} be chargeable {G1912} to any {G5100} of you {G5216}:

Complete Jewish Bible

We did not accept anyone’s food without paying; on the contrary, we labored and toiled, day and night, working so as not to be a burden to any of you.

Berean Standard Bible

nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. Instead, in labor and toil, we worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to any of you.

American Standard Version

neither did we eat bread for nought at any man’s hand, but in labor and travail, working night and day, that we might not burden any of you:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Thessalonians 3:8, the Apostle Paul offers a profound defense of his ministry and a practical example for the Thessalonian believers, asserting that he and his companions did not consume anyone's provisions without earning them. Instead, they tirelessly engaged in arduous labor, working day and night, precisely to avoid becoming a financial burden to any member of the community. This verse encapsulates Paul's commitment to apostolic integrity, self-sufficiency, and diligent work, serving as a direct counter-example to idleness and a foundational principle for Christian living.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's concluding exhortations and warnings in his second letter to the Thessalonians, specifically in a section (beginning in [2 Thessalonians 3:6](/2_thessalonians/3-6 "Warning Against Idleness")) where he addresses the issue of idleness and disorderly conduct among some members of the church. Paul has just commanded the believers to withdraw from those who are idle and do not follow the tradition received from the apostles. To reinforce this instruction, he appeals to his own conduct as an authoritative model, contrasting his diligent work ethic with the unproductive behavior he condemns. This personal testimony serves not only as an example but also as a gentle rebuke and a call to emulate godly discipline, leading directly into his explicit command in [2 Thessalonians 3:10](/2_thessalonians/3-10 "If Anyone Will Not Work").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Thessalonian church faced unique challenges, including eschatological fervor that led some to believe Christ's return was so imminent that they ceased working, becoming dependent on others. In the Greco-Roman world, manual labor was often looked down upon, especially for philosophers or teachers who expected to be supported by their disciples. However, Paul, a Jewish rabbi by training, was accustomed to supporting himself through a trade, likely tentmaking ([Acts 18:3](/acts/18-3 "Paul's Tentmaking in Corinth")). His decision to forgo his legitimate right to financial support as an apostle ([1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "The Right of Apostles to Support")) was a deliberate strategic choice. This choice not only prevented accusations of mercenary motives but also allowed him to model the dignity of labor and self-reliance, which was crucial for a young church grappling with economic and social integration.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Thessalonians 3:8](/2_thessalonians/3-8 "Paul's Example of Diligent Labor") contributes significantly to several key themes in the letter and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Apostolic Example and Integrity**. Paul consistently modeled the principles he taught, demonstrating that the gospel was not a means of personal gain. His self-sufficiency preserved the integrity of his message and prevented any accusation that he was exploiting the believers, thereby ensuring the gospel was not hindered ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "Paul's Refusal to Use His Right")). Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Diligence and Hard Work**. The phrase "wrought with labour and travail night and day" powerfully conveys Paul's intense dedication to honest work, serving as a direct counter-example to those who were idle and disorderly ([2 Thessalonians 3:11](/2_thessalonians/3-11 "The Idle and Busybody")). Finally, the verse emphasizes the theme of **Avoiding Being a Burden**. Paul's explicit goal was "that we might not be chargeable to any of you," reflecting a deep consideration for the financial well-being of the church members and a desire to minister without imposing undue financial strain, a principle he reiterates elsewhere ([Acts 20:34](/acts/20-34 "Paul's Self-Sufficiency in Ephesus")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **nought (Greek, _dōreán'_):** This adverb (G1432) is derived from a word meaning "gift" and signifies "gratuitously," "freely," or "without cause." In this context, it emphasizes that Paul did not receive sustenance as a mere gift or without earning it. It underscores his refusal of unearned support, highlighting his commitment to self-sufficiency and integrity in his ministry.
* **wrought (Greek, _ergázomai'_):** This verb (G2038) means "to toil," "to labor for," or "to work." It conveys the active, diligent effort Paul and his companions put into their manual labor to support themselves. It speaks to a purposeful, continuous engagement in productive activity, directly contrasting with the idleness he addresses in the Thessalonian church.
* **labour and travail (Greek, _kópos kai móchthos'_):** This strong pairing (G2873 and G3449) signifies intense, exhausting toil and hardship. _Kópos_ refers to wearisome labor that produces fatigue and pain, often implying a strenuous effort that drains one's strength. _Móchthos_ denotes the distress, difficulty, and pain associated with such arduous work, often involving physical exertion and distress. Together, they powerfully describe the arduous, demanding, and often painful nature of their daily efforts to earn their living.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought;":** Paul begins with a strong negation, asserting that he and his team never accepted food or provisions from anyone without providing an equivalent value or earning it through their own efforts. The phrase "any man's bread" refers to sustenance or livelihood, and "for nought" (dōreán) emphasizes that it was not received as a free gift or without just cause. This statement establishes Paul's principle of self-reliance and his refusal to be a financial burden.
* **"but wrought with labour and travail night and day,":** This clause presents a sharp contrast ("but") to the previous statement. Instead of living off others, Paul describes their intense dedication to work. "Wrought" (ergázomai) signifies active labor, while "with labour and travail" (kópos kai móchthos) highlights the arduous, exhausting, and painful nature of this work. The phrase "night and day" is a hyperbole emphasizing the ceaseless, relentless effort they expended, indicating a profound commitment to their work, likely their tentmaking trade, to provide for themselves.
* **"that we might not be chargeable to any of you:":** This final clause articulates the explicit purpose and motivation behind Paul's tireless work. The phrase "be chargeable" (epibaréō) means "to be heavy upon" or "to be expensive to," implying a financial burden. Paul's ultimate goal was to avoid imposing any financial strain or obligation on the Thessalonian believers, thereby safeguarding the integrity of his gospel message and setting a clear example of responsible living for a community struggling with idleness.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several **Literary Devices** in [2 Thessalonians 3:8](/2_thermonians/3-8 "Paul's Example of Diligent Labor") to powerfully convey his message. Central to the verse is **Contrast**, as Paul juxtaposes his diligent work ethic ("but wrought with labour and travail night and day") with the passive acceptance of sustenance "for nought." This stark comparison highlights the unacceptable nature of idleness and the commendable virtue of self-sufficiency. The phrase "night and day" functions as **Hyperbole**, an exaggeration used for emphasis, underscoring the extreme, ceaseless effort Paul and his companions invested in their labor. While not literally working every single hour, it conveys their unwavering dedication and the arduousness of their toil. Furthermore, the entire statement serves as a powerful appeal to **Ethos** (credibility or character). By demonstrating his own commitment to hard work and self-support, Paul establishes his moral authority and integrity, making his subsequent commands against idleness all the more compelling and difficult to dismiss.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Thessalonians 3:8](/2_thessalonians/3-8 "Paul's Example of Diligent Labor") is a foundational text for understanding the Christian work ethic and the integrity of gospel ministry. Theologically, it asserts that honest, diligent labor is not merely a secular necessity but a spiritual discipline and a means of glorifying God. Paul's refusal to be a burden, even when he had a legitimate right to support, underscores a profound commitment to selfless service and the avoidance of any appearance of greed or exploitation that might hinder the gospel. This principle extends beyond vocational ministry, calling all believers to personal responsibility, stewardship of their time and resources, and a diligent pursuit of productive work, not just for personal gain, but also to contribute to the well-being of others and the wider community. It teaches that true Christian freedom does not lead to irresponsible idleness but to a responsible and loving engagement with the world through diligent effort.

* [1 Timothy 5:18](/1_timothy/5-18 "The Laborer Deserves His Wages")
* [Ephesians 4:28](/ephesians/4-28 "Work So You Can Give")
* [Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Work Heartily for the Lord")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's example in [2 Thessalonians 3:8](/2_thessalonians/3-8 "Paul's Example of Diligent Labor") provides timeless lessons for believers today, challenging us to evaluate our own approach to work, responsibility, and community. In a world that often struggles with entitlement, idleness, and the blurring lines between legitimate need and dependency, Paul's commitment to diligent, self-sacrificing labor stands as a powerful counter-cultural witness. This verse calls us to embrace a strong work ethic in all spheres of life, whether in our professions, our homes, or our ministries, viewing our labor as an act of worship and a means of serving God and neighbor. It encourages us to take personal responsibility for our own needs, seeking to be contributors rather than perpetual recipients, and to consider how our actions reflect on the gospel message. For those in ministry, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of financial transparency, humility, and a willingness to make personal sacrifices to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of their witness, always prioritizing the advancement of the gospel over personal comfort or gain.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my current work ethic reflect Paul's example of "labour and travail night and day"?**
* **In what ways might I, or my community, be inadvertently fostering a culture of dependency rather than promoting responsible self-sufficiency?**
* **How can I ensure that my actions, particularly concerning finances and work, uphold the integrity of the gospel message to those around me?**
* **What practical steps can I take to be less of a "chargeable" burden and more of a contributor to my family, church, and wider community?**

### FAQ
**Why did Paul refuse support from the Thessalonians when apostles had a right to it?**

Answer: While Paul explicitly states in [1 Corinthians 9:14](/1_corinthians/9-14 "The Right of Gospel Workers") that "the Lord ordained that those who proclaim the gospel should get their living by the gospel," he often chose to waive this right. His primary reason, as indicated in [2 Thessalonians 3:8](/2_thessalonians/3-8 "Paul's Example of Diligent Labor") and other passages ([1 Corinthians 9:12](/1_corinthians/9-12 "Paul's Refusal to Use His Right"), [2 Corinthians 11:7-9](/2_corinthians/11-7-9 "Paul's Self-Support")), was to remove any potential stumbling block or accusation that he was preaching for financial gain. In the context of Thessalonica, where some believers were idle, Paul's self-sufficiency served as a powerful, living example of the diligent work ethic he was commanding them to adopt ([2 Thessalonians 3:10](/2_thessalonians/3-10 "If Anyone Will Not Work")). It demonstrated his genuine love for them and his commitment to the gospel's purity above personal comfort.

**What does "wrought with labour and travail night and day" imply about Paul's work?**

Answer: This phrase is a vivid description of Paul's intense and continuous effort. "Labour" (kópos) refers to wearisome toil that causes fatigue, while "travail" (móchthos) denotes the distress and hardship associated with such arduous work. The addition of "night and day" is a hyperbole, emphasizing the ceaseless, relentless nature of their efforts. It implies that Paul and his companions worked extremely long hours, often into the night, to support themselves through their trade (likely tentmaking, as seen in [Acts 18:3](/acts/18-3 "Paul's Tentmaking")). This wasn't merely part-time work but a demanding, exhausting commitment designed to ensure they were entirely self-sufficient and not a burden to the nascent church.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While [2 Thessalonians 3:8](/2_thessalonians/3-8 "Paul's Example of Diligent Labor") highlights Paul's exemplary work ethic and self-sacrifice, it ultimately points to the supreme example of Christ, who perfectly embodied diligence, humility, and the ultimate act of not being a burden but rather bearing the burdens of humanity. Jesus, though fully God, "made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Christ's Humility")). He diligently performed the work of His Father, stating, "My Father is working until now, and I am working" ([John 5:17](/john/5-17 "Jesus' Work for the Father")), and He tirelessly ministered to the needs of others, often without a place to lay His head ([Matthew 8:20](/matthew/8-20 "The Son of Man Has No Place to Lay His Head")). The ultimate fulfillment of "not being chargeable" is seen in Christ's atoning work: He bore the ultimate charge of our sin on the cross, becoming a burden for us so that we might be set free from the unbearable weight of spiritual debt ([Isaiah 53:4-5](/isaiah/53-4-5 "Christ Bears Our Sickness and Sin"); [2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "Christ Became Sin for Us")). His life of selfless service and His death as the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God")) provide the foundational pattern for all Christian diligence and sacrificial living, inspiring us to work heartily as for the Lord ([Colossians 3:23](/colossians/3-23 "Work Heartily for the Lord")) and to live lives that do not burden others but rather bless them, all in imitation of our Savior.

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

Matthew 6:11

Give us this day our daily bread.

1 Thessalonians 2:9

For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.

Acts 18:3

And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.

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;

Ephesians 4:28

Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with [his] hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

1 Corinthians 4:12

And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it:

2 Thessalonians 3:12

Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.