3:7 3:7

2 Thessalonians 3:8

3:9 3:9

Bible Versions

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:
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}:
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.
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.
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:

In 2 Thessalonians 3:8, the Apostle Paul continues to defend his ministry and set an example for the believers in Thessalonica, emphasizing his commitment to diligent work and self-sufficiency. This verse highlights a crucial aspect of his apostolic integrity and a practical principle for Christian living.

Context

This verse is part of Paul’s final exhortations and warnings in his second letter to the Thessalonians. The church was experiencing some challenges, including false teachings and, notably, idleness among certain members who were perhaps expecting the immediate return of Christ and had ceased working (2 Thessalonians 3:11). To counteract this, Paul appeals to his own conduct among them, reminding them of the tireless effort he and his companions expended.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Example and Integrity: Paul consistently modeled the principles he taught. Here, he underscores his commitment to not being a financial burden, thereby preserving the integrity of his message and preventing any accusation that he was exploiting the believers. This principle was vital for his credibility and to ensure the gospel was not hindered.
  • Diligence and Hard Work: The phrase "wrought with labour and travail night and day" powerfully conveys Paul's intense dedication. He did not passively receive support but actively engaged in manual labor (likely tentmaking, as seen in Acts 18:3) to sustain himself. This served as a direct counter-example to those who were idle.
  • Avoiding Being a Burden: Paul's explicit goal was "that we might not be chargeable to any of you." This reflects a deep consideration for the financial well-being of the church members and a desire to minister without imposing undue financial strain. While apostles had a right to support (1 Corinthians 9:14), Paul often waived this right to set an example and remove any potential stumbling blocks.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "for nought" translates the Greek word dōrean (δωρεάν), which means "freely," "gratuitously," or "without cause." This emphasizes that Paul did not receive sustenance as a mere gift or without earning it. The terms "labour and travail" are from the Greek kopos kai mochthos (κόπος καὶ μόχθος), a strong pairing signifying intense, exhausting toil and hardship, often involving physical exertion and distress. This highlights the arduous nature of his work.

Practical Application

Paul's example in 2 Thessalonians 3:8 offers timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Work Ethic: Christians are called to be diligent and responsible in their work, whether in secular employment or ministry. Idleness is discouraged, and a strong work ethic glorifies God (Colossians 3:23).
  • Personal Responsibility: Paul's commitment to self-support encourages believers to take responsibility for their own needs rather than becoming an unnecessary burden on others or the church. This resonates with Paul's direct instruction in verse 10 of this chapter: "If any would not work, neither should he eat."
  • Integrity in Ministry: For those in ministry, Paul's example highlights the importance of financial transparency and a willingness to make sacrifices to ensure the gospel is not discredited. While legitimate support for ministry is biblical, avoiding the appearance of greed or exploitation is paramount.

Ultimately, this verse is a powerful reminder of Paul's dedication, not only to preaching the gospel but also to living out its principles of responsibility, diligence, and selfless service.

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.

  • 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.
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