Freeloaders and the Christian Work Ethic

2 Thessalonians 3:6-18

Paul’s Epistles to the ThessaloniansPaul’s Epistles to the Thessalonians

Copyright © 2010 by Robert L. Deffinbaugh. This is the edited PowerPointpresentation of Lesson 16 in the series, Paul’s Epistles to the Thessalonians,

prepared by Robert L. Deffinbaugh for October 10, 2010. Anyone is at liberty to use this lesson for educational purposes only, with or without credit.

II.The Problem as Previously Addressed

A. Work is a subject that is frequently addressed by Paul:

1. Acts 17:21; 18:1-3; 20:33-352. Romans 16:3, 63. 1 Corinthians 4:11-12; 9:1-23*; 16:15-

164. 2 Corinthians 6:5; 11:7-9, 275. Galatians 6:6-106. Ephesians 4:28; Colossians 3:237. 1 Timothy 3:1; 5:9-15, 17-188. 2 Timothy 2:3-7, 15; Titus 1:12-14; 2:5

Summarize what these verses show about Paul’s opinion concerning the Christian and work?

B.Explain Paul’s personal example concerning work (1 Thes. 2:6-12)

C.Paul’s previous instruction about work:1.1 Thessalonians 4:9-12…summarize

2.1 Thessalonians 5:12-14…summarize

III.III.The Problem as It Currently Stands The Problem as It Currently Stands (2 Thes. (2 Thes. 3)3)

A. Some: undisciplined, not working (3:6, 10-11)A.They deplete the resources of others (3:8)B.They are busy doing the wrong things (3:11)C.They are hindering the work of others (3:11)D.They are believers (3:6, 15)E.They have been disobedient (3:6b)F.They have disregarded Paul’s example (3:7-9)

B. This is Paul’s final warning (3:12-15)A.They are to work quietly & support themselvesB.If not heeded, discipline is to follow (3:14-15).

A.They are to be publicly identified (3:14).B.They are not to be supported/fed (3:10).C.Avoid and admonish as a brother (3:14-15)

Use 2 Thessalonians 3:6-18To assist you in answering the following questions:

1.Why was the conduct of some who did not work, but lived off of the labor of others, wrong?

2.Compare the “discipline” Paul requires here in the case of the “undisciplined”/slacker (especially in verses 13-15) with the discipline prescribed in Matthew 18:15-20.

3.What does it mean to work “quietly” (3:12)?

4.What are some practical implications of this text for people today?