“In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to KEEP AWAY FROM EVERY BELIEVER WHO IS 1IDLE AND DISRUPTIVE AND DOES NOT LIVE ACCORDING TO THE TEACHING YOU RECEIVED FROM US. For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you…” (2 Thess. 3:6-7) 1ataktōs: disorderly, irresponsible
Some translations describe these non-working people as “idle,” but most scholars agree that the word is better translated “unruly” or “disorderly.” It meant to be “out of step.” They seem to have had a defiant attitude, because they were deliberately disregarding the commands about working that the apostle Paul had given both when he was with them and in his first letter. So, not only were they not earning their keep but the were being disruptive and were not living right.
“Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.” (2 Thess. 3:14-15)
THIS IS KNOWN AS TOUGH LOVE…
-Bill Stockham