2 Thessalonians 3:6-15

Holman Christian Standard Bible

Warning against Irresponsible Behavior

⁶ Now we command you, brothers, in the name^(A) of our Lord Jesus Christ, to keep away from every brother^(B) who walks irresponsibly and not according to the tradition^(C) received^(D) from us. ⁷ For you yourselves know how you must imitate^(E) us: We were not irresponsible among you; ⁸ we did not eat^(F) anyone’s food^[a] free of charge;^(G) instead, we labored^(H) and struggled,^(I) working^(J) night and day, so that we would not be a burden^(K) to any of you. ⁹ It is not that we don’t have the right^(L) to support, but we did it to make ourselves an example to you so that you would imitate^(M) us. ¹⁰ In fact, when we were with you, this is what we commanded you: “If anyone isn’t willing to work, he should not eat.”^{(N) 11} For we hear that there are some among you who walk irresponsibly, not working at all, but interfering with the work of others.^{(O) 12} Now we command and exhort such people by the Lord Jesus Christ that quietly working, they may eat their own food.^{[b] 13} Brothers, do not grow weary^(P) in doing good.

¹⁴ And if anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take note of that person; don’t associate with him, so that he may be ashamed. ¹⁵ Yet don’t treat him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.