9 Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.
9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate.
9 It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.
9 And it wasn't because we didn't have a right to your support; we did. We simply wanted to provide an example of diligence, hoping it would prove contagious.
9 not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us.
9 We certainly had the right to ask you to feed us, but we wanted to give you an example to follow.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Thessalonians 3:9
Commentary on 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15
(Read 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15)
Those who have received the gospel, are to live according to the gospel. Such as could work, and would not, were not to be maintained in idleness. Christianity is not to countenance slothfulness, which would consume what is meant to encourage the industrious, and to support the sick and afflicted. Industry in our callings as men, is a duty required by our calling as Christians. But some expected to be maintained in idleness, and indulged a curious and conceited temper. They meddled with the concerns of others, and did much harm. It is a great error and abuse of religion, to make it a cloak for idleness or any other sin. The servant who waits for the coming of his Lord aright, must be working as his Lord has commanded. If we are idle, the devil and a corrupt heart will soon find us somewhat to do. The mind of man is a busy thing; if it is not employed in doing good, it will be doing evil. It is an excellent, but rare union, to be active in our own business, yet quiet as to other people's. If any refused to labour with quietness, they were to note him with censure, and to separate from his company, yet they were to seek his good by loving admonitions. The Lords is with you while you are with him. Hold on your way, and hold on to the end. We must never give over, or tire in our work. It will be time enough to rest when we come to heaven.