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2 Thessalonians 3:11

For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

2 Thessalonians 3:11 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is addressing the issue of idleness and gossip among the members of the church in Thessalonica. He is warning the community about individuals who are not fulfilling their responsibilities and instead, are meddling in the affairs of others. The term "busybodies" refers to people who are constantly involved in the concerns and activities of others, often in a negative or intrusive way. Paul is urging the members of the church to focus on their own work and conduct themselves in a disciplined and productive manner. By highlighting the problem of idleness and gossip, Paul is emphasizing the importance of diligence, responsibility, and respect for boundaries within the Christian community. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to be mindful of their actions and to avoid behaviors that can disrupt the harmony and unity of the church.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is addressing the church in Thessalonica about a group of individuals who are not conducting themselves in an orderly manner. The term "walk" in this context refers to one's way of life or behavior. Those who are described as "disorderly" are individuals who are not working but instead are meddling in the affairs of others, being nosy or gossiping. The term "busybodies" is translated from a Greek word that carries the idea of being overly concerned with other people's lives to the point of becoming a nuisance or causing trouble. Through this passage, Paul is emphasizing the importance of living a disciplined and productive life, focusing on one's own responsibilities rather than interfering in the lives of others. This exhortation serves as a reminder to believers to be diligent in their work and to avoid idleness and unnecessary involvement in the affairs of others.

2 Thessalonians 3:11 in other translations

American Standard Version

For we hear of some that walk among you disorderly, that work not at all, but are busybodies.

World English Bible

For we hear of some who walk among you in rebellion, who don’t work at all, but are busybodies.

Douay-Rheims

For we have heard there are some among you who walk disorderly: working not at all, but curiously meddling.

Geneva Bible (1599)

For we heare, that there are some which walke among you inordinately, and worke not at all, but are busie bodies.