June 26, 2024
Read Judges 13, Isaiah 2, 2 Thessalonians 3
An oxymoron is a combination of two words that are opposites. They combine to make a word with a deeper definition. Jumbo shrimp, Pretty ugly, organized chaos, and The Atlanta Falcons as Superbowl Champs!!
In the second letter to the church at Thessalonica Paul warns the church about two types of people in the church. First those who are idle and refuse to work. “In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers, to keep away from every brother who is idle and does not live according to the teaching you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you” vv. 6-8. None of us might enjoy work, but it is what God intended for us BEFORE the fall in Genesis 3. The Scripture says that God placed Adam in the garden to work it. Sure, the work was much more tedious after sin than before.
Second, Paul warns the church about these idle people who are really busybodies. “We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right. 14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother” vv. 11-15. This concept of allowing someone to feel “ashamed” v. 14 is something to consider. Many people today will tell you that we should not make people feel ashamed, that it is damaging to their mental health. Yet the Bible talks about it as a good thing that brings conviction to the person. The key is only a shame that is in line with the biblical standard is permissible. If we introduce shame into people’s lives that is not something God speaks about, then we do cause damage.
What else do you see in these chapters? What words, phrases, or themes stick out to you?
Add your thoughts below.
DId God Really Say... 