Forum09.22. May 29, 2009.
Subject: One specific set of rules for Christian living.
A. Scriptures for this study: 2 Thes.3:6-16
2Thes 3:6 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.
2Thes 3:7-8 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 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.
2Thes 3:9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to make ourselves a model for you to follow.
2Thes 3:10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule:
"If a man will not work, he shall not eat."
2Thes 3:11 We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies.
2Thes 3:12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the bread they eat.
2Thes 3:13 And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right.
2Thes 3:14 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.
2Thes 3:15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.
2Thes 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.
Points to talk about this evening:
1. Why did Paul invoke the name of the Lord Jesus Christ? 3:6
2. What is rule number one here? 3:6
3. How do Christians keep away from every brother who is idle and
does not live according to the teaching in the Bible? 3:6
4. Whose example Christians are instructed to follow? 3:7
5. What was the example they were asked to follow? 3:7-8
6. Why did Paul work hard while preaching among them? 3:9
7. What was the one specific rule they gave them? 3:10
8. How do we distinguish busybody and busy evangelizing? 3:11
9. What was the command for the idle people? 3:12
10. What should the Christians do in the meantime? 3:13
11. What is rule number 2 for Christians? 3:14
12. How do you warn a brother and regard him not as an enemy? 3:15
13. Why did Paul give them these rules? 3:16
14. Do we need these rules right now?