That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing—hina peripateēte euschēmonōs pros tous exō kai mēdenos chreian echēte (ἵνα περιπατῆτε εὐσχημόνως πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω καὶ μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχητε). Two purposes for diligent work:
euschēmonōs peripatein pros tous exō (εὐσχημόνως περιπατεῖν πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω, 'walk properly/honorably toward those outside')—unbelievers observe Christians' conduct; lazy, meddling busybodies bring reproach on the gospel.
mēdenos chreian echein (μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχειν, 'have need of nothing/no one')—self-sufficiency enabling generosity rather than dependence requiring charity.
Christian ethics include both internal community responsibility (brotherly love, vv. 9-10) and external witness (honorable conduct toward unbelievers).
Lazy believers living off church charity or meddling in others' affairs damage gospel witness—outsiders conclude Christianity produces irresponsible freeloaders. Conversely, industrious believers supporting themselves and helping others attract observers to the faith. The phrase 'have lack of nothing' doesn't promise wealth but adequate provision through honest work, avoiding both extremes: idle poverty depending on charity, and greedy wealth exploiting others.
Historical Context
Early Christians faced accusations of being antisocial, refusing civic participation, and exploiting others through freeloading. Paul addresses these charges by commanding diligent work, quiet living, and self-sufficiency. This created positive witness: pagans observed Christians' integrity, work ethic, and mutual care. Later, when Christianity influenced society, the Protestant work ethic (viewing vocation as divine calling) transformed economics. Contemporary Christians should similarly demonstrate that faith produces responsible citizenship, not idle fanaticism or exploitative religion.
Questions for Reflection
How does your work ethic and financial responsibility (or irresponsibility) affect unbelievers' perception of Christianity?
What does 'walk honestly toward them that are without' require practically in your relationships with non-Christians?
How do you balance trusting God's provision with diligent work to 'have lack of nothing'?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing—hina peripateēte euschēmonōs pros tous exō kai mēdenos chreian echēte (ἵνα περιπατῆτε εὐσχημόνως πρὸς τοὺς ἔξω καὶ μηδενὸς χρείαν ἔχητε). Two purposes for diligent work:
Christian ethics include both internal community responsibility (brotherly love, vv. 9-10) and external witness (honorable conduct toward unbelievers).
Lazy believers living off church charity or meddling in others' affairs damage gospel witness—outsiders conclude Christianity produces irresponsible freeloaders. Conversely, industrious believers supporting themselves and helping others attract observers to the faith. The phrase 'have lack of nothing' doesn't promise wealth but adequate provision through honest work, avoiding both extremes: idle poverty depending on charity, and greedy wealth exploiting others.