2 Thessalonians 3:10

Authorized King James Version

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

even

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ὅτε

G3753

when

at which (thing) too, i.e., when

ἦμεν

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)

πρὸς

G4314

with

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

ὑμᾶς

G5209

you

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

τοῦτο

G5124

this

that thing

παρηγγέλλομεν

G3853

we commanded

to transmit a message, i.e., (by implication) to enjoin

ὑμῖν

G5213

you

to (with or by) you

#10

ὅτι

G3754

that

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

#11

εἴ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

#12

τις

G5100

some or any person or object

#13

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#14

θέλει

G2309

would

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

#15

ἐργάζεσθαι

G2038

work

to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc

#16

μηδὲ

G3366

neither

but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor

#17

ἐσθιέτω

G2068

should he eat

used only in certain tenses, the rest being supplied by g5315; to eat (usually literal)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Thessalonians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 2 Thessalonians chapter 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?