2 Thessalonians 3:7
For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you;
Original Language Analysis
αὐτοὶ
yourselves
G846
αὐτοὶ
yourselves
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
1 of 12
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
οἴδατε
know
G1492
οἴδατε
know
Strong's:
G1492
Word #:
3 of 12
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
πῶς
how
G4459
πῶς
how
Strong's:
G4459
Word #:
4 of 12
an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!
δεῖ
ye ought
G1163
δεῖ
ye ought
Strong's:
G1163
Word #:
5 of 12
also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)
ὅτι
for
G3754
ὅτι
for
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
8 of 12
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
Cross References
2 Thessalonians 3:6Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.2 Thessalonians 3:9Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.1 Corinthians 4:16Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.1 Corinthians 11:1Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.Philippians 3:17Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.Titus 2:7In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,
Historical Context
Unlike wandering philosophers who expected financial support, Paul voluntarily worked (probably tentmaking, Acts 18:3) to avoid burdening new converts and to model Christian work ethic. This demonstrated the gospel's power to transform laborers, not create dependents.
Questions for Reflection
- What Christian leader provides a compelling example worth imitating in your life?
- How does your work ethic either honor or dishonor the gospel before unbelievers?
- Why must spiritual leaders model the behavior they command before their teaching carries full weight?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you—yourselves know (autoi oidate, αὐτοὶ οἴδατε) appeals to firsthand observation. How ye ought to follow us (pōs dei mimeisthai hēmas, πῶς δεῖ μιμεῖσθαι ἡμᾶς, 'how it is necessary to imitate us')—apostolic example provides the pattern.
For we behaved not ourselves disorderly (ouk ētaktēsamen, οὐκ ἠτακτήσαμεν, 'we were not out of order')—during Paul's Thessalonian ministry, he worked to support himself. Leaders model proper conduct before demanding it from followers. Paul's authority rested partly on his exemplary behavior. Imitation learning was central to ancient discipleship.