II Thessalonians 3:9
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Not that we lack this right, but we wanted to offer ourselves as an example for you to imitate.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
(Co1 9:4-6, &c.; Gal 6:6.)
Open source ↗In the close of the foregoing chapter, the apostle had prayed earnestly for the Thessalonians, and now he desires their prayers, encouraging them to trust in God, to which he subjoins another petition for them (Th2 3:1-5). He then proceeds to give them commands and directions for correcting some things he was informed were amiss among them (Th2 3:6-15) and concludes with benedictions and prayers (Th2 3:16-18).
Open source ↗3:9 Paul had distanced himself from others in the culture who were motivated by fame and money (1 Thes 2:5).
Open source ↗Cross-references
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For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not undisciplined among you,
Nor did we seek praise from you or from anyone else, although as apostles of Christ we had authority to demand it.
Nevertheless, the one who receives instruction in the word must share in all good things with his instructor.
Take no bag for the road, or second tunic, or sandals, or staff; for the worker is worthy of his provisions.
I have set you an example so that you should do as I have done for you.
For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: