Deeper Reflection
THE THESSALONIANS WHO REFUSED TO WORK BUT LIVED
in idleness persisted in being clients in the pervasive “institution of
patronage” and “depended on their rich patrons, receiving benefits
from them such as food, money and representation”22. And Paul is
calling the Christian patrons in the church not to be obliged to continue
supporting these people.23 It is in this context (vv.6-12) that Paul gives this
exhortation: “Do not grow weary in doing good” (v.13).Paul is instructing the Christian patrons that, while they are to stop
supporting the idlers, they should continue “in doing good” by helping
those who are truly in need and deserving. And he exhorts them not to
grow weary in this “doing good”. What Paul is saying in this context is:
“Do not become so exasperated by the troublesome conduct of a few
loafers that you begin to tire of exercising charity with respect to those
who are deserving. Don’t let a few people who neglect their duty keep you
from doing yours. Never grow tired in doing what is right, honourable and
excellent.”24The “doing good” does not refer just specifically to giving to the poor,
but “performing what accords with God’s will in every walk of life”25. We
are to “do good” to “all people”, and “especially” fellow believers in God’s
family (Gal 6:10). We may grow weary when we don’t see any returns.
Disappointment over unmet expectations breeds this growing weariness.
But we should not when we “do good” in “the Spirit”, because “in due
time” – God’s time – we will reap fruits that are eternal (Gal 6:8-9).22 Gene L. Green, 342; see Devotional Journal 2022, November 2 entry
23 Gene L. Green, 342
24 William Hendrickson, 1 & 2 Thessalonians, 1 & 2 Timothy and Titus, New Testament Commentary (The Banner of
Truth Trust, 1955), 204
25 William Hendrickson, 204