2 Thessalonians 3:9

“Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.”

Literary Context

The preceding line reads “Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you:” The titled verse reads “Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.” The following line reads “For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” Together, these lines place 2 Thessalonians 3:9 within its immediate canonical and literary sequence.

Close Reading

The verse belongs to a New Testament letter, where statements contribute to an unfolding argument, exhortation, greeting, or explanation. Connecting words, commands, reasons, and pronouns should be read with the surrounding sentences.

The sentence centres on “Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.” The wording sets the subject and the limits of interpretation.

Place in Scripture

The letters unite Christian belief with the life of believers and churches. Accurate interpretation follows the author’s reasoning and preserves the stated teaching within its own argument.

A Faithful Response

Readers should identify the assertion or exhortation made here, trace its connection to the surrounding paragraph, and respond consistently. Precision protects both doctrine and practice.

Accordingly, the meaning of 2 Thessalonians 3:9 should be drawn from the verse itself and the lines around it, keeping explanation and application faithful to the text.