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