Sunday, July 01, 2018
Sunday Reflection: Second Thessalonians
Next week is a big one: I am being inducted as the first holder of the Ruthie Mattox Chair in Preaching at First Covenant Church, Minneapolis, and will be giving the sermon. The text is from Second Thessalonians, and includes this passage:
In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching[a] you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
14 Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.
It's a tough draw for me. This passage suggests values that are contrary to mine, and which seem to contrast with Christ's as well. Jesus taught us that when we feed those who are hungry, we feed him. And yet, here, there seems to be some kind of test for "idleness" before we do that.
You might want to know how I deal with that.
If so, please come next Sunday-- 9;30 at 1st Covenant, Minneapolis, on 7th across from US Bank stadium!
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For those us who can't zip up to Minneapolis - can you post your sermon afterwards? I'd like to see how you deal with the conundrum. Thanks!
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