"Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us." — 2 Thessalonians 3:9

2 Thessalonians 3:9 · KJV

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

— 2 Thessalonians 3:9

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:

Verse 10

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

2 Thessalonians 3 — Context

For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you;

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:

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

For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.

Cross References

2 Thessalonians 3:7

For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you;

1 Thessalonians 2:6

Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor {yet} of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. {been...: or, used authority}

1 Corinthians 9:4-14

Have we not power to eat and to drink?

Galatians 6:6

Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.

Matthew 10:10

Nor scrip for {your} journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. {staves: Gr. a staff}

John 13:15

For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

1 Peter 2:21

For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: {for us: some read, for you}