For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies.
Truth to Learn
There is a difference between taking care of the needs of others and becoming a know-it-all busybody.
Behind the Words
The Greek word translated “we hear” is akouō, from which we get our English word acoustic. It means “to hear something” or “to listen to something.” The form of the word used here indicates present continuous action. Thus, it appears that Paul was repeatedly hearing about these problem people.
“Walk” is from peripateō, meaning “to walk around.” It refers to the manner in which someone lives his or her life.
The words “in a disorderly manner” are from atakteō, which we saw back in verse seven, meaning “to be disorderly.”
Ergadzomai is the verb translated “work.” It means “to be engaged in a task or occupation.”
“Busybodies” is translated from the verb periergadzomai, which is made up of peri, meaning “around” and ergadzomai, meaning “to work.” Literally, it means “to work around.” It refers to someone who is constantly busy, but never really accomplishing anything. It also refers to someone who meddles in the affairs of others instead of doing their own work.
Meaning Explained
People who have nothing of constructive value to do often end up meddling in the affairs of others. This problem was not (and is not) something that only occurred in Thessalonica. In his first letter to Timothy, Paul said:
And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not. (1 Timothy 5:13)
Also, the Apostle Peter, in his first general epistle said:
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people's matters. (1 Peter 4:15)
From this we can see that Peter categorizes people who are busybodies in the same group as murders, thieves, and other doers of evil things.
We all know people who have a habit of sticking their noses into other people’s affairs. They act like know-it-alls and like to share their knowledge with others whether others want it or not. They are often quick to give advice but seldom willing to take advice. Paul, in his first letter to the church in Thessalonica seems to have been talking to just such people.
that you also aspire to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you, (1 Thessalonians 4:11)
We see here another fine line. This one between “Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others,” (Philippians 2:4) and being a busybody.
Application
It is good and right to look out for the concerns of others, but don’t step over the line and become a know-it-all busybody. Instead, be humble as you work hard to provide for yourself and others and show your love to others with generosity, grace, and humility.
Copyright © 2012 Will Krause. All rights reserved
