(a) Give Paul's teaching on "dignity of labour" in Thessalonians. [11 marks]
(b) What four lessons can be derived from this teaching? [4 marks].
(a) 2 Thessalonians 3:6-15:
(i) Paul commanded believers in the name of Jesus,
(ii) that they should stay away from any Christian who lives in idleness,
(iii) and any one who does not follow the tradition of hard work.
(iv) They were expected to follow his example.
(v) He was never lazy when he was with them.
(vi) He never accepted food from anyone without paying for it.
(vii) He worked hard, day and night to avoid being a burden to anyone.
(viii) Although he had the right to be fed by them.
(ix) He wanted to be of good example to imitate.
(x) He gave the rule that whoever does not work should not eat.
(xi) In the name of the Lord, Paul commanded the idle members to do their work;
(xii) and earn their living.
(viii) He asked the faithful to stay away from the idle one;
(xiv) so that he will be ashamed.
(xv) But he should not be seen as enemy.
(xvi) But be warned as a brother.
(b) Lessons to be derived from this teaching:
(i) Laziness/idleness is to be condemned or avoided; laziness brings shame.
(ii) Need for one to be self-reliant and not to be a parasite.
(iii) Need for one to be proud of one's job.
(iv) No particular job is more important or superior to others.
(v) All jobs are complementary.
(vi) Idleness can lead to downfall of the family, church and nation.
(vii) Hard work makes it possible to help the needy.
(viii) Looking down on certain jobs, especially the so-called menial jobs, is unchristian.
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