King James Version
2 Thessalonians 3:9 in the King James Version says “Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.” — study this verse from 2 Thessalonians chapter 3 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.”
2 Thessalonians 3:9 · KJV
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.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“we have”
G2192to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
“power”
G1849privilege, i.e., (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token o
“an ensample”
G5179a die (as struck), i.e., (by implication) a stamp or scar; by analogy, a shape, i.e., a statue, (figuratively) style or resemblance; specially, a samp
“make”
G1325to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
“to”
G1519to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
This verse is found in the book of 2 Thessalonians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
2 Thessalonians 3:9 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to 2 Thessalonians 3:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge