2 Thessalonians 3:9
“Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Paul clarifies that he had the right to be supported, but worked anyway to give them an example to imitate.
What Does 2 Thessalonians 3:9 Mean?
Paul guards against a misunderstanding. His refusal to accept support was "not because we have not power," not because he lacked the right to be provided for. As one who labored in the gospel, he could rightly have asked the church to support him. He had the authority; he simply chose not to use it.
His reason was to "make ourselves an ensample unto you," a living model the Thessalonians could follow. Paul willingly set aside a legitimate right for the sake of a higher good: teaching by example. This is a beautiful picture of love that gives up its privileges to serve others. It echoes the heart of Christ, who likewise laid aside what was rightfully His for our sake. The verse shows that maturity is not insisting on every right we possess but knowing when to surrender a right so that others may be helped and led toward faithfulness.
In the Original Language
tupos (τύπος), "ensample" — a pattern, model, or mold to be copied; the imprint left by a stamp.