II Thessalonians 3:9
“not because we do not have the right to this, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you, so that you would follow our example.”
We, as Christians, have rights and freedoms. This surprises some as our culture paints believers as puritanical and without joy. In actuality, there is great freedom in the Christian faith. If it’s not forbidden in scripture, then it’s an option.
However, Paul is denying his right to accept money for his services, so as not to be a stumbling block. Paul allows his love for others to supersede his rights.
Paul discusses a couple of times the extensive freedom we have in the faith. In those same places, he cautions against allowing these freedoms to become harmful to others. He says in Romans 14:15, “For if because of food your brother is hurt, you are no longer walking according to love. Do not destroy with your food him for whom Christ died.”
How might exercising a freedom hurt another’s faith? One of the topics in Paul’s time was eating meat that was sacrificed to idols. Some thought it acceptable, while others were confident that it was wrong. I Corinthians 8:10 says, “For if someone sees you, who have knowledge, dining in an idol’s temple, will not his conscience, if he is weak, be strengthened to eat things sacrificed to idols?” This one could come under great guilt for doing something he felt was wrong.
Paul demonstrates in today’s passage that care for others should govern our freedoms. He knows he has the right to collect a salary for his services. However, he knows some would be bothered by this. So, he and his his team work on the side as tent makers.
We should also be aware our behavior when it come to those who may be watching. Could my actions prompt someone to act in a manner that they see is sinful? If so, the loving response is to not engage in that behavior.
Lord, thank You for the great freedoms You’ve given. Help us to live in a loving manner.