For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: "If anyone will not work, neither let him eat."
that if any would not work, neither should he eat: Paul does not allow laziness, and he instructs Christians not to feed the person who refuses to work. If Christians do feed those who are lazy, they merely enable them to continue their unchristian lifestyle; then the situation is a matter to be dealt with by the congregation. An able bodied man who does not work has no right to eat. One who is handicapped and unable to work with his hands is not included in this teaching. It is indeed an honor to help those who are unable to help themselves; however, it would be wrong to help those who will not work.