Study To Be Quiet
Paul wrote the Thessalonians that they should study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your hands —. (1 Thes. 4:11) We feel this is much needed advice now.
Study is from a word meaning be ambitious, used Rom. 15:20 (strived making it my aim) and 2 Cor. 5:9 (labour). This quietness is not a negative at ease in Zion attitude of unconcern. It is something set as a goal, something that requires positive planning and execution.
The Thessalonians had reacted to preaching about the second coming of Christ by ceasing daily ordinary activities, and engaging in hysterical, useless waiting — becoming a deadweight upon society and brethren. Our generation has their counterpart. The text says break it up. Quietness is a worthy ambition; work for it.
Lenski thinks to be quiet is, namely: to attend to your own business and to work with your hands even as, etc. It is the tranquility found in meaningful occupation; its counterpart being some that walk among you disorderly, that work not at all, but are busybodies. (2 Thes. 3:11) Luke uses the word four times: for rested (Lu. 23:56), and three times to indicate inward control, self-imposed peace. (Lu, 14:4; Acts 11:18; 21: 14) If we will grasp the self-imposed aspect of the word, we can see why Paul made it an ambition.
Christians need not expect a life free from trials (1 Pet. 4:12-f), nor void of struggle (1 Tim. 6:12). We pray for kings, etc., that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life, but this is not an indolent, self—indulgent life. We seek greater opportunity for service to God, conditions conductive to the spread of His word.
Our peace is that of the soldier who fights vigorously, with conviction that his cause is right and just. Our quietness is that of faith; the steadying influence, lest we beat the air. (1 Cor. 9:25-27)
Our problems will not be solved by youthful bluster or aged compromise.