Topical Bible: Idleness and Sloth: Remonstrance Against

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Idleness and sloth are frequently admonished in the Scriptures, as they are seen as contrary to the diligent and purposeful life that God calls His people to lead. The Bible provides numerous warnings and teachings against these vices, emphasizing the importance of hard work, responsibility, and stewardship.

Biblical Warnings Against Idleness and Sloth

The Book of Proverbs offers several insights into the dangers of idleness and sloth. Proverbs 6:6-11 advises, "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, O sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest, and poverty will come upon you like a robber, and need like a bandit." This passage highlights the industriousness of the ant as a model for human behavior, warning that laziness leads to poverty and want.

Proverbs 19:15 further states, "Laziness brings on deep sleep, and an idle soul will suffer hunger." Here, the consequences of sloth are made clear: it results in unmet needs and a lack of provision. The sluggard's path is one of neglect and eventual ruin.

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament also addresses the issue of idleness. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 , the Apostle Paul writes, "For even while we were with you, we gave you this command: If anyone is unwilling to work, he shall not eat. Yet we hear that some of you are leading undisciplined lives and accomplishing nothing but being busybodies. We command and urge such people by our Lord Jesus Christ to begin working quietly to earn their own living." Paul emphasizes the importance of work and self-sufficiency, condemning those who choose idleness and become a burden to others.

Spiritual Implications

Idleness is not merely a physical or economic issue but also a spiritual one. It reflects a lack of discipline and a failure to fulfill God's purpose for one's life. In Matthew 25:26-30 , the parable of the talents illustrates the spiritual consequences of sloth. The servant who buried his talent out of fear and laziness is rebuked by his master: "You wicked, lazy servant! ... Take the talent from him and give it to the one who has ten talents. For everyone who has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. But the one who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him." This parable underscores the expectation that believers are to use their God-given gifts and opportunities for His glory.

Call to Diligence

The Bible calls believers to a life of diligence and purpose. Colossians 3:23-24 instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage encourages Christians to view their work as service to God, thereby imbuing even the most mundane tasks with spiritual significance.

In summary, the Scriptures consistently remonstrate against idleness and sloth, urging believers to embrace diligence, responsibility, and faithful stewardship of their time and resources. Through hard work and dedication, Christians are called to reflect the character of God and fulfill their divine purpose.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Proverbs 6:6,9
Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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Awake! Awake!
... Let sinful sloth and presumption both be startled, lest ... a weekday, and there is no
remonstrance within you. ... heart that aches because of our idleness in telling ...
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