Lectionary Tales For The Pulpit
"Brothers [and sisters], we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope." The early church was anticipating the imminent return of the risen Christ. Indeed, some believers had even quit work, were waiting around idly for the glorious appearing, had exhausted their funds, and were now depending upon the generosity of the church to support them day to day. It grew to be such a frustration among that little-faith community that Paul would be prompted to write, "If a man will not work, he shall not eat" (2 Thessalonians 3:10).
