We live in an age of self-justification. We can excuse or explain
almost any personal behavior or habit or shortcoming, making a case for
our own innocence. But Paul here cuts through all our layers of
self-defense and plainly states our obligation.
If you, husbands and fathers, are not carefully laboring to provide the
food, shelter, and clothing that are needed by your family—to the best
of your ability—then you are not a Christian, no matter how much you may
protest to the contrary.
In fact, Paul says, you have denied the faith of Christ by your
actions; therefore, you are worse than an unbeliever, because you are
bringing reproach on the name of Christ. You cannot claim an allegiance
to Christ, on the one hand, and selfishly or carelessly deny the help to
your family that Christ demands of you.
These words may sound strong or harsh, but in reality they are helpful
and loving. We might be tempted to deceive ourselves on this issue, if
it were not so plainly worded for us. Our families might suffer because
of our thoughtless neglect, except that Paul has forced us to consider
them.
If you have failed in this regard, do not give up; it is never too late
to repeal your denial of the faith, to throw off your unbelief, and to
show your commitment to Christ by laboring for the welfare of your
family.
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