In the context of biblical teachings, the term "busy-bodies" refers to individuals who engage in meddlesome or intrusive behavior, often as a result of idleness. The Scriptures provide clear guidance on the dangers and improprieties associated with such conduct, emphasizing the importance of productive and purposeful living.

The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of busy-bodies in his epistles, particularly highlighting the connection between idleness and meddling. In 2 Thessalonians 3:11, Paul writes, "We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies." Here, Paul identifies a direct link between a lack of meaningful occupation and the tendency to interfere in the affairs of others. This behavior is seen as contrary to the Christian work ethic, which values diligence and responsibility.

Paul further instructs the Thessalonians on how to handle such individuals, advising them to lead a quiet life and work with their own hands (1 Thessalonians 4:11). This counsel underscores the importance of self-sufficiency and the avoidance of unnecessary entanglement in the lives of others. By focusing on their own responsibilities, believers can maintain a peaceful and orderly community.

In 1 Timothy 5:13, Paul addresses the issue of young widows who, without proper occupation, become "idle, going from house to house. And not only do they become idlers, but also busybodies who talk nonsense, saying things they ought not to." This passage highlights the potential for gossip and slander to arise from idleness, further illustrating the moral and social pitfalls of such behavior.

The biblical perspective on busy-bodies is rooted in the broader principle of stewardship. Believers are called to be good stewards of their time and resources, using them in ways that honor God and benefit others. Ephesians 5:15-16 exhorts Christians to "be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." This passage encourages believers to live purposefully and avoid the distractions of idle chatter and meddling.

The teachings of Scripture on busy-bodies serve as a reminder of the value of industriousness and the dangers of idleness. By engaging in meaningful work and focusing on their own responsibilities, Christians can avoid the pitfalls of meddling and contribute positively to their communities.2 Thessalonians 3:11
For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Timothy 5:13
And with they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Timothy v. 15-Nov
... They naturally become idlers, tattlers, and busybodies. ... but that there should be
no adulteresses, that none should be idle, busy-bodies, speaking things that ...
/.../homily xv 1 timothy v.htm

That, Namely, Befalleth them which in Undisciplined Younger Widows ...
... in undisciplined younger widows, the same Apostle saith must be avoided: "And withal
they learn to be idle; and not only idle, but also busy bodies and full of ...
/.../augustine/of the work of monks /section 26 that namely befalleth.htm

2 Thessalonians iii. 5-Mar
... too. But to pray and fast, being idle, [1079] is not the work of the hands.
For ... added,. "That work not at all, but are busybodies. Now ...
/.../homily v 2 thessalonians iii.htm

How Heretics, Craftily Cite Obscure Passages in Ancient Writers in ...
... "withal learning to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle,
but tattlers also and busy-bodies, speaking things which they ought not," ...
/.../the commonitory of vincent of lerins/chapter vii how heretics craftily.htm

The Women of the Apostolic Age
... And withal they learn also to be idle, going about from house to house; and not
only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought ...
/.../brittain/women of early christianity/ii the women of the.htm

Hebrews x. 32-34
... Dost thou not hear Paul saying about widows, "they not only" (these are his words)
"learn to be idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, wandering about from ...
/.../homilies on the gospel of st john and hebrews/homily xxi hebrews x 32-34.htm

Perseverance of Saints.
... And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only
idle, but tattlers also, and busy bodies, speaking things which they ought ...
/.../finney/systematic theology/lecture li perseverance of saints.htm

Letter xxii. To Eustochium.
... Idle persons and busybodies, whether virgins or widows; such as go from house to
house calling on married women and displaying an unblushing effrontery greater ...
/.../jerome/the principal works of st jerome/letter xxii to eustochium.htm

The Thessalonian Letters
... busy-bodies." The church had been properly organized, and officers had been appointed
to ... them not to neglect their duties or resign themselves to idle waiting ...
/.../white/the acts of the apostles/lesson 25 the thessalonian letters.htm

A Discourse of the Building, Nature, Excellency, and Government of ...
... These should after our busy-bodies look, Tale-bearers also, they have undertook
To keep in order, also they must see None that can work among us idle be; Jars ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/a discourse of the building.htm

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