For you know quite well how to copy us; we did not loaf in your midst,
Brothers, we charge you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to shun any brother who is loafing, instead of following the rule you got from us.
Not that we have no right to such support; it was simply to give you a pattern to copy.
Then imitate me, I beg of you.
Copy me, as I copy Christ.
Copy me, brothers, one and all of you, and notice those who live by the example you get from me.
set them an example of good conduct; be sincere and serious in your teaching,
Let no one slight you because you are a youth, but set the believers an example of speech, behaviour, love, faith, and purity.
You are witnesses, and so is God, to our behaviour among you believers, how pious and upright and blameless it was,
Practise also what you have learned and received from me, what you heard me say and what you saw me do; then the God of peace will be with you.
not by way of lording it over your charges but proving a pattern to the flock.
We beseech you, brothers, keep a check upon loafers, encourage the faint-hearted, sustain weak souls, never lose your temper with anyone;