2 Thessalonians 3:9

“If others have this right of support from you, shouldn’t we have it all the more? But we did not use this right. On the contrary, we put up with anything rather than hinder the gospel of Christ in any way.”

Paul's example of not being a burden, for the sake of the Gospel

“We were not looking for praise from people, not from you or anyone else, even though as apostles of Christ we could have asserted our authority.”

Paul's practice of not seeking personal gain or recognition

“and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”

Exhortation to work and be self-sufficient

“Or is it only I and Barnabas who lack the right to not work?”

Paul's defense of his right to receive support, but choosing not to

“For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you.”

Contextual reference to Paul's example of working