For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.
For even. Translate 'For also;' coordinate with "For," 2 Thessalonians 3:7. We set you the example, and also gave a 'command.'
Commanded - Greek imperfect, 'We were commanding:' we kept charging you.
Would not work - Greek, 'is not willing to work.' The argument is, not that such a one is to have his food withdrawn from him by others; but Paul proves from the necessity of eating the necessity of working.