3:7a

For: This word introduces the grounds for the command in 3:6, that is, since Paul and his companions were a good example to the Thessalonians by working for their own food (3:7–9), the Thessalonians should avoid those who were idle (and not like Paul and his companions). Paul gives further grounds for his command in 3:10a and 3:10b.

to imitate us: This refers to the way Paul and his companions had behaved while they were in Thessalonica. It may be necessary to include this implied information in your translation. This has been done in the second Meaning Line in the Display.

3:7b

because we were not undisciplined among you: In Greek, 3:7b begins with hoti. This is a word that has a number of different uses. In this context it can mean one of two things:

(1) It introduces a specific example of the behavior the Thessalonians ought to imitate, that is, Paul and his companions not being lazy. This could be translated in English as “that is.” Perhaps you have a word or phrase in your language which means this. The English versions that omit the word probably also follow this option.

(New International Version (2011 Revision), Good News Translation, REV, Contemporary English Version, New Century Version, New Living Translation (2004 Revision), Revised English Bible, God’s Word, New Jerusalem Bible, SSA)

(2) hoti means “because” and gives the reason for 3:7a.

(Berean Standard Bible, NET Bible, King James Version, New American Standard Bible)

It is recommended that you follow the first interpretation (1), which is shown in the Meaning Line in the Display.

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