A.T. Robertson Commentary 2 Thessalonians 3:9

"not because we have not the right, but to make ourselves and ensample unto you, that ye should imitate us." — 2 Thessalonians 3:9 (ASV)

Not because we have not the right (ουχ οτ ουκ εχομεν εξουσιαν). Paul is sensitive on his

right to receive adequate support (1 Thessalonians 2:6; 1 Corinthians 9:4 where he uses the same word εξουσιαν in the long defence of this

right , 1 Corinthians 9:1–27). So he here puts in this limitation to avoid misapprehension. He did allow churches to help him where he would not be misunderstood (2 Corinthians 11:7–11; Php 4:45f.). Paul uses ουχ οτ elsewhere to avoid misunderstanding (2 Corinthians 1:24; 2 Corinthians 3:5).

But to make ourselves an ensample unto you (αλλ' ινα εαυτους τυπον δωμεν υμιν). Literally,

but that we might give ourselves a type to you . Purpose with ινα and second aorist active subjunctive of διδωμ. On τυπον see on 1 Thessalonians 1:7.