Free Bible Commentary
“1 Thessalonians 5:12-15”
Categories: 1 Thessalonians“But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction, and that you esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another. We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. See that no one repays another with evil for evil, but always seek after that which is good for one another and for all people.”
---End of Scripture Verses---
I love Paul’s closing quick-hitters in chapter 5. Rich. Powerful. To the point.
Respect your elders (verses 12-13). We should have respect for all people but hold special esteem in our hearts for the elders who labor among us and lead us and admonish us. There is disagreement as to whether Paul is referring to teachers, prophets or elders specifically, but these verses certainly apply chiefly to elders in the post-direct-inspiration era of the church. The calling of elders is of the highest order and their work is truly indispensable in the body of Christ. We are encouraged to have “special love” for them because of their work. There is no more important obligation than being responsible for watching over the souls of human beings (Acts 20:28; Hebrews 13:17).
“Live in peace with one another” (verse 13). We should strive for peace so that the body of Christ can be unified in its efforts to serve the Lord and save the lost. It is also important to do this so that the difficult job of our elders can be as pleasant as possible (Hebrews 13:17).
Be aware of the condition of your brethren in Christ and treat them appropriately (verse 14). If any are walking disorderly “admonish” them to do what is right in God’s sight. If any are discouraged try to cheer them up ("encourage them"). If any are spiritually weak provide the “help” that they need to bolster them in the faith and embolden them to stay the course. We should help our brethren from a heart of love and with a hand that is “patient”.
Never respond to evil and sinfulness by fighting fire with fire (verse 15). It is only possible to overcome evil with good (Romans 12:21). When we return anger for anger, insult for insult, violence for violence, evil will consume us and destroy us. Blessed are the peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), but cursed are ones who turn their hearts away from the Lord (Jeremiah 17:5).
Always, ALWAYS seek what is good!!! For every person! In every situation! No matter how much we want to blast them! God help us (ME) in this endeavor!
Please read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22 for tomorrow.
Blessings!
- Louie Taylor
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