Session 9 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24

RESPECTING (1 THESS. 5:12-13)

listen for Paul’s commands to the church.

12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters,
to give recognition to those who labor among you
and lead you in the Lord and admonish you,
13 and to regard them very highly in love because of their work.
Be at peace among yourselves.

CHART:

list the first commands

• (give recognition and regard to church leaders;
• be at peace among yourselves).

DISCUSS:

• How does showing respect for church leaders demonstrate the spiritual health of a group of believers? (p. 79)

Remarks

The Thessalonian leaders had earned recognition by faithfully fulfilling three ongoing ministries.

• they were willing to labor among you, a phrase that indicates toil past the point of exhaustion.
• they were willing to lead you in the Lord—that is, as the Lord would lead. The Greek term also implies someone who stands before others.
  authority, loving leadership and pastoral care. The Thessalonian leaders set an example worth following, while filtering it all through love.
• they were willing to admonish the Thessalonians. Accepting the role of teachers, giving instruction in righteous living.
  responsible for correcting improper behavior. a thankless job, but one that was necessary.

TRANSITION:

Paul went on to provide a host of commands
related to holding one another accountable.