In his final words to the church at Thessalonica, Paul writes some of the best advice in Scripture pertaining to the operational system of the church. He begins by instructing the people on how they should treat their spiritual leaders. Paul writes “recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” In a subtle way, Paul teaches about the responsibilities of the pastor to the church – laboring (working hard), overseeing (guiding in righteousness), and admonishing (teaching God’s word). As the pastor is fulfilling his responsibilities to the church, the people are to respond to him with respect and love which ultimately leads to peace within the church (5:13). Turning his attention to the conduct within the church, Paul reminds them to “warn those who are unruly” (those who cause division), “comfort the faint-hearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.” When these characteristics are practiced, the church functions as a unit and can properly carry out the will of God. Next, Paul makes “bullet” statements to challenge believers to have the right type of character:
Rejoice always (5:16)
Pray without ceasing (5:17) – remain in an attitude of prayer
In everything give thanks (5:18) – through good times and bad times
Do not quench the Spirit (5:19) – be controlled by the Holy Spirit
Do not despise prophecies (5:20) – value and obey God’s word
Test all things; hold fast what is good (5:21) – carefully examine things labeled as truth
Abstain from every form of evil (5:22) – stay away from sin
The end goal for every believer is that our “whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (5:23) Having already addressed the rapture of the church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18), Paul wanted Christians to be found spiritually mature when Christ returns to take those who are His to heaven. God has asked all of us to follow His commands and be effective in ministry for Him. Trials, difficulties, and temptations will come, but a follower of Christ must be faithful to Him.
Rejoice always (5:16)
Pray without ceasing (5:17) – remain in an attitude of prayer
In everything give thanks (5:18) – through good times and bad times
Do not quench the Spirit (5:19) – be controlled by the Holy Spirit
Do not despise prophecies (5:20) – value and obey God’s word
Test all things; hold fast what is good (5:21) – carefully examine things labeled as truth
Abstain from every form of evil (5:22) – stay away from sin
The end goal for every believer is that our “whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (5:23) Having already addressed the rapture of the church (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18), Paul wanted Christians to be found spiritually mature when Christ returns to take those who are His to heaven. God has asked all of us to follow His commands and be effective in ministry for Him. Trials, difficulties, and temptations will come, but a follower of Christ must be faithful to Him.
Dear God, thank you for Paul’s letter to the Thessalonians. Help me to listen to and heed its’ words. May You be reflected in my life as I am filled with the Holy Spirit.
