Friday, June 21, 2024
Life as a Believer – 1 Thessalonians 5:12-24 Submitted by Kay Crumley
Paul is completing his letter to the Thessalonians with a summation of how we are to live in relation to the Church, the body of Christ. It seems that the people of this church were looking toward the day that Jesus will return. Paul had assured them that no one knew then as we don’t know today the date of His return, Matthew 24:36. However, we are to be ready for that day because of the salvation we have in Christ. Since Jesus is the Light of the world, we, as His children, are to live in the light rather than in darkness. Our lives are to exemplify His character and His behavior in all circumstances.
As children of the Light, we are to be alert looking for the signs of Jesus return. We should never let our guard down and become numb to the things happening in our world. But that doesn’t mean we have to be without humor or joy. We are to pay attention to those things that matter and not get caught up in becoming involved in worldly concerns, those things that are not of God.
He assures them, and us, of the confidence we have in knowing we are His and can be at peace in the knowledge of His salvation. He is faithful to His promises. Then Paul exhorts them, in vs 11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. As fellow Christ followers, we are to encourage one another. Let someone who you notice being effective in their ministry know you’ve seen the example of Christ in their lives. We can all use a word of encouragement and recognition. That’s not to build up their ego but to confirm they are effective in their work for the Lord Jesus.
12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.
Paul is asking us to notice those who are working for the Lord. Admire the work they do because it is pleasing to God. Get along with those who share our faith.
14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.
However, we are also to help those who are not working for the Lord or who stir up trouble to correct their ways. Guide them to the right way of behavior but don’t mistreat them but do good to them as they grow in the wisdom of God to be effective in the church.
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
These verses speak for themselves! Focus on Him and be grateful for His presence in our lives all the time.
19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not treat prophecies with contempt 21 but test them all; hold on to what is good, 22 reject every kind of evil.
Test all you hear against the truth of the Word. We must have the knowledge of the Word of God so that when anyone preaches or teaches distorted messages we can recognize or discern the truth and reject the untruth, the evil. We are to search the Word of God to test all teaching to ensure that it is in alignment with His truth. Everything that fails that test must be rejected.
23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.
God begins His work of sanctification, transforming us to be fit for His purpose, at the time of our salvation. It is an ongoing work throughout our lives as we seek to follow Him. He is faithful to His purpose so we can trust that those of us who grow in relationship with Him will be changed and used by God.
What is Paul asking us to do?
Encourage our leaders, hold them in the high regard they deserve for doing the Lord’s work.
Correct and guide those who are weak, less mature, and need to be discipled in the Christian life.
Rejoice always and pray without stopping.
Test the teaching we hear to ensure it is aligned with God’s Word.
Strive to grow in Christ as He works in our lives to transform us for His purpose.
