Are you a GOOD example?

12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you, 13 and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. Be at peace among yourselves.

1 Th 5:12–13.

The last half of chapter 5 contains a series of exhortations to the believer. While written to the church in Thessalonica, these exhortations apply to every believer’s life. Paul calls us to live a life of righteousness while eagerly awaiting the ultimate and final salvation. This entails showing proper reverence for the leaders within the church. Not that they are any ‘holier’ than anyone else in the brotherhood of believers, but that they have a unique calling and position of leadership. As such we pray for our leaders and assist them in their work. 

Among the exhortations, believers are to discipline (in love) those who are idle or busybodies, offer support to the easily disheartened and encourage those with weaker faith. We are also taught to be patient with everyone, not seek revenge against those who wrong us, and continue doing good to all while rejoicing. Additionally, we should persist in prayer and gratitude in all circumstances.

Furthermore, Paul advises believers not to ignore or diminish the guidance of the Spirit or to look down on good doctrine. Rather than disregarding messages from those claiming to be prophets, they should assess and evaluate these messages. This process of discernment enables believers to accept what is consistent with the Word of God and to refuse anything that is not. Ultimately, Christians are encouraged to separate from every type of evil.