PAULS EXHORTATION TO US
1 Thessalonians 5:14-15 "Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men."
Paul exhorts the brethren and gives instruction about our responsibilities to others. He mentions the different people we may encounter: those who are unruly, feeble minded, weak, and how to minister to them. Let's notice his exhortations:
First, we are instructed to warn the unruly, the word "unruly" speaks of a person who is out of rank or step. This is a person who is deviating from that which is important for us all. When we encounter someone who is unruly, we need to lovingly admonish them to show them how they are out of step and what God expects from them. Turning our heads and ignoring their unruliness isn't a proper way to respond to the unruly.
Next, we are instructed to comfort the feeble minded. This is a person who is faint hearted. People allow themselves to be overwhelmed and they become faint of heart. To "comfort" means to console. This person needs to be encouraged and strengthened in their heart. God desires you to be aware of this person’s condition and for you to minister to them.
Thirdly, we are instructed to support the weak. The idea of supporting the weak is for us to hold up those who are sick. Those who are sick have varied needs and we should support them according to their need.
Fourth, we are instructed to be patient toward all men. We are to endure patiently in order to minister to them in spite of who they are. Sometimes we want to give up on people but that isn't the Lord's desire. He wants us to be patient in our ministry to others.
Finally, we are instructed to never render evil for evil unto any person. God's will for us is to be like Him, able to forgive and to respond with a spirit of grace and mercy. To render evil for evil is for us to be just like others. It doesn't take
character to respond with evil toward another, but it always requires Christ likeness when we do good to those who despitefully use us (Luke 6:28).
I trust Paul's exhortations provide us with clear instruction as we seek to minister to those whom we come in contact. Remember to always follow that which is good, for this is the way of Jesus.
Your Friend and His,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. Which of the five instructions listed above is most difficult for you to follow?
2. Do you know of anyone who falls into one of these categories? How might you better help them?
3. Would you look for someone this week to help? Will you attempt to help them according to God’s Word?