1 Thessalonians 5:9-11

Christians Should Comfort and Edify Each Other

Paul explained why the Christian should be sure to put on the breastplate of love and faith and the helmet of the hope of salvation. He said that God did not send Jesus to die for people who would, despite His sacrifice, have to be eternally punished. Instead, He meant for Christians to work until their ultimate salvation was secured in heaven (1 Peter 2:12; 1 Peter 3:20-21; Titus 2:13; Romans 5:9). It is important to note that Paul thought of salvation as being ultimately "through our Lord Jesus Christ." Jesus' death is an effective means of salvation for all who are in Him, whether dead or alive, at the time of His coming. Jesus died that all who would yield to Him might live eternally with Him.

Because of the preceding fact, Paul urged the brethren to encourage and build up one another. Of course, Christians must avoid those things that would tear down the faith of fellow Christians, but that by itself is not enough. Paul also instructed them to find a way to build, as one would a building, brick by brick the faith of other members of the body. The apostle did hasten to add that those in Thessalonica were already doing this (1 Thessalonians 5:9-11).

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13

Proper Treatment of Leaders in the Church

When Paul described those who labored among the Thessalonians, he used a word which Kelcy says, "indicates laborious toil. These leaders were working hard and unselfishly for the good of the church." They were also described as being over those in the Lord. Thayer says the word "over" means, "to be over, to superintend, preside over." They were doing teaching with the intent of warning, which is the meaning of "admonition." Such a description best fits the work of elders who were to oversee and tend God's flock (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2). Paul instructed the church, or flock, to care for and recognize such men as God's ordained leaders.

Further, elders were to be given the utmost respect because of the very important task that was theirs to perform (Hebrews 13:17). Respect would naturally come from the hearts of those who loved them for keeping a watch over their souls. Also, such respect would help the church to follow God's leaders and avoid the factious kind of spirit which promotes turmoil (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13).