Movement 5 Not Appointed to wrath

[MOVEMENT 5]: LIFE TOGETHER, AND A CLOSING PRAYER (5:12–28)

From that settled confidence, Paul moves into how the church treats one another day to day — starting with the ones who lead it.

1 Thessalonians 5:12–15

And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour 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. And be at peace among yourselves. 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.

Leaders who labor and admonish are to be esteemed for the work itself, not simply tolerated. And the church is to look after its own at every level — warning the unruly, comforting the discouraged, supporting the weak, patient with everyone, never repaying evil with evil.

1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Paul is direct about that last one — giving thanks isn't just good practice, it's stated plainly as the will of God.

1 Thessalonians 5:19–22

Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil.

1 Thessalonians 5:23–28

And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. Brethren, pray for us. Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read unto all the holy brethren. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.