ADVICE TO THE CHURCH
Tuesday, 19th July 2016
1 Thessalonians 5:12-28 (NKJV)
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.
14. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all.
15. See that no one renders evil for evil to anyone, but always pursue what is good both for yourselves and for all.
16. Rejoice always,
17. pray without ceasing,
18. in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
19. Do not quench the Spirit.
20. Do not despise prophecies.
21. Test all things; hold fast what is good.
22. Abstain from every form of evil.
23. Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
24. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it.
25. Brethren, pray for us.
26. Greet all the brethren with a holy kiss.
27. I charge you by the Lord that this epistle be read to all the holy brethren.
The following are some of the practical issues which the Church must not forget, both as individuals and as a body in order to strengthen their witness in the world.
Behaviour towards the leaders of the Church: As they work hard to teach and guide the believers, they too must be properly honoured, rewarded and prayed for. They must not be despised no matter what we may see as their inadequacies.
Behaviour towards the Church family (v. 14, 15): Believers are advised to be at peace with each other. They must strengthen the faint-hearted, uphold one another in the faith and encourage each other to be gainfully employed. Laziness must not be encouraged amongst Church members.
Behaviour towards God (v. 15-22): Believers must rejoice in the Lord always. They must demonstrate their absolute trust in the Lord by praying always. God moves, acts, and responds to prayers. When Christians pray, they stir fellowship and communion with God (Heb. 10:25). The Church must allow the Holy Spirit to move unhindered so that the people may enjoy the greater benefit of spiritual growth.
Thought: In what way(s) can you contribute towards growing a healthy Church?