Collective Care. 1 Thessalonians 5:14.
Dear People of God,
Having dispensed with the responsibility of Christians to their leaders, Paul now turns his attention to the responsibility of Christians to each other. There is great diversity in the Christian community and no one size fits all, so we need to be sensitive to the unique situations that present in the family of believers.
Provoke. Idleness is to be discouraged and all admonished to work for a living. The situation in Thessalonica was aggravated by the misconception in some that since the Lord was returning soon (in their lifetime, they thought), Christians should busy themselves with preparation for his coming. Why concern oneself with mundane work when Christ is returning to sweep all of us into glory? This attitude was to be discouraged and the idle put to work.
Prod.The difficulties the Thessalonians faced had discouraged some of them. Paul is encouraging the motto of a good army, “No man left behind.” When persecution and trial injures the confidence of some, we must not perceive them as a burden. Leave no soul behind.
Prompt. Some people have not developed spiritual muscle. Every little trial will fell them. Like a mother beast prompting its newborn to stand and face the world, let us help those who are weak to stand. We are our brother’s keeper.
Persevere. The diversity in the community means that often we will not see eye to eye, especially on things that the scriptures are not clear about. In addition, some people are just a pain! Being a part of any community calls for patience, more so the Christian community. Remember, people also have to be patient with you!
Your Loving Pastor Chris.