What We Are Urged To Do (1)

“We urge you, brothers…” 1 Thessalonians 5:14-22

Paul ends 1 Thessalonians with a list of things he urges us to do and not do. This isn’t just the Spirit saying, “Oh, I almost forgot to tell you…” – they are important things He is calling us to embrace and listen to.

“Warn those who are unruly” (1 Th 5:14). We aren’t supposed to just ignore when people are ignoring the rules of Scripture. There ARE rules and laws in the Bible that we are supposed to be actively obeying (this is why some translations say “those who are idle” [NIV, ESV] – idle, not actively obeying). If you wonder why someone warns you about missing worship and Bible study opportunities, this is why. If you wonder why sermons are preached about the dangers of immorality, this is why. If you wonder why we go to those who have stopped following the Lord and tell them about the eternal consequences of their choices, this is why. So, do it. Warn those who are unruly!

“Comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak” (1 Th 5:14). Not all people are “unruly,” some are simply fainthearted, they are “weak” (NASB, ESV). These people need our comfort and encouragement as they struggle with questions, doubts, personal applications, temptations, and personal life struggles. They need to be helped and supported through both teaching, accountability, and time spent together talking, praying, studying, and helping them with everyday life things. It is important that we don’t abandon or condemn the weak, but be there for them. (Note: if you are feeling weak you need to admit it and find help. People can’t always know what you are going through).

“Be patient with all” (1 Th 5:14). Be patient with everyone? Yes! It can be hard and frustrating when people struggle with things you don’t struggle with. It can be challenging to help people when they are experiencing the consequences of their own mistakes and sins. It can be hard to continue to help people when they are constantly needing help. But we are called to be patient, patient with everyone. Note that patience doesn’t mean we don’t warn people of their sin and point out the consequences of their behavior. If anything, patience involves continuing to warn and advise. But it also involves being longsuffering. It is continuing to sacrifice in order to help and serve and teach and correct and support others. Patience means we don’t quickly or easily give on people. We are optimistic that God’s way in His word can and will help them. Let’s be patient with everyone!                 dd