In our last visit we began answering the question, Are you making progress in your church life? We pointed out that if you are a Christian you are a member of Christ’s body, the church. Specifically, this implies that you will be involved in a local church. As such you will either be a leader or follower in that church.
Paul addresses this in 1st Thessalonians 5:12-15. You will note in reading these verses there are two references to “brothers.” In verse 12 he makes a request of the brothers who are followers. In verse 14 he challenges the brothers who are leaders.
Let’s consider what he says to leaders first in these verses. He expects them to work hard as they oversee the church life. As leaders they are to admonish the followers. The way they are to do this would include warning the idle, encouraging the timid, helping the week and being patient with everyone. These areas of need are representative rather than comprehensive.
In most churches you have some who are idle or irresponsible. They need to be warned. The timid are often gifted and competent, but need to be encouraged to get involved. Jesus often reached out a helping hand to the week or infirmed. Leaders should do no less. And whenever you have a group of people interacting with each other patience is required, especially by leaders who want to get things done pronto.
If you are a leader in a local church you need to ask yourself if you are making progress in carrying out your responsibilities according to these guidelines. Do a reality check.
