In our last visit we began answering the question, Are you making progress in your church life? We pointed out that if you’re a Christian you are a member of Christ’s body, the church. This implies you’ll 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. Notice, 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. He expects them to work hard as they oversee the church’s life. They’re to admonish the followers by warning the idle, encouraging the timid, helping the week and being patient with all. 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’re a leader in a local church ask yourself, “Am I making progress in carrying out my responsibilities according to these guidelines?” Do a reality check.
