Closing exhortations – that’s what we call these
final phrases of the apostle as he fills his page with wisdom. These particular
words are greatly needed today. In an age where “tolerance” is the byword (at
least we are commanded to be tolerant of everything other than Christianity),
Paul reminds us that we have a responsibility to be true to those around us. By
that I mean that if we truly love people, we need to act as if we do. Look at
what Paul says:
*Warn
those who are unruly. The word “warn” means to reprove gently or to caution. So
again, lovingly tell those who are being insubordinate to stop being
insubordinate. In the church it is vitally important to follow God-ordained
leadership – but it must be God-ordained.
*Comfort
the fainthearted. No doubt many in the church were troubled by the
circumstances facing them. They needed someone to come alongside them and let
them know that they are in God’s hands, and everything would be fine.
*Support/uphold
the weak. The word can be translated either way, but a better understanding of
Paul’s intention was “to hold to.” Imagine someone who is so weak that his legs
give out. He cannot stand. We are to grab hold of them and lift them up. No
doubt there is a spiritual connotation as well. Lift up those who have no
strength. Encourage those who are about to fall. Even care for the sick is part
of this list of Christian duties.*Be patient toward all men. Longsuffering is a good word, and it is hard work. We are called to put up with a great deal of nasty stuff, and we cannot pick and choose to whom we will be patient. Our goal is to draw others to Christ and to help Christians to grow in their faith. That requires being patient. It requires perseverance. Our calling as Christians is to never give up on anyone until God leads us to “shake the dust” from our garments and move on. My personal opinion: as long as there is breath in their bodies, there is hope!
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