The Christian's Duties Within the Church

As Paul concludes his first letter to the church in Thessalonica, he paints for them a portrait of a gospel-based church where the congregation lives as “brothers and sisters,” led by faithful leaders who look after them while awaiting Christ’s return. Paul gives seven commands to build each other up and live out the transformation that Christ has brought to our lives in chapter 5, vv. 12-15: “Be at peace” (v. 13),” “warn those who are idle” (v. 14)” “comfort the discouraged (v. 14),” “help the weak” (v. 14), “be patient with everyone” (v. 14), “See to it that no one repays evil for evil” (v. 14), and “always pursue what is good” (v. 15)