To this end Paul reminds the church leaders to read the letter to the church and to make sure that the believers understand it fully (25-28).Ībstain from all appearance of evil - Not only from evil itself, but from that which seems to be wrong. God wants his people to progress constantly towards greater holiness in every part of their lives and being (23-24). God alone can give the Thessalonians the necessary strength to put Paul’s advice into practice. This is particularly so in being able to tell the difference between right and wrong, so that they do not despise Spirit-inspired messages as worldly, and do not exalt worldly attitudes as spiritual (19-22). In all matters they need the unhindered help of God’s Spirit. All Christians should live in a constant attitude of helpfulness, joy, prayer and thanks (15-18). The leaders, on their part, must always act with patience and understanding (14). Paul therefore reminds the church members to respect those who have the duty of guiding the church, and not to be offended when the church leaders find it necessary to give corrective instruction (12-13).
Minor difficulties had arisen in the Thessalonian church, and the church leaders had the responsibility to see that these matters were put right.
