In this concluding section, Paul gives them 15 instructions regarding their church lives. Paul stresses as of first importance to regard highly the church leaders who care for the well-being of the church. Next, he warns against those who stop working and tear down the community. Rather, we should be "...full of compassion, loving, forgiving, tender and kind, helping the helpless, cheering the fainting, seeking the wandering sinner to find." (O to be like Thee, T.O. Chisholm, 1897)

Moreover, Paul commands the church to rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances. This requires real spiritual backbone. This leads a church to surrender to God's will in Christ Jesus. Are we rejoicing, praying, and giving thanks? Where do I need to improve?

Paul also cautions the church not to quench the Spirit, nor disregard prophecies, but to test them and have discernment to accept what is good for the church. Lastly, Paul prays for them to have peace, to be sanctified, and to be blameless, awaiting Jesus' return. No church is perfect. But our God is faithful! When we make it our goal to follow these instructions, God will strengthen our church community and make us mature. Thank God!


Application: Father, thank you for giving us these instructions to grow as a church community.
One Word: A healthy church rejoices always, prays continually, and gives thanks in all circumstances.