What does it mean to "esteem them very highly in love" for their work? Setting the Scene “But we ask you, brothers, to acknowledge those who work diligently among you, who lead you in the Lord and admonish you, and to esteem them very highly in love because of their work. Live in peace with one another.” Paul pens a clear, Spirit-breathed command: recognize, honor, and love your spiritual leaders. Scripture means exactly what it says, and the instruction is as binding today as when it first reached Thessalonica. Understanding the Key Words • Esteem – to regard, respect, or value. • Very highly – literally “beyond measure,” an overflowing, wholehearted regard. • In love – affection rooted in Christ’s own sacrificial love (John 13:34). • For their work – not for personality, status, or popularity, but for the labor they pour into shepherding souls. Who Are “Them”? • Elders/overseers who “shepherd the church of God” (Acts 20:28). • Pastors and teachers given “to equip the saints for works of ministry” (Ephesians 4:11-12). • Any believer shouldering recognized spiritual responsibility—missionaries, small-group leaders, children’s workers, worship leaders, etc. Why the Work Matters • They “keep watch over your souls” (Hebrews 13:17). • Their teaching guards the flock from error (Titus 1:9). • Their example stirs growth (1 Peter 5:2-3; Philippians 3:17). Because the task is eternal in scope, the honor due them must be earnest and tangible. Biblical Expressions of Esteem Speak well • “Let the elders who lead well be considered worthy of double honor” (1 Timothy 5:17). • Avoid gossip; promote gratitude publicly and privately. Listen and follow • “Obey your leaders and submit to them” (Hebrews 13:17). • A teachable spirit shows high esteem. Support materially • “Share all good things with the one who teaches” (Galatians 6:6). • Financial generosity frees leaders to focus on ministry. Pray consistently • Paul often asked, “Brothers, pray for us” (1 Thessalonians 5:25). • Intercession undergirds their stamina and discernment. Encourage personally • Onesiphorus “often refreshed me” (2 Timothy 1:16). • Notes, meals, or a simple word of thanks carry weight. Protect their time • Give space for rest and study (Mark 6:31). • Honor boundaries that guard family and Sabbath rhythms. Defend their reputation • Receive an accusation “only on the testimony of two or three witnesses” (1 Timothy 5:19). • Refuse to entertain slander. Guarding Our Hearts Against Common Pitfalls • Familiarity: prolonged closeness can dull respect. Remember their God-given office. • Criticism: leaders imperfectly carry perfect truth—extend the grace you need yourself. • Independence: a rogue spirit fractures unity; esteem cultivates peace (1 Thessalonians 5:13). A Portrait of Esteem in Scripture • The Philippians sent gifts repeatedly to Paul (Philippians 4:15-18). • The church at Antioch released and resourced Barnabas and Saul (Acts 13:2-3). • David honored Saul’s position even when Saul failed (1 Samuel 24:6). These snapshots reveal practical esteem lived out in real-world settings. Esteem That Builds Peace in the Body Notice how Paul links honor for leaders with congregational harmony: “Live in peace with one another.” When shepherds feel loved and sheep feel well-led, friction subsides and the church advances in unified purpose. Taking It Home • Thank your leaders this week—verbally, in writing, or both. • Add them to your daily prayer list by name. • Look for a tangible need (childcare, errands, study resources) and meet it quietly. • Speak words that strengthen their hands whenever you can. • Choose submission over preference when a decision isn’t your way but not sinful. To esteem “very highly in love” is not optional; it is a joyful duty that blesses leaders, nourishes believers, and honors Christ, whose work they faithfully pursue. |
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