Leader and His relationships -

III. Leader and Believers

         In 1 Thessalonians 2.1—12 Paul says how he behaved himself among the Thessalonians, probably to clear himself of the accusation of the Jews (Acts.17.7). Notice the expressions, “yourselves … know”, v.1, “For ye remember”, v.9, “ye are witnesses”, v.10, “as ye know”, vv.5, 11 and “God is witness”, vv.5, 10 etc. “For”, v.1, connects the passage with 1.9 where he had mentioned about the “entering in” he received among them.

         In the passage certain metaphors are implied which helps to know his behavior among the believers in Thessalonica.

         In the word ‘contention’ we have this idea. The word was used of a contest in the Olympic Games. The idea here is the conflict an athlete takes to win the prize. He used the metaphor in the context of the affliction he had in Philippi (Acts.16.10, 16-18,22-24 etc). Their contest was not in “vain”- neither in the motive nor in the result.

         He says, “We were allowed of God to be put in trust”. ‘Allowed’ is in perfect tense, indicating that the approval of God continues. “So we speak”- it was a habitual practice to them. We are stewards of men, time, talents, gospel etc. Tit.1.3; 1 Tim.1.12; 1 Cor.4.2; 2 Tim.2.2

         As stewards we should be pleasing unto the Lord. He ‘tries’ us. This means ‘tests’. It is in present tense. Thus the activity of testing continues. “Hearts” stands for our whole personality.
1 Cor.4.5

         This is seen in the words, “as a nurse cherishes her children” (v.7). Here we see the motherly care of Paul. Paul once received motherly care (Rom.16.13). Now he gives that care for others. It is the duty of all. Following are the qualities seen here.

         Paul says, “As a father doth his children”.

    The purpose of such behaviour and effort of Paul, was that believers would be ‘worthy of God’.

“Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. To this end I also labor, striving according to His working which works in me mightily.”   Colossians 1.28, 29

Conclusion: -

         Are you a Christian leader? How effective are you in your service for Christ? How are your relationships?

Remember with out having a right relationship with God no ministry, no service in His name is accepted or blessed by God. Failure in our relationship at home will definitely make us unworthy to assume any leadership position in the Church of God.

Review relationships before too late, and be a divinely acknowledged leader, who can truly influence others for good.

TBT

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