12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you.
12 We ask you, brothers, to respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,
12 And now, friends, we ask you to honor those leaders who work so hard for you, who have been given the responsibility of urging and guiding you along in your obedience.
12 And we urge you, brethren, to recognize those who labor among you, and are over you in the Lord and admonish you,
12 Dear brothers and sisters, honor those who are your leaders in the Lord's work. They work hard among you and give you spiritual guidance.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 5:12
Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15
(Read 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15)
The ministers of the gospel are described by the work of their office, which is to serve and honour the Lord. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to warn the flock of dangers, and reprove for whatever may be amiss. The people should honour and love their ministers, because their business is the welfare of men's souls. And the people should be at peace among themselves, doing all they can to guard against any differences. But love of peace must not make us wink at sin. The fearful and sorrowful spirits, should be encouraged, and a kind word may do much good. We must bear and forbear. We must be long-suffering, and keep down anger, and this to all men. Whatever man do to us, we must do good to others.