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21 Jun ' 20:31
Ministry Defined, Part 10 … just as you know how we were exhorting and encouraging and imploring each one of you as a father would his own children,
1 Thessalonians 2:11
Throughout this passage Paul has emphasized the public demonstration of his testimony. Once again he makes reference to the fact that how he lives is quite evident to the Thessalonians. Note the very personal nature of Pauls ministry. It is to “each one of you.” There is always the danger of ministry becoming impersonal. As long as the chairs are full we might be inclined to be content. Paul is committed to a ministry that is individualized.
Earlier Paul illustrated the gentleness of his ministry by using the picture of a mom and her infant child. Now he uses the role of a father as his illustration. He uses three words to define the role of a father with his children.
The first two words Paul used are relatively close in meaning. “Exhorting” is to come to the aid of a person. It is to help and comfort someone. The word “encouraging” is to speak with kindness. It can also mean to bring comfort as well as to sooth.
For those who are fathers, you understand the need to encourage and exhort your children. You come alongside of them with the intent to help them learn to live as God intends. You bring comfort as well as practical assistance in this endeavor.
The third word is much more intense. It is the word “imploring.” This word is related to the word “martyr.” There are times that our children begin to walk down a path that is dangerous. We have already come alongside of them in an effort to guide and encourage them. Thus far this approach has not accomplished its intended objective. Now we must ratchet up the intensity of our communication. It is time to solemnly exhort. We must admonish our children because we are well aware of the serious consequences if they fail to properly submit to the Lord.
As those who have the privilege to serve in the church, it is a delight to come alongside of those whom the Lord has entrusted to our care. We want to encourage and comfort. We realize that there are times that we must be as diligent in addressing the difficult issues. This is a vital part of ministry. We have not been given the freedom to simply watch a person take a course that is contrary to Gods purposes without making every effort to call them back to biblical submission.
Keep in mind the picture of a biblical ministry in this verse. We must have a consistent testimony. Our ministry is to be very personal, demonstrating genuine care for each one the Lord has entrusted to us. We must encourage and exhort as well as implore. The motivation for such service is a genuine love, even as we love and care for our own children.
2010-06-21 Ministry Defined, Part 9, Rocky Wyatt, 2010-06-14
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