8.22.26 – More Than a Pat on the Back

 Do you ever wonder why an ox goes astray (Deut. 22:1)? Let me first say how much I appreciate those who labor among the brethren. There are so many who diligently and unselfishly pour out their lives for others, and this Sabbath morning I want to say again: Thank you. You are truly appreciated.

Paul, speaking to the assembly in Thessalonica, said, "But we request of you, brethren, that you appreciate those who diligently labor among you, and have charge over you in the Lord and give you instruction" (1 Thess. 5:12).

At first glance, it might seem a bit pedantic for Paul to have to tell his own brothers to appreciate him and those like him. After all, many of these believers came to faith because of his ministry. Would gratitude not come naturally? But Paul clearly has something more in mind than a casual greeting or a pat on the back after a well-received sermon.

The word Paul uses is a form of the Greek verb oida, which implies fullness of knowledge. In this context, he is urging those who receive instruction and oversight to be fully aware of their teachers—not just intellectually, but in the Hebraic sense of shalom, which encompasses well-being and holistic care. This goes beyond mere respect or acknowledgment. Shalom means caring for someone else's needs. Paul is gently reminding those who have benefited from his ministry to take notice of what is happening in his life and to look after him as they are able. There is no muzzle on the ox except the one placed there by ungrateful disciples.

I believe Paul's appeal has a larger application for us today. Not everything Paul wrote applies universally, but in this case, it seems reasonable to say: those who benefit should contribute. Notice that Paul is not talking about buildings, programs, or equipment. He is talking about knowing the stress points in his own life. And he wants this letter read to all the assemblies in the region. Paul sacrificed a great deal to bring the truth about YHWH and His Son to these believers, and now he asks them to offer something in return. The message may be about freedom from guilt and punishment, but it does not arrive for free—Paul paid a high price to deliver God's words.

What strikes me most is that Paul's appeal is entirely personal. He is not launching a building campaign or raising funds for better resources. His focus is on the people—those who labor diligently for the truth. And just in case anyone thought this was merely a voluntary suggestion, the opening word he uses is erotomen, which means "to ask, to seek, to demand." In fact, outside the Gospels, that word often carries the weight of a request that expects a response. Perhaps Paul is gently saying, "Payment is due."

So I will leave you with this: What do you think? More importantly, what are you going to do for those who labor on your behalf? Let us take time to tell our Pastors, Deacons, Friendship Group leaders, Cell leaders, and anyone else who pours into our lives—just how much they mean to us.

With gratitude,
Alan

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