Know Those That Labour Among You

KNOW THOSE THAT LABOUR AMONG YOU

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:

"And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you." – 1 Thessalonians 5:12

Supporting Texts:

Hebrews 13:17, Acts 20:28, 1 Timothy 5:17, Philippians 2:29-30, 1 Corinthians 16:15-16

INTRODUCTION:

The work of the ministry is demanding, requiring spiritual, physical, and emotional labour. God has placed pastors, teachers, evangelists, and other ministers in the church to lead, feed, and nurture His people. However, many believers fail to recognise, honour, and support those who serve in ministry.

Paul, in 1 Thessalonians 5:12-15, urges believers to "know" those who labour among them. This knowledge goes beyond mere awareness; it calls for appreciation, respect, and active support. Ministry is a divine calling, and those who serve must be recognised and encouraged, not ignored or taken for granted.

As we study this topic, we will explore the importance of knowing, honouring, and supporting God’s ministers, understanding their role, and learning how to relate to them biblically.

1. RECOGNISING THE LABOUR OF MINISTERS

Ministry is work, and those who serve in it should be acknowledged.

a) Spiritual labour requires great dedication (Colossians 1:28-29).

Ministers tirelessly teach, counsel, and pray for the flock.

b) True ministers watch over souls (Hebrews 13:17).

They bear the responsibility of spiritual leadership.

c) The work of ministry involves sacrifice (Philippians 2:29-30).

Many ministers pour out their lives for the gospel.

d) God expects believers to appreciate their leaders (1 Timothy 5:17).

They are worthy of double honour, especially those who teach the Word.

e) Biblical Example: Moses and the burden of leadership (Exodus 18:13-26).

His leadership required wisdom, patience, and divine strength.

2. HONOURING THOSE IN SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY

Honour is a biblical principle that brings blessings.

a) Honour is due to those who serve well (Romans 13:7).

Giving respect is an act of obedience to God.

b) Dishonour leads to loss (Mark 6:4-5).

Jesus was limited in His hometown due to dishonour.

c) Supporting ministers is honouring God (Matthew 10:41).

Those who receive a prophet in the name of a prophet will receive a reward.

d) Honour is demonstrated through words and actions (1 Samuel 2:30).

God rewards those who honour His servants.

e) Biblical Example: The Shunammite woman’s honour for Elisha (2 Kings 4:8-10).

She received a miraculous reward because of her honour.

3. SUPPORTING GOD’S MINISTERS THROUGH SERVICE

Every believer has a role to play in supporting their leaders.

a) Ministers need prayer support (Ephesians 6:18-19).

Praying for them strengthens their ministry.

b) Financial and material support is biblical (Galatians 6:6).

Those who receive spiritual nourishment should give material support.

c) Encouragement is necessary for ministers (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Words of appreciation and encouragement uplift them.

d) Serving alongside them lightens their burden (Exodus 17:12).

Aaron and Hur held up Moses’ hands, leading to victory.

e) Biblical Example: The early church’s support for the apostles (Acts 4:34-35).

They shared their resources to support ministry work.

4. OBEYING SPIRITUAL LEADERSHIP WITH HUMILITY

Submission to godly leadership brings spiritual growth.

a) God appoints spiritual leaders for guidance (Acts 20:28).

They are overseers appointed by the Holy Spirit.

b) Obedience to leadership brings blessings (Hebrews 13:17).

It prevents unnecessary struggles in the faith.

c) Rebellion against leadership is dangerous (Numbers 16:1-3, 31-35).

Korah’s rebellion led to destruction.

d) Humility allows for spiritual growth (James 4:6-7).

A teachable spirit receives more from God.

e) Biblical Example: Joshua’s obedience to Moses (Exodus 33:11).

He became a great leader because he humbly followed his mentor.

5. GUARDING AGAINST STRIFE AND DIVISION

Unity strengthens the church and honours God’s servants.

a) Strife weakens the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 1:10).

A divided church cannot fulfil God’s purpose.

b) Speaking against leaders invites judgment (Numbers 12:1-10).

Miriam and Aaron were punished for speaking against Moses.

c) Peacemakers are blessed (Matthew 5:9).

Those who work for unity are called children of God.

d) Love and patience preserve church unity (Ephesians 4:2-3).

Walking in love prevents unnecessary conflicts.

e) Biblical Example: Paul’s warning to avoid division (1 Corinthians 3:3-7).

He rebuked the Corinthians for their strife and partisanship.

CONCLUSION:

God’s ministers are His gifts to the church. Recognising, honouring, and supporting them is a biblical mandate that brings blessings to both individuals and the church as a whole. When we know those who labour among us, honour them, serve with them, obey their leadership, and promote unity, we become partakers of their grace and receive the rewards of faithful stewardship.

Let us examine our hearts today. Have we truly honoured and supported those whom God has placed over us? May we develop a spirit of love, honour, and service towards God’s ministers, knowing that in doing so, we are honouring Christ Himself.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to honour and appreciate those who labour over my soul.