1 Thessalonians 5:14
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Warn them that are unruly - The whole phraseology of this verse is military; I shall consider the import of each term. Ατακτους· Those who are out of their ranks, and are neither in a disposition nor situation to perform the work and duty of a soldier; those who will not do the work prescribed, and who will meddle with what is not commanded. There are many such in every Church that is of considerable magnitude. Comfort the feeble-minded - Τους ολιγοψυχους· Those of little souls; the faint-hearted; those who, on the eve of a battle, are dispirited, because of the number of the enemy, and their own feeble and unprovided state. Let them know that the battle is not theirs, but the Lord's; and that those who trust in him shall conquer. Support the weak - Αντεχεσθε των ασθενων· Shore up, prop them that are weak; strengthen those wings and companies that are likely to be most exposed, that they be not overpowered and broken in the day of battle. Be patient toward all - Μακροθυμειτε προς παντας· The disorderly, the feeble-minded, and the weak, will exercise your patience, and try your temper. If the troops be irregular, and cannot in every respect be reduced to proper order and discipline, let not the officers lose their temper nor courage; let them do the best they can; God will be with them, and a victory will give confidence to their troops. We have often seen that the Christian life is compared to a warfare, and that the directions given to soldiers are, mutatis mutandis; allowing for the different systems, suitable to Christians. This subject has been largely treated on, Ephesians 6. The ministers of Christ, being considered as officers, should acquaint themselves with the officers' duty. He who has the direction and management of a Church of God will need all the skill and prudence he can acquire.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
brethren--This exhortation to "warm (Greek, 'admonish,' as in Th1 5:12) the unruly (those 'disorderly' persons, Th2 3:6, Th2 3:11, who would not work, and yet expected to be maintained, literally, said of soldiers who will not remain in their ranks, compare Th1 4:11; also those insubordinate as to Church discipline, in relation to those 'over' the Church, Th1 5:12), comfort the feeble-minded (the faint-hearted, who are ready to sink 'without hope' in afflictions, Th1 4:13, and temptations)," applies to all clergy and laity alike, though primarily the duty of the clergy (who are meant in Th1 5:12)." support--literally, "lay fast hold on so as to support." the weak--spiritually. Paul practiced what he preached (Co1 9:22). be patient toward all men--There is no believer who needs not the exercise of patience "toward" him; there is none to whom a believer ought not to show it; many show it more to strangers than to their own families, more to the great than to the humble; but we ought to show it "toward all men" [BENGEL]. Compare "the long-suffering of our Lord" (Co2 10:1; Pe2 3:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now we exhort you, brethren,.... This is said either to the ministers of the word that laboured among them, presided over them, and admonished them; and the rather, because some of these things here directed to are pressed upon the members of the church in Th1 5:11 and which otherwise must make a repetition here; or to the members in conjunction with their pastors: warn them that are unruly; or disorderly, idle persons, working not at all, busying themselves with other men's matters, and living upon the church's stock, reprove them for their sloth, exhort them to work with their own hands, to do their own business, and with quietness eat their own bread; or such who keep not their places in the church, but are like soldiers that go out of their rank, desert their companies, and fly from their colours, or stand aside, rebuke these, and exhort them to fill up their places, to abide by the church, and the ordinances of Christ; or such who are contentious and quarrelsome, turbulent, headstrong, and unruly, that cause and foment animosities and divisions, check them, admonish them, lay them under censure, for such a custom and practice is not to be allowed of in the churches of Christ. Comfort the feebleminded: such as are not able to bear the loss of near and dear relations; are ready to stagger under the cross, and at the reproaches and persecutions of the world; and are almost overset with the temptations of Satan; and are borne down and discouraged with the corruptions of their hearts, speak a comfortable word to them, encourage them with the doctrines of grace, and the promises of the Gospel. Support the weak; who are weak in faith and knowledge, strengthen them, hold them up; or as the Syriac version renders it, "take the burden of the weak" and carry it, bear their infirmities, as directed in Rom 15:1, be patient towards all men; towards the unruly, the feebleminded, and the weak as well as to believers; give place to wrath, and leave vengeance to him to whom it belongs; exercise longsuffering and forbearance with fellow creatures and fellow Christians.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:14 The responsibility for the moral progress of the congregation does not rest solely with the leaders (4:18; 5:11). Paul urged the church to warn those who are lazy, that is, those who were “disorderly,” and who did not live by the apostles’ instructions (see 2 Thes 3:6-15). • Take tender care of those who are weak, or those who have no economic or social power. Greek society denigrated the weak. • Instead of being irritable, believers should be patient in their relationships (Gal 5:23; Eph 4:2).
1 Thessalonians 5:14
Christian Living
13In love, hold them in highest regard because of their work. Live in peace with one another.14And we urge you, brothers, to admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, and be patient with everyone.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(2 Thessalonians) What Paul Desires of All Saints
By Willie Mullan2.6K1:02:39Paul The ApostleMAT 6:33ROM 8:281TH 5:142TH 3:62TH 3:141TI 6:10JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the third chapter of Second Cessalunions. He highlights three main parts of the chapter. The first part emphasizes the importance of prayer and encourages the believers to pray for the preacher and for themselves to be preserved and empowered by the Lord. The second part expresses the preacher's confidence in the believers, urging them to not only pray but also to perform the things commanded by God. The final part of the sermon is a passionate plea for the listeners to have faith and be prepared for the Lord's second coming, emphasizing the signs of the times and the need to stay strong in the face of opposition. The preacher draws inspiration from biblical stories and encourages the listeners to remain steadfast in their faith.
Through the Bible - 1&2 Thessalonians
By Zac Poonen2.1K56:08Through The Bible1TH 1:41TH 2:41TH 2:61TH 2:81TH 5:141TH 5:16In this sermon, the speaker focuses on preparing people for the coming of the Lord Jesus with all his saints. He emphasizes the importance of purity in the sexual area, stating that it is God's will for believers to keep their bodies holy and pure. The speaker also discusses the qualities of a true servant of God, highlighting the need for hard work and selflessness. Additionally, he gives practical advice on how to live a godly life, including admonishing the unruly, encouraging the faint-hearted, and being patient with others. The sermon concludes with a reminder to not quench the Holy Spirit and to not despise prophetic utterances.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-15
By Paul Washer1.7K1:09:58ExpositionalMAT 6:33EPH 4:321TH 1:31TH 5:121TH 5:14In this sermon, the speaker urges the congregation to take certain actions towards one another. These actions include admonishing the unruly, encouraging the faint-hearted, helping the weak, and being patient with everyone. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and appreciating the hard work and sacrifices made by others. Additionally, the speaker highlights the need for holding onto both people and the word of God in order to be compassionate and truly help others. The sermon references Ephesians 4 and emphasizes the role of equipping the saints for the work of service in building up the body of Christ.
Studies in 1 Corinthians-05 1 Cor 5:8-13
By William MacDonald1.5K49:461CO 5:11CO 5:131TH 5:14In this sermon, the preacher introduces a chorus that the congregation has previously learned and liked. The chorus emphasizes the belief in God's guidance and trust in Him during difficult times. The preacher then shifts to discussing a more serious topic of dealing with offense within the church. He emphasizes the importance of following biblical principles, such as directly addressing the offender and seeking repentance. The sermon also touches on the concept of work as a blessing from God and the need for believers to stay busy and provide for their families.
Do Not Faint
By Mack Tomlinson52540:30PSA 27:13ECC 9:11ISA 40:28ISA 40:302CO 4:161TH 5:14HEB 11:34HEB 12:3This sermon focuses on the theme of spiritual weariness and fainting, drawing from Isaiah 40:28-31. It emphasizes the reality of weariness in the Christian life, the various challenges faced, and the need to wait upon the Lord for renewal and strength. The message highlights God's promise to empower the faint and weary, encouraging believers to view weakness through a biblical perspective and minister to those who are struggling.
Preaching the Word
By A.W. Tozer0PreachingMinisterial ResponsibilityMAT 28:19LUK 15:10ROM 10:142CO 5:20EPH 4:111TH 5:142TI 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 1:51PE 5:2A.W. Tozer emphasizes the multifaceted role of the Christian minister in 'Preaching the Word,' highlighting the necessity for the preacher to address a diverse audience, including the young, old, educated, and uneducated, all within a limited timeframe. He acknowledges the challenge of delivering a message that calls sinners to repentance while also comforting the weary and instructing the faithful. Tozer suggests that while this task may seem overwhelming, it is a reflection of the intricate design of God's purpose in preaching. He calls for ministers to rise to this challenge, likening them to the rare figure of Daniel in a modern context. Ultimately, Tozer encourages preachers to embrace their calling with confidence, knowing that God equips them for this vital work.
Christian Essentials 1 Thessalonians 5:14-24
By J.R. Miller0Christian DutiesSpiritual Growth1TH 5:14J.R. Miller emphasizes the essential duties of Christians as outlined in 1 Thessalonians 5:14-24, urging believers to warn the idle, encourage the timid, and support the weak with patience and kindness. He highlights the importance of joy, continuous prayer, and gratitude in all circumstances, asserting that these elements are vital to a Christian's life. Miller also warns against quenching the Spirit and encourages believers to test all teachings against Scripture, avoiding every form of evil. He concludes with a prayer for sanctification, reminding that God is faithful and will help believers live blamelessly until Christ's return.
Imperfection Only Is Intolerant of Imperfection.
By Francois Fenelon0PRO 15:1ROM 15:1GAL 6:1EPH 4:21TH 5:14Francois Fenelon preaches about the importance of tolerance and understanding towards the imperfections of others. He emphasizes the need to bear with the unmistakable defects of others, refrain from condemning doubtful ones, and not allow these imperfections to cause division. Fenelon highlights that perfection is easily tolerant of imperfections, urging individuals to patiently wait for God to address these weaknesses in others. He encourages self-correction and advises to approach the correction of others with humility and sensitivity, aiming to strengthen relationships rather than weaken them.
Professor Finney's Letters--No. 24.
By Charles Finney0Patience in TrialsUnity in the ChurchMAT 5:16ROM 12:21GAL 5:22EPH 4:2PHP 2:14COL 3:121TH 5:14HEB 12:14JAS 1:41PE 2:23Charles Finney emphasizes the importance of patience and love in the face of trials and opposition within the church. He reflects on the early Methodists' perseverance and their ability to promote holiness without withdrawing from their churches, urging believers to remain steadfast and exhibit kindness towards those who oppose them. Finney advises against speaking ill of ministers and encourages a charitable understanding of opposition, highlighting the need for humility and a spirit of unity. He warns against the dangers of a censorious attitude and calls for believers to maintain their witness within their congregations, promoting the doctrine of entire sanctification through their actions and character.
The Salvation of God
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne01TH 5:14The preacher emphasizes the importance of 'holding fast' to the faithful word, conveying the idea of cleaving to, strongly adhering to, and holding firmly to the teachings of God. This concept is illustrated through various biblical examples, such as serving God alone and not being swayed by worldly desires. The sermon highlights the duty of overseers and elders to remain devoted and unwavering in their adherence to the Word of God, even in the face of opposition and temptation to compromise. By holding fast to the trustworthy and dependable Word, leaders can maintain doctrinal stability and guide others in the truth.
1 Corinthians 5
By John Nelson Darby0RestorationChurch DisciplineMAT 18:151CO 5:51CO 5:72CO 2:6GAL 6:11TH 5:142TH 3:6HEB 12:11JAS 5:191PE 4:17John Nelson Darby discusses the issues of discipline within the church as outlined in 1 Corinthians 5, emphasizing the apostolic authority to deliver individuals to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, with the ultimate goal of saving their spirit. He highlights the importance of purging out sin from the assembly, as allowing it to persist can corrupt the entire body of believers. Darby stresses that the church must act in unity and humility when dealing with sin, and that the purpose of discipline is restoration rather than punishment. He also notes that while the church today lacks the same apostolic power, the responsibility to maintain holiness and discipline remains crucial. The sermon concludes with a call for the church to seek restoration for those who have fallen into sin, reflecting a spirit of love and brokenness.
To Believers in the Doctrine of Entire and Continued Sanctification in This Life. No. 3.
By Charles Finney0SanctificationChristian ConductMAT 5:16ROM 12:21GAL 5:22EPH 4:2PHP 4:8COL 3:121TH 5:142TI 2:24JAS 1:191PE 3:15Charles Finney emphasizes the importance of maintaining a calm and patient spirit amidst persecution and opposition to the doctrine of entire sanctification. He encourages believers to focus on God's love and promises rather than defending their reputation or engaging in controversy. Finney warns against forming uncharitable opinions about those who differ in belief and advocates for a spirit of kindness and forbearance to win others to the truth. He concludes that the true testimony of the doctrine lies in the exemplary lives of its believers, which will ultimately lead to its acceptance by the Church.
Consider Others
By Mary Wilder Tileston01KI 20:40PSA 41:1PRO 3:27MAT 25:401TH 5:14Mary Wilder Tileston emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities to do good and show kindness, as once neglected, no self-sacrifice can atone for the consequences of our negligence. She encourages believers to consider the weak, support the faint-hearted, and be patient with everyone, trusting in Jehovah's deliverance in times of trouble. Tileston also highlights the significance of living a life that lessens human sorrow and increases happiness by showing sympathy, kindness, and forgiveness towards others.
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
By St. John Chrysostom0EXO 32:32SNG 8:5ROM 11:141CO 13:4PHP 1:291TH 5:14John Chrysostom preaches about the transformative power of love, emphasizing how love can change individuals, making the timid brave, the fierce moderate, and the wanton chaste. He highlights that love is the root of all virtues, leading to self-denial, long-suffering, kindness, and humility. Chrysostom explains that love seeks not its own, is not easily provoked, and does not rejoice in unrighteousness but in truth. He illustrates how love bears all things, hopes, believes, and endures all things, never failing. The preacher urges believers to cultivate love in their hearts to experience its profound impact on their lives and relationships.
Day 126, Romans 15
By David Servant0ACT 19:21ACT 21:30GAL 3:28COL 3:161TH 5:14David Servant preaches on the importance of mutual respect and love among believers, emphasizing the need for unity in essentials, liberty in non-essentials, and charity in all things. He highlights Paul's reminder that God is the God of both Jews and Gentiles, emphasizing that in Christ, there is no distinction. Paul's encouragement for believers to admonish one another and be dedicated to collective spiritual progress is a key point, stressing that every member of the body of Christ has a role in building each other up.
Self-Ends
By George Fox0DiligenceWalking in the LightPRO 12:24MAT 5:16JHN 8:122CO 5:10GAL 6:9EPH 5:141TH 5:14HEB 12:1JAS 1:221PE 5:8George Fox emphasizes the importance of diligence and obedience to the Light within each individual, urging Friends to avoid slothfulness and to maintain a lively spirit in their faith. He warns against those who may come with selfish intentions, reminding the community that the Light will judge such self-ends and ensure that only those who are sincere and willing to embrace their own condemnation can be accepted. Fox encourages the community to support one another in their spiritual journey, ensuring that they remain united in Christ and uphold the truth without reproach.
(One Body in Christ) 4. Helping One Another
By Zac Poonen0PRO 10:17PRO 20:19ECC 7:5JHN 13:14ACT 14:221CO 1:42CO 4:12GAL 6:1EPH 4:151TH 5:14HEB 3:13Zac Poonen preaches on the importance of speaking the truth in love and growing in all aspects into Christ, emphasizing the responsibility of every believer to minister life to the Body of Christ. He highlights the significance of bearing the Cross, dying to self, and engaging in a mutual ministry of encouragement and admonition within the Body. Poonen stresses the need for honest fellowship, where believers refresh and cleanse one another through encouragement and correction, ultimately building up the Body of Christ.
The Devil's Tennis-Ball
By Thomas Brooks0IdlenessSpiritual VigilancePRO 10:4ECC 10:18EPH 5:151TH 5:142TH 3:10Thomas Brooks emphasizes the dangers of idleness in his sermon 'The Devil's Tennis-Ball,' warning that idleness invites temptation and makes individuals vulnerable to the devil's influence. He draws parallels between ancient societies that harshly punished idleness and the Christian call to actively engage in good works. Brooks challenges Christians to reject idleness and not associate with those who neglect their responsibilities, urging believers to be diligent and purposeful in their lives.
On Sundays, Let All Occupy Themselves in Reading
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 31:27GAL 6:2PHP 2:4COL 3:231TH 5:14St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance of occupying oneself in reading and various duties on Sundays, highlighting the need to avoid idleness and negligence. He advises that those who are weak or sickly should be given tasks or crafts that keep them busy without overburdening them, showing compassion and consideration for their limitations.
Prof. Finney's Letters--No. 32
By Charles Finney0ReproofChristian AccountabilityPRO 9:8PRO 27:6MAT 18:15GAL 6:1EPH 4:151TH 5:142TI 4:2HEB 3:13JAS 5:191PE 5:5Charles Finney addresses the Church about the critical distinction between censoriousness and Christian faithfulness, emphasizing that reproof is a necessary aspect of spiritual growth and accountability. He argues that many confuse the act of reproving sin with being judgmental, which can lead to detrimental consequences for the Church. Finney insists that ministers, like all Christians, must be open to correction and that failing to accept reproof reflects a proud spirit. He calls for a culture of compassionate and faithful reproof within the Church to ensure its health and integrity. Ultimately, he encourages a humble acceptance of correction, citing biblical examples to support his points.
The Abbess Should Always Remember What She Is
By St. Benedict of Nursia0PRO 11:14LUK 12:48GAL 6:21TH 5:141PE 5:2St. Benedict of Nursia emphasizes the importance for an abbess to remember her calling and the responsibility that comes with it, as those entrusted with more are required to do more. He highlights the challenging task of ruling souls and the need to adapt to different personalities, using various approaches such as coaxing, scolding, or persuading based on individual characteristics. The abbess is urged to adjust and relate to each person in a way that not only maintains the flock but also leads to its growth and flourishing.
Letters to Parents [#2]
By Charles Finney0Child DisciplineParentingPSA 34:14PRO 15:1PRO 22:6PRO 29:17EPH 6:4PHP 4:7COL 3:211TH 5:142TI 3:15JAS 1:19Charles Finney emphasizes the critical role of parents in the moral and emotional training of their children, urging them to avoid insincerity, impatience, and scolding. He advocates for a calm and deliberate approach to discipline, encouraging parents to model honesty and regularity in their own lives to maintain their influence. Finney warns against fostering fears and bad tempers in children, advising parents to be mindful of their words and actions. He stresses the importance of creating a structured environment and maintaining a peaceful spirit to positively impact their children's development.
Psalm 65
By Henry Law0PRO 19:111CO 13:41TH 5:14HEB 6:15JAS 5:72PE 3:9The preacher delves into the Greek word 'makrothumeo,' which describes prolonged restraint of emotion, anger, or agitation, emphasizing the importance of patience towards people who act unjustly towards us. This patience is a key aspect of Christian character development, essential for believers to conform to God's righteous standard. The sermon highlights how love, as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4, is patient, kind, and enduring, reflecting God's forbearance with us. The preacher encourages imitating God's patience and selfless love, even in the face of provocation and wrongdoing.
A Life of Thanksgiving
By E.A. Adeboye0JER 29:11LUK 10:18JHN 11:41PHP 4:61TH 5:14E.A. Adeboye emphasizes the importance of living a life of thanksgiving rather than complaint, highlighting the impact of faith and belief in God's control over our lives and circumstances. He contrasts the mindset of complaining Christians, who struggle to trust in God's faithfulness during adversity, with those who choose to be thankful, recognizing that all things work for their good. Adeboye urges listeners to cultivate a spirit of gratitude, acknowledging God's sovereignty and faithfulness, which leads to a life of enrichment and encouragement to serve God wholeheartedly.
Of the Duties of Church-Members to Each Other.
By John Gill0Unity and AccountabilityLove in the ChurchMAT 20:26JHN 13:34ROM 13:81CO 12:26GAL 6:2EPH 4:3PHP 2:11TH 5:14HEB 10:251JN 3:17John Gill emphasizes the essential duties of church members towards one another, highlighting love as the foremost obligation, as it fosters unity and reflects Christ's command. He outlines the importance of maintaining peace, mutual support, and sympathy in all circumstances, urging members to communicate both materially and spiritually. Gill also stresses the need for accountability, encouraging members to watch over one another and bear each other's burdens, while also advocating for prayer and the importance of assembling together. He concludes by reminding members to uphold the faith and be examples of holiness, ensuring that their conduct glorifies God and strengthens the church community.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Warn them that are unruly - The whole phraseology of this verse is military; I shall consider the import of each term. Ατακτους· Those who are out of their ranks, and are neither in a disposition nor situation to perform the work and duty of a soldier; those who will not do the work prescribed, and who will meddle with what is not commanded. There are many such in every Church that is of considerable magnitude. Comfort the feeble-minded - Τους ολιγοψυχους· Those of little souls; the faint-hearted; those who, on the eve of a battle, are dispirited, because of the number of the enemy, and their own feeble and unprovided state. Let them know that the battle is not theirs, but the Lord's; and that those who trust in him shall conquer. Support the weak - Αντεχεσθε των ασθενων· Shore up, prop them that are weak; strengthen those wings and companies that are likely to be most exposed, that they be not overpowered and broken in the day of battle. Be patient toward all - Μακροθυμειτε προς παντας· The disorderly, the feeble-minded, and the weak, will exercise your patience, and try your temper. If the troops be irregular, and cannot in every respect be reduced to proper order and discipline, let not the officers lose their temper nor courage; let them do the best they can; God will be with them, and a victory will give confidence to their troops. We have often seen that the Christian life is compared to a warfare, and that the directions given to soldiers are, mutatis mutandis; allowing for the different systems, suitable to Christians. This subject has been largely treated on, Ephesians 6. The ministers of Christ, being considered as officers, should acquaint themselves with the officers' duty. He who has the direction and management of a Church of God will need all the skill and prudence he can acquire.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
brethren--This exhortation to "warm (Greek, 'admonish,' as in Th1 5:12) the unruly (those 'disorderly' persons, Th2 3:6, Th2 3:11, who would not work, and yet expected to be maintained, literally, said of soldiers who will not remain in their ranks, compare Th1 4:11; also those insubordinate as to Church discipline, in relation to those 'over' the Church, Th1 5:12), comfort the feeble-minded (the faint-hearted, who are ready to sink 'without hope' in afflictions, Th1 4:13, and temptations)," applies to all clergy and laity alike, though primarily the duty of the clergy (who are meant in Th1 5:12)." support--literally, "lay fast hold on so as to support." the weak--spiritually. Paul practiced what he preached (Co1 9:22). be patient toward all men--There is no believer who needs not the exercise of patience "toward" him; there is none to whom a believer ought not to show it; many show it more to strangers than to their own families, more to the great than to the humble; but we ought to show it "toward all men" [BENGEL]. Compare "the long-suffering of our Lord" (Co2 10:1; Pe2 3:15).
John Gill Bible Commentary
Now we exhort you, brethren,.... This is said either to the ministers of the word that laboured among them, presided over them, and admonished them; and the rather, because some of these things here directed to are pressed upon the members of the church in Th1 5:11 and which otherwise must make a repetition here; or to the members in conjunction with their pastors: warn them that are unruly; or disorderly, idle persons, working not at all, busying themselves with other men's matters, and living upon the church's stock, reprove them for their sloth, exhort them to work with their own hands, to do their own business, and with quietness eat their own bread; or such who keep not their places in the church, but are like soldiers that go out of their rank, desert their companies, and fly from their colours, or stand aside, rebuke these, and exhort them to fill up their places, to abide by the church, and the ordinances of Christ; or such who are contentious and quarrelsome, turbulent, headstrong, and unruly, that cause and foment animosities and divisions, check them, admonish them, lay them under censure, for such a custom and practice is not to be allowed of in the churches of Christ. Comfort the feebleminded: such as are not able to bear the loss of near and dear relations; are ready to stagger under the cross, and at the reproaches and persecutions of the world; and are almost overset with the temptations of Satan; and are borne down and discouraged with the corruptions of their hearts, speak a comfortable word to them, encourage them with the doctrines of grace, and the promises of the Gospel. Support the weak; who are weak in faith and knowledge, strengthen them, hold them up; or as the Syriac version renders it, "take the burden of the weak" and carry it, bear their infirmities, as directed in Rom 15:1, be patient towards all men; towards the unruly, the feebleminded, and the weak as well as to believers; give place to wrath, and leave vengeance to him to whom it belongs; exercise longsuffering and forbearance with fellow creatures and fellow Christians.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:14 The responsibility for the moral progress of the congregation does not rest solely with the leaders (4:18; 5:11). Paul urged the church to warn those who are lazy, that is, those who were “disorderly,” and who did not live by the apostles’ instructions (see 2 Thes 3:6-15). • Take tender care of those who are weak, or those who have no economic or social power. Greek society denigrated the weak. • Instead of being irritable, believers should be patient in their relationships (Gal 5:23; Eph 4:2).