Online Resource Library
Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.comVincent Word Studies - 1 Thessalonians 5:12 - 5:12
(Show All Books | Show All Chapters)
This Chapter Verse Commentaries:
Know (εἰδέναι)
See on 1Th 4:4. Recognize them for what they are, and as entitled to respect because of their office. Comp. ἐπιγινώσκετε acknowledge, 1Co 16:18; and ἐγνώσθης takest knowledge, lxx, Psalm 143:3. Ignatius, Smyrn. ix.:, has ἐπίσκοπον εἰδέναι to know the bishop, to appreciate and honor him.
Are over (προΐσταμένους)
Lit. who are placed before you. See on Rom 12:8. Used of superintendents of households, 1Ti 3:4, 1Ti 3:5, 1Ti 3:12 : of the ruling of elders of the church, 1Ti 5:17. It does not indicate a particular ecclesiastical office, but is used functionally. The ecclesiastical nomenclature of the Pauline Epistles is unsettled, corresponding with the fact that the primitive church was not a homogeneous body throughout christendom. The primitive Pauline church consisted of a number of separate fraternities which were self-governing. The recognition of those who ministered to the congregations depended on the free choice of their members. See for instance 1Co 16:15, 1Co 16:16. The congregation exercised discipline and gave judgment: 1Co 5:3-5; 2Co 2:6, 2Co 2:7; 2Co 7:11, 2Co 7:12; Gal 6:1.
Admonish (νουθετοῦντας)
Only in Acts and Paul. See on Act 20:31, and comp. 1Th 5:14; Rom 15:14; 1Co 4:14; Col 1:28.