Primarily to lead, which is the only sense in the Gospels and Acts, except Act 26:2, in a speech of Paul. To lead the mind through a reasoning process to a conclusion, and so to think, to estimate. Only in this sense by Paul, Peter, and James. See 2Co 9:5; Phi 2:3; Jam 1:2; 2Pe 3:9. In both senses in Hebrews. See Heb 10:29; Heb 13:7.
Very highly in love
Const. very highly with esteem. In love qualifies both words.
For their work's sake (διὰ τὸ ἔργον αὐτῶν)
Their esteem for their superintendents is not to rest only on personal attachment or respect for their position, but on intelligent and sympathetic appreciation of their work. It is a good and much-needed lesson for the modern congregation no less than for the Thessalonian church.