1 Thessalonians 5:12

And. Rather, “but,” showing the connection between the thought here and that in v. 11.

Beseech. Gr. erotao (see on Phil. 4:3; 1 Thess. 4:1). Paul does not wish the Thessalonians’ brotherly care for one another to weaken respect for church officers.

To know. That is, to recognize, therefore, to respect (see on ch. 4:4).

Labour. Gr. kopiao (see on Phil. 2:16; 1 Thess. 1:3). It was Paul’s custom to ordain elders in every church he established (Acts 14:23). The new officers were necessarily inexperienced, and were perhaps not receiving proper recognition. Those who minister to the church should be respected. They should be remembered and acknowledged for their own sake (see 1 Cor. 16:15-18; Heb. 13:7). Such consideration places a great responsibility upon church officers to be men of God.

Are over. Gr. pro'istemi. “to set over,” “to superintend,” “to preside,” translated “to rule” in Rom. 12:8 (see comment there).

Admonish. Gr. noutheted, “to put in mind,” “to warn,” “to admonish” (see on Acts 20:31; cf. on 1 Cor. 4:14; 2 Thess. 3:15). The word comes from nous, “mind,” and tithemi, “to put.” Paul recognizes the weaknesses of his flock and the probability that its officers would need to guide, firmly, its members.