Paul exhorted the Thessalonians in his first epistle to , “…warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all” (5:14).
It seems to me that Paul was trying to get the Thessalonians to look out for and take care of each other. Sometimes, to take care of someone, you must warn them. Tell them of the consequences of their actions, so that they will not lose their standing with God. Other Christians may need comfort. The idea of “fainthearted” here indicates someone who is discouraged or troubled in spirit. Finally, some may be weak, and need to be upheld. We need to stick with those who are struggling, including babes in Christ, and support them until they become strong, and can do the same for others.
Simply put, we are to love each other!
Stan
