1 Thessalonians 5:13 (KJV)

What does 1 Thessalonians 5:13 mean?

1 Thessalonians 5:13 urges believers to deeply respect and love those who work among them for the sake of their service, and to maintain peace with each other. The verse highlights both honoring leaders and fostering harmony within the community.

Paul is writing to the church in Thessalonica, encouraging the Christians there to value those who labor for their spiritual well-being. The instruction comes in the context of practical advice for church life, emphasizing that respect for leaders and peaceful relationships are both essential for a healthy Christian community.

The Greek behind 1 Thessalonians 5:13

• ἐκ περισσοῦ (ek perissou, "very highly"): This phrase means "beyond measure" or "exceedingly," showing that the respect and love should not be minimal or grudging, but abundant.
• ἐν ἀγάπῃ (en agapē, "in love"): The Greek word ἀγάπη (agapē) refers to selfless, committed love, not just affection or feeling. Paul is calling for a deep, active care for leaders.
• διὰ τὸ ἔργον αὐτῶν (dia to ergon autōn, "for their work's sake"): The focus is on the leaders’ work, not their status. The respect is tied to their service and effort, not personal qualities.
• εἰρηνεύετε ἐν ἑαυτοῖς (eirēneuete en heautois, "be at peace among yourselves"): The verb εἰρηνεύετε (eirēneuete) means to keep or make peace, stressing that unity and harmony are responsibilities for everyone in the group.

Why 1 Thessalonians 5:13 matters

• This verse clarifies that respect for leaders is not about their position alone, but about the work they do for the community’s good.
• The emphasis on “very highly in love” corrects any tendency to offer only grudging or minimal appreciation; Paul calls for genuine, overflowing respect.
• The call to peace links personal relationships with the health of the whole church, showing that honoring leaders and living in harmony go hand in hand.