1 Thessalonians 5:13

What Does 1 Thessalonians 5:13 Mean?

Paul is talking about the leaders in the church who work hard to guide and care for others. He says to esteem them “very highly in love” – that means to hold them in the highest honor, not just tolerate them. And then he ends with a simple but powerful command: be at peace with one another. A community that honors its leaders and stays at peace is a strong and healthy one!

Hero Challenge

This week, write a thank-you note, send a message, or say out loud to one person who works hard for you or your community how much you appreciate them. Be specific – tell them exactly what they do that makes a difference. Watch their face light up! Honoring others is a superpower for building strong communities.

Did You Know?

1 Thessalonians is believed to be one of the very first letters Paul ever wrote – making it possibly the oldest book in the entire New Testament! Paul planted the church in Thessalonica during a whirlwind visit before being forced to leave quickly. He sent this letter to check on them and encourage them to keep growing in faith. Even from far away, he cared deeply about how they treated each other.

Ages 4-6: Little Hero Question

People who help us and work hard for us deserve our kindness and thanks. Who is someone who helps you that you want to say thank you to?

Ages 7-9: Growing Hero Question

Why do you think it’s important to tell leaders and helpers that we appreciate them? What might happen if nobody ever said thank you?

Ages 10-13: Champion Question

Paul links honoring leaders with being at peace with everyone. Do you think the way we treat authority figures affects the peace in a community? How so?