5:12 {7} And we beseech you, brethren, to {b} know them which labour among you, and are over you in the {c} Lord, and admonish you;
(7) We must have consideration of those who are appointed to the ministry of the word, and the government of the church of God, and who do their duty.
(b) That you acknowledge and take them for such as they are, that is to say, men worthy to be greatly esteemed of among you.
(c) In those things which pertain to God's service: so is the ecclesiastical function distinguished from civil authority, and true shepherds from wolves.
5:12 To know. Recognize and appreciate.
Them. Your preachers and elders.
Which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you. The three duties of those over them are to labor among them, to rule over them, and to admonish them.
5:12 Know them that, Labour among you: Are over you in the Lord: Admonish you. Know - See, mark, take knowledge of them and their work. Sometimes the same person may both labour, that is, preach; be over, or govern; and admonish the flock by particular application to each: sometimes two or more different persons, according as God variously dispenses his gifts. But O, what a misery is it when a man undertakes this whole work without either gifts or graces for any part of it! Why, then, will he undertake it? for pay? What! will he sell both his own soul and all the souls of the flock? What words can describe such a wretch as this? And yet even this may be an honourable man!
5:12-15 The ministers of the gospel are described by the work of their office, which is to serve and honour the Lord. It is their duty not only to give good counsel, but also to warn the flock of dangers, and reprove for whatever may be amiss. The people should honour and love their ministers, because their business is the welfare of men's souls. And the people should be at peace among themselves, doing all they can to guard against any differences. But love of peace must not make us wink at sin. The fearful and sorrowful spirits, should be encouraged, and a kind word may do much good. We must bear and forbear. We must be long-suffering, and keep down anger, and this to all men. Whatever man do to us, we must do good to others.
