What does 1 Thessalonians 5:12 mean?

The Thessalonian church was a model church in many ways. Its members cherished God's Word, manifested faith, hope, and love, and exhibited a missionary zeal. This led to a stellar reputation in their region (1 Thessalonians 1:8–9). However, these believers were not immune to temptation. Paul recognized the possibility that members of the church might become unreasonably critical of their spiritual leaders, so he instructs them to hold church leadership in high regard. The leaders would include not only pastors but also all who shared leadership responsibilities in the church.

Paul describes the leaders as holding positions of authority and responsibility in the church. The Lord had placed them in these positions and given them the responsibility to warn and instruct the church. Hebrews 13:7 encourages a similar relationship between believers and their spiritual leaders. It commands believers to "remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith."