It's as the pastoral leader of a uniquely-gifted but high maintenance congregation that Paul addresses his remarks in this week's epistle text (1 Thessalonians 5:16-24). Paul's pastoral advice is both of a general nature applicable to all Christians (verses 16-18) and at the same time focuses on a particular issue pertinent to this congregation, the work of the Spirit as experienced through prophetic utterances (verses 19-22).

Because much of what Paul says here has universal relevance commentators have noted the striking similarities between 1 Thessalonians 5:13-18 and his words in Romans 12:12-17. In both epistles Paul is concerned with presenting what a discipleship community should demonstrate in their attitudes and actions.

Today's text opens with a series of three paraenetic imperativ…