Paul Gives Final Instructions to the Church

¹² Brothers, we ask you to show your appreciation for those who work among you, set an example for you in the Lord, and instruct^[a] you. ¹³ Hold them in the highest regard, loving them because of their work. Live in peace with each other. ¹⁴ We urge you, brothers, to admonish^[b] those who are idle,^[c] cheer up those who are discouraged, and help those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. ¹⁵ Make sure that no one pays back evil for evil. Instead, always pursue what is good for each other and for everyone else. ¹⁶ Always be joyful. ¹⁷ Continually be prayerful. ¹⁸ In everything be thankful, because this is God’s will for you in the Messiah^[d] Jesus. ¹⁹ Do not put out the Spirit’s fire.^{[e] 20} Do not despise prophecies. ²¹ Instead, test everything. Hold on to what is good. ²² Keep away from every kind of evil.