COMFORT ONE ANOTHER. 1 Thessalonians 4:9-18 Just because we know and love the Lord doesn't mean we have reached the pinnacle of the Christian faith. There were some deficiencies in the faith of the believers at Thessalonica that Paul wanted to help them address and guide them in improving.
The purity of life must be repeatedly taught to the Lord's people. New believers join us, and many still carry habits from their past that need to be addressed through well-taught scripture. The love among believers is natural evidence of new life when we transition from death to life. That love, implanted by God, is as vital as breathing. We are connected by love to those we have never met, and when we meet them, there is genuine "phileo" love, family love, and affection that come naturally to a child of God. Love shows itself in actions, mutual care, respect, hospitality, sympathy, friendliness, and warmth. When nurtured and acted upon, love cleanses our souls so that our affection is sincere, not fake. That love originates from a pure heart and is passionately connected with brothers and sisters in Christ. This kind of spiritual brotherly love fosters a bond noticeable in service and heartfelt care.
There is another evidence of spirituality that goes further and deeper than family love. Self-sacrificing love (agape) is the most profound expression of value that we can give toward others. This is the kind of love God has for us. "The Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me." "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." That kind of love is limited only by a lack of opportunity as it grows more and more in its pursuit of Christ-likeness. The believers at Thessalonica had that love toward others, and the charge here is that it would be ongoing and increasing, not just a passing act.