The Law of Connection: Paul Mentors His Children (1 Thessalonians 2:7-12)

Extracted from The Maxwell Leadership Bible

Although Paul had met with this young church only on three Sabbaths, he longed for them like a parent longs for a child. As Paul mentored his "children", he developed a parental, coaching relationship with them. Note how he describes this relationship:

1. We were like a gentle, nurturing mother (v. 7).
2. We shared not only the good news, but also our very lives (v. 8).
3. We worked hard not only to burden you with our needs (v. 9).
4. We strove to be an example while among you (v 10).
5. We dealt with you as a father deals with his children (v. 11).
6. We encouraged you to live up to your potential as God's children (v. 12).

Relationships grow strong when those involved share common experiences (vv. 17-20); continual encouragement (vv. 2,6,7,9); concerned expressions (vv. 1,3-5); and challenging expectations (vv. 8,10-13). Good relationships both comfort and stretch.