But we were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children. 1 Thessalonians 2:7
A large number (25) of souls were saved during a Gospel series in 1960, as faithful preachers proclaimed the message with power in a little schoolhouse in Millbrook, Nova Scotia. But what was to happen with all of those folks who were saved when the series of meetings came to a close? The nearest Assembly was fair distance away, and it would be expected that some of those who were saved would find it easier to drift back to the local denominational church. Several of them actually did. But with the preachers gone on to other series and other activities, several other men stepped into the breach and began a wonderful ministry in support of those new believers. Initially, they held combined Gospel and ministry meetings each Friday night and Sunday afternoon, along with a vibrant effort to visit and encourage the new saints. The Friday night meetings evolved into children’s meetings and ministry for young believers, and continued for several years. A large percentage of the new believers were teenagers, and the teaching they received during those early years laid a solid foundation that continues today. This work was carried out not by full-time workers, although they helped when they could. Faithful, spirit-led, caring brethren carried on this work. They included names like Hiel Patterson, Floyd Stewart, Bob Hunt, and frequently the Elliot men from Pugwash Junction, and the work they did was exactly what Paul was referring to in our text today.
There was nothing in it for these men in terms of financial gain or personal glory. No, they simply stepped in and provided the support and spiritual nourishment that a nurse would do for the little ones in her care. What difference did this follow-up work make? Only eternity will fully answer that. But undoubtedly, the follow up work was a great help in building up the young believers in the knowledge of Christ. There was plenty of Bible teaching and plenty of good instruction on how a Christian ought to live, plenty of opportunities for young Christians to participate and learn. Based on how many of these new believers went on to live lives with a good testimony for their Lord, we must agree that the follow up work was extremely valuable. But the follow-up workers were following not only the example of Paul but of the One Who Paul was imitating.
During His earthly ministry, the Lord Jesus worked with a group of men who often misunderstood Him or failed to show wisdom in their behaviour. But their Lord gently chided them, gently led them along, gently taught them the truths and the principles that would be necessary when they assumed the role of apostles in the early years of Christianity. There can be no doubt that the Lord Jesus loved His disciples. And there is much to learn in the manner in which He displayed that love and care for their spiritual welfare.
Oh what tenderness we need to display toward those among us who need our care and guidance! So much depends on how gentle we are with them. – Jim MacIntosh