MINISTERS: HUPERETAS = "self chained" to a decision

If you aren’t committed to go all the way in fulfilling your God-assigned task, you probably won’t do it.  You must be absolutely committed to do what God has called you to do. “chaining yourself” to your decision to obey so you cannot flee in hard times.  If God has called you, don’t jump ship!  He needs you in the bottom of the boat in order to keep the Body of Christ moving forward toward maturity.  You are very important.  
Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.  (1 CORINTHIANS 4:1)

YOU ARE VERY IMPORTANT!

DEEDS: ERGA = works, lifestsyle

It seems right that the “doctrine” of the Nicolaitans was that it was all right to have one foot in both worlds and that one needn’t be so strict about separation from the world in order to be a Christian,  This, in fact, was the “doctrine” of the Nicolaitans that Jesus “hated.”

Just as the men of Israel compromised themselves with the world and false religions, now the “doctrine” of the Nicolaitans was encouraging compromise.  And compromise with the world always results in a weakened and powerless form of Christianity.  But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. (Revelation 2:6)

GLORY IN: EGKAUCHAOMAI = To brag, boast, give praise, speak laudatory words.   Paul was thrilled with the growth the Thessalonians were experiencing.  This is a healthy type of pride—the same kind of pride a father feels for his children when they do well.  

 We have the same Holy Spirit living in us who lived inside the Thessalonian believers.  If they could live triumphantly for the Lord in their difficult position, you and I can  make the decision to live victoriously for Jesus in our situations