<p>5:12 <i>But brothers, we urge you to recognize those that labour among you, who are over you in the Lord and who encourage you</i>- Although the work of encouragement was to be done by each member (:11), there were spiritual leaders in the group, who should be recognized and respected on the basis that they were labouring for the upbuilding of the community. This is the basis of respect and recognition; not the mere possession of office. It would seem from &quot;But brothers...&quot; that there was a tendency for them not to respect their elders.</p>