ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER

By Rev. Dr. Noel Monzon

spachurch.org

INTRO: Church, words have power. A careless comment, a sharp correction, or a thoughtless remark can wound a brother or sister so deeply that they quietly slip away from fellowship. 

1. The Apostle Paul knew how fragile the early churches were. In 1 Thessalonians 5:11, he gives a simple but powerful command that can heal wounds, restore unity, and keep us strong together.

2. Paul wrote this letter to a young church in Thessalonica that was facing persecution and confusion about the return of Christ. 

3. Verse 11 gives the practical application: because of God’s saving work and the hope of Christ’s return, they must actively encourage and build one another up. 

4. In a community where hurt, misunderstanding, and correction are inevitable, this verse calls us to be builders, not breakers.

Today, I want to address our reactions and responses so that we stay strong and united as the body of Christ.

I. THE COMMAND TO ENCOURAGE ONE ANOTHER

1. Encouragement is not optional; it is a deliberate responsibility for everyone in the body of Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV), “Therefore encourage one another…”

2. The word “Encourage” (parakaleō) means to come alongside, to comfort, to strengthen, and to speak hope into their situation. It is the same root word used for the Holy Spirit; Parakletos, our Comforter and Helper.

3. When we encourage one another, we are actually extending the very ministry of the Holy Spirit to the people around us. 

II. THE COMMAND TO BUILD UP EACH OTHER

1. Our words and actions are meant to strengthen and mature the faith of others. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV), “…and build each other up…”

2. The word “Build up” (oikodomeō) is the same word used for constructing a house. 

3. Harsh, careless, or insensitive words don’t just hurt feelings; they grieve the Holy Spirit and weaken the very structure God is building. 

III. AFFIRMATION AND CONTINUATION

1. Encouragement and building up should already be happening in SPA and must continue.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV), "…just as in fact you are doing.”

2. Being an encourager is not meant to be occasional, it’s meant to be habitual. 

3. QUES: “But Pastor, sometimes people need to be corrected firmly. If we are always gentle and encouraging, won’t we overlook sin and let the church become weak?”

4. Harsh words may feel “strong” at the moment, but they often drive people away and grieve the Holy Spirit. 

Here are simple, practical steps you can follow, with a gentle example for each:

1. Check Your Heart First

Make sure your motive is love, not irritation, judgment, or control.

2. Choose the Right Setting

Correct in private, not in public. This protects their dignity.

3. Affirm the Person First

Start with something sincere. This softens the heart and shows value.

4. Speak Gently and Humbly

Use a tone of care, not authority or accusation. Avoid sounding like you’re “above” them.

5. Address the Concern Clearly but Kindly

Be honest, but avoid harsh or loaded words. Focus on the impact, not attacking the person. Ex: “I’ve noticed that some of the outfits can come across as a bit revealing. I just want to mention it because it could unintentionally become a stumbling block for some of the guys.”

6. Use “I” Language Instead of “You” Language

This reduces defensiveness. Ex: Rather than saying, “You dress too sensual.” Say, “I felt it might be helpful to share this because of how it could affect others.” 

7. Give Them Space to Respond

Don’t pressure them. Let the Holy Spirit work.

8. End with Encouragement and Care

Reaffirm your relationship so they don’t feel rejected. Ex: “You’re a blessing, and I’m sharing this because I care about you and your walk with the Lord.”

CONCL: Church, sadly, some have left our church. Today is the time to change that. Let us commit to being sensitive and careful with our words. Let us apply the fruit of the Spirit.