How does Acts 15:36 encourage believers to revisit and strengthen fellow believers? Acts 15:36 in Focus “Some time later Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Let us return and visit the brothers in every town where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, to see how they are doing.’” (Acts 15:36) What Paul’s Invitation Reveals • A pastoral instinct: genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of converts • Expectation of ongoing growth: salvation triggers a journey, not a finish line • Shared responsibility: Paul does not go alone—he enlists Barnabas, modeling teamwork • Intentional follow-up: revisiting is planned, not accidental Why Revisiting Matters • To confirm faith – ensuring believers remain “steadfast in the faith” (Colossians 1:23) • To supply what is lacking – “that I may complete what is lacking in your faith” (1 Thessalonians 3:10) • To encourage perseverance – “strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith” (Acts 14:22) • To guard against drifting – “We must pay closer attention… so that we do not drift away” (Hebrews 2:1) How Revisiting Strengthens Fellow Believers 1. Personal presence affirms worth. 2. Listening identifies hidden struggles. 3. Scriptural reminders anchor convictions. 4. Mutual prayer fortifies against temptation (James 5:16). 5. Practical aid meets pressing needs (1 John 3:17). Practical Ways to Live This Out Today • Schedule regular check-ins—calls, visits, meals. • Reopen Scripture together; reread key passages first studied. • Share testimonies of God’s recent faithfulness. • Pair mature believers with newer ones for mentoring (Titus 2:3-5). • Re-evaluate ministry health: “How are we doing?” mirrors Paul’s question. Supporting Scriptures That Echo the Call • Hebrews 10:24-25—“let us consider how to spur one another on toward love and good deeds… encouraging one another” • 2 Timothy 2:2—teach others “who will be qualified to teach others as well” • Philippians 1:24-25—remaining “for your progress and joy in the faith” • Romans 1:11-12—“that we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith” Key Takeaways • Scripture treats follow-up as essential, not optional. • Strengthening others requires deliberate, relational investment. • Every believer can echo Paul’s heart: go back, check in, build up. |
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