What does "for his good, to build him up" mean in practical terms? Setting the Verse in Context Romans 15:2: “Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” What “For His Good” Means • Acts that genuinely benefit another person’s walk with God—spiritually, emotionally, and even physically. • Choosing what is morally right for them, not simply what they crave in the moment (1 Corinthians 10:23–24). • Seeking their eternal welfare above our temporary convenience (Philippians 2:3–4). What “To Build Him Up” Looks Like • Strengthening faith: pointing them to truth, not opinion (Ephesians 4:15–16). • Encouraging endurance: helping them persevere through trials (Galatians 6:2). • Cultivating holiness: gently correcting sin and celebrating obedience (Hebrews 10:24). • Equipping for service: sharing skills, resources, and opportunities so they can minister to others (2 Timothy 2:2). How Jesus Modeled This • He laid aside His rights to serve (Mark 10:45). • He spoke words that gave life, even when hard to hear (John 6:68–69). • He restored the broken (John 21:15–17) and empowered them for future mission. Practical Daily Expressions 1. Words – Offer sincere encouragement; avoid sarcasm or gossip (Ephesians 4:29). – Speak Scripture into situations, anchoring advice in God’s promises. 2. Actions – Help with tangible needs—meals, rides, childcare—so they can focus on spiritual growth. – Volunteer skills (tutoring, budgeting, repairing) that remove burdens and foster stability. 3. Presence – Listen without multitasking; value their story. – Sit quietly with the grieving; your availability strengthens their faith. 4. Accountability – Lovingly confront sin, always with restoration as the goal (Galatians 6:1). – Celebrate victories, reinforcing godly patterns. 5. Generosity – Give resources discreetly, protecting dignity (Matthew 6:3–4). – Support mission efforts that disciple and mature believers. 6. Prayer Partnership – Pray with them on the spot; it communicates faith and care (James 5:16). – Follow up, showing that their burdens matter. Guardrails: What It Is Not • Flattery or people-pleasing that compromises truth (Proverbs 29:25). • Enabling harmful habits or avoiding tough conversations to keep peace. • Serving solely to receive praise or leverage influence (Matthew 6:1–2). Expected Outcomes • Stronger unity in the body (Romans 15:5–6). • Maturing believers who reproduce the same care for others (2 Corinthians 1:3–4). • A community that displays Christ’s self-giving love to a watching world (John 13:34–35). |
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