What does it mean to "build one another up" in faith? The Call to Build—1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage and build one another up, just as you are already doing”. Understanding “Build One Another Up” • “Build” uses the Greek oikodomeó—literally “to construct a house.” • Paul pictures believers as living stones in God’s household (Ephesians 2:19-22). • To build up = to strengthen faith, character, and perseverance in fellow Christians so the whole “house” stands firm. Why It Matters • Christ is returning (1 Thessalonians 5:2-10); we must be found awake and faithful. • Spiritual growth happens in community, never isolation (Proverbs 27:17). • A strengthened church testifies to the world (John 13:35). Practical Ways to Build Up Others 1. Speak Grace-Filled Words – Ephesians 4:29: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up…” – Replace criticism with blessing, gossip with gratitude. 2. Share Scriptural Truth – Colossians 3:16: “Let the word of Christ richly dwell among you, teaching and admonishing one another…” – Offer verses in texts, cards, conversations. 3. Demonstrate Tangible Care – Galatians 6:2: “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Meals, childcare, financial help, presence. 4. Stir Up Godly Action – Hebrews 10:24-25: “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds…” – Invite someone to serve beside you; celebrate obedience. 5. Pray with and for Each Other – James 5:16: “Pray for one another, so that you may be healed.” – Immediate, specific, faith-filled prayer builds confidence in God. 6. Model Faithfulness – 1 Corinthians 11:1: “Imitate me, as I imitate Christ.” – Consistent worship attendance, integrity, generosity encourage observers. Attitudes That Undergird Building • Love as motive (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). • Humility—seeking others’ progress, not recognition (Philippians 2:3-4). • Patience—spiritual construction takes time (Colossians 1:28-29). • Truth and grace held together (John 1:14). Results of Building One Another Up • Unity grows (Ephesians 4:16). • Individual believers mature, avoiding deception (Ephesians 4:14). • Peace prevails (Romans 14:19). • The gospel advances as outsiders see authentic community (Acts 2:46-47). A Daily Commitment Building up is an ongoing, Spirit-empowered choice. Each interaction can either add a brick of encouragement or remove one through neglect or negativity. Choose to be a builder—“just as you are already doing”—so Christ’s house stands strong until He returns. |
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