The concept of all Christians acting as missionaries in admonishing others is deeply rooted in the New Testament teachings and the early Christian understanding of discipleship. This idea emphasizes the responsibility of every believer to actively participate in the spiritual growth and correction of fellow believers, as well as to spread the Gospel to non-believers.

Biblical Foundation

The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20, serves as a foundational mandate for Christians to engage in missionary work: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This passage underscores the universal call for Christians to be active in teaching and guiding others in the faith.

In addition, the Apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently exhorts believers to admonish one another. In Colossians 3:16, he writes, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom." This instruction highlights the communal responsibility of believers to encourage and correct each other in accordance with the teachings of Christ.

Role of Admonishment

Admonishment, in the Christian context, is not merely about correction but is an act of love and concern for the spiritual well-being of others. It involves guiding fellow believers back to the truth of the Gospel and helping them align their lives with biblical principles. In 1 Thessalonians 5:14, Paul advises, "And we urge you, brothers, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone." This passage illustrates the multifaceted approach Christians are to take in their interactions with others, combining admonishment with encouragement and support.

Missionary Spirit in Admonishment

The missionary spirit in admonishing others is characterized by a deep commitment to the truth of the Gospel and a desire to see others grow in their relationship with Christ. This spirit is evident in the life of Paul, who, despite facing numerous hardships, remained steadfast in his mission to spread the Gospel and strengthen the faith of believers. In Acts 20:31, he reminds the Ephesian elders, "Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I never stopped warning each of you night and day with tears."

Practical Application

For Christians today, being missionaries in admonishing others involves a proactive approach to discipleship and evangelism. It requires a willingness to engage in difficult conversations, always motivated by love and a desire for the spiritual growth of others. This can be seen in the practice of church discipline, where the goal is restoration and reconciliation, as outlined in Matthew 18:15-17.

Furthermore, Christians are called to be examples of godly living, as their lives serve as a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. In 1 Peter 2:12, believers are encouraged to "conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles that, though they slander you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us."

Conclusion

The call for all Christians to be as missionaries in admonishing others is a vital aspect of the Christian faith, rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. It reflects a commitment to the spiritual growth of the community and the spread of the Gospel to all nations. Through admonishment, believers fulfill their role as ambassadors of Christ, guiding others toward a deeper understanding and practice of their faith.1 Thessalonians 5:14
Now we exhort you, brothers, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

2 Thessalonians 3:15
Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

From the Close of the General Conference of 1812 to the Death of ...
... Surely I should not forget his helpers ... had awakened a zeal in the hearts of British
Christians for the ... and on the 1st of January, 1814, they all proceeded down ...
/.../chapter 2 from the close.htm

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