KEY SCRIPTURE:1Ti 4:13 KJV” Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.”

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Apostle Paul instructed Timothy to give attention to reading , exhortation , and doctrines. Today, we consider his instruction to keep exhorting  the brothers. The word exhortation is the Greek word paraklesis, which is basically two words joined together. These words are para ,which means near and kalio, which means to call. It means to call nearer, of which we have the following synonyms: exhortation, admonition , consolation, entreaty(preach,) comfort  and many others. It is to strengthen the believers as the pastor preaches to them. The scriptures remind us that the righteous have many afflictions, but the Lord delivers them out of them all. Ps 34:19. In the light of this, the Child of God ought to be encouraged and. Strengthened.

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The child of God is described as a sheep in the midst of wolves. To encourage the brethren is most necessary. The scriptures are loaded with words of assurance and comfort in the form of promises. The flock dearly needs to know such promises. Just consider the following  scripture, Isaiah 43:2″ When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee.” This is an amazing piece of promise. It is very comforting indeed. It assures us of his continual presence with us. He assures us further that no trouble would destroy us, although the trial may be very grievous. This places the child of God in a state of rest. He knows that no matter the gravity of the challenge, it will never destroy him. This is very comforting.

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Another meaning  of the word exhortation is to entreat or to preach. Preaching is to communicate information by entertaining your listeners. During preaching, one does not explain issues a lot but may emphasise specific points by appealing to the heart of the listeners to positively yield to what is being said. 2Ti 4:2 KJV Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. Every pastor must know when he is preaching or teaching. Preaching may warn the brethren about certain acts that may be strictly avoided. Preaching normally appeals to the mind and the emotions.

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THOUGHT:THE weak must be strengthened, while the erring one must be corrected

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FURTHER  STUDIES

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1Th 5:14 KJV”

Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.”

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2Ti 3:16 KJV” All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:”