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Building One Another Up
1 Thessalonians 5:11 “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (ESV)
Paul’s instruction to the Thessalonians in this verse comes in the context of Christ’s return. The encour-agement also comes in the light of verse 9, “For God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salva-tion through our Lord Jesus Christ”. The Holy Spirit, through Paul, instructs us to edify one another be-cause Christ is coming back and because as Chris-tian’s we are destined for salvation. These reasons seem to be sufficient encouragement to be about this good work, but it will take work! In his letter to Ephesus, Paul implores in 4:1-2 “I, therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called, 2 with all lowliness and gentleness, with longsuffering, bear-ing with one another in love, 3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
Let’s observe a few instances of how we should encourage and edify each other from the scriptures, along with some warnings.
Pursue peace.
In Romans 14 the topic of liberties comes up, and some Christians believed they could not have cer-tain foods and some celebrated certain days. These matters of opinion created division and judgement amongst the brethren which shouldn’t have been happening. Paul encourages them in 14:19 “Therefore let us pursue the things which make forpeace and the things by which one may edify another.” If we are pursuing peace, we are more intent on solving a problem than winning an argument. Most people like to win, but if we prove a point at the expense of unity, we damage our bond as brethren. Instead of pushing our personal opinions or agendas, we are commanded to “pursue the things which make for peace.” We must be mature enough to differentiate between what is our opinion and what is scripture. We all have opinions, what is not right is pushing our opin-ions upon everyone else.
Be kindly affectionate.
In Romans 12 we are given directions on how to live in the world and how to treat each other. “Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another.” (Romans 12:10 NKJV) Several other translations render “kindly affectionate” as “devoted.” Most families are devoted to one another, a husband and wife, parents and children, and sibling to sibling. We have a devotion that is based on the tie that binds our hearts to each other, as a family, through the Blood of Jesus Christ. This is why we “Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.” (Rom 12:15 NKJV) We should strive to encourage other Christians, motivating each other toward greater effectiveness in service. This can be as simple as an encouraging word, “good job on the scripture reading”, “good to see your family here today, I know it’s not easy getting out the door with chil-dren” to a young parent, “your faithfulness is a great example” to an elderly brother or sister, “thank you” to a teacher, or “your teaching helps me grow” to an evangelist, etc. We should acknowledge people’s efforts and speak en-couragement when we see each other serving and showing Christ through actions.
Building the wall.
The book of Nehemiah outlines what can happen physically and spiritually when God’s people work together towards a common goal, even when being assailed from outside and inside. Nehemiah's leadership in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and encouragement. Despite facing external threats and internal discord, Nehemi-ah motivated the people to work together, saying, "Come and let us build the wall of Jerusalem, that we may no longer be a reproach.” " (Nehemiah 2:17 NKJV). From inside there were some nobles who would not work (3:5), and
there were brethren taking advantage of others through usury (5:6), nonetheless Nehemiah led the people in the work. Nehemiah faced harsh opposition outside from critics who sought to discourage and stop the rebuilding efforts. Likewise, in our pursuit of edification, we must be cautious not to tear down others with harsh words or unfounded critiques.
Building together.
Priscilla and Aquila, mentioned in Acts and many times in Paul's letters, exemplify a shared commitment to edification. They took Apollos aside and "explained to him the way of God more accurately" (Acts 18:26 ESV). This act of guidance and instruction illustrates the mutual responsibility of believers in fostering spiritual growth. This shows how we can work together in teaching, not just as husband and wife. I would like to use the example to encourage couples to work together in edifying the brethren if your spouse is a Christian. Aquila and Priscilla were kicked out of Rome and were refugees, they served together moving many times from church to church, even having churches in their home. They are a beautiful and scriptural example of a solid marriage.
Christ’s example in serving, washing feet.
“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:14-15 NKJV) In a profound display of servant leadership, Jesus washing the disciple’s feet stands as a powerful example of edification. Jesus' act underscores the humility and selflessness required in edifying others, placing Himself in a servant role below others to have this teaching opportunity.
In conclusion, the Bible provides these examples and many more illustrating the power of edification. From Nehemiah's unity-building to Paul's emphasis on truth in love, and the servant-hearted acts of individuals like Priscilla and Aquila, along with Jesus giving the ultimate example of the servant attitude which we should all employ. Yet, the cautionary notes remind us to tread carefully, avoiding de-structive criticism, false unity, selfish motives, condescension, and pride. Let’s foster an attitude of love and our shared connection through Christ, building each other up in faith and unity.
