Exhortation

Scripture References:

• Hebrews 10:19-25
• Revelation 12:10-11
• 2 Corinthians 4:4-7
• Psalm 27:1-14
• Isaiah 43:1-4
• Psalm 71:7-8

Intro:

• Sharing personal experiences and connection with the congregation.
• Context for the message: sharing with men's group and fitting with Hebrews 10.
• Topic introduction: the gift of exhortation.

Key Points:

• Defining Exhortation:
  • Encouragement, challenge, motivation, or rebuke.
  • Intent: fostering spiritual growth and action.
  • Hebrews 10:25: "Stirring up one another to love and good works."
  • Exhortation builds up, not destroys.
• The Need for Exhortation:
  • Following Jesus is counter-cultural and difficult.
  • Analogy of football: demanding and requires encouragement.
  • Personal training example: pushing through when wanting to quit.
  • Tendency to lose confidence without exhortation.
• Personal Story and Biblical Example:
  • Baseball story: father's exhortation to focus and persevere.
  • Impact of that exhortation over time.
  • John 21: Jesus' exhortation of Peter after denial.
  • Jesus' restoration: simple cue and practical advice.
• Obstacles to Exhortation:
  • Risk and vulnerability: fear of rejection, being wrong.
  • Confrontation: discomfort with potentially messy situations.
  • Need for walking in step with the Spirit.
  • Despite difficulties, the value and impact of exhortation.
• How to Exhort:
  • Importance of integrity, respect, and trust.
  • Goal: to build up and bring life.
  • Offer practical advice and guidance.
  • Demonstrations of exhortation within the congregation.
• Practical Application:
  • Exhortation is not just for skilled communicators.
  • Challenge to use words to build up others.
  • Travis's encouragement: "If you're thinking something positive, say it."
  • Final exhortation from Hebrews 10:39.

Conclusion:

• Reinforcement of the power of exhortation.
• Encouragement to actively use the gift to build up the church.
• Emphasis on the positive impact of spoken encouragement.

Call to Action:

• Challenge to use words to build up this week.
• Invitation to men to attend a Wednesday morning prayer gathering.
• Encouragement to step out and exhort others.

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