Theology Blog

Today I had coffee with a colleague that I have gotten to know over the past six months or so. It was the first time we had the chance to sit down one on one and it was a very enjoyable conversation. We talked about a wide variety of things during our time, but it was not so much the content of the conversation as it was the tone of the conversation that was most beneficial. After some reflection, I am reminded of the practical and theological importance of encouragement. Encouragement is not a natural part of our culture, it is not practiced or celebrated nearly enough. This is also the case in the church, and yet the nature of the Gospel and the message of God in the Scriptures are filled with encouragement. One of the best examples of this is the Apostle Paul. His writings in the New Testament are filled with encouragement. Even in the difficult situations and circumstances, Paul was one who encouraged. His encouragement although consistent was not cheap or simply out of obligation, it is truly genuine. When writing to communities that had significant issues and shortcomings, Paul found a way to be encouraging. His encouragement was true to the individuals and communities but was centered on the character of Christ. It’s a powerful model for us as Christ followers in a world that is increasingly negative, cynical and divisive. Are we world changers who are truly countercultural because we are encouragers? Its worth taking the time to think through the true nature of encouragement as we seek to be more like Christ.