TIME WITH INSPIRE: The Power of Mutual Edification. The Two-Fold Command: Encouragement and Edification.

1 Thessalonian 5:11 NKJV

Therefore comfort each other and edify one another, just as you also are doing.

The verse 1 Thessalonians 5:11 is a concise command that digest a major theme of the Christian life.

This passage serves as a concluding application to Paul's preceding teaching on the "Day of the Lord" (Christ's return).

Context and Meaning

​The "Therefore" Connects it to Hope

​The verse starts with "Therefore," which links it directly to the hope Paul just discussed: believers are "not destined for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ" (1 Thess 5:9). Because of this secure hope—the promise of salvation and life with Christ—believers should focus their energy not on anxiety, but on mutual strengthening.

Encourage One Another

​The Greek word translated as "encourage" or sometimes "comfort" is parakaleō.

• ​Meaning: It literally means "to call alongside" and is related to Paraclete, a term used for the Holy Spirit (John 14:26), often translated as Advocate, Comforter, or Helper.

• ​Application: It means offering spiritual and emotional support, speaking words that soothe, console, and lift the spirits, particularly in times of fear, uncertainty, or grief (like the sorrow the Thessalonians had over deceased loved ones, mentioned in 1 Thess 4:13).

Build One Another Up

​The Greek word here is oikodomeō, which literally refers to the act of building a house or constructing an edifice.

• ​Meaning: When applied metaphorically to people, it means to edify, to promote spiritual growth, maturity, and stability in the faith. It's about strengthening a person's character and understanding of the Gospel.

• ​Application: This is done by sharing God's truth, offering godly wisdom, reminding one another of their identity in Christ, and challenging one another to live faithfully. It's about moving from a state of being "under construction" toward spiritual completion.

Just As You Also Are Doing

​Paul's inclusion of this phrase is significant because it's a commendation and an exhortation to continue.

• ​It acknowledges that the believers in Thessalonica were already practicing this mutual care.

• ​It serves as a gentle reminder to keep going—spiritual growth and community support are not one-time events but ongoing processes.

In Summary

​1 Thessalonians 5:11 is a powerful call for active, supportive Christian community. It teaches that:

1. ​Our Secure Hope Demands Action: Because we have a clear destiny with Christ, we shouldn't worry about the future but should use our time to minister to each other.

2. ​The Church is a Construction Site: Believers are responsible for contributing to the spiritual growth (building up) of fellow Christians, not tearing them down.

3. ​Community is Necessary for Endurance: We are to be a source of strength and comfort (encouragement) for one another, especially when facing life's hardships or grappling with questions about Christ's return.

My prayer for you.

Thank You for the secure hope we have in Christ. Because we are Yours, we lift our eyes to You and to one another.

​We ask that You would equip us to obey the command: "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up."

We pray that our love and service today would reflect the good work You are already doing among us, so that we may continue to grow together as Your faithful people.

​In Jesus' name, Amen.