We Are Called To Encourage, Not Destroy By Pastor Joseph Ondu

SERMON TITLE: We Are Called to Encourage, Not Destroy

Main Scripture:

1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.”

Introduction: The Power of Words and Attitudes

In a world filled with criticism, rejection, and emotional wounds, the Church must rise as a community of builders, not breakers. God never designed us to tear each other down with gossip, jealousy, or neglect. Instead, we are called to encourage, to lift, and to restore.

"Death and life are in the power of the tongue..." – Proverbs 18:21

Question for Reflection:

Are my words building others up or slowly breaking them down?

I. We Are All Builders in God's House

Ephesians 4:29 – “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up…”

God has entrusted us with influence. Whether you’re a pastor, a parent, a colleague, or a friend, your presence and words have the power to either build courage or cause damage.

Illustration:

Think of a construction site. Every worker has a role. If one chooses to tear down what another has built, the structure will never stand. The Church is God’s building site, and every believer is called to construct—not demolish.

II. Encouragement Is a Ministry, Not an Option

Hebrews 10:24–25 – “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds... encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

Encouragement is not just being "nice"—it’s intentional ministry. It brings strength to the weak, hope to the weary, and life to those on the edge.

Characteristics of Encouragers:

They listen more than they speak.

They speak life in the face of discouragement.

They stand with others during hard times.

Biblical Example:

Barnabas – His name literally means “Son of Encouragement.”

He stood up for Paul when others feared him (Acts 9:27) and encouraged John Mark when Paul gave up on him (Acts 15:37-39). Without encouragers like Barnabas, many might never fulfill their calling.

III. Destructive Behavior Is Contrary to Christ

Galatians 5:15 – “If you bite and devour one another, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.”

God takes seriously how we treat others—especially within the body of Christ. Division, gossip, jealousy, and judgmental attitudes grieve the Spirit and damage the Church's witness.

When we criticize, reject, or ignore those around us, we step out of our calling and into destruction.

Key Insight:

You cannot worship God fully while wounding His children with your words.

IV. How Do We Build Others Up?

Through Words of Life

– Speak blessing, truth, and hope.

– Proverbs 16:24 – “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul…”

Through Acts of Love

– Serve, help, support, and show up.

– 1 John 3:18 – “Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

Through Prayer and Intercession

– Cover others in prayer when they’re weak.

– Encourage by standing in the gap.

By Being Present

– Sometimes, just showing up means the world to someone hurting.

Conclusion: Be a Builder, Not a Breaker

Romans 14:19 – “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.”

God has not called us to compete with each other, but to complete each other. We are living stones being built together into a spiritual house (1 Peter 2:5). Your role matters. Your encouragement matters. And someone’s breakthrough may be waiting on your obedience to speak life.

Prayer:

Lord, make me an encourager. Help me to build others up with my words, my actions, and my presence. Forgive me where I’ve wounded others. Give me the grace to love like You, to speak like You, and to restore like You. Use me to bring healing, hope, and strength to those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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