Everything written in Scripture teaches. It specifically teaches endurance. And, it’s intended to encourage people in their faith. Since Scripture provides encouragement, then Bible teachers should use it to build up people rather than tear them down.
The Encouragement Scripture Provides
The Greek word for encouragement in Romans 5:4 is “paraklesis” from the words “para” meaning beside and “kaleo” meaning to call. Hence, God uses Scripture to come alongside of us with the help we need.
Psalm 19:7-10 details ways Scripture comes alongside of us, encouraging us.
The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever. The decrees of the Lord are firm, and all of them are righteous.
They are more precious than gold, than much pure gold; they are sweeter than honey, than honey from the honeycomb.
Notice the positive attitude toward the Word and its positive effects. With that kind of help, how can we not be encouraged?
When studying a Bible passage, guide students in reflecting on how it encourages them in their walk with the Lord.
Since Scripture Provides Encouragement, Then We Should Use It to Build Up Rather Than Tear Down
We must guard against using Scripture as a battering ram, emphasizing everything people are doing wrong. Such a legalist approach tends to condemn rather than build up. Let’s use the Word to build people up, a more encouraging approach
That doesn’t mean God won’t use His Word to bring conviction. — To the contrary, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). “Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Heb. 4:12)
As we teach the whole counsel of God, there will be parts that target bad attitudes, dysfunctional relationships, and a variety of other sins in people’s lives. We speak the truth but do it in love (Eph. 4:15). We teach in ways that combine grace and truth (Jn. 1:14). We trust God, through His Spirit, to use His Word in people’s lives. It’s up to Him to convict and correct. Our part is to faithfully teach what was written “so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope” (Rom. 15:4).