Speak these things, exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no one despise you. (Titus 2:15)
God’s charge to the gospel preacher is to declare “the whole counsel of God”, and to do so “in season and out of season” (Acts 20:27; 2 Tim. 4:2). Most of the time people like to hear words that “exhort” (encourage, comfort or even entreat). But, not nearly as many are eager to hear words that “rebuke” (to show a fault, censure). Yet, both must be done to fully preach the word of God. Let us be willing to be exhorted and rebuked, knowing that exhortation from God’s word helps assure our faith, while its rebuke helps us repent of sin. Do not blame the messenger if you dislike the exhortation or rebuke that comes from God’s word. Look inward and purify your heart to receive all God’s word says.
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