Paul's Journey to Jerusalem - Pt. 3: Importance of Encouragement
- Baptist Daily Devotional
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Rev. Osei Kwabena Nkrahene | November 21 2025 | Acts 20:2-6
KEY VERSE: “When he had gone through those regions and had given them much encouragement, he came to Greece.” (Acts 20:2, ESV)
MESSAGE:
Paul’s journey through Macedonia and Greece was marked by one consistent ministry: encouragement. In Acts 20:1-2, two related Greek words appear—parakaleō (to encourage) and paraklēsis (encouragement, comfort, exhortation). Scripture emphasises this ministry because it strengthens believers and stabilises the Church.
In the previous verse (Acts 20:1), after the uproar had ceased, Paul gathered the disciples privately, most likely because the environment was still unsafe. He encouraged them and then took his leave. As he travelled through the regions that followed, he continued this same ministry—speaking words that lifted hearts, strengthened faith, and anchored the believers in the truth.
Throughout Scripture, encouragement is seen as central to God’s work among His people. God Himself encouraged Paul about his mission to Rome (Acts 23:11). In Acts 28:15, believers from Appius Forum and Three Taverns travelled to meet Paul, and Scripture says he “thanked God and took courage.” In the early days of the Church, Barnabas—the “son of encouragement”—stood with Paul at a difficult moment (Acts 9:26–28) and later strengthened the new believers in Antioch to remain faithful to the Lord (Acts 11:19–26). After the confusion caused by false teachers, the Jerusalem Council’s letter brought great encouragement and strength to the churches (Acts 15:30–34).
God builds His Church through encouragement. Sometimes it comes through words; other times through presence, companionship, or support. Yet today, it seems easier for believers to criticise than to strengthen, easier to tear down than to build up. The ministry of encouragement is still needed—and God has given it as a spiritual gift to the Church (Romans 12:8).
Every believer can play a part in this ministry. Through Spirit-filled words, acts of kindness, and faithful presence, we participate in the same work that sustained Paul, lifted early believers, and helped the Church flourish through hardship.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
God gives His people the ministry of strengthening one another, and He invites us to practice it with intention. Many believers carry quiet burdens, and a simple word of support can renew their hope. Spend time listening, offering kind words, and looking out for anyone who needs encouragement in their walk with Christ. Let your presence bring comfort. Let your words lift hearts. And let your actions reflect the warmth and care that build up the family of God each day.
PRAYER:
Lord Jesus Christ, please make me an encourager, and raise many more like Barnabas so your people may be strengthened for the work you have given them. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING
DAILY word study: ENCOURAGEMENT
The Greek word paraklēsis (παράκλησις) means encouragement, comfort, strengthening, or support.
It describes a person drawing close to lift another—steadying the heart, strengthening faith, and giving renewed courage.
Paul didn’t only teach doctrine; he built people up, helping believers stay firm in the faith (Acts 14:22; 2 Corinthians 1:3-4).
Reflect on this:
Who is God placing on your heart to strengthen with a timely word today?
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