As we pick up from last week’s passage, we’re still in Ephesus, and this is week two in our mini-series titled Lasting Impact. Last Sunday, we saw that if we want to leave a legacy that truly matters, an impact that outlives us, we must be open to growing in our understanding of Jesus, the work of the Holy Spirit, and our relationship with God. Gaps in our theology lead to gaps in our impact.
But today, we turn to a different area, one that is just as vital if we want to have a lasting impact: the ministry of Godly encouragement. Encouragement should be a natural part of the Christian life. It should flow from us like fruit from a healthy tree. And yet, for many believers, it’s awkward, uncomfortable, or neglected altogether. Encouragement isn’t just being nice or handing out compliments; it’s Spirit-empowered affirmation that builds others up in Christ.
Let’s be honest: Christians should be the most encouraged people on earth, and the most encouraging people in every room we walk into. But we often fall short. Why? When we read through Paul’s ministry, especially here in Acts, we see that he didn’t just correct wrong thinking—he encouraged hearts. He didn’t merely confront; he connected. He didn’t use truth as a bat to beat people into submission; he used it as a bridge to lead people to Jesus.
Encouragement is Fuel for Our Faith
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Godly encouragement propels people toward Christ and forward in faith. Paul’s approach wasn’t demeaning, it was filled with grace and boldness. He declared the authority and power of God, yes, but always with the promise of mercy and transformation. So here’s where we’re headed today: If we want to have a lasting impact in our families, friendships, and faith communities, then we must grow in being Godly Encouragers are people who build others up with the truth, love, and hope found in Jesus Christ.
Part of the “Agora” in Ephasus
The Great Theater in Ephesus
The Temple of Artemis/Diana
Long Lasting Implications of Encouragement
Acts 19:21-41
Gospel Encouragement Comforts the Faithful and Confronts the Fearful
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When We Stay Steady in Chaos, We Become a Source of Strength for Others
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Godly Encouragement Doesn’t Avoid Conflict, It Endures Through It
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Lasting Impact is an Encouraging Journey with Friends
Acts 20:1-5
Encouragement Leaves a Legacy When it Lifts Others Closer to Christ
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People Who Make a Lasting Impact are Willing to Pivot for God’s Purpose
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A Culture of Encouragement Makes the Journey So Much Sweeter When We Are Together
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Encouragement of Fellow Believers Builds a Lasting Impact
Acts 20:6-12
We Want New Testament Power, But We Often Resist New Testament Rhythms
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We Don’t Gather Out of Habit, We Gather in Resurrection Celebration
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Encouraging Teaching Equips, It Doesn’t Entertain
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Encouragement Happens When We Show Up Consistently
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What do we take from all of this? Let’s remember what we’ve seen:
- Paul encouraged others even when the gospel caused chaos.
- He surrounded himself with people to strengthen and be strengthened.
- He took time—even in his final days—to teach, build up, and share life with fellow believers.
You don’t have to be extroverted to be an encourager. You don’t have to be loud or emotional or poetic. You just have to care. And let’s be honest, it’s easier to criticize than encourage. It takes no maturity to point out someone’s flaws. It takes no wisdom to find what’s broken. Criticism is cheap. But encouragement? Encouragement costs something. It costs you time. It costs you focus. It costs you the pride of thinking that only your opinion matters.
Some of us have grown up in homes, churches, or relationships where criticism was constant, and encouragement was rare. That kind of culture stunts growth. It creates insecurity and fear. But a word of encouragement spoken at the right time can change the trajectory of someone’s life.
Paul didn’t just teach about Jesus—he reminded people of who they were because of Jesus. He saw value. He called it out. He believed in people before they believed in themselves. And so should we.
Encouragement Leaves a Lasting Impact Because it Builds People Up
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We have enough critics. The world is full of discouragement. Social media is saturated with sarcasm and snark. What people need—and what God has called us to be—are voices of grace, faces of hope, and hearts that believe God is still working in others. So, how do we apply this?
Today’s Action Steps:
Speak life to someone’s face. Don’t just think something positive—say it.
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Listen deeply. Ask someone what God is doing in their life—and don’t interrupt.
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Resist the urge to tear down. If a critical thought enters your mind this week, pause. Ask: Is this helpful? Is this needed? Or am I just reacting? Choose grace over grumbling.
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