The first thing we can do in terms of ministry is "warn those who are unruly." The word translated "warn" is the Greek word rooted in nouthesis from which we get our word "nouthetic" which relates to the specific discipline of biblical counseling. The verb noutheteo refers to imparting understanding, setting right, or laying on the heart. The emphasis lies in not only influencing the intellect but in moving the will. The word is often translated admonish, warn, remind, correct, etc. The word literally means to put in mind with particular reference to training by the Word through encouragement or reproof.

 

In addition, the concept carries a specific pastoral function in the New Testament and indeed, a primary function. Pastors are to confront nouthetically individuals in the every day ebb and flow of their ministries. Believers are to do the same in regard to one another. We members of the body of Christ are to shepherd one another in appropriate ways. In this particular context, we are to help those who have broken ranks come to their senses.

 

The second thing we can do in terms of ministry is "comfort the fainthearted." That is, we are to give encouragement to those who are prone to lose heart. The Christian life is not always easy. Difficulties assail the Christian from all directions. Those who are prone to fall behind are to be surrounded by those who are strong in the Lord. They are to be protected from wolves and encouraged in the midst of difficulty. A primary application is that of encouraging others toward perseverance.

 

The third thing we can do in terms of ministry is "uphold the weak." In this case, the primary application is that of holding one up who is prone to fall into sin. We are to hold one another accountable and aid our brothers and sisters in the battle against sin. We help them to stand in the midst of temptation (much like the admonition to stand in Eph. 6:10-18 ) or we help them up after they have fallen prey to sin.

 

The fourth thing we can do in terms of ministry is be "patient with all." The Christian life, the spiritual battle, the shepherding ministry to which all of us have been called to one degree or another, is long and arduous. People fall and they fall again. We are to be patient. Believers act like saints and they act like sinners. We are to be patient. Brothers seem to get victory and then they lapse. We are to be patient. We are to be patient with all.