IV. Exhortation

A. The Greek word is parakalew "parakaleo" and means "to call one alongside to encourage him in a course of action". An exhorter is one who encourages, beseeches, prompts, supports with words and attitude someone else to do something that person should do or has a desire to do.

B. Characteristics of an exhorter.

1. Longs to bless and help others spiritually.
2. Almost never condemns or criticizes - is not in his nature.
3. Praises and compliments others at every opportunity.
4. Has a pleasant personality - others like to be with him.
5. Is very sensitive to results of his words and actions.
6. Likes for others to confide in him - to bring their problems to him, because he instinctively feels he can help them with their problems.
7. They love conferences and counselling.
8. Encourages others in a course of action when counselling.
9. Excited when people take these steps.
10. Relates to others better on a one-to-one basis.
11. Like individual acceptance because they are people orientated.
12. Is a good counselor - if properly trained and experienced.
13. Teaches from human experience, relating it to the word.
14. Wants practical applications that apply to life, not information.
15. Grieved by teaching that is not practical, because people's needs are not met.
16. Just being around him encourages others because of his good attitude.
17. Likes to teach on tribulation, looking for a scriptural lesson in everything.

C. The Exhorter's greatest joy is in others coming to him for spiritual help and seeing them receive that help.

D. The exhorter's greatest dangers are:

1. Desires to win christians by example only.
2. Tends to push himself on others whether they want his help or not.
3. Their emphasis on steps of action may over simplify the problem, and this can cause offence when people think the problem is more complex.
4. Use of scripture for practical application may take it out of context.
5. Tends to become discouraged when he does not see immediate results.
6. Easily feels proud of and takes credit for the results.
7. Tends to "talk down" to others, especially those he is trying to help.
8. Can be over lavish in his praise and compliments until he becomes sickeningly sweet.