Paul Encourages the Brethren

I want to speak to you today about Paul's ability to encourage the brethren. I want to convey to you the truth that if we can learn how he encouraged the brethren in those days, then perhaps we will be able to encourage one another in similar ways. I want to open up this thought by speaking to you, 1st of all, about Paul's encouragement to the saints by his words of exhortation. (verses 1 and 2) 2nd – His encouragement to the saints by his faithfulness in ministry. (verses 3-6) And 3rd – His encouragement to the saints by His calm perseverance in preaching in the midst of providential difficulties. (verses 7-12) May this message be a means to the end of our learning to be an encouragement to each other.