Rom. 15:14--Nouthetic Interaction

Rom. 15:14--Nouthetic Interaction

Here Paul gives a commendation to the church at Rome. They were “able also to admonish one another.” The Word “admonish” (noutheteo) usually means to lovingly confront a sinful act or attitude with truth. The elders of a church are required to watch over the flock, and admonish when necessary (1 Thess 5:12).

But the duty of admonishing extends to all the priests. These brethren were “able” to admonish one another. This implies that this is a skill which is learned.

Relating this back to Eph. 4:11-12, we can see a specific instance here of how the elders are to “equip” the saints: they are to help train the general priesthood in the ability of “admonishing.” Could Paul come among our churches today and see visible evidence that the brethren at large were “able” to perform this duty?

If admonishing is left to the elders, then it is no wonder that the saints are ill-prepared for this important task. It is in such a realm as this that pastors and teachers are to equip the saints for the work of ministry. I do not see how such training can materialize if edification is conceived of as originating only from one man’s ministry.

~ Jon Zeus