Building Up, Not Tearing Down

When correction becomes destructive, it contradicts the heart of God. Admonishment that crushes rather than strengthens is not spiritual wisdom but pride in disguise. The entire purpose of biblical correction is to build up the believer, not to tear down the person God is shaping.

Paul’s letter to the Romans gives a simple but powerful standard: pursue the things that lead to peace and to the strengthening of one another (Rom. 14:19). Any form of admonishment that does not produce peace or growth is not the kind of correction Scripture calls us to. Truth should build faith, not fracture fellowship.

The Thessalonian church received a similar challenge from Paul. Paul urged them to encourage one another, help the weak, and warn the idle or careless (1 Thess. 5:11, 14). Notice the balance here. Admonishment and encouragement are not opposites but companions. The same voice that says, “You are drifting,” should also say, “You can return.” Genuine correction carries both honesty and hope.

Paul also reminded believers in Ephesus to let every word they speak build others up according to their needs so that the hearer benefits (Eph. 4:29). The same applies to correction. Some words may be true, but not all true words are helpful in every moment. Our goal should never be to prove our knowledge or superiority but to nurture faith. Godly correction meets people where they are and helps them take the next faithful step(s).

Paul affirmed as much in his letter to the church in Rome, where he called on those who are strong in their faith to bear with the weaknesses of others (Rom. 15:1-2). Admonishment is often a ministry of patience in this regard. It is not about frustration with the spiritually immature; it is about guiding them with tenderness and perseverance.

We see a living picture of this in the story of Priscilla and Aquila with Apollos (Acts 18:24-26). Apollos was an eloquent teacher who spoke boldly about Jesus, but he did not yet understand the full truth of the Gospel. Priscilla and Aquila, knowing better, did not embarrass Apollos publicly. Instead, they invited him into conversation, explained the Gospel message more accurately, and strengthened his ministry. They built him up rather than tearing him down. Priscilla and Aquila’s correction expanded Apollos’ influence instead of shrinking it.

That is still the model for believers today. If our correction leaves someone feeling smaller, it is probably the wrong kind. If it leaves them encouraged to grow in grace and understanding, then the Holy Spirit is at work. Every word of admonishment should echo God’s redemptive love – always seeking to build, never to break.

Father, remind me that every word I speak has power to build or destroy. Teach me to correct others with gentleness and wisdom so that truth brings healing, not harm. Let my words strengthen their faith, encourage peace, and reflect Your grace. By the power of Your Holy Spirit, make me a builder in Your Kingdom, never a demolisher. In Jesus’ name, amen.