“The word suggests speech that rouses and stirs. When we exhort, we urge others to action—sometimes away from sin (Hebrews 3:13), sometimes toward good works (Hebrews 10:24–25), always nearer to God.” - Scott Hubbard
“While most people recognize the damage caused by shouting matches and harsh words, fewer may realize the equally destructive effects of the ‘silent treatment.’” - TGC
“Jude had a preference: ‘Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints’ (Jude 3). He wanted to agree, celebrating God’s grace in their ‘common salvation.’ But he needed to confront” - 9 Marks
“His contrast is between the cunning, crafty, and deceitful words of false teachers and the honest, straightforward, loving words Christians should speak to each other.” - Mark Ward
“Bilbo’s most courageous act wasn’t creeping down into the dragon’s lair, but walking off alone to incense (and perhaps save) a friend who had gone astray.” - Desiring God
“My recent article, ‘Are We Preaching with Power?,’ kicked up some responses at Sharper Iron. The discussion was positive (a rarity on the internet), and it prompts this expansion of the theme.” - Don Johnson
“…the Holy Spirit hasn’t gone on vacation. I’m afraid the problem lies with us. Perhaps we are afraid to preach on sin, righteousness, and judgement. We run the risk of people turning away (or turning on us). Felix turned away. The rich young ruler turned away.” - Don Johnson
“…it is imperative that we have gentleness as we confront. Too many times, especially in our circle, we can be rough with the truth. We can come too strong and our tact in the counseling room can be terrible.” - CLeaders
“But Scripture speaks repeatedly about those who have what the apostle Paul calls ‘an unhealthy craving for controversy’ (1 Tim. 6:4).” - Russell Moore
“Before we get into the theological aspects of hard conversations, remember this: if at all possible, have the conversation in person and in private. When discussing embarrassing, frustrating, or painful topics, it’s important to convey not only the right tone of voice, but also the right body language.” - TGC
