By Not Known
To stir is to move one’s hand or a device continuously or repeatedly through (a liquid or other substance) in order to cool, mix, agitate, dissolve, etc., until the desired result is attained. It has to be a continuous action performed intentionally until the desired outcome happens.
In Hebrews 10:24, Paul tells us to “stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together”. In Titus 3, Paul specifically said, “remind the people … to be ready to do whatever is good” (v1).
Interestingly, in Greek, the word ‘stir’ also gives the connotation that a certain intentional gaze is fixed on the subject so as to ensure that the outcome of the action is accomplished. In other words, we are to fix our eyes on the person whom we are stirring up to ensure that they do what we wanted them to do.
In Titus, Paul is more focussed in his exhortation to this young pastor in his new pastorate of the church in Crete. A long list of instructions follow the exhortation of “remind them…”. They already knew what they were supposed to do. What they needed was to be reminded to do them.
In 3:10, Paul said that there were others who “stir up division”. Instead of stirring up to good works, they would intentionally do the opposite. Such are the challenges even in God’s community.
What are we “stirred” to do here in ORPC? Do we intentionally “stir up” one another to love and to good works? How do we do it in order that the body of Christ, as we meet together, will be encouraged, lifted up, and excited in our gospel service and gospel ministry to one another?
Let us fix our eyes on Christ as we focus on “stirring” each other up to love and good works, and not to strife and division.
Peter Poon