Another gift of the Holy Spirit is that of exhortation.

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them . . . he who exhorts, in exhortation (Romans 12:6,8).

The gift of exhortation is listed separately from the gift of teaching. The word exhortation come from a root word that means "to advocate or comfort." Exhortation is a gift that enables a person to encourage others to become mature in Christ. Those with the gift of exhortation will attempt to bring out the best in people, to bring them to spiritual maturity. Exhortation includes rebuking fellow believers for their sins. It is not the same as teaching.

May Have Gift

A teacher may have the gift of exhortation as did Barnabas.

And Joses, who is also named Barnabas . . . (which is translated Son of Encouragement) (Acts 4:36).

The Apostle Paul also possessed this gift. He and Barnabas exhorted the believers.

And when they had preached the gospel to that city and made many disciples, they returned to Lystra, Iconium, and Antioch, strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith (Acts 14:21,22).

Depending upon the circumstances, the gift of exhortation can encourage or rebuke the church. A teacher should possess this gift, but not all those with the gift are teachers.