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I. COMFORT implies —

1. The presence of discomfort, and the duty of mutual support under trial. Men are troubled —

(1) By sin. We must comfort by restoring such in the spirit of meekness, by pointing them to the Saviour.

(2) By infirmities. Here we must comfort by bearing one another's burdens with sympathy and help.

(3) Affliction. When we can do no more, we can console with a few simple words. "A word spoken in season," etc.

2. Owning our relationship with others. There is very deep comfort afforded to the solitary when we make them feel that they are not alone — e.g., in Christian testimony before an ungodly world; in work for the Master.

3. Reminding people of what they must expect from the world on the one hand, and of Christ's helpfulness on the other (John 15:17).

4. Bringing before others the real grounds of comfort.

(1)  Present acceptance with God.

(2)  Future approval and reward.

II. EDIFICATION.

1. Presupposes a foundation — Christ Jesus.

2. Consists in —

(1) Christian conversation. "Forsake not the assembling of yourselves together" (Ephesians 4:29).

(2) Mutual prayer. "If two of you shall agree," etc.

(3) Unity of design.Conclusion: To fit yourselves for this work.

1. Search the Scriptures, which are full of words of comfort and edification.

2. Read Christian biographies.

3. Beware of Pharisaism.

(Bp. Villiers.)

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KJV: Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

WEB: Therefore exhort one another, and build each other up, even as you also do.