### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **nouthetéō**, represented by `{{G3560}}`, means to put in mind, which by implication is to caution or reprove gently. It is often translated as **admonish** or **warn**. This term appears **8 times** in **8 unique verses**, indicating a specific and important function within the life of the church, focused on gentle correction and guidance.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G3560}}` is primarily used by the Apostle Paul to describe a crucial aspect of pastoral care and mutual accountability among believers. It is presented as a fatherly action, as Paul writes, "as my beloved sons I **warn** you" [[1 Corinthians 4:14]]. This act of admonishment is a responsibility of church leaders who labor among the flock [[1 Thessalonians 5:12]]. It is also a shared duty among all believers who are filled with knowledge, being "able also to **admonish** one another" [[Romans 15:14]]. This is often paired with instruction, as believers are to be "teaching and **admonishing** one another" [[Colossians 3:16]]. The purpose is restorative, aimed at correcting those who are unruly [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]] and treating them as a brother, not an enemy [[2 Thessalonians 3:15]]. Paul's own ministry exemplified this, as he ceased not "to **warn** every one night and day with tears" [[Acts 20:31]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the context and nature of admonishment:
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (to teach): This action is frequently paired with `{{G3560}}`, showing that admonishment is a form of teaching aimed at spiritual maturity and correction [[Colossians 1:28]].
* `{{G1127}}` **grēgoreúō** (to keep awake, i.e. watch): Paul links watching with warning, urging believers to "**watch**" and remember his constant admonitions [[Acts 20:31]], highlighting the need for spiritual vigilance.
* `{{G3870}}` **parakaléō** (to call near, i.e. invite, invoke): Often translated as exhort or beseech, this word appears alongside `{{G3560}}` to describe the range of pastoral actions, from encouragement to gentle warning [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]].
* `{{G3888}}` **paramythéomai** (to relate near, i.e. (by implication) encourage, console): This term is used in the same breath as "warn," showing that admonishment is balanced with the need to **comfort** the feebleminded [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]].
* `{{G472}}` **antéchomai** (to hold oneself opposite to, i.e. (by implication) adhere to): Believers are called to **support** the weak, another action that complements the call to warn the unruly [[1 Thessalonians 5:14]].
* `{{G2065}}` **erōtáō** (to interrogate; by implication, to request): Used as "beseech," it precedes the instruction for believers to recognize and respect those who **admonish** them in the Lord [[1 Thessalonians 5:12]].
* `{{G3421}}` **mnēmoneúō** (to exercise memory, i.e. recollect): Paul tells the Ephesians to **remember** his tearful warnings, tying the act of admonishment to something that must be kept in mind for ongoing spiritual health [[Acts 20:31]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3560}}` is seen in its consistent application to the health and maturity of the Christian community.
* **Restorative Correction:** The goal of admonishment is not punitive but redemptive. A believer is to be **admonished** "as a brother," not counted as an enemy, reinforcing community bonds [[2 Thessalonians 3:15]].
* **Pastoral Responsibility:** The term defines a key function of spiritual leadership. Leaders are to **admonish** the flock [[1 Thessalonians 5:12]], driven by a love that is like a father's for his children [[1 Corinthians 4:14]].
* **Mutual Ministry:** Admonishment is not solely a top-down command. Believers are empowered by the word of Christ to be "teaching and **admonishing** one another" [[Colossians 3:16]], indicating a shared responsibility for each other's spiritual well-being [[Romans 15:14]].
* **Path to Maturity:** Warning and teaching are presented as essential tools for discipleship. Paul's mission was to "**warning** every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom" with the ultimate aim that "we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus" [[Colossians 1:28]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3560}}` **nouthetéō** is a vital concept for understanding Christian community life. It describes a gentle, corrective warning intended to "put in mind" the truths of the faith. Far from being a harsh rebuke, it is an act of love, whether from a pastor to the church or from one believer to another. It serves as a necessary component of teaching and discipleship, designed to restore the erring, edify the body, and guide every member toward spiritual perfection in Christ.
TRV