Embracing the Fullness of Parakaleo: Moving Beyond a Superficial Understanding.
- Terry W. Bailey
- Jan 29
- 2 min read
Introduction:
In our journey of faith, specific Biblical terms carry profound meanings that are often diluted in translation. One such Greek word is parakaleo (παρακαλέω), commonly rendered as "to encourage" or "to comfort." However, parakaleo encompasses a depth that challenges us to engage more fully with its implications.
Understanding Parakaleo:
The term parakaleo is a compound of "para" (beside) and "kaleo" (to call), literally meaning "to call alongside." In ancient Greek usage, it conveyed various nuances:
Comfort: Offering solace in times of distress.
Encouragement: Inspiring courage and hope.
Exhortation: Urging someone toward a course of action.
Appeal: Making an earnest request or plea.
This multifaceted word suggests a dynamic interaction, where one actively comes alongside another to provide comprehensive support.
Biblical Context of Parakaleo:
In the New Testament, parakaleo appears frequently, illustrating its rich application:
Comfort: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted (parakaleo)." – Matthew 5:4
Encouragement: "But encourage (parakaleo) one another daily, as long as it is called 'Today.'" – Hebrews 3:13
Exhortation: "I urge (parakaleo) you, brothers and sisters, because of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice." – Romans 12:1
The Impact of Fully Embracing Parakaleo:
When we limit parakaleo to mere encouragement, we miss the call to deeper relational engagement. Consider the difference:
Superficial Application: Offering a kind word to someone facing challenges.
Complete Application: Coming alongside them, sharing their struggles, providing counsel, and urging them toward growth and action.
Illustration: The Marathon Runner
Imagine a marathon runner nearing exhaustion. A spectator shouts, "Keep going; you can do it!" This is encouraging. However, a fellow runner matches the pace, offers water, shares strategies to overcome fatigue, and stays beside them to the finish. This embodies parakaleo—a commitment to support that involves personal investment and shared experience.
Application: Living Out Parakaleo in Our Lives
To truly practice parakaleo, we must:
Be Present: Actively seek opportunities to come alongside others in their journey.
Invest Deeply: Offer more than words—provide time, resources, and genuine care.
Encourage Growth: Challenge and exhort others to pursue righteousness and personal development.
Offer Comfort: Provide solace and understanding in times of sorrow and distress.
Conclusion:
By embracing the full scope of parakaleo, we move beyond superficial interactions and engage in transformative relationships. Let us commit to being a community that genuinely "calls alongside," embodying the depth of support and love that reflects the heart of Christ.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, empower us to live out the fullness of parakaleo. May we be instruments of Your comfort, encouragement, exhortation, and love, coming alongside others as You have come alongside us. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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