### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **parainéō**, represented by `{{G3867}}`, means to **admonish** or **exhort**. It is derived from παρά and αἰνέω and suggests advising a different course. It appears **2 times** across **2 unique verses** in the Bible, indicating a specific and focused usage.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Both occurrences of `{{G3867}}` are found in the narrative of Paul's perilous sea journey. In the first instance, as sailing became dangerous because the fast was already past, **Paul** `{{G3972}}` **admonished** the crew, advising them against continuing their voyage [[Acts 27:9]]. Later, in the midst of the storm, he uses the word again to **exhort** his companions to be of good cheer, assuring them that no lives would be lost, only the ship [[Acts 27:22]]. This demonstrates the word's use for both warning and encouragement.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several words provide context for the meaning and application of `{{G3867}}`:
* `{{G2114}}` **euthyméō** (to cheer up, i.e. (intransitively) be cheerful): This word is the direct object of Paul's exhortation. He uses `{{G3867}}` to urge the men *to be of good cheer* [[Acts 27:22]], linking the act of exhorting with the goal of inspiring courage.
* `{{G3972}}` **Paûlos** (Paul, Paulus): This is the name of the apostle who performs the action of `{{G3867}}` in scripture. In both recorded uses, it is **Paul** who admonishes and exhorts, establishing him as the agent of this specific type of counsel [[Acts 27:9]].
### Theological Significance
The significance of `{{G3867}}` is demonstrated through its application in a crisis.
* **Advising a Different Course:** The term's base definition is clearly seen when Paul **admonished** the crew, recommending a different course of action by warning them of the danger of sailing [[Acts 27:9]]. This highlights a practical and cautionary aspect of godly counsel.
* **Encouragement in Adversity:** The word also carries a strong sense of encouragement. Paul **exhorts** his companions to be of good cheer even when facing the loss of the ship, pointing them toward a more hopeful perspective based on divine assurance [[Acts 27:22]].
* **Apostolic Leadership:** The use of `{{G3867}}` by Paul illustrates a facet of apostolic leadership—the ability to give both practical warnings and faith-filled exhortations to guide and sustain others through trials.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3867}}` **parainéō** is a precise term used to describe the act of giving strong advice or encouragement. Its usage by the apostle Paul in Acts demonstrates its dual function: to **admonish** someone away from a perilous course and to **exhort** them toward courage and hope in the face of certain trouble. It encapsulates a form of counsel that is both wise and faith-building.
TRV