The Greek word parakaléō, represented by G3870, is a versatile term derived from παρά and καλέω, meaning to call near. It appears 114 times across 104 unique verses. Its application is broad, encompassing actions of imploration, hortation, and consolation, and is translated as beseech, exhort, comfort, intreat, desire, and pray.
The fundamental sense of G3870 as "to call near" suggests an invitation or summons to a closer relationship or a more engaged state. This proximity is key, distinguishing it from a mere general command or distant request. When one is G3870'd, it implies a drawing alongside, whether for mutual support, earnest petition, or intimate solace. This intrinsic proximity inherent in the prefix παρά lends itself to the word's diverse applications, from a humble request for help to a powerful charge for spiritual growth, always with an underlying sense of personal engagement.
The versatility of G3870 also lies in its ability to express both the active and passive voice with significant theological implications. While it often describes the active appeal from one person to another, it also frequently appears in the passive, indicating the reception of comfort or exhortation. This highlights the reciprocal nature of Christian community, where believers both give and receive this "calling near" in its various forms. This dual aspect is crucial for understanding its role in both individual spiritual formation and communal edification.
In scripture, G3870 is used to convey a range of crucial communications. Apostles frequently use it to make urgent appeals to believers, as when Paul beseeches the Romans to present their bodies as a living sacrifice Romans 12:1 and beseeches the Corinthians to have no divisions among them 1 Corinthians 1:10. It also expresses divine solace, with Jesus promising that those who mourn "shall be comforted" Matthew 5:4. Furthermore, it signifies the act of encouraging and strengthening fellow Christians, such as exhorting them to continue in the faith Acts 14:22 and to assemble together Hebrews 10:25.
Beyond the apostolic appeals, G3870 frequently describes earnest pleas made directly to Jesus. The afflicted often G3870 him, highlighting a desperate need for divine intervention and a belief in His power. For example, a leper G3870 Jesus, kneeling down and saying, "If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean" Mark 1:40. Similarly, a centurion G3870 Jesus for his servant Matthew 8:5, and Jairus, a synagogue ruler, G3870 him to come to his house for his dying daughter Luke 8:41. Even demons G3870 Jesus not to send them away out of the country, but into swine Mark 5:10, Luke 8:31-32, demonstrating the breadth of its use for urgent, personal requests to a powerful figure. This supplicatory usage underscores the helplessness of humanity and the sovereign authority of Christ.
The term also illustrates the active desire and initiative within the early Christian community. Paul G3870 Timothy to abide at Ephesus to counter false doctrine 1 Timothy 1:3, indicating a strong charge for pastoral responsibility. In his personal circumstances, Paul recounts how he G3870 the Lord thrice for the removal of his thorn in the flesh 2 Corinthians 12:8, revealing the depth of his own prayer life. Furthermore, believers are exhorted to G3870 one another to "take meat" for health, even Paul doing so for those on the ship during a storm Acts 27:33-34, showing its practical application in daily life and care for physical well-being alongside spiritual matters.
Several related words help clarify the dimensions of calling upon, encouraging, or pleading:
- G3874 paráklēsis (comfort, consolation, exhortation, intreaty): This is the noun form directly related to G3870, representing the substance of the exhortation or comfort being given. Paul notes that one who exhorteth G3870 should focus on exhortation G3874 Romans 12:8.
- G1189 déomai (to beg, petition, make request): This term highlights the pleading or petitionary aspect. It is used alongside G3870 to emphasize the nature of the appeal, as when the apostles beseech G3870 on God's behalf and then pray G1189 for reconciliation 2 Corinthians 5:20.
- G3560 nouthetéō (to admonish, warn): While G3870 often involves encouragement, G3560 carries the specific sense of a gentle warning or reproof. The two are listed as distinct but related pastoral duties when Paul instructs believers to warn the unruly and exhort the brethren 1 Thessalonians 5:14.
- G2675 katartízō (to complete thoroughly, repair, adjust): This word often describes the intended result of exhortation. Believers are besought G3870 to be perfectly joined together G2675 in the same mind 1 Corinthians 1:10, and are commanded to "Be perfect" G2675 in the same breath as being told to "be of good comfort" G3870 2 Corinthians 13:11.
- G3875 paráklētos (Comforter, Advocate): This noun is closely linked to G3870, literally meaning "one called alongside" or "one who calls alongside." It typically refers to the Holy Spirit, who provides comfort, counsel, and advocacy, embodying the very essence of what it means to G3870 someone by drawing near to offer aid and support.
The theological significance of G3870 is demonstrated through its consistent use in foundational Christian practices.
- Urgent Apostolic Appeal: The word forms the basis of many apostolic instructions. Paul uses it not merely to suggest, but to earnestly plead with believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling Ephesians 4:1 and to follow his example 1 Corinthians 4:16.
- The Ministry of Comfort: A central theme is that God comforteth G3870 believers in their tribulation, equipping them to then comfort G3870 others with the same comfort they received 2 Corinthians 1:4. This divine comfort is a promised blessing and a tangible experience of God's presence (Luke 16:25, 2 Corinthians 7:6).
- Mutual Edification: Believers have a responsibility to exhort G3870 one another daily Hebrews 3:13, comfort G3870 each other with the truth 1 Thessalonians 4:18, and stir each other up to earnestly contend for the faith Jude 1:3. This action is a vital component of church life, often linked directly with teaching and edifying (1 Timothy 6:2, 1 Thessalonians 5:11).
- The Divine Initiative of Comfort: While believers are called to comfort one another, the ultimate source of comfort originates with God. He is depicted as "God, that comforteth those that are cast down" 2 Corinthians 7:6, actively intervening in human distress. This divine action of G3870 is not merely passive sympathy but an empowering presence, enabling individuals to endure affliction and, in turn, become agents of comfort to others, as seen in the promise that "your hearts might be comforted" Colossians 2:2.
- Call to Reconciliation and Unity: Beyond individual spiritual growth, G3870 is foundational for fostering harmonious relationships and unity within the church. Paul G3870 the Corinthians to confirm their love toward a repentant brother, preventing him from being "swallowed up with overmuch sorrow" 2 Corinthians 2:7-8, emphasizing restorative action. He also G3870 Euodias and Syntyche to "be of the same mind in the Lord" Philippians 4:2, illustrating the word's role in resolving discord and promoting spiritual agreement among believers.
The multifaceted term G3870 encapsulates a core dynamic of Christian life, extending from humble supplication to robust spiritual leadership. Fundamentally meaning "to call near," it underscores a personal and often empathetic engagement, whether for urgent appeal, profound consolation, or earnest exhortation. This inherent sense of drawing alongside characterizes its diverse applications, from a desperate human plea to a divine act of solace.
In biblical narratives, G3870 frequently portrays individuals making fervent requests to Jesus for healing or deliverance, such as the leper seeking cleansing or parents seeking healing for their children. It also appears as a direct, earnest appeal to God, as when Paul G3870 the Lord regarding his personal affliction. Within the early church, apostles employed it for weighty pastoral charges, exhorting believers to steadfastness in faith and righteous living, and fostering unity and reconciliation. The passive voice also highlights the reception of comfort, emphasizing the reciprocal nature of encouragement within the community.
The theological depth of G3870 is further enriched by its connection to G3875 paráklētos, the Comforter and Advocate, representing the Holy Spirit's intimate presence and support. This divine initiative of comfort empowers believers, enabling them to extend the same solace to others in their tribulations, thereby fulfilling a vital ministry of mutual edification. Thus, G3870 is a vibrant descriptor of the Christian walk, encompassing the cry for help, the tender touch of divine grace, the firm guidance of leadership, and the vital practice of mutual support and reconciliation among God's people.
TRV