Digging into some words in the WORD:

Something To Think About

SOMETHING  TO THINK ABOUT     Hebrews 10:24 & 25 contains two words that ought to be incredibly important to everyone in the church.  I think the author of Hebrews shows his homiletic (preaching) skill in his choice of words.  Alliteration is a tool to help the listener remember.   Both of the writer's key words begin with "par". The second word, is translated "encourage," "... encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." Parakaleo is used all through the New Testament.  I have often thought of the word as sort of the verbal equivalent of an adjustable wrench.  In various contexts it speaks of counsel, or warning, as well as encouragement.  It is perhaps best translated this way, "called along side (that's the "para" part) to help.  It is so common that in at least two cases the noun form of the word became a name.  The Holy Spirit is called the by the noun form of this word,John 14:26.  He is the supreme Helper.  Barnabas so effectively modeled this trait that his friends gave him the name "Son of encouragment."  The first word is only found twice in the New Testament.  In the other place it is found it describes a heated discussion--some would say, argument.      Put the thoughts together in the words from the Book of Hebrews.  "[L]et us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, butencouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near. (Hebrews 10:24-25)   The "para" part is expanded by the counsel to "not forsake. . . ."  In the words of our era, "to be there for someone." "Lord make me a para-Christian."  Amen. It's STTA.   A good friend of mine, who has been there for me, recently preached an excellent message from this passage.  Thanks, Bill for the message & the friendship.