Encourage One Another
Discouragement is all around. Social discord, forest fires, hurricanes, the pandemic and vitriolic political discourse is only heating up. And beyond this general sense, discouragement easily lurks in our lives in a very personal way with broken expectations, faltering dreams, besetting sins, and relational turmoil to name a few. Discouragement abounds! Where can we get encouragement? One important stream of encouragement is from fellow believers. And a practical example of this is in small groups. One purpose of a small group to provide encouragement. This is so precious in light of so much discouragement. We observe this purpose in our often cited Hebrews 10:24-25:
“24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.”
Right in the middle of v. 25 is the participle, “encouraging.” It is from the Greek compound word parakaleo and literally means to call another alongside oneself. Semantically, it means to earnestly exhort or comfort. We are to receive this encouragement/comfort by coming together. Hence, small groups provide a wonderful context for this encouragement.
What is the nature of this encouragement? Parakaleo is often used for the Word proclaimed by the power of the Holy Spirit. It is the encouragement based on Scripture that is realized in our experience by the Holy Spirit. This is why we study Scripture in small groups so we can glean encouragement for our lives. And don’t we need it? Life is especially difficult during these days where discouragement abounds. How good it is to gather with fellow followers of Jesus to expound the Word and apply it to our lives. The Holy Spirit invigorates us. But not merely that we might feel encouraged.
Please notice how the participle “encourage” depends upon the phrase of the main verb in v. 24, “And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works.” The nature of our encouragement from the Word is not merely for us to be encouraged in a discouraging world. But to act in love and good deeds characterized by the Word. We, therefore, become agents in a discouraging world to encourage others. We are blessed in order to be a blessing. And this is our worship to the Lord and a witness to His gospel of grace.
As the Fall is approaching please consider joining a small group. You will be encouraged by the Word as we study the book of Luke. And for the very purpose of loving others with godly deeds. May we do so for our good and glory of God!