Counsel For The Defence

Thought For The Week 62

In the 17^th century (when the King James Version was translated) the word ‘comforter’ described someone who put courage into a person.  What a delightful thought!  Our present understanding of the word is equally precious and recently, as I thought of the function of the Holy Spirit in our lives, I mused on how varied and far-reaching it is; comfort, courage, support and so much more.  In fact it is very difficult to set an English translation for the Greek word ‘parakletos’ which is translated ‘helper’, ‘comforter’, or ‘counsellor’, and “…suggests the capability for giving aid.” (Vines Expository Dictionary)

I recently learned that in Yahshua’s time it was actually a legal term with a broader meaning of ‘counsel for the defence’.  It referred to any person who helped someone in trouble with the law; anyone who pleaded another’s cause as an intercessor or an advocate.  The scriptures tell us that Yahshua “…is able to save to the uttermost those who draw near to [Elohim] through him, since he always lives to make intercession for them.” (Hebrews 7:25).  He is our ‘parakletos’ and joy of joys, blessing upon blessing, the Holy Spirit is ‘another’!   How lovely to understand that both of them will always stand by us when we are in trouble!

I encourage you to consider the wider scope of the divine abilities of the Holy Spirit.  There is iron strength and virility, courtesy and purpose about His dealings with us and we do well to consider the power and relevance of His in-dwelling not just our lives, but all of our moments and our days.

My dear children…we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is [Messiah Yahshua], the one who is truly righteous.

1 John 2:1 NLT

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