Book of 1 Thessalonians - Chapter 4 - Verse 18
Meaning
In this verse, the Apostle Paul is urging believers to comfort one another with words of hope and encouragement. This passage comes from a larger context where Paul is speaking about the return of Jesus Christ and the resurrection of the dead. The idea is that even in the face of uncertainty and tribulation, believers can find comfort in the promise of Christ's return and the hope of eternal life. By sharing these words of comfort with one another, believers can strengthen their faith and support each other through difficult times. This verse emphasizes the importance of community and fellowship among believers, as they are called to uplift and encourage one another in their faith journey. Overall, the message is one of solidarity and compassion, as believers are reminded to be a source of comfort and strength for one another.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the word "comfort" is translated from the Greek word "παρακαλέω" (parakaleo), which means to exhort, encourage, or comfort. The context of this passage is important as it refers to the return of Jesus Christ and the hope of believers being reunited with their loved ones who have passed away. The phrase "with these words" could be interpreted as referring to the message of hope and encouragement given in the preceding verses about the resurrection of the dead and the gathering of believers to be with the Lord forever. Therefore, the exhortation to "comfort one another with these words" is an instruction to encourage and console each other with the hope and promise of Christ's return and the future reunion of all believers. This verse emphasizes the importance of sharing this message of hope and comfort with fellow believers to strengthen and support one another in times of grief and uncertainty.