Let me pass along a challenge for you to pursue in the next few days. Using the Bible translations that you might have in your library and/or the vast information available through the internet’s Google, deepen your relationship with the Holy Spirit by studying the word that Jesus used in John 14 – 16 to introduce the Holy Spirit to His disciples, the word “Parakletos”. The early translators of the Bible (Wycliffe, Luther, KJV) chose to translate the original Greek word “Parakletos” into our word “Comforter” and had valid reasons for their choice. It’s really quite an interesting study. Unfortunately, because of the ever changing evolution of words, their word choice has caused today’s readers to miss out on so, so much of who the Holy Spirit is and what He has been sent to do.
In reading through the various translations, you will find that many translators have replaced “Comforter” with words like “Friend” (The Message), “Someone to stand by you” (J.B. Phillips translation), and “Helper” (Moffatt Translation). In my reading and studying my translations, I have found twelve different words. (Be sure to check out the Amplified Bible’s translation.) How could there be twelve (or more) different words? The enormity of the Holy Spirit and His Father’s assignment makes it impossible to pack the entire meaning of the Greek word “Parakletos” into one single English word. It is like trying to squeeze a size 38 inch waist into a size 32 pair of jeans. One single word can’t capture all that Jesus was saying to His disciples about the Holy Spirit. Each and every one of these translations is needed because they shed a different light of understanding about the Holy Spirit.
Here is the reason for this challenge. A greater revelation of who He is will bring about a greater depth in your relationship with Him which will then create a greater dependence upon Him. The greater the dependence, the greater the demonstrations of His presence and power. Can you see how important this is? This will be a GREAT investment of your time. Do it … you’ll thank me for this suggestion!
