The conclusion can now be drawn. After the promise of this glorious future, there is plenty of reason to remind each other of this. The Greek verb “paraklein” (ESV: encourage) that is used here, conveys this in a multicoloured way. Literally it means call to join.
This points to comforting people
as well as encouraging people.
Thus, action toward one another is called for. In sorrowful situations we may point each other to this wonderful future with Jesus. When the flame of faith falters, we may encourage each other. Take each other enthusiastically by the hand and travel together to the promised future. Keep it up. Use the words found in Scripture. And together discover what is waiting for us, who is waiting for us, and who is working on this with all his power. Jesus is looking forward to it. You too?
18 Therefore encourage one another with these words.