“And I appeal to you, brethren, bear with the word of exhortation, for I have written to you in few words” (Hebrews 13:22).
Tactfulness is a common trait of Scripture. Though writing the authoritative, inspired word of God which inherently deserves one’s undivided attention and complete obedience, the Holy Spirit does not typically move His penman to use a heavy-handed, authoritarian tone when seeking to teach and motivate people to act.
“I beseech you therefore brethren by the mercies of God that you…” (Romans 12:1) is much different in tone and tact than “As an apostle of Jesus Christ, I command you to…”
The word “appeal” here is parakaleo. Its etymology suggests a friend walking beside a friend and talking with him, not an authority sitting across from you in a face-to-face, toe-to-toe confrontation.
Even though “bear with” is in the imperative, its use recognizes that the length and fervent warnings of the book are best received by loving, patient recipients. The old adage of preaching that “the mind cannot absorb what the bottom cannot endure” appears to be reflected in this request.
“Exhortation” should not be thought of as lacking in authority. As the inspired writer addresses the situation at hand, he does not see a “you problem”; he sees a “we problem”. Therefore, his inspired exhortations begin with “let us”, not “you must”.
This inspired final appeal is tactfully well said.
Note: Starting next Monday, July 29th, I will be suspending the practice of emailing you a notice of the posting of each day’s blog. There will continue to be a blog posted each day on the website ReadtheWordToday.com, so I hope you will continue reading each day’s offering. Thank you for your interest in spiritual things.
