The Paraclete is the Holy Spirit. I favor this simple early church definition. First mentioned in the gospels in the book of John, Jesus said He would send His disciples another Advocate.
So this is why I identify Paraclete with the Holy Spirit. Para means alongside, and a paraclete is like a lawyer who stands alongside his client before a judge. Like a lawyer also, he is one who tells his client what to say and speaks for him.
One view, first explained, unknown now to me, was the Paraclete is one who represents us before God and assures God that we are believers. Then they made the point that God does not tolerate nor allow evil, not even in His presence. I mention this because so many church people I've engaged believe God allows evil in the world.
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