Unless you are different from most people, the word ‘provoke’ is generally not thought of as a positive. We see the results of provoke when anger is expressed or a sharp retort or other negative response to what was said or done. The point typically is that ‘provoke’ does precisely that – it causes a reaction and typically one that is extremely visible. Most of the reaction is negative. Webster says that to provoke is to stir up purposely. Some of the associated synonyms are: instigate, excite, stir up, arouse. And from these descriptive words, there is no accident about provoke – it is deliberate.
However, there really is another side to the word. Hebrews 10:24 says: “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works.” Though your translation may read slightly different, ‘stir up’ is used interchangeably with provoke. Obviously this is a more positive definition than that typically associated with the word. Just as the descriptive words can be used negatively, they can also be used as a positive force. This usage means that we are to encourage one another into doing and saying those ‘things’ that will produce a positive response.
Provoke should be a conscious action. To ‘stir up’ one another to love and good works. Therefore, if what we are feeling is negative then if or when we attempt to speak or act on this, our ‘product’ will not be love or good works. I would suggest that we sometimes provoke in order to … seek revenge, strike out, get our own way. This kind of ‘provoke’ accomplishes little and rarely leaves a good taste in our mouth.
Provoke is an attention catcher. It is not a word that is placid or calm – it is meant to create a reaction. When we use words or actions that provoke others, what’s our intent? What do we hope the other people will experience, learn, like, appreciate, etc. from provoking them? Also, what do you experience when you provoke others? Do you know why you do what you do? Likewise, what is your experience when you are provoked by words or actions from others? A number of questions but my point is that sometimes we do provoke others but it was a consequence rather than the intended result.
