“So, if you think of me as your partner, welcome him back just as you would welcome me”. Philemon 17 GNB Deep levels of fellow-feeling develop amongst various groups of people. Those who have fought in war seem to bond with others. Sportsmen who have represented their country together get it. If people have suffered some hardship they too sense a certain level of solidarity that binds them together with others who have experienced the same. In the world of Paul’s day Christians were few and far between. The surrounding society was hostile to them and often downright antagonistic. Sometimes they suffered violence and imprisonment. When they met for worship one Sunday they did not know whether they would all still be alive at the next one. There was a strong sense of solidarity not only because of their suffering but because of their faith in Christ. This also led to a deep sense of oneness in the faith. Paul strove hard to maintain unity in doctrine and in fellowship. He was one with the Christians in Rome, in Antioch and in Colossae. His faith relationship with Onesimus was special to Paul since he had seen the young man make huge spiritual strides under his tutorship. But he knew and loved Philemon equally well. Since both were “in Christ” they were “together in Christ”. When Onesimus arrived back in Colossae it was if Paul himself was there. To accept one was to accept the other. By accepting Onesimus, Philemon would be welcoming Paul - and Christ. Cherish the solidarity your union with Christ gives you with other Christians. It is more than a “nice company to keep” thing. It is a deep spiritual bond. Do all you can to build it up and maintain it. PRAYER THOUGHTLord, thank you for the bonds that bind us together.
Posted on: Sun, 30 Jun 2013 05:34:20 +0000
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