Monday, July 7, 2008
For Love's Sake
Philemon 8-9: "Therefore, though I have enough confidence in Christ to order you to do what is proper, yet for love's sake I rather appeal to you - since I am such a person as Paul, the aged, and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus."
Forgiveness and acceptance (reconciliation) is the paramount theme of this letter. I think that verses 8-9 depict an applicable means in dealing with conflict. Paul being an apostle and elder does not use his authority in demanding change, though he would be correct and just in doing so. Rather, he uses love - which is the commitment both of them share in Christ. The plea seems non-confrontational. It is not forceful, nor does it seem intrusive. The legal definition of appeal is to demand change using a higher court and in a sense the 'higher' stance in this application is love, which focuses on our commitment and understanding of Christ. I wonder how much conflict can be resolved and avoided if we practiced such a perspective in our relationships with others.
Forgiveness and acceptance (reconciliation) is the paramount theme of this letter. I think that verses 8-9 depict an applicable means in dealing with conflict. Paul being an apostle and elder does not use his authority in demanding change, though he would be correct and just in doing so. Rather, he uses love - which is the commitment both of them share in Christ. The plea seems non-confrontational. It is not forceful, nor does it seem intrusive. The legal definition of appeal is to demand change using a higher court and in a sense the 'higher' stance in this application is love, which focuses on our commitment and understanding of Christ. I wonder how much conflict can be resolved and avoided if we practiced such a perspective in our relationships with others.
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