2005 05 May

v.33.O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out! There are four great attributes of God and they are:

v. 34. For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor? Other attributes or qualities of God are: Compassion, Eternal, Faithful, Foreknowledge, Grace, Greatness, Holiness, Immutable, Impartial, Incomprehensible, Infinite, Invisible, Life, Light, Long-suffering, Love, Mysterious, Sovereign, Unchangeable, Unsearchable and it continues on ad-infinitum. We have mentioned a few, but there are many more. We cannot honestly understand any one of the above attributes.

v. 35. Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? What have you given to God? God cannot be bought. Some people can be bought very cheaply, others want more, but God cannot be bought. You have given God nothing until you give Him yourself. After all, that's all you have! All your possessions, money, or earthly gains are only lent to you for a short time. You came into the world with nothing and you will take out nothing when you leave. However according to our verse if we give ourselves there is great reward, not necessarily here but in eternity.

v. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen. The Apostle was so overtaken with the greatness of God that he had to end this chapter with just a few to which we have added others. Paul was unlimited in his praise for God. Paul remembered that God was a triune God, made up of Father, Son and Holy Spirit, however, here Paul groups them all together as truly they are one God in three persons or personalities with three different responsibilities. Colossians 1:16-17, For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. This passage tells us of the ministry of Christ in the past, present and future.

v1. I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Moses commanded, but Paul urges us to present our bodies a living sacrifice. In Moses day the sacrifices were dead sacrifices, and were given to God for their sins and to be forgiven, or in some cases, just to worship God. The bodies of Christians are "members of Christ," "temples of the Holy Spirit," consecrated to God and to be devoted to His service. Cf. I Cor. 6:15a, Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? It is not the heart only but the life.

Not part of the body, but the whole body is to be consecrated and presented to God as a living sacrifice.
2 Cor. 6:14-18, 14Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

All of this is not just a ceremonial worship as is practiced in several denominations, but rather a devoted life. It is not mechanical or outward worship; a Lenten sacrifice for a short time, but a moment by moment giving of your self to the Lord. I Peter 2:5. Ye also, as lively (living) stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. The Old Testament Priest was anointed to service before the Lord by the placing of oil on his head, hands and feet. He was completely dedicated to God. We are a "holy priesthood," to be anointed by the Holy Spirit and dedicated to the service of Christ when we present our bodies, soul and spirit to Christ that we may be of service to Him as long as we shall live.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. It seems that this verse is an imperative because God wants his children to be conformed to the heavenly nature instead of the natural man of the world system. If we are conformed to this world, then we think and act like the world, and that is carnality as far as God is concerned. Romans 8:6, For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.

This is the same as minding the things of the flesh instead of the Spirit. When I dedicated my life to the Lord in September of 1948, in less than a month I was convicted that I could not be a good Christian and continue smoking. I said one evening, "With God's help this is the last cigarette I will smoke." And that was it. I felt that I could not be a testimony when smoking. Other things changed also, my language could no longer speak the words of the world. I've often thought of Peter and the mock trial of his Lord and the little girl that accused him of being a Galilean, because his language betrayed Peter. Have your habits and language changed since you became a Christian? If not, then you are living a carnal life and it is very unpleasing to the Lord.

There are many other areas in our lives that also need to be brought under the blood and confessed to the Lord. If you desire to be conformed to the will of God you also need the Holy Spirit's guiding and He will show you the places in your mind that need to be corrected. The transformation spoken of here means a renewal of mind about many things. Temper tantrums are a thing of the past. Jealousy and worldly desires are to be confessed and put away. Holding a grudge because someone offended you and seeking to get even are also things to be put away. A Christian tongue and attitude about so many trivial things needs to be a part of our life and anything that offends another should not be said or even intimated. James 3:6 says a vitriolic tongue is set on fire of hell. And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

Only when we give ourselves to God; body, mind and soul can we be acceptable before God and our fellow men.

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. Paul was in opposition to today's attitude that says, "I am the greatest." We have heard there is an island in the western Pacific that thinks the world revolves around that island. Many of our "baby boomers" think only in the sphere of ME, everything is for me and me alone.

4For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office. 5So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Christian, we are not to think better of others than ourselves, because together, we make up the body of Christ and not one of us is better than the other, we all have our individual place in the body of believers and of Christ.
6Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith. These gifts are given according to our faith and how we use them. If we neglect our gifts they are of no value and someone some place is going to miss heaven because we were negligent. These are spiritual gifts as contracted with abilities used in making a living. These are gifts to be exercised in the promoting and propagating the Gospel in opportunities to witness and live before others that they may see Christ in us.
7Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching. Be thankful that our minister, Pastor Dan, believes in preaching the whole Bible rather than just giving us pious platitudes and mincing around the teachings of the Scriptures. The Greek for ministry is "diakonian" and that means "to serve the Lord and minister to His people, and to supply spiritual food that nourishes the soul."
8Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

In exhortation the minister is to speak to the hearts not over their heads. "Keep it simple stupid!" Giving the word in sincerity and diligently and by counseling to find the problem and offer a solution. The minister is to feed the flock, not fleece them. A well-fed flock will go out and share with others the good news of their salvation.

The Apostle gives twenty-one commands regulating Christian brotherhood, and we need to take each and every one very seriously and slowly meditate on each of the following.

Let love be without dissimulation.
Abhor that which is evil;
Cleave to that which is good.
Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love
In honor preferring one another;
Not slothful in business;
Fervent in spirit;
Serving the Lord;
Rejoicing in hope;
Patient in tribulation;
Continuing instant in prayer;
Distributing to the necessity of saints;
Given to hospitality.
Bless them which persecute you:
Bless, and curse not.
Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and
Weep with them that weep.
Be of the same mind one toward another.
Mind not high things, but
Condescend to men of low estate.
Be not wise in your own conceits.

There is not much this poor writer can add to the above commands; they are so complete that to add to them would be to take away from the voice of the Holy Spirit as He dictated the above to the Apostle.

In these last five verses of our chapter Paul presents seven commands that regulate Christian conduct in the church and to the world:
17Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. When we respond to their evil with evil, we lower ourselves to their level. A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger, Prov. 15:1. If a fellow Christian hurts you with unkind words, forget it; they are the ones that have to give an account for their hurtful words, don't allow yourself to become involved and you won't have to confess your sins to them and apologize.
18If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. It's not always easy to turn the other cheek, but when problems come and you need some counseling, go the Lord with the problem and He will give you peace and then forget the problem ever existed. Some people are looking for trouble and are impossible. Okay, stay away from them and avoid any contact that might be a confrontation!
19Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. We sometimes have a short fuse and try to get even or revenge for some-thing someone has said or done to us. It just may be that they are unaware of what they said or did, so forget it and don't seek trouble. We have enough trouble without seeking more.
20Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be good, be kind and the enemy will at first resent your kindness, but later will realize that your overlooking his or her fault and who knows you may make a friend for life. If you treat them as a friend they rightfully will wonder if may be there is something to this being a Christian. Many an enemy has been won to the Lord because we overlooked their enmity and loved them in spite of them selves.
21Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

If ever there was a person that was mistreated, by both friend and enemy, it was the Apostle Paul. He never retorted, but took it to the Lord and his wonderful Saviour worked it out and both were eventually blessed. Try it, you'll like it.

v1-2. Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever there-fore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. In Gen. 9:1-6 the third dispensation "Human Government" was established by God. When Noah and his family came out of the ark, it was time for God to establish a form of government because in the first two dispensations, Innocence and Conscience, man had utterly failed. (Scofield Bible p. 16).

v3-4. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. It is the theory of the laws established in all civilized nations to establish justice and punish according to the crimes committed. Without proper laws and justice there would be no deterrent to the depraved minds of human nature. Some have said, "The death penalty is not a deterrent to crime," but it sure stops the perpetrator from committing that crime again. If we observe the laws of the land and walk uprightly the laws are beneficial to all. However, if we break the laws we are subject to the penalties

v5-6. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Human government needs taxation in one form or another to support the enforcement of the laws and pay the bills accrued by the operation of government. It is true that many times the laws are blind when people of wealth or special status seem to be above the laws. There is a day coming when all shall give an accounting according to the Divine Judge at the Great White Throne.

v7. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Paying your taxes and abiding by the laws of the land is Scriptural, and to refuse to abide by these laws, we are not breaking the laws of man, but of God.

v8. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. It's very difficult to apply the first phrase of this verse. Owe no man any thing to today's society. We have unlimited credit with our credit cards. However, most people abuse their credit cards and are in debt beyond their ability to ever pay it off. I was standing in a checkout line some months ago and a young woman handed the checker no less than six credit cards to pay for her groceries and every one was "maxed out" and refused to accept another billing. The woman was not embarrassed, but set aside over half of the groceries and paid cash for the rest. I would have been embarrassed to tears.

v9. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. Verse 9 has five of the Ten Commandments renewed to apply to this age of Grace, or Christian age. Some people try to avoid them because they are in the Old Testament, but here we see they are applicable to today. And a new commandment given by the Lord Jesus, Recorded three times in Matthew, 5:43, 19:19, and 22:39. Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. This is a commandment given to believers. Some times we may say, "Who is my neighbor?" Luke 10:29-37 gives the answer (this passage it too long for quoting here, but please read it and apply it to your everyday life).

v10.Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. True love overlooks things that are said or done that could hurt us. So often we say things not realizing that we are hurting others. Facial expressions and the harsh tone of the words is what hurts. We often respond with a loud exclamation and it hurts the hearer, and we did not mean to shout or hurt. Be always ready to say "I am wrong." Someone has said, These three words are the most difficult to say in the English language." Never be afraid to say them because they are healing words and restore the fellowship between members of the family or friends. The last phrase of verse 10 therefore love is the fulfilling of the law, is Christ honoring and it pays well in all relationships with our fellow men.

The actual date for writing this devotion was March 14 and we had been listening to the testimony of Jessica Smith, the young widow that convinced Brian Nickels to give himself up. She told Brian that she was a born again Christian and she showed him compassion and Christian love to the point the he did not harm her and waved his white undershirt as he surrendered to the police and sheriff's swat teams.

Ask yourself a question or two. How would you react if that person, who had killed four people in Atlanta, would come into your home and hold you hostage for 12 or 13 hours? Would you show Christian compassion to a man that was threatening to kill you? She was a very wise young lady and very careful not to antagonize him, but with complete self-control and Christian love persuaded Brian to give up.

For the last few days we have been writing about our attitude toward others, both in and out of the church. She put on, or was clothed with the Spirit of Christ in order to say what she did to the saving of her own life and possibly many others. Jessica had complete faith, in that if she were killed, she would be with the Lord. Do You? Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Romans 14:1-6. Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. The following verses bring out that one person does this or that and another just the opposite. What we need to consider is whether these things are done as ceremonial or spiritual leading. For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand. One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

If the above are because of spiritual convictions that is one thing, but if only for ceremonial then they are worthless. We are not to judge them. It is God who makes the decisions as to whether we are sincere or not.

v7. For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. No man is an island; we are all under the scrutiny of others to see whether we are transparent before God and our fellow men. Paul was never a braggart, but a humble man and he often used himself as an example to teach a lesson to others. He did on another occasion say, "I die daily." Meaning that he was putting the old sinful nature under the blood and dying to it even as Christ died for our sins. This unique personal relationship we have as Christians sets us apart from the world, yet the world is watching us all the time to find our flaws. If we walk with the Lord and confide in him as to our words and actions we are going to be an example. If we don't do the above, we will be castigated by the world and those who are watching us.

v8. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. We are to live as though each moment we are under the watchful eye of the Lord, because actually we are. He sees and knows every word and deed and we will give an account for all that was done in the flesh. If we live under the motivation and inspiration of our Lord's love and sacrifice for us, we are actually living as Paul did, we are a living sacrifice as commanded in Romans 12 1. If we live to our Lord's glory losing sight of all that concerns ourselves and become devoted to the extension of Christ's kingdom and thus honor the name of Christ before all men, we are truly living for the Lord.

v9. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. We don't know when the Lord will return for His church, but we do know that whether these old bodies are laid in the grave for a season, or we are transformed at the rapture we are going to be with the Lord for all eternity.

We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. IICor. 5:8-10.

v10. But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. It is natural to be lenient to our selves and judgmental toward others. The perfect illustration for the above statement is found in John 8:3-10, And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?

The Pharisees were notorious for finding fault with others, but they saw only righteousness in themselves. It seems to be natural for all to be censorious towards others, but very passive towards ourselves.

vs11-12. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God. There are two exceptions; babies and mental defectives are excluded only because they are not accountable for their sins, as they do not know what sin is. When we reach the age of accountability, we are then accountable for our Adamic sinful nature and will stand before the judgment seat and accept His judgment.

Mark 9:42, And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones (unaccountable ones) that believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea. This could mean not only babes and mental defectives, but also weaker Christians who are young in the faith and not spiritually ready for the meat of the Word. We have an even greater responsibility to be leaders and helpers to the "babes in Christ," to nurture them and feed them and see them grow, than we have to our natural children, lest we be judged for our negligence.

vs 13-15. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling block or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. Our Lord is the only Judge of the conscience, therefore, it is our responsibility to strengthen the weaker Christian. Some years ago this writer purchased some sparkling cider at the grocery store and one of the church members saw it, and said nothing to me, but it soon got around the church that this Pastor had purchased wine. I had no way to defend my purchase or recourse, but to this day I have not purchased another sparkling cider.

You say that was a small thing, but it is the small things that offend. That's why Paul tells us that he would not eat meat or any food that would offend another. I Cor. 8:9-13, But take heed lest by any means this liberty of your's become a stumbling-block to them that are weak. For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend. Note also the first general council at Jerusalem the edict for the Gentiles was to abstain from the following: Acts 15:20 But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood. Let not then your good be evil spoken of: For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.

Paul having dismissed the negative aspect of the Gospel, now turns to the things that are positive: Righteousness, Justice, Loving, Honorable, Good and a Pure Conscience. These Spiritual qualities are the ones that lead others to Christ. Christianity is a positive way of life and we don't need the negative things of the world.

v19. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. We had a friend in College whose surname was Makepeace; he was an older man and I can never recall him saying anything bad about anyone. He practiced his name to the best of his ability. I think the only time we ever heard him say anything that would have been a complaint, was when he candidated at a church in Northern Minnesota. There were ten people at the dinner table where Jerry and his wife were invited for dinner after the morning service. The hostess poured ten cups of hot water, one at each plate, and the host started a tea bag in his cup and then the bag went all around the table and Jerry was the last one to dip it into his hot water. Jerry said, "My tea was pretty weak."

v20-21. For meat (food) destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offense. It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak. A society is formed for mutual help. The church is better than a society and we gather together in a mutual fellowship to the betterment of all concerned. After all, we are the body of Christ and if one part of the body is offended or injured the whole body suffers. Let us, therefore, be careful that we don't offend in word or deed.

v22-3. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for what-soever is not of faith is sin. Every person, who is endowed with the Spirit, must have a clear vision that discriminates between the essential and the non-essential in order that he or she does not offend the weaker believer. He that acts in the Spirit of Christ does not please himself, but renounces part of his own privileges in order that he may remove a possible stumbling block from his brother's path. Please note the last phrase in the 23rd verse. for whatsoever is not of faith is sin. Anything done to violate the faith principle by which one is saved, and by which he lives (Romans 1:17; Hebrews 10:38) is sin. One must know beyond doubt or hesitation in his mind that what he allows is in accord with the Word of God before he acts. We trust that you will put into practice, as best you can, the above and I must preach to myself also.

15th

May 15
Self-pleasing and Self-denial
Romans 15:1-7

vs1-3. We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbor for his good to edification. For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. What Paul is teaching here is unselfishness and that the true motive of unselfishness is found in the cross of Christ. We are sure you have been around some very selfish people, especially small children and their toys, as others want to play with them. This selfish attitude is the old Adamic nature coming out, and is self-destructive. The virtue of unselfishness is for Christians, a virtue springing from their relationship with their Lord. Christ is the best illustration of self-denial and self-sacrifice. He laid aside His royal robes and all the glory he had with the Father in all eternity, to take upon himself the body of man, without sin and live in our midst for 33 years and then die in a cruelest form of death mankind could devise. Why did He do it, because He loved us unto the death.

v4-6. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be like minded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. In verse 4 Paul refers to the Old Testament, because the New Testament was not yet written. Jesus said, "Search the scriptures and see if these things be so." John 5:39.

Again in Luke 24:27, Jesus spoke to the two men on the road to Emmaus of the Scriptures: And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself." The Scriptures are not as an amulet or a charm, the mere possession of them would make you better. It is studying the Scriptures that a person becomes acquainted with the truths held there in and nothing short of that is acceptable with God. Becoming students of the Word is the most valuable asset we can gain in this life, because we eventually are going to be judged by them.

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16th

May 16
The Mutual Relationship of Jews and Gentiles
Romans 15:8

vs8-12. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. And again he saith, Rejoice, ye Gentiles, with his people. And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles; and laud him, all ye people. And again, Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. It is true that Christ came unto his own and his own received him not. John 1:11. Also in Luke 1:79 To give light to them (Gentiles) that sit in dark-ness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet in the way of peace.

Therefore the Jews should not look upon Jesus of Nazareth as an alien, not as their kinsman redeemer according to the flesh. He came not to destroy the law, but to fulfill it. Because Christ was a Jew does not mean that He does not have an interest in the Gentiles. The Apostle shows how even in the Jewish writers looked forward to an incorporation of the Gentiles with the people of God, and their sharing the blessings of the Messiah. Note verses 10 and 11 above, especially vs.12 is quoted from Isaiah 11:10 There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles; in him shall the Gentiles trust. Yes. The middle way of partition has been broken down. Ephesians 3: 5-6 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit; That the Gentiles should be fellow-heirs, and of the same body, and (joint) partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:

v13-4. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. People without hope are the most miserable to be found anywhere. How fortunate that we were born in America and that we received Christ as our Saviour. The language of these two verses is in the form of a prayer. What a blessed relationship God has given us in that with the indwelling Holy Spirit we have a hope that passes all understanding. Praise the Lord!

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17th

May 17
Paul's Expression of Confidence, not only to the
Church at Rome, but to all Christians
Romans 15:15-18

v15. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God. Paul has written to the Roman church in view of his apostolic office to the Gentiles. There are several things that Paul wants the Roman church to glory in and they are also applicable to our church.

18th

May 18
Paul Does Nothing Without the Power of the Holy Spirit
Romans 15:20-23

v20. Yea, so have I strived (earnestly desiring or making it my aim) to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation. Paul was careful not to work where others had worked, because he did not want to create confusion. Paul was very careful to build on the one and only foundation, that is Christ. Let's look at another passage that talks about the foundation. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master- builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it Is, I Cor. 3:10-13. I have known preachers who deliberately sought to destroy the ministry of their predecessor in order to build themselves up. This is not Scriptural and men who do this do it to their own self- righteous destruction.

v21. But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand. Paul is quoting from Isaiah 52:15. Isaiah was speaking of prophecy that pointed to the Messiah. Isaiah is speaking of the Gentile responding to the Gospel that Christ would present to the Jews and they would reject. The Jew's eyes were shut and their ears were stopped, because of the hardness of their hearts.

v22. For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you. Paul had been successful in evangelizing in other cities, but so far had been hindered from coming to Rome. It was not yet God's timing for Paul to go to Rome. Paul would be there when God wanted him there.

v23. But now having no more place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come unto you. Paul had visited all the large cities in the eastern Mediterranean Paul had finished his work there, but there were still cities in which to minister. Evidently from the above verse he had had a longing to go to Rome for some time, but was always held back by the Holy Spirit. May the Spirit be your guide also.

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19th

May 19
Paul's Trip to Jerusalem and Desire to go to Rome #1
Romans 15:24 and Acts 22-26

Before we go to Rome we must set the circumstances that led to Paul's trip to Rome. At the close of Paul's third missionary journey, he was given a sum of money to take to the poor Christians at Jerusalem. The Jerusalem church was first established on a form of communism, whereby they all pooled their assets and the needs of the individual or family were dispensed by the church. This was an unfortunate form of Church polity as it led to poverty over the years as the original monies were expended and they were in extreme poverty.

Paul had been given money Romans 15:26, For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. After visiting the church and giving them the gift of love from the other churches. Paul was accosted by the Jewish leaders and soon after arrested and taken to Caesarea by the Sea to witness against his accusers. Paul's first court appearance there was before Festus and later before Agrippa, in whose presence Paul demanded that he be tried before Caesar. (The history of the above is found in Acts 22-26).

Now with that cleared we can return to our text. v24. Whensoever I take my journey into Spain, I will come to you: for I trust to see you in my journey, and to be brought on my way thitherward by you, if first I be somewhat filled with your company.

Whensoever I take my journey into Spain. Ancient Spain encompassed the modern kingdoms of Spain and Portugal, or the whole of the Spanish peninsula. It was then part of the Roman Empire. It is remarkable, even here, that the apostle does not say that his principal object was to visit the church at Rome, much as he desired that, but only to "take it in his way" in the fulfillment of his higher purpose to preach the gospel in regions where Christ was not named. Whether he ever fulfilled his purpose of visiting "Spain" is a matter of doubt. One of the church fathers, Theodoret among others, say that after he was released from his first captivity when he was brought before Nero, he passed two years in Spain. If he were imprisoned a "second" time at Rome, such a visit is not improbable as having taken place "between" the two incarcerations. But there is no certain evidence of this. Paul probably projected "many" journeys that were never accomplished. The book of the Acts is very helpful, because Luke fills in the history of Paul's last trip.

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20th

May 20
Paul's Trip to Jerusalem and Desire to go to Rome #2
Romans 15:25-28

vs25-27. But now I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints. For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things. This ministry included large collections for the poor saints at Jerusalem. These Gentile contributions for the poor Jewish saints demonstrated the brotherly love for the Christian Jews. Paul says the Gentile Christians were debtors to the Jews, who had been used of God according to the Scriptures and to whom Christ came according to the flesh. Paul points out that it is only right to help the Jews because of Paul himself being a Jew and had been sent by the Holy Spirit and the Jewish Christians to minister to them the Good news of Salvation. The word carnal here refers to the monetary value they had so generously given.

Paul also knew that this was his last trip to Jerusalem and that he would be under persecution there according to Agabus the Prophet in Acts 21:10-11, And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus. And when he was come unto us, he took Paul's girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

Paul's determination takes him to Jerusalem and eventually Rome and possibly to Spain also. vs28-9. When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain. And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Paul has high hopes of reaching the multitude of merchants and travelers visiting Rome. These will give him another opportunity to spread the Gospel to far away lands as these tourists return home carrying the Christian message they have heard about in Rome. If you trace the steps of Paul on his three missionary trips you will find he went into he larger cities knowing that he would be a larger hearing. Paul followed the Holy Spirit to spread the Gospel everywhere he went. If it were by suffering, so be it, he was challenged to preach the Gospel.

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21st

May 21
Striving Together in Prayer for Paul's Ministry
Romans 15:30-33

v30. Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me. Prayer is the need of the day, not only in Paul's time, but today. Paul requested prayer knowing that prayer was the prevailing and the strongest power in his ministry. These prayers were for the faithful to intercede for him as he went to Jerusalem and Rome for the Lord's sake and the love of the Holy Spirit. We read in other passages of the intercession, ministry, prayers of the Holy Spirit, but here we learn of another attribute of the Spirit, "Love." It's only natural for the Spirit to love after all the Father and the Son love to see sinners saved and so does the Spirit.

v31. That I may be delivered from them that do not believe in Judaea; and that my service which I have for Jerusalem may be accepted of the saints. Paul's main concern at Jerusalem was that he might be delivered from the Jews that hated him and were seeking his demise. He had been a part of the inner circle in the Sanhedrin (consisting of seventy-one priests, scribes, and elders). Now he was a traitor and under the sentence of death, because he had left the Jewish faith and become a Christian. He had been their chief persecutor and now he was their chief protagonist.

v32-3. That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen. Paul never seems to be negative, but always positive. He believes that with much prayer he will make a conquest and do what God wants to do both at Jerusalem and Rome. Paul sees the future in light of the past. The Father, Son and Holy Spirit have been with him in troubles past and he knows that God the Father will not let anything happen to him that is not in the divine will of the triune Godhead.

Paul needs prayer for deliverance from the unbelievers and acceptance of gratitude from the poor saints. He also needs a joyful and refreshing trip to Rome. Little did he know that several years would pass before he got to Rome and that it would be anything, but an uneventful trip! Our timing and God's timing are many times much different. We want our prayers answered right now, but in God's timing it may be years and pitfalls before we get the answers.

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22nd

May 22
Paul Remembers the Christians that Have
Been a Blessing to Other Churches #1
Romans 16:1-3

16:1-2. I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succorer of many, and of myself also. So often we remember the people who have been a bad influence or caused problems in the church, but forget the ones that have been a blessing and an asset to the local church. How long has it been since you told the musicians or the choir members individually how much you appreciate the good music they have prepared for us each Lord's Day. These people work hard to make the worship service both worshipful and spiritual for all. Phebe may have been a deaconess and ministered to the women of her church in preparation for baptism and other needs where men could not. It also may be that her home had a "prophets chamber" for visiting ministers, especially Paul as he is the one who commends her for her faithfulness.

v3. Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: According to Acts 18, this husband and wife had ministered unto Paul on several occasions. These two were forced to leave Rome and Paul met them at Corinth.And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome and came unto them. And Paul after this tarried there yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn his head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow. We are told that Paul and Aquila were of the same trade; tent makers. It was a Jewish tradition that all young men were taught a trade of one kind or another. There are two understandings of what a tent maker did and at this point the Scripture does not determine which one they were involved in. The 1st would be making black tents from goats hair. The 2nd was prayer shawls to be worn by all Jewish men when they went to prayer. The Orthodox Jews, even to this day, wear these prayer shawls when they are at the Western Wall of the Temple site. The shawls are for the most part white with black trimmings and tassels on both ends.

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23rd

May 23
Paul Remembers the Christians that have
been a Blessing to other Churches #2
Romans 16:4-15

v4. Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Paul is still referring to Priscilla and Aquila. In this verse were evidently remembering some event where they put their lives in jeopardy to protect him from torture of death. Paul also commends the Gentile church for the faithfulness and prayers in his behalf.

v5. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Salute my well-beloved Epaenetus, who is the firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ. Paul remembers the house church in the home of Priscilla and Aquila and Epaenetus who was one of Paul's first converts in Achaia, a Roman colony which was part of what is now known as Western Turkey.

v6. Greet Mary, who bestowed much labor on us. We do not know who this Mary was, but she had been a faithful servant of the Lord and Paul.

v7. Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow-prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me. We do not know if these were relatives of Paul or if they were converted Jews, but Paul remembers them because they seem to be well known among other Apostles.

Now we see a series of names of the faithful that Paul remembers from former churches and considers them as personal friends.

24th

May 24
Paul Remembers the Christians That Have
Been a Blessing and a Curse to Other Churches
Romans 16:16-19

v16. Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you. In one of our former church we had been going through some difficult times and one of the deacons called and ask me to come and counsel with him. We had a long session of sharing and at the close of our meeting we had prayer together then the deacon came to me and kissed both cheeks and told me that he loved me. That day I really learned what a holy kiss was.

Now the scene changes and we see the other side of the coin. v17-18. Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. These who cause divisions and offenses may be Jews that want to lead the church back under the law as Paul refers to them in Galatians.

Another reference to separating ourselves from these dissenters and trouble makers in the church. They are sometimes called teachers of false doctrines. Other times they are living a carnal life and again we are to separate from them and pray that they may be converted and change their evil ways. II Peter 21-3, But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction. And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of. And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

Again Paul refers to the faithful who see through the false teachers and commends them for their spiritual insight and understanding. v19. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. Paul and Peter both are very gracious in their commendations, but they speak withering words to the destroyers of the faith that have come to their knowledge.

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25th

May 25
The Satanic Forces are to be Crushed by Christ
Romans 16:20

The Blood of Jesus Christ keeps Satan at bay and we, as Job was hedged about, are cupped in the hands of our God. We are commanded to 16:20, And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly.

We turn to the fulfillment of this last prophetic message by Paul to the Romans in Revelation 20:1-10 And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. And when the thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison, And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog, and Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom is as the sand of the sea. And they went up on the breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and the beloved city: and fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them. And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

It is important for all born-again Christians to remember that Satan is already defeated in our lives. We are to flee from the devil James 4:7, Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Back to Romans 16:20; The God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.

Let us thank God we have an Advocate with the Father, Christ Jesus who is pleading our case before the Father every time we confess our sins of the day and plead the blood on them. 1 John 1:7.

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26th

May 26
Paul's Fellow Workers and Secretary
Romans 16:21-23

v21. Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you. Young Timothy according to Acts 16:1 and following was a traveling companion with Paul. It seems from the record in the above verse, that Timothy was at Rome at the time of this writing. Also, Lucius, (Luke) was with Paul as we know from the Book of the Acts; Luke traveled with Paul on all three missionary journeys. In many ways, we could consider that Luke was keeping a diary of the events in their travels, and the Acts is a copy of Luke's diary. However, we do not take anything away from the Holy Spirit. The Spirit guided Luke in writing both the books of Luke and The Acts of the Apostles. It seems that Jason and Sosipater were either Jewish believers of related to Paul.

v22. I Tertius, who wrote this epistle, salute you in the Lord. In almost all of Paul's writings he identifies himself as the author and says nothing about having someone write for him. However, in Galatians 6:11 Paul mentions writing in large letters with his own hand. From verse 22 we can assume that Paul's eyesight was failing and he dictated this letter to Tertius.

v23. Gaius mine host, and of the whole church, saluteth you. Erastus the chamberlain of the city saluteth you, and Quartus a brother. This may be the Gaius that is mentioned in I Corinthians 1:14 as being the one baptized by Paul himself at Corinth. Note, Gaius was the host, so that says that Paul was living in his Gaius' home during the time of this writing. Lest you have forgotten this from an earlier devotion, this letter was written from the City of Corinth between 58 and 60 A.D. Two more salutations are mentioned Erastus was the chamberlain (treasurer) of the city of Corinth, and lastly Quartus is identified as a brother. He could be a brother in the flesh or a Christian brother.

These last four verses form a doxology and may well have been written by the Apostle in his own hand. It differs in form as well as fullness from Paul's others writings. However, it seems suitable and a grand ending for this blessed Epistle, and in the form of a glowing thanksgiving the essential ideas of the whole Epistle. Paul's commendation to the saints is neither reserved nor cold. It is warm and expresses his thankfulness to individuals as well as to the church. It pays big dividends to be thoughtful and considerate of others.

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27th

May 27
Paul's Final Benediction and
Commendation to the Roman Church
Romans 16:24-27

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith: To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. Amen.

This beautiful benediction is comparable to the one found in Numbers 6:22-26, And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them, The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

We reverently read the above words and better understand the heart of this great Apostle. He not only presented an unadulterated Gospel, but his words show that he was a very compassionate man.

Returning to Chapter 1:11; Paul's desire was to impart to them some spiritual gift that they might be established, and throughout this letter he did just that in writing, but there still is a keen desire to minister to them in person. Note that Paul quotes the Prophets of the Old Testament and their predictions of the coming Messiah. His very being was to follow all the commandments of the everlasting God. The Father's whole plan of salvation was to culminate in Christ and His work in the hearts of wicked mankind. He came to save humanity and deliver all from the hands of the Devil. Lastly Satan was defeated at the cross and to this day is limited to what he can do in the hearts of man. Praise God, we have the victory as we walk in the light that is given to us daily. Reading the Word is the only place we can find the answers for all our needs and prayer is the tool we have to communicate with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit and share all our blessing, as well as, the troubles. We often wonder how the unsaved are able to survive the world's conditions, not knowing what to expect next and having no hope for the future. We have and we should share as Paul did with others.

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28th

May 28
PHILEMON

v1. Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Phile-mon our dearly beloved, and fellow laborer. Paul is writing to an individual who has a church in his home and a believer in the City of Colosse. Paul mentions in verse 23 a pastor named Epaphras and is again referred to in Colossians 1:7 and 4:12. It was not until several centurites later that church buildings were built throughout the Roman Empire. Remember the Christians were at odds with Rome, because the Roman government chose the current ruler to be worshipped and that was against the faith of the Christians. The early persecutions were because the Christians refused to bow their knees to the Emperor. Almost all the Caesar's proclaimed them selves to be gods.

v2. And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house: Paul mentions two fellow workers in the faith who are also working in that City and helping to build the church. Again the house of Philemon is mentioned and it would seem from verse 19 that Paul, himself, had led Philemon to the Lord. Colosse and Ephesus were but a short distance from each other. The reason for this letter is an unfaithful slave, Onesimus, who had escaped from Colosse and was now in the same prison with Paul at Rome.

v3. Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. Paul's personal salutation to Philemon is sincere and to the point. If you were to receive a letter today with this salutation you might think the writer was trying to butter you up for a loan or something personal, but Paul was in the process of making a plea for Onesimus, (meaning of the name is "faithful one"). At this point, I am sure that Philemon was thinking only of his former slave as a thief and very unfaithful.

v4. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,. Paul was the faithful prayer worrior for all his friends. If we were as faithful in prayer for our fellow believers we would see great things happening in our church.

v5. Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints. Paul heard of Onesimus who after his conversion, testified to conditions that he knew were favorable of Philemon, or hearing from other witnesses who had come from Colosse to Rome.

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29th

May 29
Philemon, part 2

v6. That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.
Calvin has well expressed the sense of this passage. "It is to be observed that the apostle here does not proceed in the commendation of Philemon, but rather expresses what he desires for him from the Lord. These words are connected with those in which he says that he remembered him in his prayers. What, therefore, did he desire for Philemon? That his faith, expressing itself by good fruits, might be shown to be true and not vain. For he calls that the communication of his faith when it does not remain inoperative within, but bears itself forth to benefit men by its proper effects. For although faith has its proper seat in the heart, yet it communicates itself to men by good works."

The meaning is that Paul desired Philemon should make common the proper fruits of faith by his good deeds toward others, that fellow believers might know his faith to be genuine.

v7. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. In thy love toward Christians. The word here rendered "joy" properly means grace. A large number of manuscripts, however, instead of "joy" have, Charan, "grace." The word "bowels" here means hearts or innermost being for it is used in the Scriptures to denote the affections.

v8. Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Though I might have much boldness as an apostle of Christ. Paul means that he was invested with authority by the Lord Jesus, and had the right, as an apostle, to express what ought to be done in the case which he is about to lay before Philemon. The apostle implies here that what he was about to ask, was proper and should be done in the circumstances, but he does not put it on that ground. Rather, he asks it as a personal request. It is usually not best to command a thing to be done if we can secure it by asking a favor.

v9. Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. We are both prisoners here in the prison and I have had the joy of having Onesimus as a friend and brother these past few months.

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30th

May 30
Philemon, part 3

v10-18. I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Paul has had the joy of leading this poor, frightened slave to Christ and now they are brothers in the Lord.
Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me: This man was unprofitable to you in the past, but that is all in the past and he is a new creature in Christ. He has a complete change in heart and has been a blessing to me in prison and I believe he will be a blessing to you if you will accept him again as your brother and servant.
Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel. But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. Philemon I beg you to receive him as you would receive me. I am now sending your unfaithful servant home to you, My desire is that I might keep him, but I know that now he will be profitable to you in your heart and home.
For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? He departed from you as an unfaithful slave. He left you for a short time, but now since he is converted, he will be a faithful servant. You must receive him not as a slave, but as a brother in Christ for he is dear to you and me.

vs7-18. If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account. These two verses are the most beautiful in this letter. Receive this unfaithful one even as you would receive me. Forgiveness is the greatest virtue in the Christ life. If we do not forgive, how can we expect Christ to forgive us? Many times we have been wronged, but there must be forgiveness in the heart before we can go to the Lord and ask forgiveness for our own sins. Paul said if he has wronged you, charge that to my account. That's exactly what Jesus did at the cross. The Lord Jesus took our thievery, our lies, and our multitude of sins and nailed them to his Cross. He then asked the Father to charge all our sins to him and he paid the price for our sins by his death.

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31st

May 31
Philemon, part 4

vs19-25. I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides. Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord. We have no record that Paul was ever able to go back to Colosse, but we know that Paul's desire was to meet all his responsibilities, not only to himself, but to others. Paul was trusting that he would receive a letter telling him that all was forgiven and Onesimus was now in good standing with his master and brother.
Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. I trust that your prophet's chamber will be waiting for me when I come, and our hearts will be refreshed together as we recount the blessing we have received in Christ. It is typical of Paul that he counted his suffering in prison as a blessing.
But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you While you are granting this favor, do me another by preparing a lodging for me. Philemon had been accustomed to show kindness to the saints and probably had Paul before he shared his hospitality. The word rendered "lodging," means, hospitality, entertainment; and then, a place for a guest. Compare, Paul expected release from prison in answer to the prayers of those who loved him.
There salute thee Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus; Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellow laborers. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

Paul was returning Onesimus to Philemon in a new relationship. This does not mean the old relationship as master and slave was dissolved, but that it now should be continued under higher and more blessed circumstances. Christianity does not hastily or rashly interfere with existing circumstances, but does change the personal relationship between believers. Does Christianity condone slavery? NO! The truth makes free, (John 8:32) therefore, the union of believers in Christ when rightly understood, promotes love to one another and love ministers freedom. Paul found Onesimus wandering in a strange jail and Christ found us floundering in a morass of sin. As Philemon is commended to receive Onesimus as a brother, so God receives us as brothers in Christ and we become profitable in the plan of God to bring others to the Saviour.

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