Therefore, although in Christ I could be bold and order you to do what you ought to do, yet I prefer to appeal to you on the basis of love. It is as none other than Paul—an old man and now also a prisoner of Christ Jesus— that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. Philemon 1:8-10
The apostle Paul led a runaway slave to faith in Christ. His master could have exacted punishment upon the salve upon his return. Instead, Paul makes an appeal to receive him as a brother in the Lord. The gospel has the power to inform some of the most difficult societal issues. Paul makes his appeal based on mutual love for Christ and one another, instead of his position and even history of leading Onesimus to faith in Christ. What a tremendous display of humility.
Do I operate and appeal to people on the basis of love? Or do I demand my way because I am the boss? Who am I leading to faith in Christ? Where are my sons and daughters in the faith?
God, was a beautiful demonstration of your heart and the power of the gospel. Oh, I pray I have the opportunity to minister like Paul and to share the gospel today. And Lord, I also hope my brother has a great birthday!
