Day 163/260: Read Philemon

Broken homes, poverty, racism…all around, we see and experience difficulties and heartaches. How can we make the world a better place? Start by making the world better for one person. Then encourage them to make it better for someone else. One by one, we can change the world.

At times, some criticize the New Testament for its lack of condemnation of slavery. Yet, we see the deconstruction of the institution in the teachings of how people should treat people—regardless of color or class.

Paul writes to Philemon, a slave owner, on behalf of Onesimus, a slave. But Onesimus was more than just a slave. He had become Philemon’s brother in Christ. Paul appealed to the highest Christian principle of love, urging Philemon to receive this man back as “a beloved brother.”

Inspired writers generally did not get involved in political matters. In fact, it is written, “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves” (Rom. 13:1-2).

Rather than trying to change policy, the gospel seeks to change people. One by one. Love each other. Treat your fellow man with respect. Be like Jesus. That’s how we make the world a better place.

Memory (Fill in the blanks)

1 Timothy 1:15. This is a _______________ saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to _______________ sinners, of whom I am chief.

Pray

Pray for the opportunity to make the world better for someone today.