If you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. (Philemon 17, NIV 1984).
My Musings – Onesimus, a “runaway” slave from his master Philemon, who came to saving faith under Paul’s ministry. “Helping [Paul] while [he was] in chains for the gospel…a dear brother,” (Philemon 13, 17, NIV 1984). Paul was sending Onesimus back to Philemon, “no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother,” (Philemon 15–16, NIV 1984).
For “[we] are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus,” (Galatians 3:26, 28, NIV 1984). Brothers and sisters in Christ of other believers are also our brothers and sisters in Christ. As we have the opportunity to do so, we should welcome them as our own dear brother or sister in Christ. For that is what they are. There is no room for cliques in the Kingdom of God.
My Advice – “A man [or woman] of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother [or sister],” (Proverbs 18:24, NIV 1984). This is how it should be among fellow believers. When “ruin” threatens, they “stick [close].” We should do the same.
The Brew Is A Musing 