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Philemon 1 - Manifest
As I was reading this short book, the following verses have continued to catch my eye. I think I started to understand why when I read them in the translation below.
Philemon 1:4-6 I thank my God, and always make mention of you in my prayers, Since I have heard of your faith and love, which you have toward our LORD Jesus, and toward all saints; That the participation of your faith may bear fruits in works, and in knowledge of everything that is good which you have in Jesus Christ.
What drew me in was Paul's having heard about Philemon's faith, love, and works. Particularly it was the mention of works. You see, there is some controversy in the rarified realms of Christian academia regarding Paul's position about faith and the relationship to works. Some scholars believe that the book of James was written to refute Pauline theology which, on the surface, seems to state that works are not a component of salvation.
James 2:17 Even so faith, without works, is dead, by itself.
However, just like the powerful statement from James, I see in today's reading that Paul is saying that faith will be made manifest by the works a person does. Works are the result of faith.
Man-i-fest:
1. To show or demonstrate plainly; reveal:
2. To be evidence of; prove.
So, just like Philemon, our lives should manifest good works (fruit). Because that is how God is brought glory.
John 15:8 You should produce much fruit and show that you are my followers, which brings glory to my Father.
There is yet one other definition of manifest that applies to today's reading. It is; a list or accounting of goods carried on a truck or train.
When we reach heaven's great white judgment, what will the manifest of our lives show? Will it have good works listed in abundance, or will be pretty empty?
Heavenly Father, like Paul, I pray that the participation or manifestation of my faith will produce fruit in good works. May those in my sphere of influence do likewise. In Jesus' name, Amen.
The destination is fast approaching, what's on your manifest? Jan
Who am I?
I am a Christian man in his mid 40's. Like many men, I struggle with daily life issues. I know that my wife and children deserve to have a man of integrity, a man of courage, a man of passion, in short - a warrior for God, as head of our home.
Therefore, one of the things I have resolved to do is to chronicle my bible readings as the Lord Jesus gives me strength and ability. I am doing so with several other men that God has placed in my life. It is a concept that you can find on www.dbrag.org. I encourage you to follow suit.
Remember, if you are in Christ, you are blessed!
Jan Broucinek
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jan @ tinybeetle.us
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