Philemon 1:14 But without your mind would I do nothing; that your benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. I. A PREFERENCE WITH RESPECT TO GOODNESS. Paul was anxious not simply about the pardon of Onesimus, but as to — 1. The moral quality of the action of Philemon. Spontaneousness is an element of the highest goodness. The necessity which dictates to the Christian should be from within rather than from without. 2. The principle it was to illustrate. That Christianity is not a mere adjustment of external relations, but a spirit which interpenetrates and transfigures all. 3. Its spiritual effect upon the age. It has a greater effect upon the receiver, and upon onlookers, when a good deed is perceived to be spon taneous and not due to the influence of another. II. A SPIRIT OF CONSIDERATION FOR THE FREEDOM AND INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY OF A FELLOW CHRISTIAN. St. Paul's behaviour throughout this episode is an example to us all of the courtesies that ought to soften and dignify the general relations of life; but of greater value is its suggestiveness in the spiritual sphere. It teaches us — 1. To do justice to the spiritual life of others. 2. To respect the diverse operation of the One Spirit. 3. To maintain a confident faith in the promptings of Christian principle. (A. F. Muir, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly. |
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