THE PARTNER. v.17 Partnership doesn't imply that one is a guest; rather, it signifies being of equal standing before God. When Paul identified himself as a partner with Philemon, it was a powerful formal statement. Some simple assertions we make about a matter hold more value than an entire speech. Common fellowship, shared interests, mutual feelings, collaborative work, and collective faith unite us and connect us meaningfully. For Philemon to refuse Onesimus after Paul interceded for him would contradict the principles of partnership. To receive people as you would embrace a loved one carries immense weight and significance.
Fellowship with God's people involves both social and spiritual interactions. Both depend on our relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. Some may view life's events in a way that aligns with the world around them. This perspective can limit the depth of fellowship they share with those who believe we "should" come out from among them and be separate. Some assert that this means all believers should dress uniformly, while others argue that the principle of modesty guides how we clothe ourselves. When these opinions diverge, we must consult the scriptures for our guidance and the resulting implications.
Every child of God is equal before God. They are all "fellow heirs." Each one is a fellow member of that body in which God has placed us. Every child of God is able to be a fellow partaker of God's promises to those in Christ. The Gospel has crossed all barriers and, in doing so, has given us understanding that we have been made partakers of the riches in Christ.
Partners. Unity fosters cooperation among the Lord’s people, bringing joy and offering a glimpse of what life will be like when God’s children are in heaven. It energizes the Lord’s followers, reduces tension, and encourages commitment from each believer. Unity acknowledges the saints for the Lord’s work in fellowship with others, guided by the Holy Spirit. Unity does not imply that everyone always agrees, but it affirms our shared purpose for existence and our goals as God’s people. Outward unity reflects inward purpose.
There is agreement on fundamental issues. There is room for different opinions on lesser matters, but brotherly love prevails in everything. Unity can exist within diversity. Together, there is strength and effectiveness. Bible-believing Christians should agree on the essentials and avoid being disagreeable, jealous, condemning, or hateful when opinions differ. We must “keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”
The unity of consecrated people is a blessing to many. It refreshes those who walk together in fellowship. This is how the Gospel message has spread across the world. When the unity of believers shares divine truth with those who need to hear it, it nurtures many lives. Unity is good and pleasant. It carries the spiritual fragrance of joy and gladness. Unity is both refreshing and satisfying, guaranteeing God’s blessing because He commands a blessing where brethren dwell together in unity. How blessed we are when happy, holy fellowship, which is essential for unity, guides our worship and service to our Lord. Then we worship the Father “in spirit and truth.” Unity is a wonder to behold, involving warm affection, mutual interest, and practical support for one another.
Paul and Philemon were partners. Partners are two parties who agree and possess binding authority over each other. The interests of both parties are involved, and a mutual agreement is established along with the method of forming the covenant. The bond between these two close friends was strengthened when they entered into a partnership in the Lord. Being open and honest with one another is a benefit of partnership because both faults and blessings can be acknowledged and addressed. Openness is a hallmark of genuine fellowship and mutual love. Words are not merely fleeting thoughts; they are the means through which we communicate from a sincere heart.
Receive. When we are committed to God, we may not get the answers we want, but we will remain believing despite circumstances. We won’t need a conference call or any time to negotiate a response to the outcome. We will trust in the character and wisdom of the partner. Confidence in God’s sovereignty reassures us and moves us to accept the partner’s will if it differs from mine. I must trust Him, even when I don’t know what is happening. I know God can and will do right in His own time and way.
Consolation becomes genuine when we share with the people of God what has united us in the Body of Christ. From the bonds of such love, we will never part. Consolation in Christ, with one accord and one mind, will keep God’s people forever intertwined in the comforting circle of fellowship I entered into. It is into this fellowship that I have been called, and this is my home. We must have a common denominator, a shared power to adopt another's perspective. This is not solely derived from common interests but from the soul, where our convictions take root.
To love alike indicates one person who has won the hearts of all involved. It keeps us all united as we look in one direction toward the same Person who has captivated our hearts. We also love the shared interests we have cherished since the beginning of our relationship. One accord describes pleasures akin to musical harmony in our spirit. Joy and fellowship link us as the Spirit of God unites us; we have different personalities, yet the same interests. Everyone has unique gifts and abilities, but all contribute to creating harmonious fellowship.
Reaching a common objective requires a unified mindset. Although each person is unique, we aim to glorify God’s Son. Those "children of God by faith in Jesus Christ" share fellowship as they form a new relationship. The fellowship the Father and Son always enjoyed has been opened to us. This fellowship is not based on origins; it is a relationship where those involved share their lives. Communion is a union of people participating in and enjoying the same things. It is a life experienced by those who have things in common.