I really appreciate Paul’s ability to highlight uniqueness and diversity in the midst of our unity. He says, “these are the only men of the circumcision among my fellow workers for the kingdom of God, and they have been a comfort to me” (4:11). Men of the circumcision means they were Jews, which was Paul’s heritage too. He pointed out and was “comforted by” their diversity, among the Gentiles, even though he says earlier, “Here there is not Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised…but Christ is all, and in all” (3:11). I think a lot of times we hear/feel that it is wrong to enjoy our differences since “we are all one in Christ.” But the truth is I AM A WHITE AMERICAN GIRL–not everyone is a white American girl, Amen?!–we ARE different! Paul’s point in 3:11 is that our identity IN CHRIST brings unity in spite of our diversity, it doesn’t do away with it.
colossians–day 3
by Courtney Cherest | October 23, 2011 | Colossians | 1 comment
I like your clear way of making a point. Well done.