In the book of Philemon, the Apostle Paul writes of a runaway slave named Onesimus.  Onesimus was one whom Paul had converted while imprisoned in Rome, referring to him as a son “whom I have begotten in my bonds” (vs 10), and instructing Philemon to receive him as a brother (vs 16).  Verse 15-16 reads: …. that thou shouldest receive him forever; Not now as a servant (slave) but above a servant, a brother beloved…

We as Christians are all brethren.  We are all children of God by faith (Gal 3:26) and our spirit bears witness with God’s Spirit that we are the children of God (Rom. 8:16).  As children of God, we are then brothers and sisters in Christ; “all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal 3:27-28).  This relationship comes with both responsibility and blessing.

We are to love as brethren (1 Peter 3:8) and pray for one another (1 Thess. 5:25).  When a brother errs or strays from the faith, we are to work to restore him (Gal 6:1; James 5:19-20) and when we find a brother in need, we are to help him (1 John 3:17). Are we doing our part in support of our brethren?

What a blessing it is that God has provided such a great opportunity and support system for us as Christians.  Are we thankful?  We should be.

How God Saves – – Keep the Faith