Love: A New Commandment - a Journey in PhilippiansSample

The King of Love

“Gospel” didn’t start out as a religious word. The ruler of the largest part of the known world was Caesar. In the Roman Empire, paying taxes, living under Caesar's rule and even worshipping Caesar all went together. Caesar worship was the fastest-growing religion, as we would call it. And news about this emperor was called “Gospel”. There is a whole story behind that Gospel that we cannot fully appreciate because we are not living in that world. But it was into that world that Paul came with the Gospel of another Ruler. Here is what was said about Paul and his companions:

“These people who have been turning the world upside down have come here also … They are all acting contrary to the decrees of the emperor, saying that there is another king named Jesus.” (Acts 17:6&7)

And this Gospel landed Paul in jail. Dangerous criminals - and to them, Paul was one - were put in the Imperial Guard’s custody. Of course, people could say, “If Jesus really is King, why did the rulers in the Roman Empire have the power to put his messenger in jail?” But Paul’s confidence in this Gospel was so strong that he shared it with Caesar’s personal bodyguards. In any case, this is not about the love of power. People in the Roman Empire knew that Gospel quite well. This is the Good News of the true King and the power of love. Paul’s courage gave others boldness to also speak about King Jesus. And for Paul, this is one of the biggest reasons for all the joy and rejoicing in this letter. People are partnering with him, caring for him in prison, and this confirms the Gospel because it is the Gospel of the King of Love.

Reflection Question

Where in my world do I see the effects of the love of power?

Prayer:

Thank you, Lord Jesus, that you are the true King of heaven and earth. I praise you that your kingdom is the power of your love. Thank you for making me a partner in your Gospel. May your kingdom come more and more on earth as in heaven. Amen.