Brotherly Appeal (Philemon 8-16)

Paul has the authority of an apostle.  This means that Paul can give a command and it is as if Christ gives the command.  Paul makes a big deal not to appeal to his apostolic authority when he exhorts Philemon.  Why does Paul use so many words rather than simply write, “I command you to forgive your brother who ran away!”  Why does Paul try so hard not to constrain Philemon through forceful words?

Sojourning Under the Sun: Sabbath Silence (1 Thessalonians 4:11)

The Apostle Paul exhorts us to live a life to the Lord without stirring up controversy.  Why would Paul say such things and what does Paul by living a peaceful and quiet life?

Sojourning Under the Sun: Sabbath Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37)

The parable of the Good Samaritan is a parable that certainly teaches us to be concerned for our neighbor, it teaches us to care for the physical needs as well as the spiritual, but is there a deeper meaning to this parable?  In other words what other information can this parable be teaching us about the kingdom?