The Lectionary readings that I have been using recently, particularly Matthew and the letters of Paul, have encouraged me to highlight the ways that we relate to each other under God. During my preparations for those sermons I have been reminded of four emphases in the writings of Paul; indeed these can be seen as Paul’s legacies to the churches, including us.

Now while Paul gets some criticism for his developing theology and some see him as one bound by the cultural attitudes of his day, I suggest the following points are of enormous value to us.

1.   True religion is not a matter of rules and regulations. Rather, God accepts people freely as they respond to this Grace — and by the Spirit of the Risen Christ we can make real His love for others.

2.   In Christ the “children of God” have come of age as the new humanity created by His death and risen life. God treats His children as responsible grown ups.

3.   People matter, to God, more than things, principles or causes. The highest principles and causes exist for the sake of people — and to sacrifice people to them is a perversion of the divine order.

4.   Discrimination against people on the grounds or race, class, gender, wealth or knowledge is an offence against God and humanity alike.

Of course these may not do justice to all of Paul’s writings, but I believe these values are very contemporary and worthwhile goals for those who might consider themselves to be followers of Jesus.

I hope they help us in our relationship with each other, those we love dearly, those in the wider church family and all those in God’s created world.

Yours in Christ,

Chris