6:5
“Beatings, imprisonment and riots”, we find examples of all these things in Acts. The giving of lists of things (virtues, vices etc) was a common rhetorical practice, and one frequently used by Paul. These beatings etc were accompanied by “hard work, sleepless nights and hunger”. Paul’s life was no easy living. Sages of the day listed hardships to contrast themselves with charlatans, and Paul is doing the same.
6:6
Along with the beatings, virtues were produced in Paul: “purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love”. There are obvious similarities to Galatians 5:22,23. Hardship and suffering do not automatically produce virtue. People who suffer may become bitter, they be utterly crushed, but some develop amazing character, being full of love, gentleness and determination. We need the Holy Spirit to ensure that the good stuff is produced!
No comments:
Post a Comment