Approval of Men ...

Thursday, June 6, 2019. We live in a time where the approval of anything humans do is measured by likes and the money an audience is willing to spend on something. We have come to the point where we hold good what is popular.

Of course, it is good to have everyone involved. Democracy means that all can express their opinion without fearing any negative sanctions or even violence. It also means that by choices of many preferences find their way into real developments. Some people will try to influence the masses - to stir the choices into a direction which is beneficial for them. It is an interesting interaction, this game of influence.

Clearly, we are happy when we are not part of a dictatorship, where some people impose their choices on others. In too many countries of this world today people have to live that way: under the oppression of a party or particular religious group. At the same time, we need to see that choices are not completely arbitrary. When we search for insight and truth, for example, it is the facts which are our reference. Let us think more about this … !

Goal and Purpose …

The apostle Paul has experienced the living God in a series of special experiences. He met Jesus, the risen Lord. And he has started to talk about the gospel, about the forgiveness and reconciliation which can be found in him, in Christ Jesus.

Now, Paul is talking about the foundation of his activity. Is he doing things to please men? What is his target? What is the reason and basis of his work? Paul writes:

10 For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ. (Gal 1, 10)

Community of the Spirit …

(Roland Potthast) ... further texts