Paul seems to be casting a vision here. Something great is to be hoped for, something glorious to be inherited. Since I mistakenly raised my hand in a class last semester thus signing myself up to be an "expert" on the theory of Social Constructionism, I've often been surprised how much the mission of God is social construction. Christ's body on earth is socially constructed of the church. Where two or three are gathered, Christ is in the midst of them. And here in Paul's letter, where is the glorious inheritance to be found? In the saints. Christ's gospel is made known, is experienced, in the community of faith.
It is kind of shocking to see Paul write this passage in this way, because every other clause so far has been followed by "In Christ" (v.3); "in him" (v. 4); "through Jesus Christ" (v. 5) according to the purpose of his will (v.5); in the beloved (v. 6); In him (v.7); through his blood (v. 7); according to the riches of his grace (v.7); in Christ (v. 9); in him (v.10); In him (v.11); in Christ (v. 12); In him (v.13). See what I mean? It is clear who is the author and perfecter of all this. And yet here Paul departs from that very deliberately to make a point.
What point is he trying to make? I'm hoping that the following verses will make it more clear. What does seem obvious is that the saints, the people of God, the faithful, are foundational to the Gospel on earth.
by the will of God,
Jonathan
No comments:
Post a Comment