Philemon 1:8-10

The religion of Christ a defense of social order, not a disturbing force.

There have been religions which have been simply forces of destruction. Mohammedanism, when it was first preached, and even to this day, as far as its power extends, has the Koran in one hand and the scimitar in the other, and offers but the alternatives of conversion, slavery, or death. The actors in the French Revolution of 1789 strove to spread their new gospel of liberty, equality, and fraternity at the point of the sword. Communism in 1870, and Nihilism since, make war upon all that is old, and desire to destroy all existing social organizations to make room for their own schemes. These are destructive forces in human nature, and nothing more.

I. THE RELIGION OF CHRIST IS NOT ITSELF A SECULAR POLITY OR FORM OF GOVERNMENT . It does not, therefore, seek to uproot the social order which exists in any country. It, indeed, acts upon the individuals which compose the nation, and so in course of time transforms from within the institutions of the country. But it does not attack them from without ; and therefore it is compatible with any form of government.

II. IT EXERCISES NO COMPULSORY POWER , NO PHYSICAL FORCE . It works through the will of the person addressed, and leads , but does not compel . That is the characteristic method of Christianity. Thus St. Paul would not force the will of Philemon. His apostolic authority would have warranted his speaking in a tone of command: "I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient." But he preferred to persuade : "For love's sake I rather beseech thee."

III. THE CHRISTIAN RELIGION , THEREFORE , MAKES GOOD CITIZENS . "Fear God. Honor the king" ( 1 Peter 2:17 ). It expressly recognizes the ruling powers de facto as entitled to obedience, and as the representatives of the Divine principle of authority and government ( 1 Peter 2:13 ); as having the right, therefore, to be legally obeyed. It inculcates quiet and peaceful conduct, harmless, law-abiding, observant to perform contracts and obligations ( 1 Thessalonians 4:11 , 1 Thessalonians 4:12 ), and directs each to be careful of the rights of others ( 1 Thessalonians 5:15 ; Philippians 2:4 ). These are the characteristics of its true followers; and in all its system it keeps in mind the great objects of promoting peace and unity, of qualifying its people by the elevation of their personal characters for the fullest measure of liberty, and at length of eternal happiness. It is the surest defense of nations.