When we become aware of a conflict between two people we often have one of two responses. We either avoid getting involved or we go and talk about the conflict with other people. The latter response is never the best option, as it is typically affiliated with gossip.
Sometimes choosing to not get involved is the correct response. The last thing that we need to do is to stick our nose into business that has nothing to do with us.
But, sometimes especially for those of us who identify as leaders we have a responsibility to get involved. We have a responsibility to speak up so that others can stand up. We have to be willing to risk our reputation for the good of others if we desire to be effective in working for the good of others.
This is essentially what the apostle Paul does in his letter to Philemon. Onesimus had greatly embarrassed Philemon by running away from him. Paul encounters Onesimus, leads him into the way of following Jesus and then sends him back to Philemon to make things right. Paul doesn't send Onesimus back and say "I'm not going to get involved." Paul writes a letter on behalf of Onesimus, and in some ways risks his reputation on Onesimus' behalf.
"But if he (Onesimus) has wronged you in anyway or owes you anything, charge that to my account;" - Philemon 1:18
Paul is taking on the debt of Onesimus (Similar to the way Jesus takes on our debt). This is not only a great leadership move on Paul's part in initiating conflict restoration between two individuals, it is also, a great challenge for each of us.
Onesimus had placed himself in a difficult position, but Paul was convinced that Onesimus' life had been changed so he spoke up on his behalf. Therefore, Onesimus was confidently able to stand up into the new calling for his life.
How can you begin to speak up for others so that they can stand up?
For more on this check out our message from this past Sunday at New Story Church.
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