That I may answer him who reproaches me.
“The admonition in [the first line] reflects an intense sense of family solidarity and mutual pride of the generations in one another…The motivation of [the second line] is based on a healthy culture of shame and honor. United with his son intellectually and emotionally, the father is in a position to refute anyone who denigrates his significance, worth, and ability. What will proves his worth will be the tangible reality of a true son, who through the wisdom he learned prospers, negotiates his way through temptation, and triumphs over death. He will be his father’s weapon of defense.” (Waltke, 380, 381)
We’ve noticed it before and now we’ll just state it again. Much of the happiness and confidence of our later years depends on the quality of our children. Lord, be good to us. “Let Your glorious power be shown to…[our] children.”
And might I also add, as a pastor, the same is true – albeit to a lesser degree – of my relationship with you. “For now [I - Colin] live, if you are standing fast in the Lord.” “For what is [my] hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are [my] glory and joy.”
Can’t you see why – even if we would want it so – we can’t pretend this partnership isn’t personal, isn’t valuable?
What’s at stake in your disagreement with your brother or sister? Wounded pride? A meal? Disturbance of your thoughts?
But before we launch an offensive against another, consider that you might be attacking what Paul clearly calls “the work of God.”
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