Article September 19, 1925 Issue

"On the stairs which lead up to spiritual love"

MYRTLE TIMMONS SUTHERLAND

On page 76 of "Retrospection and Introspection" Mrs. Eddy tells us: "The spiritually minded meet on the stairs which lead up to spiritual love. This affection, so far from being personal worship, fulfils the law of Love which Paul enjoined upon the Galatians. This is the Mind 'which was also in Christ Jesus,' and knows no material limitations. It is the unity of good and bond of perfectness."

The last chapter of Paul's letter to the early Christians in Rome presents in few words a volume of the beauty of Christian fellowship. The first two verses are about Phebe. These tell all we know of her history, but through them, though separated from her by centuries of time, we feel united to her because of the integrity, purity, and fidelity of her thought. Paul introduces her to their coworkers in Rome as a Christian of Cenchrea whom he has intrusted to carry his letter to Rome, and he commends her to their loving consideration, "for," he says, "she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also."

Paul's individual greetings to his friends tell us of the warm loyalty with which these early followers of Christ Jesus supported each other in their work. In a few words, mere Roman names become active working Christians before our very eyes,—Eepænetus, Andronicus, Junia, Amplias, Urbane, Tryphena, Tryphosa, Persis, and many others. Priscilla and Aquila, Paul says, had risked their lives for his sake, insomuch that not only was Paul grateful to them, but likewise all of the churches of the Gentiles. "Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord, and his mother and mine," directs Paul. In these words we behold a gentle Christian mother who welcomed the homeless Paul and made a home for him with her own son during the time he spent among them.

Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.

Send a comment to the editors
NEXT IN THIS ISSUE
Article
Loving Good
September 19, 1925
Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit