Therefore, though I have enough confidence in Christ to order you to do what is proper, Philemon 1:8 NASB Confidence – If we only had this sentence, we would think that Paul is acting like the Pope. Of course, the next sentence makes it clear that he isn’t issuing a papal bull, but we haven’t investigated that next sentence…
“Now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require from you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways and love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the Lord’s commandments and His statutes which I am commanding you today for your good?” Deuteronomy 10:12-13 NASB Require –…
“Simon, Simon, behold, Satan has demanded permission to sift you like wheat;” Luke 22:31 NASB Demanded permission – How much authority do you give to Satan? Even this translation seems to suggest that he can demand opportunity to cause spiritual distress. But closer examination corrects some of our Medieval additions to his power and character….
