03 March 2011 - Background for Communications

The book of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul.
It is interesting to take note of the background of Paul and how his upbringing and his make-up influence him to use certain terms/ words in the letter to the Romans.
On Tuesday, we discussed on the word "bond-servant" in Romans 1:1 (NASB95)
¹ Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God...
We were discussing whether Paul used the word as a Greco-roman concept or a Hebrew concept?
Paul, being influenced by the educational and social system, being raised up under one of the finest teacher of that time, Gamaliel, could used the word to imply that he has no status.
However, if Paul being a Jew and was by nature thinking like a Jew, he might be using "bond-servant" to indicate status. This is because in the Old Testament, the concept means that he is the Servant of the Most High.
We spend quite some time discussing about this because this will affect how we see the writings to the Romans.

Some of the things that I reflected on:
- Our background (upbringing, educational and social system, our belief system and so on) affects our writings, our communications and our outworking in life.
Yet God uses this background of ours to work in and through us.
However, in the process of our faith journey, we are also challenged to change some of our beliefs system so that we can offer our lives a living and pleasing sacrifice to God, a life of service to Him. (Romans 12:1-2)

- Our Background allows others to understand us
In a conversation, have you ever hear this being asked, "Where are you coming from?"
And after explaining yourself, your point becomes clearer.
After Tuesday discussion, it becomes a reminder that we should try to communicate in a way that others will be able to understand us.
The words in Ecclesiastes 12:9-11 (NASB95) came to mind: "⁹ In addition to being a wise man, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge; and he pondered, searched out and arranged many proverbs. ¹⁰ The Preacher sought to find delightful words and to write words of truth correctly. ¹¹ The words of wise men are like goads, and masters of these collections are like well-driven nails; they are given by one Shepherd. "
We should make every effort to be understood.