On going through the photocopy work sheet for the first time I look at the words Paul used to describe the people he was writing to: Saints, Partners in the Gospel, Brothers (used at least 8 times), Friends, Loyal Yoke Fellows, Workers. He feels such a close bond to those who have joined him in his love for Christ.
When you look closely at the first 11 verses of this letter, the affection Paul feels for these fellow workers, brothers, friends jumps right out at you. In his prayer for them he thanks God and prays with joy because of their partnership with him. He feels such affection for them it is like the heart ache we feel when we are parted from someone, maybe a child, husband, brother, sister, who we love.
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