Presbyterian Theological Seminary Hosts Lecture on Global Neighboring and Belonging

Dr. Ruth Padilla DeBorst, the Richard C. Oudersluys Professor of World Christianity at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, delivered the W. Don McClure Lecture at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary as part of the World Mission Initiative Conference. Her talk, titled “Global Neighboring as Gospel Witness,” drew from the Book of Philemon, where the Apostle Paul addresses the slave Onesimus, who had fled with some of his master’s property. Padilla DeBorst highlighted how Paul’s message challenges the Roman imperial system by calling for a new form of belonging rooted in Christ.

Paul’s letter to Philemon, Padilla DeBorst explained, presents a radical vision of community. Despite Onesimus’ actions, Paul urges Philemon to receive him not as a slave or fugitive, but as a “worthy brother.” This call, she said, is grounded in the demands of Jesus’ way—love, human dignity, and a just community shaped by Christ’s life and ministry. She described this as a form of global neighboring that subverts the dehumanizing logic of empire.

Jesus’ way, according to Padilla DeBorst, involves acknowledging and stepping down from privilege, living both locally and globally within the reign of God. She referenced Eugene Peterson’s translation of John 1:14, where Jesus “squeezes into a fragile human frame,” not merely to experience human life but to suffer oppression and death. This, she said, reveals the cost of restoring broken relationships and welcoming God into creation.

Padilla DeBorst emphasized that the gospel calls believers to embody this radical love. It is not about maintaining privilege but about embracing humility and service. Her message aligns with the biblical theme of justice, mercy, and humble service found in Micah 6:8.

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