Grace Be with You

Philemon 1:22-25 

 Perhaps have heard whispers of scandal involving fellow named Epstein.  Life in Rome under Nero’s administration not so very different – sordid activities involving top levels of society down, widespread corruption, allegations of wrongdoing, much carried on in public and worse in private. Imagine who might take brunt of hardship and persecution – those with reputation for doing good and standing against evil. No wonder Paul was a target, esp. with his influence w/i ranks of Caesar’s household.

As time passed and Nero’s perversions increased, his public behavior became even more unpredictable and brutal. Paul had few illusions and no guarantees about tomorrow and what it might bring. Yet very little of his uncertainty comes through in letter. Discusses plans for future as he did at other times, not burdening his readers with circumstances they couldn’t change. A good practice for us to follow in own planning.

Paul knew what Christ had called him to do: Acts 9:15 But the Lord said to him, “Go, for he is a chosen vessel of Mine to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel.” Even though confined, still had all resources needed to carry on ministry. Spring him loose, God had done before, he would continue carrying Gospel forward. Made plans accordingly, not mired in uncertainty and indecision but instead certain God would direct steps.

A. prepare and pray  v.22

travel plans

doesn’t make big deal about it but… no missions agency w/ line item “travel expense”, didn’t have personal wealth either

no designated travel agent to coordinate itinerary, have to work out specifics at time of departure, substantial work!

didn’t hold back, gave Philemon heads-up / assignment… make sure accommodations all prearranged to be ready

uncertain future

confined at heart of Roman Empire, basically under Nero’s very eyes, tyrant growing more violent and vindictive, esp. toward Christians

hated all they represented – moral standard contrary to Nero’s, refusal to worship anyone but Christ, not even emperor

didn’t always bother find excuse for eliminating any who he thought were some kind of threat incl. men like Paul

trusting in God

none of this interfered w/ Paul’s planning, may have added fuel to flame of zeal for Gospel… only thing effective against evil

determined to make plans as if there were no hindrances, no valid reason to think his Gospel work couldn’t be completed

gives one basis for confidence, prayers of God’s people in church in Philemon’s home – knew simple act of prayer has no inherent power – one addressed crucially important

B. personal greetings  v.23-24

Epaphras

described Col 1.7 “a faithful minister of Christ on your behalf” – leader in Colosse church, valued fellow-servant

no details, considered fellow prisoner and, in Paul’s estimation, confined b/c of Gospel and Epaphras’ part in spreading

Mark

probable reference to John Mark, companion w/ Paul & Barnabas during first part of first missionary journey, went home

no longer source of difference between Paul & Barnabas, had w/ Barnabas’ encouragement and time become helpful to Paul

Aristarchus

identified in accompanying letter to Colosse as fellow prisoner, maybe also from same church, probably one of leaders

officials crafty enough to not bother with small fry, lock them up – much more effective to cripple leadership, try to destroy movement by demoralizing

sounds more and more like being close to Paul, associated with him a real risk to personal liberty – still happens today

Demas

2Ti 4.10 “Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica” – certainly not commendation for his behavior or motivation

can easily think much less of Demas than req’d, that he preferred what world offered to claims/promises of Christianity

could simply mean wasn’t ready to be a martyr – at this point is laboring well in Gospel ministry alongside other good men

Luke

long-standing companion of Paul, fellow traveler since Troas for all of European ministry – kept travel blog as Gospel advanced

as fellow laborer played his own part in spreading Gospel from Macedonia to Rome – like other Bible writers, avoided drawing attention to self along the way

all of these men serious hard-working risk-taking men, personally acquainted with one another, Paul and Philemon – not a Lone Ranger in the group

NOTE: Paul makes clear elsewhere recognition God’s call on individual is individual – God doesn’t equip everyone to do everything; God also calls to kind of work, not necessarily a place of work that doesn’t change

C. plea for grace  v.25

unmerited favor

Paul’s letters typically include at least one prayer / benediction / doxology – this begins with “grace .. peace”, ends w/ grace

adds “grace” to traditional greeting used by God’s people for centuries, “shalom” – grace, favor we don’t deserve, can’t ever earn

2 alternatives: nothing from God or opposition – his grace a blessing, a huge irreplaceable one cannot do without

unity of the group

returns to addressing entire church family, including them all together in “your spirit” – plural pronoun, singular noun… the spirit of all of you

a desire first on part of apostle that Lord Jesus would pour out his grace on entire church family in ongoing way

on the ground of shared grace they have spirit of unity and fellowship together because of shared bond with Jesus

closing benediction

like principle of who we pray to, who we expect to receive grace from also of vital importance – must inform our praising

is good we praise him individually for his glorious grace, is also good when we do so together – helps us to grow closer to Christ and one another

remember, is Christ’s grace that nourishes and strengthens our spirit, innermost being, equipping for service to Christ and Gospel

Not difficult to see countless ways the Enemy is working to push people apart. Loyalties and associations based on issues, not principles. Presenting information in ways that polarize. List of things can get long quickly. Must not allow that to occur w/i Christ’s church. Remember first who we have in common – Christ. Then what we have in common – his truth and all it includes. Then what we are to do with it in common – live according to his truth and declare it at every opportunity.

By his grace, with his help and together with one another, can fulfill our calling… doing our part to help Christ’s kingdom to grow.

 

The Heart of the Matter

Philemon 1:17-21 

Written to struggling church several years before Philemon

1 Cor 9:19-23  “For though I am free from all men, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win the more; and to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews; to those who are under the law, as under the law, that I might win those who are under the law; to those who are without law, as without law (not being without law toward God, but under law toward Christ), that I might win those who are without law; to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Now this I do for the gospel’s sake.”

Emphasis here on communicating the Gospel / witnessing / evangelizing, but not persona Paul switched on or off. Not ability only used in that one kind of situation. Describes how he interacted with people of all kinds in person and in writing. Could be blunt, to the point, he was when needed. Here… uses different approach w/ friend Philemon. A skill we could all learn to practice better more of the time.

If anything Paul wrote to Philemon counts as pressure, finally comes in here – “if you consider me a partner”, then later v.19 what seems didn’t want to bring up “you owe me your own self”. Quickly moves on to less intense requests and final closing remarks.

A. partners in the Gospel  v.17

more than brothers

w/o question changes tone, makes plain to readers Paul not simply being politely diplomatic in attempting to persuade

in Paul’s view, he considered Philemon an equal partner, not only acquaintance – checking to be sure feeling is mutual

certainly room for substantial expectations one to the other – not out of line to be asking big things from Philemon

emphasizes Gospel focus

foundation of everything to this point in letter is Christ – doesn’t state partner in the Gospel, but connection strongly implied

providing meeting place, perhaps leadership for local church – either or both would keep evangelistic momentum going

Paul instrumental in planting local churches – always relied on others, often local recognized people w/connections to continue

shared responsibility

not to do anything that would dilute or detract from Gospel message – no hint of double standard, sliding ethical scale

all they did individually and together must reflect well on Christ and reflect him well into largely non-Christian community

same considerations apply here, around world – whether hearing sermon/lesson or watching daily choices, get same message

B. personal guarantee  v.18-19

open-ended, maybe costly

no limit to line of credit extended to Onesimus – whatever he owes, Paul guaranteed payment in full without question

don’t know if Onesimus told Paul all details, if Paul asked or even wanted to know – many other important things to discuss

what it means: price of eternal soul, price of Christ-honoring relationships far above amount of personal indebtedness now

legally binding

might think not great risk for Paul – he and Philemon too good friends for Onesimus’s debt of any size to be called in

Paul didn’t think so, hand wrote and signed IOU – not low-risk gentlemen’s agreement but would stand up in court

Paul treated it seriously and if Philemon needed him to pay, would have done gladly for sake of Christ and Onesimus

remove any material obligation

Paul intended Onesimus not think/feel was restored as a kind of favor, leaving him under sense of owing Philemon something

also didn’t want Philemon thinking he had some kind of leverage, ongoing reminder of Onesimus’s previous bad behavior

intended relationship to be fully restored and more – greater respect / affection / cooperation between former master/slave

C. please, for Christ’s sake  v.20-21

joy from you

Paul trying very hard not to be discouraged / frustrated – few options for direct ministry, carrying out God-given calling

has unusual kind of opportunity, another Timothy-type God sent to him – present for conversion, begins ministry training, then must send him away

add personal grief over losing one who became very close very quickly – truly needs some kind of encouraging response

set my heart at rest

even for efforts of Roman officials/army/etc. improving travel safety, long way Rome to Colosse, much could happen

desired to know of safe arrival of both men and letters, have some idea of how Philemon responded to letter from Paul

would encourage Paul to know Onesimus’s relationships were as should be among followers of Christ… in home and church

validate my confidence

wanted to know if Onesimus displaying same character and gifts to Philemon – did he observe same ministry potential

important to know for planning what Philemon intended to do – did he find place of service in local church for Onesimus

would he send Onesimus back to Paul to serve as co-laborer – if not, Paul disappointed but understanding God’s purpose

D. picturing Christ

Christ’s guarantee to the Father

think about what Christ in effect says to Father: if [fill in your name] has wronged you or owes anything, put that on my account

is what must take place for our faith in Christ to be accepted by God – he must view us as having no outstanding debt

Christ’s payment, his life for ours, has no “spending limit” either – whatever sinner owes is fully covered by his sacrifice

one more thing – each of us no more deserving of gracious payment of sin debt than runaway slave deserved apostle’s help

real-life application

certainly not kind of opportunity most of us faced with – 21st century cultures substantially different from 1st century Rome

don’t miss the point: our task to in every situation God gives us to think/say/do what will bring glory to God, honor to Christ

reinforce Onesimus’s Christian commitment

to see / experience personally example of Christ-like love and action like Onesimus did clear evidence of following Christ

way more than words – loving God with heart, soul, mind, strength, iow all of our being will be visible to all who see us

if Onesimus had any reservations about both Paul and Philemon’s sincerity, commitment to Gospel, this should overcome

Not only has Christ paid our debt in full, he equips us to live new way of life pleasing to him. Good news of Gospel has great meaning for next life, our ultimate destiny, also has bearing on this life.

2 Cor 5.17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

All sorts of pressure / temptation to live life the old way. Determine to live new life new way depending on Christ who has given us new hearts, new desires, new abilities. Then give good answer when asked about our hope, share truth about genuine hope found in Christ.

 

God @ Work

Philemon 1:12-16 

 Over the years, number of scholars and theologians have chosen to consider letter to Philemon with criticism, wondering why letter dealing with such trivial mundane topic would be included in Bible.

“Of what account was the fate of a single insignificant slave, long since dead and gone, to those before whose eyes the battle of the creeds was still raging? This letter taught them nothing about questions of theological interest, nothing about matters of ecclesiastical discipline; and therefore they would have none of it. …It was wholly unworthy of the Apostle. If written by him, they contended, it must have been written when he was not under the influence of the Spirit: its contents were altogether so unedifying.” St Paul’s Epistles to the Colossians and Philemon, by J.B. Lightfoot 

I do not share that perspective. Is much of theological significance in these relatively few lines. Approx, 10 years earlier, Paul wrote this: Gal 3.28 “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” Story told here excellent picture of what happens when we bring Gospel down from theory to bear on everyday real-life situations. Everyone in this account had already experienced power of God at work in their life, would continue to do so.

How do attitudes / relationships change when God is at work? God doesn’t simply save from sin, do a little to get us started, then leave rest up to us. Continues work of making us like Jesus, Requires lots of things to be different as Paul indicates here. Perhaps didn’t provide all details we want, definitely gave enough to keep us busy.

A. Paul’s dilemma  v.12-14

what he does

he sends – makes arrangements incl. companion Tychicus to facilitate Onesimus’s return to Colosse and his master Philemon

he explains – wrote cover letter to help Philemon understand what happened, reason for Paul’s involvement and delayed return

he grieves – strong language – my very heart, part of myself – really painful loss for Paul, esp. so until hearing of Onesimus’ progress, future usefulness in Christian service

what he wants to do

keep Onesimus – his first choice, has quickly become useful helper – perhaps skilled at anticipating and meeting unspoken needs

grow their friendship – gone from nearly total stranger to family in record time, maybe relationship that just clicked plus Holy Spirit actively present in both

mentor for ministry – true skill set closet well-stocked but door locked and light off – Paul recognized conversion changed that

why it is right to do

considerate to Philemon – if Philemon a good steward of God-given resources, loss of Onesimus would be significant

preserve their friendship – final outcome not one of primary Gospel significance, not good enough reason to compromise friendship between Christian brothers

allow Philemon the initiative – provides opening for Philemon to give Paul blessing guaranteed  to be appreciated, receive blessing in return plus example for the church

B. Philemon’s benefit  v.15

God using Onesimus’s leaving for good

the difficulties – Rome’s population 500K+; 1200 miles; Paul’s confinement; chance encounter w/apostle highly unlikely

the result – seriously, would God have left scenario like this to mercy of random occurrences? even less likely, esp. given probable outcome of time spent w/Paul

useful today – helped Paul, probably Tychicus on journey, Philemon after he got “home”; greater usefulness in service to God

Philemon to receive a good gift

Onesimus immeasurably improved – might have been middle of the scale servant before, same work done same way with Christian spirit added is hugely different/better

substantial value in this life – improvement in Onesimus’s usefulness observed by others and add to Philemon’s reputation

not only now but also for forever – Paul expected relationship w/Onesimus to be mended and unlike before, last into next life

Philemon’s example to the church

opportunities for counsel – letter gives some of reasoning behind Philemon’s decision but not all – probably asked how he reached decision, have opportunity to explain

enlarged circle of influence – given time and place, Roman laws and practices, hard to imagine more difficult situation – navigating this well would raise confidence in Philemon’s wisdom

if Philemon agrees, show Heb 10:24 in action – And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works

C. Onesimus’s usefulness  v.16

was God’s doing

God selected him – Eph. 1:4 “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love,” – work logic backwards…

God directed him – to our view, he could have gone anywhere in world he wanted… instead went where easy to disappear

God connected him – once there, in way unknown to us, God connected him to only one in entire city to write for the church

altered every relationship

with Paul – someone relatively unknown becomes like son he doesn’t want to part with, better… a son in the faith…forever

with Philemon – regardless of Roman legal standing, in sight of God and his people were now beloved Christian brothers

with the church – whether legal status as Philemon’s property retained or not, no longer a consideration… equal opportunity for ministry to all incl. Philemon

useful to everyone

as an employee… in the home and workplace – better equipped to be more efficient and effective in all he does

as a fellow-servant… side-by-side w/Philemon – able to contribute to ministry work more fully as co-laborer with leaders

as a child of God… to his Heavenly Father – probably greatest consideration for Paul, recognizing how useful Onesimus could be in advancing Christ’s kingdom through Gospel work

In every part of Onesimus’s adventure here is easy to see God at work. Onesimus in many ways not out of ordinary… God just as much at work in our lives, not as apparent to us many times. Were many ways God worked on outside – arranging Onesimus’s travel plans, contacts with people, much more we don’t know about. God does same for us, often to bring about similar results.

Is also important work God was doing inside Onesimus, by power of Holy Spirit to change him from inside out – giving new heart responsive to him, new desires to want what God wants, new sight to see and understand things before hidden from him. God does all those things in us and our lives too.

God had expectations for Onesimus, what he expected Onesimus to do with all these new things. He expected Onesimus’s outside to match his inside, show in visible ways he was becoming like Jesus, more like Jesus. Some of the changes pretty dramatic and obvious, others would take time and effort to grow and produce fruit. We can count on Heavenly Father to be present with us, in us by his Holy Spirit every hour of every day working to help us become like his Son the Lord Jesus. He will enable and equip us to live for Jesus, do what pleases him, introduce friends and neighbors to him.

 

Unprofitable or Profitable?

Philemon 1:8-11 

Think how the world counts status – imprisoned apostle vs free citizen at liberty; runaway slave vs aged apostle; slave vs master. What apostle Paul writes here turns estimation of many on its head, stands in stark contrast to how interpersonal relationships function both among professed Christians and others. Certainly not new, shows how often important principles get overlooked.

Paul begins here to address highly sensitive issue that directly affected Philemon, his household, and church meeting in home. Know from other letters Paul didn’t lack words to say precisely what was on his mind. More than one way to approach important topic, what would be best in this situation may be one of things kept Paul awake nights. First, he wanted to do only what would please Christ. Second, wanted outcome to please Christ in every respect, on part of everyone concerned. Then there is Holy Spirit’s desire what he wrote be profitable for all Christ-followers who would read letter.

Paul also keenly aware his method being observed by ones who might be faced with similar situation, would be helped by having example to follow. Then the bit about interactions with family / community members seeing situation play out. If they were to give good answers to questions, needed to understand from God’s perspective and embrace solution wholeheartedly. Paul didn’t need to rely solely on own wisdom to sort all this out, had assistance of Holy Spirit to direct thoughts and words to good conclusion.

A. true humility  v.8

genuine status

Paul’s place in early NT church not really in question – had been challenged about it… by those who wanted to discredit him

was recognized by many in Europe and Asia Minor as an apostle – didn’t just listen to him, asked for his help solving issues

is apparent his letters we have treated from beginning as carrying great weight, recognized as rightly belonging in Bible

right to command

since Paul commissioned to ministry by Christ himself, called by Christ “a chosen vessel of mine” (Acts 9:15) had authority

really speaking as ambassador of Christ, like other apostles, speaking in Christ’s name like Old Testament prophets did

w/i scope of his commission to simply tell Philemon what to do, how he and others in similar situation should act

set it aside

chose to set all that aside and rest his persuasion on friendship and fellowship – all they shared b/c of relationship with Christ

Paul not first to make that kind of choice, opting not to exercise authority at crucial time – Jesus when before Pilate, e.g.

his approach meant was far more likely restored relationships not “poisoned” by resentment, result of forced outcome

B. unfeigned love  v.9

for the sake of love

kind of love Paul cites here without conditions – strives for what is best for the other person, sacrificing self if necessary

he doesn’t specify whose love he means – love for Christ, for each other, for Onesimus, or all of the above… probably

each would add weight to Paul’s argument, all together should make good lasting outcome highly likely

from an old man

“If Paul did refer to himself here as an old man (which, around the age of sixty, he was indeed entitled to do),”  F F Bruce, age 74 at time of writing

same word translated “elder”, often referring to position of responsibility in local church… yet Paul already set that aside

if anything, Paul expecting a hearing out of respect for advanced years, plus wisdom/maturity that goes with age

uncertain future

sure, Paul asks Philemon to get guest room ready for his visit but… Paul not naive – knows his imprisonment has no guarantees

has strong desire to go to Colosse but at same time knows God may have other plans… will be ok with that

also knows at his age, not a kid, ability to continue in ministry not inexhaustible – his time will come to an end

C. side-by-side appeal  v.9-10a

come alongside

intended to draw parties close together, not keep at arm’s length – come close so we can work this out together

desire to treat one another as close friends working together toward shared outcome… same as believer and Holy Spirit

for the sake of Christ

Christ is thread from beginning to end of letter – just as Christ is present throughout, he must be present in final outcome

Paul not interested in Philemon or anyone else doing what he requests simply to appease him, satisfy his desire

entire purpose here to bring glory to Christ in way obvious to everyone… including community at large

and for Onesimus

Paul discreet about giving personal details about Onesimus – he was slave, probably runaway, now presented as Paul’s son

probably had seen church started and grow, heard regular teaching from God’s word, seen how people brought into group

Paul believed it essential Philemon and rest behave properly toward Onesimus to avoid causing hurt or discouragement

D. what changed  v.10b-11

my son

don’t know how Paul and Onesimus introduced, one of those series of events God brought about for his purpose

referred to Timothy as his son in the faith – Onesimus not believer when first introduced, occurred later

Paul instrumental in leading Onesimus like Timothy to saving faith in Christ – others involved along the way, Paul at conclusion

was unprofitable

Paul used Onesimus’ name to set up description of what happened – Onesimus name means profitable or useful

while serving Philemon, were limits to his usefulness both in his household and also toward church family

was especially unprofitable after he ran away – would have been compounded if he had taken anything of value from Philemon

now has purpose

whole new way of understanding opened up to Onesimus – can recognize / use spiritual truth in way impossible before

seems from next section of letter he was quick study, growing rapidly as things once hidden now made sense, useful to him

enabled him to be great help to apostle in his ministry, probably something Philemon never thought of as possible

Really begins in earnest at the cross, but doesn’t end there. We give glory to God when someone comes to faith in Christ, continue to give glory to him as we grow in grace, in likeness to Christ. Much cause to give glory that apostle had blessing of supplying last necessary piece in Onesimus’ salvation. We can do same when God provides same opportunity. Can also give him the glory as we observe all the ways new child of God grows in their usefulness to him. Sometimes it begins with simple request “come with me”. God uses that and multiplies the blessings from there.

 

Effective Sharing

Philemon 1:4-7 

English a wonderful language – “Lexicographer Susie Dent has cited about 20,000 words as a typical active vocabulary size for an adult English speaker” from total count of half million or more. Yet even for all precision that many words allows in communication, is important feature missing in English but present in other languages, even earlier forms of English. In this letter, “you” “your” occur 34 times total yet have no way to distinguish between singular and plural. e.g. “Grace to you” (3) plural, “mention of you” (4) singular. Reverts to plural you in closing verse. Why important?

This much more than just private letter to friend with “oh by the way” acknowledgment of others close by. Yes, bulk of letter addresses situation between Philemon and Onesimus but the whole is wrapped in address to entire house church. Is in part b/c Onesimus’ circumstances affects them too; is valuable for everyone to learn from what Paul writes… and not only about the runaway. In fact, almost halfway through letter before gets to that subject.

Beginning in v.4 Paul draws attention to some important things with regard to Philemon, also his own attitude and actions toward them. Certainly intended to encourage Philemon, also more on his mind. By highlighting these things, Paul expressing desire for similar to be present and displayed by all in Christ’s church. Must not forget Paul’s example here, demonstrating for all who heard letter read how they can think about and encourage others.

A. prayers of others  v.4

frequent theme

early verses of most letters include some kind of prayer, blessing, reference to prayer, giving thanks for recipients

some have numerous references to prayer or doxology, e.g. Rom 11:33 Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!

not saying only to be polite or only to encourage readers – would refresh their hearts, his desire went far beyond that

usually for others

occasionally prayed / asked prayer for himself, close of Ephesians, asked prayer for words and boldness in preaching Gospel

far more often “making mention” of those to whom he writes, thanking God for them, asking for things for them

like request for self, requests for others had Gospel / spiritual focus – too often our praying is limited, practical/physical needs… should not neglect spiritual needs

essential God-given means

easy to remember things in Lord’s Prayer – daily bread, forgiveness, God’s will… should pray… and thank for those things

remember these two things:

Matt. 7.7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

James 4.2  …you do not have because you do not ask.

applies just as much to spiritual things: growth in understanding / maturity / Christ-likeness, for fellow believers and selves

B. personal love and faith  v.5

the real deal

had heard report of what was happening in church there, perhaps from Epaphras – kind of things to warm pastor’s heart

Philemon’s faith not flash in the pan, burning quickly/brightly, then going out – was kind that endured and produced fruit

is the expected result of faith in Christ, especially when shared in common – evident as saints show love for one another

his reputation

faith not kept hidden, separate from other parts of life – faith in Christ, if essential to who we are, must be obvious in all of life

definitely not limited to time spent together in church – life not rightly segmented into church, family, public circles

kind of love that looks for opportunities to express broadly – first to those who already share faith, then ones who need to

sound evidence

most acquaintances would not see faith first, would see works first – brothers would see / experience works and praise God

generous expressions of love in tangible ways even without words speak volumes about belief and character of person

C. gifts from Christ  v.6

given to be shared

Paul had well defined outcome in mind when he prayed for them – that their sharing together in common faith would produce substantial results for all of them

that faith given to them would be shared liberally – as one grows, encourages others to grow stronger, bolder, more confident

from him to him

every good thing, every blessing has ultimate source in Christ – may be expressed through person but starts with Christ

experiencing blessing from Christ works to increase knowledge of him, understanding of how he works in lives of his people

all together fuels love for God and love for neighbor, adds to praise and glory given back to him for his goodness to us

some is good, more is better

these things already present in some measure in Philemon and rest of church – if not Paul wouldn’t have heard about it

desired outcome is more of what they had – greater more obvious likeness to Christ increasingly obvious to one another and watching world

D. encouragement for the saints  v.7

giving encourages giving

sharing / fellowship that begins with faith in Christ confirmed by indwelling Holy Spirit encourages heart, not only mind

when heart motivated by love, will find expression… cannot be hidden, will be displayed in generous actions/giving to others

example encourages questions

actions not hidden from ones present with church family who are not yet committed to following Christ in faith

also not hidden from friends and neighbors, taking notice of how we behave toward one another… and them

more Christ-like we become, more often will recognize opportunities to acknowledge good gifts Christ has bestowed on us

God is glorified

this really bottom line for Christian, that God be glorified starting with us, expanding outward and embracing people from every tribe and tongue and people and nation

is something we should encourage in one another and from everyone we meet in all walks of life

Doesn’t matter how many times we hear truth from God’s word, need to hear it again. Need to ask for God’s help to understand it, apply it properly, make more part of who we are. Requires prayer and meditation and encouragement. With God’s help, together we can encourage one another to grow more effective as God’s children, be even more ready to meet him when he calls us home.

 

From Paul, a Prisoner

Philemon 1:1-3 

 Surprising how much speculation about short letter from apostle – where was Paul prisoner, who was Philemon, what did Onesimus do, how did he and Paul meet, and more. Answer to many questions: don’t know. All facts about Philemon presented right here, Onesimus mentioned in passing one other place. Paul certainly covered enough in 335 words he wrote to be profitable to us.

Some ask why letter that seems so intensely personal should be included in NT. To wonder about that is to miss point of relationships among followers of Christ – are all members of body with Christ our head. Not just part of one family, are all part of one body, mutually dependent on one another. Are influences that complicate things – from unbelieving family and friends, culture we live in, pressures to conform.

Not like reading private mail – perhaps small group but… church family included in salutation (2). Then the fact God saw fit to be sure it is included in our Bibles – is useful to us, all who read b/c God intends it that way. “The singular loftiness of the mind of Paul, though it may be seen to greater advantage in his other writings which treat of weightier matters…” Calvin  not sure about that. Focus here on practical everyday kind of situation – at same time Christ present not only in Paul’s thinking but writing as well.

A. from

Paul

a hint of Paul’s mindset / intention in writing found in opening words: simply “Paul” w/o any reference to apostleship / authority

one friend to another, having easy conversation over coffee – elaborates more on it later, no hint of any kind of pressure

prisoner

matter-of-fact kind of statement but carrying great weight in 1st century – lets readers know reason for his imprisonment

whether chained to wall as in Philippi, to Roman soldier, not at liberty b/c this Roman citizen believed to be threat to public order

trying to persuade people to give first priority/loyalty to other than Caesar viewed as treason, undermining government w/probable death sentence

brother in Christ

calls Philemon “brother” v.7, is apparent from all else written that is kind of relationship they enjoyed, really the ideal to strive for between believers w/o regard for status

implies attitude of loving concern for well-being of one another and rest of family present in local church centered in Colosse

reasonable to think all are paying attention – how would situation between Philemon and Onesimus work out… what conclusion?

B. to

Philemon

likely husband of Apphia, opened home to host a house church – perhaps had some personal means, enough to have at least one slave, perhaps more

considered to be fellow laborer by Paul – had shown leadership in local church family, perhaps served as pastor also

certainly significant encourager to church, reputation for actively sharing faith with others and desiring more results

coworker

Archippus apparently one on front lines helping to equip saints for battle against Satan and enemies of the Gospel

likely serving as co-pastor of church with Philemon – Paul making sincere effort to keep all leadership in loop on important issue

also including Archippus explicitly prevents misunderstanding – not any failure on his part that encouraged Paul to get involved

church

helpful for church family to be up to speed on things – good teachable time for them and how to deal with complicated situations

wrestling with all issues, things leading to things, could tighten bonds between all brothers and sisters incl. eventually Onesimus

also serves as example to us, how to live all of life in way that follows example of Christ and is also pleasing to him

C. when

a prison epistle

written around same time as Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians probably during last imprisonment in Rome before death

adds interesting question: how did Onesimus and Paul meet? fellow prisoner? not likely, probably introduced by someone

one more example of how broad Paul’s concern was for others in spite of uncertain, maybe dangerous personal future

delivered by Tychicus (Col. 4:7-9)

know b/c Paul said said so, delivered Colossians, Onesimus accompanied him, likely delivered Philemon also

Paul considered Tychicus good choice for the task – “beloved brother, faithful minister, and fellow servant” – helpful companion

could be trusted to deliver both letters and servant to intended destination – well-equipped to continue mentoring Paul started

after Onesimus’ conversion

Paul states in letter “my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains”, obvious reference to his conversion

also says would appreciate opportunity for different service from Onesimus: “he might minister to me in my chains”

D. why

pastoral concern

lamb

Onesimus not new to Christian community, influence, practice – he was new to personal saving faith and worldview

Paul concerned his faith not be challenged beyond what it could stand – reunion and restoration needed to be done right

shepherd

Philemon and Archippus both visible in church family and surrounding community – conflicting messages from world and God’s word… what to do

men needed encouragement to follow principles Paul has been teaching whether or not pushback from culture or some in church

is ongoing need in Christ’s church in every period of history – and, Satan capitalizes on situations like this to harm church

flock

a mixed group, people from all ages and stages of spiritual maturity, from various backgrounds and experiences

would easily benefit from clear teaching followed by consistent practice and application – reminders/examples always helpful

 19 I, Paul, am writing with my own hand. Seems when not giving dictation, Paul stayed even closer to Christ. Important to always keep in mind: whether stated or not, Christ must be common thread through all we think, say, do. Paul established letter on relationship to Christ, tools of persuasion directly related to same, expected outcome to demonstrate relationship by everyone involved. Is of absolute eternal importance – apart from Christ we have nothing of value, we are nothing. Our value and identity and all we are and all we hope for must be found in Christ Alone.