INTRODUCTION TO PHILEMONPaul wrote this epistle while in prison, around 60 A.D. The letter is addressed to Philemon who was the leader of a house church. Paul considered Philemon a partner in the faith and a brother. Philemon owed his very self to Paul and prayed for his release from prison. The epistle addresses a specific problem regarding Philemon's slave, Onesimus. Onesimus had done something injurious to his master. The slave left his master and ended up with Paul. God used this encounter to change Onesimus. He repented and became a Christian. Onesimus means 'useful'. He was changed from a useless man to a useful man. He became a great help to Paul during the apostle's imprisonment. Based on Onesimus' changed life and Paul's personal relationship with Philemon, Paul appeals for reconciliation. This was not merely restoring Onesimus as Philemon's slave. Paul urged Philemon to accept Onesimus as a brother in Christ. As we meditate on God's word in Philemon, may the gospel work in and through us to transform lives and relationships.
A BROTHER RECONCILED
1. Philemon's love and partnership (1-7)
Paul blessed Philemon and the church that met in his home with grace and peace. Paul thanked God for Philemon's love for God's people and his deep faith in Christ. Paul considered Philemon a partner in God's kingdom work. May the Lord help us to also be encouraging partners in gospel ministry.
2. Paul pleads for Onesimus (8-25)
Onesimus was Philemon's slave and had done something wrong against his master. He became a useless man. He left his master and met Paul. Onesimus became a Christian and a dear son to Paul. Paul appealed to Philemon, as a gospel partner, to accept Onesimus but this time as a brother. Relationships break because of sin but Jesus restores lives and relationships.
Application: Lord, I was once useless but thank you for making me useful in you. Help me to forgive and reconcile as you have done with me.
One Word: Accept him as a brother