Philemon
Scripture
Philemon 1:10-12, 17-18 NIV
“that I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, who became my son while I was in chains. Formerly he was useless to you, but now he has become useful both to you and to me. I am sending him—who is my very heart—back to you........So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.”
Observation-What does it say?
Paul is appealing to Philemon, Apphia, Archipus and the church in this letter. (Vs. 1-2). First, he thanks them for their partnership, love, encouragement and refreshing. Then he makes a case for Onesimus, how he has changed, but instead of commanding them to take him back under their care (and Paul had every right to exercise that authority), he asked for their permission and consent. Paul also said that any wrong he has done to them to charge it to him. He appealed to them in love and demonstrated what it means to restore relationships back to God and the church.
Understanding-What does it mean?
Love, forgiveness and restoration is what the Christian life is all about. We are called to love and restore relationships with others and help restore relationships back (or newly) to Jesus.
The Apostle Paul is an awesome leader. Not only was he a great leader, but a great brother in the Lord. He did everything in faith and love and this letter proves it.
He appealed to Philemon on behalf of Onesimus. Based commentary, it is indicated that Onesimus was once a man who was useless (vs. 11) to Philemon and the church. He did not live a life of faith or in the Spirit, until Paul met him at the prison and God used Paul to convert Onesimus and change his heart. As a result, he requested that Philemon welcome him back as a brother and partner in Christ. He was no longer a slave, but a brother. (Vs. 16)
Life Application
Pray for God to heal and restore relationships back to Himself and back to the family through Jesus.
Dear Jesus, we pray for hearts of restoration. Hearts that would love and forgive like you do. Hearts that would restore what was once broken, whether its restoration of our relationship with You after sin/rebellion destroyed it, or restoring a repenting brother/sister back to the family. Thank You for our brother Paul's example of restoration in action. I pray we would be a church that takes action to restore relationships to You, others, and ourselves. Amen.