The Message of Philemon
The Epistle to Philemon is a short but significant letter written by the Apostle Paul to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae. The letter addresses forgiveness, Christian love, and social renewal in the light of the Gospel.
Main Message of the Epistle to Philemon
1.Love and Intercession for a Runaway Slave (Onesimus)
Paul writes to Philemon because his runaway slave, Onesimus, has come to faith in Christ while with Paul in Rome. Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus no longer as a slave, but as a brother in Christ (Phm 16).
2.Christian Forgiveness and Reconciliation
The letter conveys a radical message: Philemon should forgive his former slave and not punish him. Paul emphasizes that the Gospel transcends social barriers.
3.Equality in Christ
Paul shows that in Christ, all are equal, regardless of their social status (cf. Galatians 3:28). Onesimus should no longer be seen as property but as a beloved brother.
4.Practical Application of Christian Faith
Paul could have used his authority to command Philemon to free Onesimus, but instead, he appeals to love and voluntary decision (Phm 8-9). This demonstrates that true faith is expressed through concrete acts of love and reconciliation.
5.The Gospel Transforms Relationships
The letter shows that the Gospel transforms social norms. Christian community is not just about spirituality but also about a new way of relating to one another.
Summary
The Epistle to Philemon is a powerful testimony of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the equality of all people in Christ. Paul illustrates that the Gospel is not only a personal experience but also has a social impact.
February 19, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Philemon Chapter 1
1 Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,
2 And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:
3 Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
4 I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,
5 Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;
6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.
7 For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.
8 Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,
9 Yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.
10 I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:
11 Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:
12 Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:
13 Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:
14 But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.
15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;
16 Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?
17 If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.
18 If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;
19 I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.
20 Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.
21 Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.
22 But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.
23 There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;
24 Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.
25 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
The Epistle to Philemon is one of the most personal letters of the Apostle Paul and an outstanding example of Christian ethics in action. It was probably written around AD 60 during Paul’s imprisonment in Rome. The letter is addressed to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae, as well as to Apphia, Archippus, and the church in his home. The central message of the letter is the plea for forgiveness and reconciliation on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who, through Paul, has come to faith.
Commentary
1.Greeting and Benediction (Verses 1-3)
Paul begins the letter with a warm greeting, addressing Philemon and his household church. He emphasizes his own imprisonment, which intensifies the emotional tone of the letter. The mention of Timothy underscores the close connection within the early church.
2.Praise for Philemon’s Faith and Love (Verses 4-7)
Paul commends Philemon for his faith in Christ and his love for the saints. He highlights that Philemon’s life is a blessing to the Christian community and expresses his gratitude. This praise serves as a prelude to the request that follows.
3.Advocacy for Onesimus (Verses 8-16)
While Paul could command Philemon to forgive Onesimus, he chooses instead to make a plea out of love.
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He refers to Onesimus as his “son,” whom he has “begotten” during his imprisonment, signifying his spiritual rebirth.
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Onesimus was once “useless” to Philemon but is now “useful,” both to Paul and to Philemon.
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Paul emphasizes that Onesimus is no longer merely a slave but has become a brother in Christ.
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4.Appeal for the Acceptance of Onesimus (Verses 17-21)
Paul urges Philemon to welcome Onesimus as if he were welcoming Paul himself.
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He offers to settle any debts Onesimus may owe, reflecting the Christian practice of mercy.
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Paul shows trust in Philemon’s obedience and even expects him to do more than what is required.
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5.Conclusion: Travel Benediction and Greetings (Verses 22-25)
Paul expresses hope that, through the prayers of the church, he will soon be released from imprisonment.
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He conveys greetings from his co-workers, including Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke.
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The letter concludes with a blessing that emphasizes God’s grace.
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Summary
The Epistle to Philemon is a powerful example of Christian love, reconciliation, and equality in Christ. Paul appeals to Philemon’s generosity by asking him to receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ rather than to punish him as a runaway slave. The letter demonstrates that the Gospel not only transforms individual lives but also establishes new foundations for social relationships. Through the example of Paul and Onesimus, it becomes clear that true Christian community is based on love, mercy, and forgiveness.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 5—Consecration
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction: The Meaning of Devotion
Devotion to God is not a one-time act but a profound, life-changing decision. The Lord promises that those who seek Him with all their heart will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13-14). Yet true devotion requires humility, a struggle against one’s own self, and a complete renewal of our being. Our sinful nature has separated us from God, but He calls us to repentance and offers us the opportunity to return to His presence through His grace. This chapter demonstrates that devotion is not merely an outward confession but a total self-abandonment—a decision that leads us from the slavery of sin into the freedom of the children of God.
Commentary: The Struggle for Complete Devotion
The greatest challenge in a believer’s life is the battle against one’s own self. Paul describes this inner conflict as a spiritual struggle that requires a conscious decision to submit our own will to God’s authority. God does not force us into submission; rather, He invites us to come to Him freely.
Devotion means not only abandoning bad habits but also letting go of everything that separates us from God. For some, it is wealth; for others, honor, comfort, or self-will. Yet Christ demands a complete decision: “Any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:33).
A superficial faith or half-hearted Christianity leads to an empty, worthless service to God. Those who devote themselves entirely to Christ experience a deep love and joy that surpasses all earthly bonds. Only when Christ fully fills our hearts do we stop asking for the slightest requirement for heaven, but instead strive for complete alignment with His will.
Nevertheless, many find it difficult to take this step. People cling to their old nature out of fear of change or because they are aware of their own weakness. But God demands nothing impossible. The only prerequisite for complete devotion is the decision to surrender our will to God. Once we entrust ourselves to Him, He works in us to will and to act according to His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).
Summary: The Choice Between Slavery and Freedom
Chapter 5 clearly shows that devotion to God is a conscious decision. Every person faces the choice: either to remain in the slavery of sin or to experience the wonderful freedom of being a child of God. This devotion is not passive but requires an active decision to let go of our self and completely entrust our lives to Christ.
God does not force anyone into submission; rather, He calls us in love and patience. Those who recognize His love will not ask how little they must do, but will be willing to give everything. Yet this step demands courage, humility, and trust in God’s promises.
Ultimately, it is the free will of each person that determines whether they accept or reject God’s offer. Those who surrender their will to God experience a complete transformation—a new life characterized by faith, love, and true freedom.
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The Keys to True Devotion to God:
1.Complete Devotion to God is Necessary for Renewal
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Our sinful nature has estranged us from God, and only through total devotion can spiritual restoration occur. God does not force us into submission but invites us to seek Him with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13-14).
2.The Battle Against One’s Own Self is the Greatest Challenge
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The greatest obstacle on the path to God is our own will. Total submission of our personality to God’s will requires humility and self-sacrifice. Without this devotion, true change cannot occur.
3.God Accepts No Forced Worship
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God desires a voluntary decision for Him. Forced devotion would be meaningless, as it would engage neither our heart nor our mind (Isaiah 1:18).
4.Devotion Means Letting Go of Worldly Attachments
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Everything that separates us from God—be it wealth, fame, comfort, or self-will—must be relinquished. Jesus demands that we give Him priority over everything else (Luke 14:33).
5.The Decision to Devote Oneself Leads to True Freedom
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Those who completely surrender to Christ experience the true freedom of being God’s children. This devotion does not result in loss, but in gain—the liberation from sin, peace with God, and a life filled with His love and grace.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/19-02-2025-philemon-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/
