Philemon: Forgiveness
The purpose of this series is not to discuss all forms of relationships—those topics are huge, and we can’t finish them all. Rather, it is to Highlight our relationship with God and as it relates to our fellow human beings.
In the Book of Philemon, God’s name is not measured explicitly but implied through the text.
It stands as one piece of strong evidence that reveals doctrines such as the love of God, forgiveness in Christ, or the inherent dignity of humanity have real and pertinent impacts in everyday life. The book of Philemon shows us that collective freedom is good (Phil 1:6-7), but individual liberty is as important as the freedom of a people. Phil 1:27-19
The book of Philemon illustrates that principles like personal freedom should profoundly affect the lives of believers.
TAKEAWAY:
1. Though Paul found Onesimus helpful, he didn’t trivialize his sin.
Philemon 1:11-14
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.
2. He wasn’t trying to over-simplify grace
By asking Philemon to offer forgiveness without consequences
That’s why he said
Phil 1:18-19
If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;
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.
The idea of grace without limitation leads to sinning without knowing. Romans 6:1 shall we continue…
3. This request required sacrifice, and because of that, Paul approached the topic with gentleness and care (1:21).
When you know you are in the wrong, don’t try to be the loudest. Be quiet and listen. You may learn something.
Philemon 1:21
21 Having confidence in thy obedience, I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.
4. Lesson in reconciliation
Phil 1:15-16
15 For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him forever;
16 Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, especially to me, but how much more.
5. Always seek reconciliation after separation.
His letter to Philemon presents in full color the beautiful and majestic transition from slavery to kinship that results from Christ’s love and forgiveness.